Laytoya Stevens

I am the first in my immediate family to attend college, and attending school made me realize how much of a trailblazer I can be for my generation and the next. My experiences as an undergraduate and graduate student are very similar but have a few distinguished differences. During my undergraduate, I was more concerned about my identity and where I fit in on campus as a student. I joined student organizations and found opportunities to volunteer, which led me to make lifelong friends during and after college.

 As a graduate student, I am more focused on the identity I want to create as a young professional. I am now more focused on expanding my network by meeting people who can help shape my experience as a graduate student academically, professionally, and personally. I've met great people in my graduate courses, internship, and local professional organizations. I have more mentors and people around me to help support me during this time. Life also hits differently as a graduate student since most of your friends have moved on. It's a huge adjustment, but it can be done by giving yourself grace, patience, and resilience in your new journey.