Testimonials
We are First-Gen
We would like to invite Texas A&M Irma Lerma Rangel College of Pharmacy professionals to inspire others by sharing their story as a first-generation college student. Identifying faculty, staff, students and alumni who themselves are first-generation college students will allow our campus community to discover how many first-generation role models exist throughout the Rangel College of Pharmacy.
"As a first-generation college student, my journey has been deeply influenced by my family's story and the values passed down to me by my parents, Marisa Torres and Miguel Torres. Born in Houston and raised in Palmview, Texas, I am the son of Mexican immigrants from the small town of Diaz Ordaz in Reynosa, Tamaulipas. My parents immigrated to the United States in search of a better life, and their relentless hard work has been the foundation of my own ambitions. Growing up, Spanish was my first language, as it was the language spoken at home. At school, I learned English, and from a young age, I became responsible for translating important documents, such as government and IRS letters, for my parents. This was never a burden to me but simply part of everyday life, and it fostered in me a strong sense of responsibility and dedication. I have always been passionate about education, taking pride in showing my parents my report cards full of A's. Their encouragement pushed me to excel academically. After graduating from La Joya High School in 2015, I eagerly pursued a bachelor's degree in Biology at the University of Texas at San Antonio, graduating in 2018. The transition to college was challenging, especially adjusting to the rigorous academic demands, but with perseverance and the support of my parents, I overcame these hurdles. Inspired by the thought of what I could accomplish in pharmacy, I applied to pharmacy school during the pandemic. At 24, I was accepted, and now, at 27, I am in my 4th year of pharmacy school, grateful for the opportunity to pursue my dream. My journey as a first-generation college student has been shaped by my parents' example of resilience, and their belief in me has been my driving force.”
Christopher Torres
Professional Student Pharmacist
Class of 2025
First-Generation College Student
"I was born and raised in Brownsville, the southern tip of Texas, and along the Mexican border, where my parents had made a lot of sacrifices to ensure I could focus on my education. My mother moved from Mexico, where she had stopped her education in middle school, to pursue a better life and my dad had gotten his GED to join the workforce. The college application process was a challenging learning experience for my parents and me, but we were in it together to ensure I was prepared. They motivated me to try my best in academics growing up as they saw the potential I couldn’t see in myself then. I am proud to say that I am the first college graduate in my family, earning a BS in Forensic and Investigative Sciences, and the first female in my family to even complete high school. It wasn’t easy stepping into the big campus of Texas A&M University and having to make friends all over again, but it was worth it. I got to challenge myself, gain independence, and truly figure out who I was as a person.”
Kassandra Tenorio
Program Coordinator I
Rangel College of Pharmacy
First-Generation College Student
"It’s been an absolute blessing to have the opportunity to be a First-Generation College Student because all the men in my family are in the military and the women had to start working at a young age to support their families. I am the first to get a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and to further my education I am honored to be a pharmacy student at Texas A&M College of Pharmacy. My parents are extremely hard workers and sacrificed a lot for me and my brother to have a better life and education than they had growing up. Coming from San Diego, California and moving to Texas by myself was a difficult adjustment for me, but along the way I have met amazing people that have been supporting me through my health journey and helping me succeed in school. Although, it is hard to be the First-Generation College Student since I have no guidance and having first hand experience by myself. I take it as a huge learning lesson and one day I can return the favor to others who are in the same situation as me. I took this path to become a Pharmacist by being passionate about medicine and helping people improve their health and lifestyle. I would like to thank my family and friends along with the wonderful staff/faculty of Texas A&M College of Pharmacy for always believing in me and keeping my head up when things don’t go as planned. One thing that helps me keep going besides my lovely cat is to not compare yourself to others, everyone has their own pace in life so if you have a bump in the road it’s temporarily and you will get through this.”
Nicole Provins
Professional Student Pharmacist
Class of 2027
First-Generation College Student
"My 8th grade year I knew I wanted to go to college. My dream was to be a teacher and in return change the world. It was not until my junior year in high school that I started navigating how to go to college. Since my parents did not go to college, it was difficult knowing how to start this process. My dad left high school to join the military, and my mom left high school to marry my dad. I remember all the struggles and sacrifices my parents made for me and my sisters. As I stepped into the counselor's office at my high school, I just knew there would be no one there to help me. My guidance counselor was amazing and helped me sift through the many options of college life. I quickly realized that money was going to be my barrier. My parents were my biggest cheerleaders when I graduated high school. I received one $500 scholarship for college from a teaching association. That one scholarship changed my world. As I proceeded to move forward with college plans, I knew the only option I had were student loans and a job. I was not the traditional college student. Through my many trials, errors, and celebrations, I did graduate in 7 years with my bachelor's degree to teach. As my career took off, I later went back to school to receive my Master's degree in Educational Administration. As I look back on the path I was hesitant to take and wanted to abandon so many time, I am grateful for all the support from my family and later my husband and children. My choices set the path for my two amazing daughters who also have their bachelor and master degrees. I would not change anything about my college journey. As for changing the world, I changed the path of my family in this world.”
Sharyn Womble
Academic Success Coach II
Rangel College of Pharmacy
First-Generation College Student
"Being a First-Generation college student brings me so much pride and joy as it is a virtue of my parent’s hard work which has allowed me the opportunity to seek higher education. From a young age, I always admired how strong and determined my parents were which has motivated and lifted me through my educational journey. It is for them that I continue to work hard in my studies and feel honored to have the opportunity to do so. From this point forward, I strive to propel change and build upon the hard work done before me. Becoming a new standard in my family’s legacy is a privilege and a responsibility, and it is one that I will always be grateful for.”
Faviola Rios
Professional Student Pharmacist
Class of 2026
First-Generation College Student
"As a first generation college student, I feel immense gratitude to have the opportunity to pursue a career for myself that can help me be a leader, an advocate and a person who can make a difference in people’s lives. Growing up, my parents and family worked hard to instill the importance of education to me. Being a first generation student in a Mexican family who have worked very hard their whole lives to give to their children and family everything they could possibly give them is very eye opening. We did not grow up in a wealthy family, but no matter what our stability was, my family worked hard every day to always give us the best they could and my appreciation for them grows more and more daily. In addition to the importance of education, my family taught me the importance of being a genuine person and a person who can make people smile and feel comfortable about being themselves. No matter what a person’s background is, where they come from, the financial positions they’re in, everyone is capable of being someone successful through hard work and compassion. My goal as a first generation pharmacy student is to not only be a successful pharmacist, but to most importantly be the person who my family raised me to be. A hardworking Pharmacist who’s compassionate about the lives and health of my patients.”
Ayleen Cantu
Professional Student Pharmacist
Class of 2027
First-Generation College Student
"As a first-generation student, my educational journey has been marked by pioneering a path that no one in my family has tread before. I have faced unique challenges, from navigating the college admissions process to finding financial aid, and seeking academic and career guidance without the familial experience to rely on. Despite these obstacles, I demonstrated determination and resilience, ultimately achieving my educational goals as a PharmD candidate. It's a rewarding and transformative experience that comes with its own set of triumphs and struggles.”
Heriberto Rodriguez
Professional Student Pharmacist
Class of 2027
First-Generation College Student
"Growing up I didn't have an idea of what college was going to be like. I always loved school and learning new things. The adults in my family were very big on the kids growing up and going to college, but very few could tell me the true experience of it. My grandparents didn't finish high school and my parents didn't finish college (my mom is the exception). They knew going to college was a great opportunity, but I didn't see much of them take on the challenge. The two most important women in my life are the reason I'm successful in college being a first generation. My mother dropped out of college after having me. But throughout my childhood, I watched her work full-time, went back to school full-time (receiving her master's in business administration), and taking care of two children. To be a single parent and not allow obstacles stop her from setting a good example for her children while pursuing her dreams spoke volumes of her character. She inspired me to go for my dreams and follow the road less traveled in my family. My grandmother struggled with hypertension and strokes throughout my childhood. She did not trust her doctors or the medications they were giving her. I would help her read her prescriptions to her and translate what the doctors were saying. She once said "if you were my doctor, then I would listen to you." I accepted that challenge and took on the pursuit to become the pharmacist for all grandparents to promote balance between medications and healthy lifestyle choices. Without these two women, I don't think I would have pursued further education, let alone a doctorate degree. But these two powerful women had a powerful impact on my life, and I want to pay it forward and thank them by becoming the first doctor of my family.”
Jasmine Norris
Professional Student Pharmacist
Class of 2026
First-Generation College Student
"I am a first-generation student from Carrizo Springs, TX. My parents started their family at a young age leaving them unable to pursue higher education. However, growing up, my parents instilled a set of core values that I have lived up to: hard work, dedication, and commitment. During my entire education, I have been held to higher standards because they believed that I could do anything and everything I set my mind to. Their constant push to do and be better lit a fire under me. All I have ever wanted to do was be successful to make them proud and show them that I am capable! I am so grateful to be in this position to earn this Doctoral degree from such a prestigious university. I am more grateful to be breaking barriers as a first-generation student AND parent. It is such a blessing to have the support of my family as I embark on this new journey as a pharmacy student! Hard work, dedication and commitment will help me get through these next 4 years, GIG ‘EM!”
Aylin Salinas
Professional Student Pharmacist
Class of 2026
First-Generation College Student
"I was raised by my grandmother who never completed middle school and neither of my parents had graduated high school. As a First-Generation college student, allow me to provide a little bit of background about myself. I moved out at 15 years old and graduated high school against the odds. I became a licensed pharmacy technician after completing a 10-month program and worked pharmacy for several years before I decided to finally go back to school. I juggled between being a full-time student, employee and mother, but I completed my pharmacy pre-req’s and earned my associate’s degree in Chemistry. Now, I am successfully in my 3rd year of pharmacy school and am just so thankful for holding this opportunity. I want to encourage people who doubt themselves, people who think they’re too old to start college, or who already have families with children, etc. that it is NEVER too late! I believe to my absolute core that with a strong mind, drive, determination and perseverance, the sky is the limit!”
Candy Mckeever-Ramos
Professional Student Pharmacist
Class of 2024
First-Generation College Student
"I am a first generation college student from McAllen, Tx. My parents both had me at the age of 15, and so my father had to drop out and begin to work, while my mom also began to work but managed to finish high school. I am the oldest of 3 and am so fortunate to be in the position I am currently in to earn a Doctorate degree from this amazing university. It feels amazing knowing that I am the first in my family to go to college and pave the way for my siblings and future generations. My family, more specifically my mother, have done a great job supporting and loving me unconditionally. I am very thankful to be blessed with great role models who raised me to be the man I am today. ”
Ociel Salazar
Professional Student Pharmacist
Class of 2025
First-Generation College Student
"I live in a small border town in South Texas called Rio Grande City. I was born and raised there, and it was very rare to see or hear about anyone going to a professional school and returning to our community. Growing up, my parents and grandparents pushed me to do my best in school because they saw a lot of potential in me because I loved to read, learn, and enjoyed challenges. That motivation and support I received from them allowed me to set very high goals for myself. I received my bachelor’s in biology with a minor in communication at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. It feels like an honor to be representing my family as the first person to come to a professional school with the goal of returning home to be able to better those in my community. I am extremely proud of myself for working hard to help my family and better them in the future. I am also humbled by my family because my parents only have a high school level education, but they did everything they could to show me and my sibling that college was important. They wanted us to understand that we needed to have goals for ourselves so we could have less worries and live comfortably compared to how they lived growing up. I wanted to be able to do more than my family was ever able or allowed to do because of the financial and cultural restraints they had. Being the first person in my family to do so only gives me more motivation because I want to prove to everyone that has supported me and believed in me that I can and will continue to push myself until I reach success.”
Norma Mayorga
Professional Student Pharmacist
Class of 2025
First-Generation College Student
"I was born in Pakistan and I am the youngest of four siblings. My parents brought us to the United States when I was five years old. Neither of my parents graduated high school but they motivated me to focus on my education. Growing up I was always interested in how the human body works and so I pursued a Bachelors degree in Biomedical Sciences to learn about my interests. After earning my degree I wanted to advance myself in the field of Pharmacy because I was fascinated by how medications can improve the quality and quantity of life for people. Being a first generation student, I utilized the resources available to guide me on the right path to pursue my passion of Pharmacy. I am extremely motivated to do well and succeed in my career because my parents have made sacrifices for me to ensure that I achieve the highest level of education. I would advise other first-generation students to work hard and stay motivated to surpass their goals to make themselves and their families proud of their accomplishments.”
Monis Aslam
Professional Student Pharmacist
Class of 2024
First-Generation College Student
"My journey has definitely had its highs and lows. Undergrad was very challenging for me as a first-generation student. I lacked guidance and certain academic skills and had to find my way. I finally got the hang of it all my senior year of college. I see myself in the position I am now and constantly think of how I’m currently living in my prayers. Whenever I do feel a hint of discouragement, I think to myself “I’m literally sitting in my blessings.” I also, think my military experience has allowed me to develop even more discipline and alter the way I handle the stresses presented in school. As far as pharmacy school goes, I’m doing pretty well. My advice would be to never give up. It sounds cliché, but praying and determination will get you through! Finding a good support system also be it family, friends, mentors, etc. matters. Lastly, always work on yourself. Your personal growth in all areas of your life matters, ALWAYS.”
Monét Giles
Professional Student Pharmacist
Class of 2025
First-Generation College Student
"As a young child I’ve always been interested in the health care field. What really got me interested in pharmacy school was my brother. At a young age he was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder. He had a team of psychiatrists, counselors, and pharmacists working together to find the best medication for him. During that process I asked a ton of questions: what will the medication do to help him, how does the medication work, what will happen if the medication doesn’t work for him? This experience ultimately opened me up to a whole new fascinating world. From then on, I worked hard to get into undergrad at Texas A&M and eventually it lead me here to the School of Pharmacy, where I have met lifelong friends and made meaningful long lasting connections with my professors.”
Jennifer Narsh
Professional Student Pharmacist
Class of 2024
First-Generation College Student
"I focused most of my time in high school obsessing with grades and the organizations I was involved in. I applied to colleges, and got accepted into them, but because I was a first generation student I slipped through the cracks. I didn't have the knowledge of what steps came after applying and getting accepted into college. Once I realized that no one in my family was upset with me not attending college, I became complacent and diverted my attention to the workforce. It wasn't until I became a mom of my two daughters that I realized my decision to stop furthering my education was not only hurting myself, but it was hurting their view on the importance of secondary school as well. I entered my first semester of college the same year my youngest daughter entered pre-kindergarten. Flash forward to now, I am currently in my second year of professional school and she is thriving in third grade. Has it been easy? No, not by any means. Has it been worth it? Of course. My kids think I am "Super Mom" and are proud to tell their friends and teachers that their mom is going to be a pharmacist and take them to Disney World when she graduates. What makes me happy is that they are both now starting to talk about what they want to do when they finish high school, and it includes college.”
Shelby Martinez
Alumnus
Class of 2023
First-Generation College Student
"I grew up in a small East Texas community where few people ventured out of the town after graduation from high school and even fewer went to college. No one in my family had ever attended college. It took courage, grit and determination to leave behind what was familiar and comfortable to pursue a college education. I enrolled in a large university and moved to a campus that had a student population that was three times the population of my home town! This was somewhat intimidating and made for an eye-opening transition. The driving force for my completion of pharmacy school was my motivation to provide for myself in a career that would make an impact on others. Growing up I saw how the lack of a college education impacted my mother and caused hardships for her. I was determined not to take the same path. Along the way, she and my dad were my greatest supporters and they lived their dreams through me. Thirty years later, that still is a great and awesome benefit of my education. My mom still speaks with such pride of my accomplishments. I am grateful I had the determination after high school graduation to not take the safe, comfortable path but to aspire for more. I am also grateful that I was blessed with loving parents who supported and encouraged me each step of the way and now get to share in my accomplishments.”
Carolynn Mathews, RPh
Director of Experiential Education
Rangel College of Pharmacy
First-Generation College Student
"I am the first out of my immediate family to earn a Bachelor's Degree. I went on to earn my Master's and Doctoral Degree from Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi and Texas A&M University – Kingsville. All 3 of my degrees focused around education and educational leadership. I clearly remember my mom making a goal for herself to earn her GED at the same time I was earning my high school degree. I was so proud to watch her walk the commencement stage. Education has always been a passion for me and I knew as a small child that I wanted to become a teacher and mentor/counselor for others as a career. It is nice to be a role model for my nieces and nephews as well as my own children. Soon, we will have 3 more college graduates in the family as my nieces and nephews are in the final stages of earning their own college degree. I strive to make a path to help my family and students reach their own career and educational goals. I think this drive comes from me trying to figure this out for myself and realizing how difficult this journey was as a first generation student. To be a mentor and a role model will always be one of my greatest accomplishments.”
Amanda Galindo, EdD
Assistant Dean of Student Affairs
Rangel College of Pharmacy
First-Generation College Student
"I was the first out of my family to earn my Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, and Professional Licensure. After I obtained my degrees, my mom challenged herself to pursue a four-year degree along with my sister-in-law and they both successfully achieved their degrees. It was the most amazing feeling when my sister-in-law thanked me for inspiring her to tackle something that always seemed out of reach. She said that seeing me pursue a degree while being a mom myself without parents to help me pay for or navigate the college experience convinced her that she could do the same. Today I realize that me pursuing a college degree had a positive effect on people around me and that by my sister-in-law being the first out of her family to obtain a four-year degree she would also inspire people in her circle to reach for what they think might not be possible for them. I learned that by being the first in your family to succeed in college, you push people to set similar goals by simply working towards your own.”
Amanda M. Galvan, LPC
Director of Student Success
Rangel College of Pharmacy
First-Generation College Student