Imagine being the first in your family to attend a prestigious university like Harvard. Yeah, that was me – a first-generation student feeling lost and out of place. Graduating from Harvard was a dream I held close to my heart, one that seemed too distant to touch. While this could be a story about how I triumphed despite all the setbacks, the Firstgen/Nextgen graduation speech by Amanda Sharick put so much of my experience and my future ambitions into perspective...

Harvard Is The Ultimate Flex (Especially for Asian Families Like Mine)

Let's talk about the elephant in the room – the "Harvard flex." Just mentioning this one magical word can open doors you never knew existed, Harvard is much more than a university, it a worldwide recognizable brand. As a Harvard graduate, people will look at you differently, treat you with an air of respect, and suddenly, you're part of an elite club. And let's not kid ourselves; it's pretty awesome! But here's the thing – graduating from Harvard it's not just about flaunting a fancy degree, it's also about the responsibility that comes with it.

More than Bragging Rights

Flexing goes beyond just showcasing achievements, we're all responsible for extending our help and support to the next generation. Just like flexing requires extending your muscles, our accomplishments at Harvard should extend beyond our own achievements to help others. For Amanda, our Firstgen/Nextgen graduation was a celebration, not just of our successes, but of our duty to pave the way for the next generation of first-generation Harvard students.

Uplifting Others Along Your Way

Growing up in an Asian household where education is revered, my Harvard journey wasn't just mine – it was a victory for my entire family. The pride in their eyes was immeasurable, and Amanda's words resonated deeply. Without role models who've walked the same path, finding your way through the intricate admissions process at competitive universities can feel like navigating a labyrinth. That's why I launched Your Admissions Advisor, to be a platform dedicated to providing guidance and mentorship to those with unconventional backgrounds, helping them secure their spot at Harvard.

Passing the Torch: Why I'm Committed

Harvard changed my life in ways I never thought possible, and now, it's my turn to pay it forward. I firmly believe that anyone, regardless of their background, can make their Harvard dreams a reality. It's about breaking free from self-limiting beliefs and understanding that the sky's the limit. If I can do it, so can you!

Believing in the Possible: Your Harvard Journey

Remember, every dream is within your reach if you're willing to put in the effort. Amanda's speech served as a powerful reminder that obstacles are just stepping stones on your path to success. 

If you are looking for help, my carefully designed mentorship program is tailored to your needs and goals, giving you a taste of life at Harvard while setting you on the path to achieving your academic dreams. Join the next cohort in the link below: