University Leaders Academy for first-generation students

I have known for a long time that I want to do something with leadership. Obama and Mandela are great examples for me. I got the idea to set up an academy so that students can show leadership, for a successful academic career. A friend pointed me to the European Solidarity Corps to pursue this. There, we applied for funding with a project group.

In my first year of study, I experienced how difficult it can be when you are the first in your family to go to a college or university. Writing essays, for instance, I had never learnt. As a first-generation student, I also noticed a lot of difference between university and home. My parents often don't understand what I am talking about when I tell them about my studies. They listen, but they do not know what it is like to study and do not know my struggles.

Colleges and universities do have preparation programmes, but the focus is mainly on professional development, while students are often more concerned with personal development. In our academy, it is more about personal development, such as having balance between study and private life or dealing effectively with time management.

To begin with, we had two pupil meetings and they were very valuable. Almost 20 future first-generation students now have a better idea of what is to come. As a follow-up, we are now preparing the University Leaders Academy. All students can participate in this, but we are going to actively encourage first-generation students to apply. The plans are student-centred. That means not charging high prices to lower the threshold for students. Through collaboration with student associations, we hope to reach more students and schools. It would be nice if we can prepare many school students for studying in higher education.

Finally, I can recommend it to everyone to apply for a grant for a project. When I tell others about European Solidarity Corps, everyone is surprised. They don't know it exists, while it really is something for young people. You can learn so much from it, both personally and professionally. If you want to make an impact, organise events and collaborate with others, then by all means do it. Work out a bold idea and push through!

Updated on Monday, 25/03/2024