First Generation Programming Services

Welcome back, First Gens, and happy October! This month brings a new theme that has been weighing heavy on me: Resiliency as a First Gen. It’s something we hear often as first gens, right? People tell us how “strong” we are and how we “make it happen no matter what.” And yes, there is power in that. But let’s be real, it’s not always about empowerment. Sometimes, it’s just survival. And survival can be exhausting.

In this episode, I share my story of resilience. Growing up as the oldest daughter of immigrants, I didn’t really have the space to be soft. I was the translator, the problem solver, and the family’s advocate. From the outside, I appeared to have it all together. I had good grades, a degree, and a good job. But behind all that was anxiety, burnout, a panic attack. For the longest time, I believed that this was normal. It felt that being strong and resilient just kind of came with these things, right?

Resiliency as a First Gen

But that’s just not true. Resiliency shouldn’t mean we keep suffering in silence. Too often, it becomes code for “you endured things you should never have had to.” Our struggles get brushed aside because we’re seen as “strong enough” to handle it. And when resiliency becomes the expectation, it can feel like a quite the burden.

So I chose to redefine what resiliency meant for me. It’s not all about constantly pushing through, but about healing. It’s about getting to therapy, resting, finding your community, and not isolating yourself or keeping it all hidden. And remember to set boundaries and find joy in the little things!

I invite you to reflect, too:

• What has resiliency looked like for you? Has it lifted you up or worn you down?
• Where have you been praised for surviving something you shouldn’t have had to?
• How do you want to define strength for yourself moving forward?

Remember, you are powerful, not just because you’ve endured, but because you’ve chosen to rise. Let’s stop glorifying the struggle and start honoring rest. Let’s move from surviving in silence to healing in community. And please remember, you always have a Madrina in your corner.

The First Gen Madrina