First-generation college student • Biology with Computer Science minor • Sophomore
Julian's Story
Julian is a 20-year-old sophomore at a public university, the first in his family to attend college. Growing up in a working-class neighborhood, he's always been curious about how things work - from taking apart old electronics to wondering why his grandmother developed Alzheimer's disease. When he discovered that scientists are mapping the brain like a circuit diagram, he knew he'd found his calling.
Background
First-generation college student
Parents work in manufacturing
Younger sister in high school
Works part-time to help with expenses
Lives at home, commutes to campus
Current Situation
Biology major, CS minor
3.6 GPA, Dean's List last semester
Just learned Python programming
No research experience yet
Considering graduate school
🎯 Julian's Goals
Julian has clear aspirations but needs guidance on how to achieve them:
🔬 Short-term (This Year)
Join a research lab as an undergraduate researcher
Learn computational neuroscience fundamentals
Improve programming skills (Python, MATLAB)
Present at undergraduate research symposium
Connect with graduate students and mentors
🎓 Medium-term (Next 2 Years)
Apply to graduate programs in neuroscience
Publish undergraduate research findings
Apply for fellowship opportunities
Develop specialization in connectomics
Build professional network in the field
🚀 Long-term (5+ Years)
Complete PhD in computational neuroscience
Conduct research on neurological diseases
Develop new methods for brain analysis
Mentor other first-generation students
Contribute to treatments for Alzheimer's
💪 Strengths & Challenges
Like many first-generation students, Julian brings unique strengths while facing specific challenges:
✨ Strengths
🧠 Natural Curiosity
Julian asks thoughtful questions and isn't afraid to dig deep into complex topics. His genuine fascination with the brain drives him to explore beyond coursework.
💪 Work Ethic
Balancing work, school, and family responsibilities has taught Julian excellent time management and determination. He doesn't give up when things get tough.
🌟 Fresh Perspective
As someone new to research culture, Julian approaches problems with an outsider's creativity and isn't constrained by "how things are usually done."
⚡ Challenges
😰 Imposter Syndrome
Julian sometimes feels like he doesn't belong in academic spaces and worries that others are more prepared or qualified than he is.
💰 Financial Pressure
Working part-time to help family finances limits time for research opportunities, especially unpaid positions that other students can afford.
