Stephanie Pinedo ’18

I’m the first in my family to go to college. Through the Bright Prospect program in high school and an alumna mentor from the Smith class of 2010, I got my first introduction to Smith. I came for Discovery Weekend, and I was matched with a wonderful student host. I visited other colleges too, but after my first visit here, I could really see myself being at Smith. There were so many reasons to come to Smith. The college’s financial aid offer was generous, and I reached out to the alumnae network and some Latina alums as well, and they shared their own stories that confirmed this was the college I was looking for.

I wanted to be in a place that valued women’s voices and education. With my major, I am considering being a teacher; I am passionate about helping young girls feel supported as they pursue studies in STEM. I also feel like Smith women can do anything. I am part of the Wurtele Center’s “First Gen Out Loud” leadership experience. And I see my first-gen identity not as a deficit but as an advantage. I’ve learned to be proud of all that I’ve accomplished. I’ve also become more resourceful, and I am very fortunate to have made the right connections with people who support me academically, financially and emotionally.

“I am passionate about helping young girls feel supported as they pursue studies in STEM.”

If I could offer any advice to incoming Smithies, it would be this: Don’t feel hesitant about asking for help when you need it. Get involved. You will find out that you are never alone on this journey.