Building Community: Ayana Owens’ Journey as a First-Generation College Student
College can be isolating for first-generation students, feeling like an enormous weight. Ayana Owens, a University of Southern California graduate from the Class of 2016, understands this feeling all too well. She shares, “Take a deep breath and handle things one day, one class, and one assignment at a time. Remember, you worked hard for this experience and deserve every part of it.”
Welcome back to our Alumni Storytelling series. This week, we are excited to feature Ayana Owens, a proud USC alumna and an MBA graduate from Mercy University. Ayana is now a Finance Operations Manager for a wellness brand, and she attributes much of her success to the community she built during her college years.
The Importance of Building a Community
For Ayana, community was the cornerstone of her college journey. Being a first-generation student, she faced unique challenges that often felt overwhelming. “There were times when I felt like I didn’t belong,” she admits. “But finding a support network of friends, mentors, and fellow students who understood my experience made all the difference.”
Ayana’s story is a testament to the power of community and the importance of reaching out for support. She encourages current students to seek out organizations, study groups, and social networks that can provide a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
Overcoming Challenges
Like many first-generation students, Ayana faced numerous obstacles, from navigating financial aid to managing academic pressures. “It was tough,” she recalls. “But I learned to take things one step at a time. Breaking down tasks into manageable pieces helped me stay focused and less stressed.”
Her strategy of tackling challenges incrementally proved effective, allowing her to maintain her academic performance while also participating in extracurricular activities. Ayana emphasizes the importance of self-care and finding a balance between work and play.
From College to Career
After graduating from USC, Ayana pursued her MBA at Mercy University. This additional education equipped her with the skills needed to excel in the competitive field of finance. Today, as a Finance Operations Manager for a wellness brand, she continues to apply the lessons she learned during her college years.
Ayana’s career journey underscores the value of perseverance and continuous learning. “Never stop seeking knowledge and growth,” she advises. “Your college experience is just the beginning of a lifelong journey of personal and professional development.”
Join Us in Creating More Success Stories
Ayana Owens’ story is just one example of the many success stories that begin with a strong support system and a determination to succeed. At Persist Nashville, we are committed to helping more students like Ayana create their own success stories.
You can help support our mission by contributing to our Year End Giving campaign. Your donations will go directly towards programs and resources that support first-generation college students, helping them overcome challenges and achieve their dreams.
Make a Difference Today
Help us create more success stories like Ayana’s. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of first-generation college students, providing them with the support and resources they need to succeed.
Thank you for being part of our community and for supporting the next generation of college graduates. Let’s continue to build a future where every student has the opportunity to thrive.