First Generation | StudentsApril 03, 2024

First-Generation Student Spotlight: Jennifer Phelan

Written By: First-Generation Committee

Becoming the first person in your family to attend college can be daunting. Doing so as a non-traditional student presents another set of obstacles to overcome. However, at the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith, first-year student Jennifer Phelan is already on her way to flipping the script on these barriers through her positive attitude and enthusiasm.

As a wife and mother, Jennifer understood that the decision to return to school to study business administration with a concentration in digital marketing and finance would impact her family. She said that despite everyone having to make sacrifices, her family has remained steadfast in their support.

“(My family) has stood by me through all the ups and downs of college,” she said. “When I graduate, it’s not just be that did it, but we did it.”

Jennifer is paving the way for her children to know they, too, can overcome obstacles and succeed. She leads by example through her commitment to helping her family as a first-generation, non-traditional student at UAFS. Jennifer views it as “a blessing” and considers herself “living proof that no matter your background, you have the potential to go anywhere you choose.”

Reflecting on her decision to work toward earning her degree, Jennifer said one of the challenges she has faced as a first-generation student was a lack of college readiness. Another challenge Jennifer had to overcome was her identity as a student.

Despite these challenges, Jennifer’s dedication to showing her children they can do anything they set their minds to like she has done, Jennifer proudly said that she has utilized “every possible resource” available to feel like part of the community and achieve success.

Jennifer credits the Non-Traditional Student Organization, Academic Success Center coaches Amber Robinett and Derek Hill, and faculty and staff members Dr. Monica Luebke, professor and director of writing and rhetoric, and David Nickell, director of the summer bridge program, as “true blessings.” She said all have gone above and beyond to help her find resources for her success pathway.

As Jennifer nears the end of her first year at UAFS, she hopes to serve as an inspiration for other first-generation students and non-traditional students who are considering attending college.

“You can do it; you have what it takes, and there is a whole group of people here at UAFS to walk alongside you,” Jennifer said. “Pave your own path. Take in the experience and use every resource you have; that will be key to your success. The next four years are just a blip of your life. Good luck, future Lions.”

• Tags:
• Academic Success Center
• Non-traditional
• First Generation Student
• Business Administration