Sharing the Voices and Reflections of First-Gen Students Through Photos
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January 21, 2026
By: Shakima Clency, Ph.D., T.J. Zepp
Each year, the Kessler Scholars Collaborative team seeks out spaces that provide new expertise and resources around the experiences of first-generation, limited-income (FGLI) college students in higher education. Back in November, the Collaborative team attended the FGLI Consortium1 annual conference, a gathering of professionals dedicated to spotlighting research, recommendations, and best practices in college access and success.
During the event, we were particularly inspired by the work of Dr. Rashné Jehangir2, a leading student affairs practitioner, scholar, and advisor for federally funded TRIO programs. During her keynote presentation, she showcased her photovoice research project, which invited first-generation college students to document their lived experiences through images and personal reflections on campus. This gave those students a space for validation and visibility in their college environments where their stories and identities are sometimes overlooked.
That inspiration shaped our own photovoice project to lead off the new year where we received ten inspiring submissions from members of the Kessler Scholars Collaborative Student Leadership Board. With one student representative from each partner institution, ranging from sophomores to seniors, the board was created to empower and amplify student voices. Through monthly meetings and community-building sessions, this leadership role gives student leaders the opportunity to build new connections, develop leadership skills, and develop a sense of responsibility to influence change on their respective campuses and beyond.
Each reflection offers a distinct window into the first-generation college experience, grounded in the realities of students’ own campuses and communities.
1
“As a Cornellian, I use the changes around Beebe Lake to mark the change in the seasons. When they close down some areas around the lake in the winter, it is a reminder to slow down in some areas of my life — to look for new paths to go around the same lake. They may be less scenic paths, but they are still enjoyable. I may need to settle for a walk instead of a run around the same lake. I may need to stand still for longer, like the snow on the lake.
As the new year unfolds, I look forward to finding new paths around the same challenges: balancing school, work, and friends, and ending a memorable four-year journey.”
Jaden Angella
Cornell University
2
“I chose a photo of the hillside with the iconic ‘C’ because it represents the arduous uphill journey of being a university student full of challenges, growth, and persistence. From far away the “C” looks small, but up close it’s large and significant, reminding me that even accomplishments that seem small in the moment are actually more meaningful than one realizes.”
Reymarr Bernier
University of California, Riverside
3
“I chose this image from campus because it represents my New Year’s resolution of just being more present and grounded in the moment. Rather than focusing too far ahead, I want to fully appreciate where I am now and the opportunities around me. This image reflects that mindset by capturing a familiar space on campus that reminds me to slow down, stay engaged, and embrace the present. My motto this year is to embrace the journey over the destination.”
Nasir Devaughn Adams
Syracuse University
4
“I selected this image because it symbolizes the history of St. Francis College; not only that, but it is one of the first things we see upon entering the building. Reminding us that at St. Francis College, we are a family, we can rely on one another for help and support to succeed together!”
Lynda Vallejo
St. Francis College
5
“The image shows both morning sunlight and melting snow in Baltimore. To me, it represents how the world continues to change. There is always the possibility of snow, but eventually there will be light afterwards. Going into the New Year, I think it’s important to keep in mind the temporary nature of many things and how change is always possible.”
Krisna Kumar
Johns Hopkins University
6
“I wanted to share this photograph I took in the spring on the Brown University campus. It was during the transition between the bitter New England winter into a blooming new season. Everyone was outside soaking up the emerging bits of sun (what we sometimes call “main-greening”), playing games, and just feeling human outside the hectic student life.
In light of the recent tragedy on our campus, I now look towards the spring semester a little differently. Honestly, I am not sure what it will look and feel like, but I am hopeful for our communities ability to rebuild and resiliency. I think rebuilding is what you need a community for, and resilience is what you find in a strong community. I am grateful to be part of creating that community for Kessler Scholars at Brown and beyond.”
Aamina Chaudhry
Brown University
7
“This picture signifies my upcoming graduation from the University of Michigan. I first walked through this fountain my freshman year, and we were told about not walking through it again until we were ready to close our chapter at U-M. Every time that I walk by it, I am reminded how far I’ve come since the moment I first set foot on campus, and also how soon the chapter will be closing.”
Kenya Garza
University of Michigan
8
“This is a photo of the Queens College library. It’s the clock tower. It is one of the most famous buildings on campus and a source of light for many students who need to study or take a quick break in between their classes. The clock tower chimes every hour and reminds students that the time is moving as they work throughout their day. It’s both a place of innovation and growth for students during their time at Queens.”
Adnaan Ali
Queens College
9
“The Ave carries both beginnings and goodbyes. For incoming students, it stretches forward with possibility, while for seniors, it holds the weight of memories and growth as they step into what comes next. Tied to both Saint Mary’s and Notre Dame, it reminds us that every journey is connected.”
Tessa Mroz
Saint Mary’s College
10
“After a cold day full of snow at the University of Pittsburgh, as I was walking to the library, I saw these little purple flowers peaking up through the snow. I chose this image because it made me think of being resilient and pushing through even when things are working against you. I believe this is an important mindset to bring into the New Year. Also, I think this image can convey that it is important to appreciate the small things.”
