Cuesta-McAulay bridges gap between first-gen students and higher education with a new website
BY NYLAH MITCHELL, STAFF WRITER
On Thursday, Oct. 3, Student Government collaborated with the First-Gen+ Center to launch a “how-to” website. Catered towards first-generation and migrant-origin students, the site gives a comprehensive guide on navigating college.
The launch kicked off in Merten Hall, with Spanish top hits welcoming attendees. Mason Student Body President Maria Cuesta announced the collaboration with First Gen+ Center Assistant Director Rommel Aguilar. Aguilar shared that the website’s goal is to be “first-gen ready” and “promote undocufriendly spaces.”
The website, “How To Guide: A Navigation Tool for First-Gen College Students and/or Students from Migrant-Origins,” provides various resources such as links to connect with student services, scholarship opportunities and more. Additionally, the website introduces students to the Mason community and provides a list of clubs and organizations surrounding identity and Greek life.
Though it doesn’t include every registered student organization (RSO), Undersecretary of Website Management Jake Dillenburg shared that “the [guide] is updateable. It is a living website.”
The “Tips + Student Testimonials” page offers perspectives from current and alumni Mason students who may have felt “lost” or “uncomfortable” about receiving higher education. “It alleviates the pressure of getting an education,” Cuesta said.
Cuesta was elected as Student Body President in the Spring 2024 election. “On top of being a first-generation, I’m also an international student,” Cuesta said. “At Mason, I understood and saw the need of people being able to understand how to navigate college.”
Cuesta credits her involvement with various student organizations and departments on campus for expanding her view on the different needs within Mason’s community. Cuesta shared that any efforts to enhance the experience of certain communities is an attempt to bring the community together.
“It did start from a first-generation and immigrant background, but it’s not limited to that. It serves all students,” Cuesta added.
Students can access the full guide on the official student government website.