In honor of First-generation Student Week, Marquette Today is featuring Ivan Moreno, a first-generation student who is proud to share his story, why he chose Marquette and what his plans are post-graduation.
First-generation students make up 22% of the undergraduate population at Marquette. Marquette is celebrating First-gen Week Nov. 2-6 as part of the national celebration commemorating the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 on Nov. 8. Students are encouraged to participate in the week’s festivities.
College:
College of Health Sciences
Major:
Exercise Physiology on a Direct Master of Athletic Training Track
Graduation year:
2023
Hometown:
Guatemala and Fairfax, Virginia
What brought you to Marquette?
Growing up, I always knew about Marquette because of basketball. When it was time to apply to colleges during my senior year of high school, I became interested in Marquette’s data science department. And after flying to Milwaukee for Marquette’s First Families event, I fell in love with the scenery and the vibe on campus. Recently, I’ve been more interested in the exercise physiology program.
What has been the biggest adjustment for you as a first-gen student?
Being independent and having to go through the college experience with little second-hand experience. Also being very, very far away from family.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Milwaukee?
Visiting the lakefront and going to restaurants downtown.
What are your goals post-graduation?
I’m very into sports so I’m interested in becoming an athletic trainer for a professional basketball team.
Hobbies and interests?
I’m part of a radio show called the “Lil’ Bro Show,” which airs every Friday at 6 p.m. My interests also include listening to music, playing sports and playing video games. I’m also interested in fashion as well as modeling.
What keeps you at Marquette?
My family and my goals for the future keep me at Marquette. I often think about this and currently, there isn’t anything else that I’d rather be doing than going to school and pursuing a career in the field of my choice. I always keep pictures of my family and loved ones on my desk to remind me why I’m here as I’m pulling late night study sessions.
What do you want the Marquette community to know about first-gen students?
That we are resilient, we have motives bigger than our own. We are choosing to become the game-changers in our families because they gave us the opportunity to do so.
