Student Staff
Monneca Rim (Student Worker, Administration)
School of Dentisty, Class of 2027
[email protected]
Growing up as a first-gen college student, I had to navigate through most of my academic journey blindly and alone. I found out about the FG2C community late in my academic journey. Now I cannot imagine ever going through school without the invaluable support of the first-gen community. Being first-gen to me means having the opportunity to help pave pathways for others in our community. It also allows me to pursue my passion for teaching and mentoring. If you ever need someone to chat with or have any questions at all, please DO NOT hesitate to reach out to me!
Student Ambassadors
Caitlyn (Cat) Dang (she/her)
Graduate Division - Biomedical Sciences, Class of 2030
[email protected]
My success as a first-generation student is largely due to the endless and unconditional support I've received throughout my training from family, friends, and mentors. Without their advice, guidance, and inspiration, my journey would be significantly more tumultuous. I hope to pay forward my learned wisdom through continued mentorship and supporting the first-generation community; we are meant to be here! If you're interested in graduate school and learning more about my path specifically, feel free to reach out or drop me via email or through my Instagram @futuredrdang.
Dylan Holder (he/him)
School of Dentistry, Class of 2027
[email protected]
As a first-generation college student, I have had to navigate my academic and professional aspirations without the guidance and insights that come from familial experience. During my time in undergrad, I organized a mentorship program with local high school students who would be the first in their families to pursue higher education. I am passionate about first-gen mentorship and love doing my part to support the dedicated first-gen community, so I am always available to offer advice, share resources, and provide encouragement. I am incredibly proud of this identity and how it has shaped me throughout my academic journey!
Cece Nguyen (she/her)
Physical Therapy, Class of 2027
[email protected]
Every student deserves to feel like they belong. Through communities like FG2C, we can share the resources and guidance many of us lacked when navigating the complexities of higher education. I’m excited to be part of this community and to use my experiences as a first-gen college student and community college transfer to help others recognize their strengths, celebrate their achievements, and reach their goals. Outside of grad school, I love reading, playing board games and video games, and catching my favorite artists live around the city. Being first gen doesn’t mean you have to figure everything out on your own. Please reach out if you’d like to connect or need support along the way!
Angel Ortiz (he/him)
School of Medicine, Class of 2029
As a first-generation, low-income (FLI) student, I know how overwhelming the path to higher education can feel, and I’m passionate about helping others navigate it with confidence. Before medical school, I worked in my undergrad’s FLI office and served as a board member for our FLI student group. I’ve had the chance to mentor FLI students from middle school through college, and I care deeply about making sure you feel supported in your own journey. I’m always happy to share resources, strategies, or just encouragement, so please don’t hesitate to reach out!