First-Generation Students: A Tight-Knit Family Affair

Written by Amanda Mathis

At Converse University, the First-Generation Student Program plays a crucial role in providing students who are the first in their families to attend college with the skills and support to navigate their new environment. 

When students leave for college, they often say goodbye to friends and loved ones and bring a few souvenirs from home to campus. However, two Converse students have brought something more substantial to school – their siblings.

Each student is creating their niche with the University’s many offerings. They are navigating life through their sibling bonds, eating together at Gee Dining Hall, and enjoying time with their friend groups.

Cecilia and Cody Fortier

Cecilia and Cody Fortier’s journey to Converse was not a direct path to the University. Hailing from Richmond, VA, the siblings moved to South Carolina during middle school, then graduated high school and began their college careers at Spartanburg Community College and Spartanburg Methodist College. Their bond is vital as the siblings commute to campus, often carpool together, and grab lunch with each other whenever they’re free.

“It’s great to have a sibling on campus,” shared Cecilia ’25, an Accounting major and a German Studies Minor who transferred from Spartanburg Community College. Active on campus, Cecilia works in Converse’s Mickel Library and is a member of Converse College for Women. “It gives us a chance to spend more time with each other,” she reflected.

“Cecilia showed me the ropes on campus,” said Cody Fortier, ’25, a History major and recent transfer from Spartanburg Methodist College. “She introduced me to professors and told me how to find quiet spots on campus to study.” In his second year at Converse, Cody is pursuing more opportunities to become involved in campus activities, like the First-Generation Student Program, while balancing academics.

Genesis and Donald Medley

Hailing from Northwestern High School in Rock Hill, SC, siblings Genesis ‘28 and Donald Medley ‘25 are from an artistic family that is at the forefront of their careers as both Medleys pursue degrees in the arts. Donald, who came to Converse on a track and field scholarship, is a leader on the team, a senior, and a BFA Studio art major. He is part of the first co-ed class at Converse and was recently crowned Homecoming King. Genesis (Nisbet Honors), a freshman Theatre major, is also actively involved in campus life.

Donald was surprised when he learned his younger sister was interested in joining him at Converse.

“I didn’t think about going to school with him at first,” said Genesis ’28, who shared that she likes having a familiar face around campus. “I didn’t realize how busy I’d be while at Converse, and it is nice to have a sense of home.”

Though Converse has a small footprint, the siblings have found that they lead separate lives. Genesis and Donald have found a healthy balance, allowing for their independence while maintaining a friendship.

“I didn’t want to use my brother as a crutch – I wanted to make my own friends. However, he has been very helpful and intentional in connecting me with groups on campus, and having a piece of home while being here is nice.”

“I try to take time to be with her and be a big brother to her while I’m still here.”

Donald Medley ’25

Time is of the essence – especially for a graduating senior. “I try to take time to be with her and be a big brother to her while I’m still here,” said Donald. “Having a sibling on campus is looking at them and then reflecting about your own time at Converse. Life is so fast that you have to make time to stop and smell the roses and think about the good times at college.”

Joining Our First-Generation Program

These two sets of siblings are a part of the growing First-Generation program on campus. Being a first-generation college student is more than coming from a background where one’s parents or guardians did not graduate from college.

“It’s best to join in,” remarked Donald, a mentor in the program. “I like to help people who are in your shoes and create programs that you would have wanted or needed during your earlier years in school.”

“My experience has been enhanced by the First-Generation program. I appreciate how easy it was to adjust to Converse.”

Cody Fortier ’25

Cecilia and Cody also enjoy the check-ins and support the steps with the First Generation program. The members show students the ropes and class expectations and guide them through their first week.

“They don’t want to hold your hand, but they’ll provide support during the process,” noted Cody. “My experience has been enhanced by the First-Generation program. I appreciate how easy it was to adjust to Converse.” 

Converse University’s First Generation program celebrates three years on campus this year, with 352 undergraduates participating. This growing organization exemplifies Converse’s commitment to supporting all students, making a rich educational experience open to all.

The program recognizes that venturing into the unknown world of graduate and professional school to actualize one’s potential and contribute to one’s family, community, profession, and society.