Reflections from a Native, first-generation graduate student
By Andrea Bob, Puyallup Tribal Member
On Indigenous Peoples Day, I had the day off work and headed to the University of Washington Tacoma campus, regalia in hand, to participate in the first-gen photo campaign. I’m not usually someone who signs up for photo shoots, but this one felt different. Understanding the impact people around me have had succeeding in the pursuit of higher education, if I could be that kind of example for someone else, I knew it would be worth it.
Out of more than 200 applicants, I was selected to be featured in this year’s campaign. I knew from the start I would wear my regalia. It was important to show up fully — as a first-generation student, yes — but also as someone grounded in culture, community and connection to their Tribe. My regalia reflected not only the community that support me, but also the strength I continue to draw from my culture and ceremonies that sustain me throughout this journey.
I am the first in my family to attend college, now pursuing a master’s degree after earning both my associate and bachelor’s. I never planned to go this far — I just focused on what was in front of me, sometimes one assignment, one day or one quarter at a time. I used to believe others succeeded because they were naturally capable or well-prepared. Now, as a graduate student, I understand that for me, making it this far has been shaped more by persistence than certainty.
Moments like realizing I was a graduate student only after receiving an email addressed to a graduate student remind me what it means to be first-gen — navigating without the foundational knowledge many peers are equipped with. Along the way, I’ve found community and support at work and on campus. Programs like the First Gen Office and Cedar Circle at UW Tacoma, along with encouraging coworkers, have helped me build knowledge and confidence.
My path hasn’t been linear. My academic focus has shifted from accounting to business to communications to business analytics — each transition building skills that have shaped who I’m becoming. I hesitated before accepting my spot in this program, unsure if I could do it. That doubt still lingers. But I’ve learned to face uncertainty, stay present in unfamiliar spaces and celebrate the small wins — even if the win is just showing up for class.
Pursuing higher education hasn’t been without sacrifice. I’ve missed time with my son, friends and family. I’ve experienced grief, exhaustion and moments of deep self-doubt. But the resilience, time management and perseverance I’ve gained are tools I now utilize in my day-to-day life.
At the photo unveiling event of this year’s 10 honorees, seeing my photo among the others and hearing their stories, I felt honored to be among others whose stories reflect determination, resilience and the many different paths through higher education. For me, the first-gen photo campaign was a reminder there’s no single correct road map through higher education. If sharing my story helps even one person feel seen or take their next step, that’s more than enough — a bonus if that one person is my son. What I’ve learned is this: you don’t have to know the whole plan — just take the next step.
