Skip to main content

First Generation Student Profile: Angie Garner-Sinjeokov BFA’23

by Olivia Muñoz, Dean of Students,

To continue the celebration of First Generation Student Success Day (Nov. 8), we are pleased to feature a few of Willamette’s outstanding first-generation students throughout this week.

Angie Garner-Sinjeokov
Angie Garner-Sinjeokov BFA’23

Angie Garner-Sinjeokov BFA’23
Pronouns: she/her
Hometown: Sierra Vista, Arizona

What has been your experience as a first generation college student?
It’s been a little daunting. I have no firsthand point of reference for how this is supposed to go. But it's also exciting to get to spearhead a whole new experience. It’s allowed me and my parents to bond over learning the process together, and has been really positive overall.

What activities are you involved in?
I serve as the PNCA Student Council Facilitator, which is similar to a president role. I’m also president of the Creative Writing Club, and am very involved with Student Life activities. We’re currently working on redecorating the student lounge.

Being a first generation college student is one part of your identity. What are other aspects about you that you think about as you navigate your academic journey?
I grew up in Argentina before moving to the United States, so there have been a lot of cultural differences in terms of interactions. For one, I’m coming from a more “touchy-feely” culture. I’m also neurodivergent. All of those combined have put things into perspective for me to try to be a better person than peers who alienated me when I was younger.

What strengths do first generation students bring to higher education?
Perspective. We know the gravitas of a college experience. You really get the sense of how much your parents, your parents’ parents, and you worked to get here. We are keenly aware of how important it is.

What do your future plans hold?
Hopefully, I will get my Masters in Writing, maybe even at PNCA! Eventually, I’d like to work in publishing, illustration, or education.

Related Stories

View All
Willamette University

New Willamette faculty bring expertise and excellence to the classroom

09.05.2024 | Paul McKean

An impressive lineup of new faculty members — including a former public defender, an Emmy award-winning animator, a global public health advocate, and a Disney artist — will provide valuable learning opportunities for students.

Willamette University

How I got the job: A Q&A with Perrin Crespi BA’22

03.01.2023

Find out how Crespi is using her degree in civic communication and media at a bioindustrial manufacturing company.

Willamette University

Academic Honors and Awards announced

06.07.2022 | Office of the Dean, College of Arts and Sciences

More than 200 undergraduates are recipients of 2022 Academic Honors and Awards. Congratulations, Bearcats!

Willamette University

University Communications

Address
Waller Hall, Fourth Floor
Willamette University
900 State Street
Salem Oregon 97301 U.S.A.