Fitchburg State University President Donna Hodge accompanied two first-generation students to the recent GlobalMindEd/Foundation to Support the United Nations conference in New York City.
GlobalMindEd is an inclusive success network that connects the least economically resourced students to role models, mentors, internships, experiences, and jobs. The conference was held at the United Nations.
Hodge, in her first year leading Fitchburg State, was joined at the conference by students Alexia Perez-Lucas and Adriana Padilla Salgado.
“I was privileged to accompany these remarkable young women as they were able to be at the table with government dignitaries, financial leaders, and elected officials to discuss their experiences as first-generation college students,” Hodge said. “Alexia and Adriana were incredible ambassadors for Fitchburg State and the life-changing experiences we seek to cultivate every day.”
“Representing Fitchburg State at this event was an incredible honor and a deeply enriching experience,” said Perez-Lucas, who is majoring in political science with a concentration in international politics. “The sheer scale of New York City, coupled with the historic significance of the UN, created a sense of awe and responsibility. Walking into such a storied institution, where global decisions are made, felt surreal. I was immediately aware of the immense impact this body has on the world, and I felt privileged to be part of discussions that reflect the UN’s mission of fostering cooperation.”
Padilla Salgado, majoring in education, also found the experience eye-opening. “If you had asked me two years ago if I would have been able to do something like this, I would have said no,” she said. “Fitchburg State has opened up so many opportunities for me and I am forever grateful that I was able to represent the institution.”
Perez-Lucas said she felt a profound sense of belonging and security at the conference, being joined by so many other first-generation students from across the country. “There was an instant connection with others who, like me, are facing the unique challenges of being the first in their families to pursue higher education,” she said. “Seeing how many of us are working hard to overcome similar struggles made me realize that there is a large community of us navigating these complex systems together.”
She said she emerged from the conference with a renewed sense of purpose as she continues her studies. “This sense of camaraderie reinforced my belief in the importance of providing support, mentorship, and experiences that help first-generation students thrive in higher education,” she said. “Overall, this experience has broadened my perspective on the importance of empowering first-generation college students and has given me the drive to continue working not just for myself but for others who are on the same path. The strength and resilience of this community have inspired me to push even harder and to advocate for greater support and opportunities for all of us making this journey right now and those who will make the journey after us.”
Padilla Salgado also found the experience deeply informative.
“As I watched the many panels and sessions, I took in as much information as I could regarding education specifically, considering I’m an education major hoping to pursue a career in working with English language learners,” Padilla Salgado said. “Each panel had highly inspiring speakers from different backgrounds with diverse perspectives, but many had commonalities. Many of the speakers began as first generation students just like I am, and are now on the stage at a conference at the United Nations. I want my future students to never believe that they cannot accomplish their dreams and goals and to take every opportunity that comes their way, as multiple speakers shared in their sessions.”