First-Generation Students Find Purpose and Pathways Toward Success at LaGuardia
LONG ISLAND CITY, NY (November 6, 2025) — National First-Generation College Day, observed annually on November 8, recognizes and elevates the resilience and determination of students, alumni, faculty, and staff who are the first in their families to attend and graduate from college. It was launched in 2017 by the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and the Center for First-generation Student Success, and is timed to commemorate the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965.
LaGuardia Community College/CUNY offers numerous resources and services to support first-generation college students, who are forging their own paths in higher education, often without the guidance of family members who have navigated college themselves. The Women’s Center & LGBTQ+ Hub offers opportunities for education and connection around issues of equity, identity, and well-being. It hosts a Weekly Support Circle where students empower one another through discussions about the ups and downs of student life.
The Wellness Center provides free, confidential counseling, and wellness services to navigate college and life challenges. CREAR (College Readiness, Achievement and Retention) Futuros, sponsored by the Hispanic Federation and hosted by Casa de las Américas, provides peer mentorship for Latinx students and others in need of support. LaGuardia CARES (College Access for Retention and Economic Success), helps students facing food insecurity and connects them with financial and community resources. The LaGuardia Community College Foundation offers scholarships, emergency funds for rent, transportation, and other expenses, as well as stipends for enrichment programs and on-campus jobs.
Among the many first-generation students finding success at LaGuardia is Andres Felipe Parada Hernandez, 22, a Philosophy major who moved to New York City from Colombia three years ago to pursue a college degree in the U.S.
He began his journey at LaGuardia through the CUNY Language Immersion Program and enrolled as a Philosophy major in Spring 2025, bringing with him 15 transfer credits from previous studies in Colombia.
“Philosophy is a beautiful field,” said Parada. “It’s not just a discipline—it’s a way of life.”
He first encountered philosophy during a personal crisis and has been inspired by Czech philosopher Jan Patočka, who believed that crises awaken deep questioning and creativity.
At LaGuardia, Parada has found a second home at Casa de las Américas, where he receives peer mentorship through CREAR Futuros. His mentor, Juan Arboleda, has been a key source of guidance.
After completing his associate degree, Parada plans to transfer to Queens College, pursue a Ph.D., and become a professor, teaching and studying philosophy.
Laura Cuautla, 19, is a first-semester Secondary Education major who moved to the U.S. from Mexico at age four. She balances school with part-time work as a medical assistant at an ophthalmology office and appreciates that she can walk to the college in 20 minutes or hop on the train for one stop from her home in Astoria, Queens.
Cuautla enjoys studying or relaxing in LaGuardia’s courtyards and Library. She plans to visit The Writing Center for help polishing essays and appreciates the guidance she’s received from her Accelerated Study in Associate Programs (ASAP) advisor.
She’s looking ahead to graduating from LaGuardia in 2027 and transferring to Queens College. Cuautla plans to become a high school English teacher.
Angel Rivera, 19, is a first-semester student from The Bronx who found his college home at LaGuardia.
“I’ve spent a lot of time in Queens visiting friends,” he shared. “LaGuardia was always my dream school because of its diversity and welcoming atmosphere.”
Originally enrolled as a Business Administration major, Angel recently made the switch to Film & Television to follow his passion for storytelling and entertainment, and appreciates the counsel he’s received from his ASAP advisor.
His dream is to create a Netflix series centered on a teenage boy dealing with family struggles—drawing inspiration from Chris Rock’s iconic sitcom, Everybody Hates Chris.
Grisha Bhujel, 22, is a second-semester Pre-Health Science major from Nepal. She is focused on her goal of becoming a Registered Nurse. Living in Jackson Heights, she’s connected with a large Nepalese community, including fellow students pursuing Nursing degrees. She values the friendships she’s made, sharing homemade lunches and study sessions on campus.
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LaGuardia Community College (LAGCC), a Hispanic-Serving Institution, located in Long Island City, Queens offers more than 50 associate degrees and academic certificates, and more than 65 continuing education programs to prepare New Yorkers for transfer to senior colleges and rewarding jobs and careers. An institution of the City University of New York (CUNY), the College reflects the legacy of our namesake, Fiorello H. LaGuardia, the former NYC mayor beloved for his advocacy of the underserved. Since 1971, LaGuardia’s academic programs and support services have advanced the socioeconomic mobility of students from Queens, NYC and beyond.
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