First-generation STEM students, professors recount Austin Peay experiences

By: Colby Wilson November 7, 2024

Macee Roberts, a senior and first-generation APSU student (third from left), with other members of Dr. Catherine Haase’s research lab.

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. - For many first-generation college students, the journey through higher education is a pioneering experience defined by challenges and breakthroughs. At Austin Peay State University, first-generation graduate students and faculty shared their stories of overcoming obstacles and the importance of support systems.

The Path Less Traveled

"I think it's awesome that I had support," said Macee Roberts, a senior and first-generation student at Austin Peay. "Especially being the oldest in my family, my parents encouraged me to stick with my goals … [and] transferring here was the best decision I've ever made."

Roberts' journey began with a passion for biology. A softball player, she transferred to Austin Peay from Miami, Ohio, for athletics and a marine biology program. Despite her plans, she became engrossed in bat study: "I had no expectation of liking them as much as I did, and now I'm kind of a bat nerd."

APSU’s smaller class sizes proved to be one of the greatest benefits for Roberts. They allowed her to forge personal relationships with her professors and learn from them while navigating higher education. She said mentorship and guidance from professors like Dr. Catherine Haase were essential for her success in the unfamiliar college environment.

Dr. Christopher Gentry, chair of the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, at center, being recognized by APSU senior leadership.

Facing Reality and Overcoming Challenges

Dr. Christopher Gentry, a first-generation college graduate and chair of the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Austin Peay, faced financial challenges as a student that he strives to help others avoid as a professor.

"I had three part-time jobs and, before the end of my four years, up to five at any time," he said. "At the time, I wasn't smart enough to know I could take out loans to cover things like books and other classroom fees."

Gentry navigated financial aid complexities without prior family experience but later imparted his wisdom to his siblings. Now, he encourages his students to research scholarships.

“I thought to get a scholarship, you had to have straight A’s or be part of some organization,” he said.

Like Roberts, Gentry emphasizes the importance of asking questions. His trial-and-error approach in college led him to take a more hands-on approach with his students.

"When a student has a question about financial aid, I try not to just tell them to reach out to the financial aid office," he said. "I try to make phone calls with them from the office and say, 'I've got so and so in the office with me. We have a question about this. I didn't know how to answer this for them here at Austin Peay.'"

This collaborative approach makes it easier for students to access resources and overcome the barriers Gentry faced.

"Often, they'll answer some questions, and we'll either get all the answers, or they'll say, 'Please have the student come over, ask for me, and I'll assist them, and I will deal with what's going on,'" he said. "I try to do that as much as possible for our students."

Creating Supportive Environments

At Austin Peay, the faculty's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for first-generation students is evident. Sam Robinson, a professor who returned to Austin Peay this year after first matriculating as a first-generation student, strives to create a welcoming atmosphere.

"I try to tell them all the time my door's open," she said. "You can come talk to me."

Robinson received critical support from Austin Peay’s radiologic science program as a student, relying on her advisor and cohort to navigate unknown terrain. Now, she wants to provide that same guidance to the next group of rad tech students.

“Because of our cohorts, we get to form bonds with these students and they with each other,” she said. “I was just in their position a few years ago, and as a younger professor, I hope that encourages them to be comfortable approaching me with things.”

Hope for the Future

For many first-generation students, the path to college is paved with uncertainties and misconceptions. Robinson heard in high school about how strictly to expect her college professors to adhere to their rules, and Gentry wishes he had felt more comfortable asking for help.

“It’s not only okay to ask questions, but to ask all of the questions and not feel embarrassed,” he said. “Ask multiple people until you get an answer that is at least satisfactory.”

As these educators and students pave the way for others, they emphasize that success comes from both academic dedication and learning to effectively use university resources.

Building a Legacy

First-generation students at Austin Peay are building a legacy of resilience and determination, aided by faculty who understand their journey.

"I think it'll be easier for [my children] than it was for me," Roberts said, envisioning a future where her experiences guide the next generation.

The university's First-Generation College Celebration Week features events from scholarship opportunities to a town hall on student engagement. The celebration will culminate with a first-generation student T-shirt giveaway and photo ops on Friday, Nov. 8, in the Morgan University Center Plaza and a G1Govs-sponsored tailgate on Saturday, Nov. 9, before the APSU football game against Abilene Christian. Two $500 scholarships for first-generation students will be presented during the first quarter.

Through shared stories and collective wisdom, the Austin Peay community supports and empowers first-generation students, ensuring they leave a lasting impact within and beyond the university. With every challenge faced and overcome, these students and educators contribute to a growing narrative of success and inspiration for those taking the path less traveled.

About the Austin Peay College of STEM

The College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) offers studies in agriculture, astronomy, aviation sciences, biology, chemistry, computer science, earth and environmental sciences, engineering physics, engineering technology, information technology, mathematics, medical laboratory sciences, radiologic sciences and physics. Our discipline-based programs are student-centered and designed to prepare students for responsible positions in research, industry, education, medicine and government.