Meet Five First-Generation Hawkeyes Blazing Trails at Iowa
About 1 in 5 University of Iowa undergraduates identifies as being first in family to attend a four-year institution. They often arrive on campus with different needs and worries than their peers. From navigating financial challenges to balancing family expectations, they’re forging new paths for themselves—and for generations following in their footsteps. Iowa’s programs, including First Gen Hawks, which offers vital tools and support, help these students go from surviving to thriving. Join them for the journey.
Eileen Zepeda-Castillo
Class of 2025 | Coralville
Sociology; UI Air Force Reserve Officer
“I felt like a failure when I first dropped out of college years ago, but at this moment—as a single mom, an Iowa student, and a cadet—I’ve achieved more than I ever thought I could. I am very proud of myself. As long as you get an education, it’s a success.”
Clayton Garmon
Class of 2025 | Floris, Iowa
Mechanical Engineering; Hawkeye Marching Band
“The Hawkeye Marching Band is my family, and my happy place is on the field at Kinnick. I feel like a whole new person after being at the University of Iowa. It’s helped me step into leadership roles and become confident in myself.”
Meliana Anderson
Class of 2027 | Des Moines
Nursing
“My mom is breaking her back to keep me here so I can make something of myself. Being the first person to go to college can feel difficult when somebody is doing everything possible to help you pursue your dreams. But hearing about other first-gen students’ stories and struggles makes me feel less alone.”
Willie Zheng
Class of 2028 | Marion, Iowa
Pharmacy; 1stGen@Iowa Student Advisory Board Member and Resident Assistant
“I remember my first day on campus. It’s such a huge place, and everyone was walking around, acting like it was a normal day. For me, it felt like a giant boulder landing on my shoulders. But the people I’ve gotten to know here have made something really big feel really small. And I wouldn’t change it for the world.”
Brenda Ramirez
Class of 2025 | Round Lake, Illinois
Economics and Political Science; Vice President, Undergraduate Student Government
“I love the First Gen Hawks program. By the end of my freshman year, I felt I knew more about the university than a student whose parents had been here. I also love the idea that something I do today will help students five years from now. Even if they don’t know who I am, they will know someone was thinking about them.”
PHOTOS: JOHN EMIGH
