My #UCFirstGen Story: Sydney King, CECH ‘22

Sydney King is a student in the University of Cincinnati’s College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services, studying special education. Sydney is a pioneer as a first-generation college student.

I hope to make an impact on the students that I teach. I want to make a difference in their lives and show them that the sky is the limit. UC showed me that even being a first-generation student, getting a degree is still possible. The professors at CECH have been amazing; when they teach, it is very intense but they teach in such a way that I learn.

Working at the UC Alumni Association has been an amazing experience and has opened many doors for me. I have been behind the scenes at many events that take place at the university and that has been an incredible experience.

The Gen-1 House has made a huge impact on my life. If it were not for this program, I would not have gone to college, and I would not have met such amazing people and had so many opportunities.

It will be a wonderful achievement that I have been able to be complete on my own. It will show that when I put my mind to something that it is achievable, and that with the resources and support around me, I can do anything I set my mind to.