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Evelynn Holmes is a First-Generation college student from Hartwell, Georgia, whose plans didn't include a college education due to financial struggles. Her high school JROTC officers encouraged her to apply for scholarships, which she was awarded, and so began her journey of higher education. Despite no longer having the scholarship and additional means of support, Holmes found herself determined to finish her degree in criminal justice.  

"I'm paying out of pocket for college, but it's totally attainable. And more realistic than I ever thought it could be," Holmes said.

Now a senior, Holmes is part of the National Service Leadership Track (NSLT). Next semester she will intern with the Office of Inspector General with the Department of Health and Human Services.

"As I get older, I realize that I can do things that once scared me. I didn't change my path to the non-commissioning until my junior year, which meant changing my mindset and leaving the comfort of that environment," Holmes said. "What surprised me the most is that I was willing to go out and take a step that I was uncomfortable with for the sake of my future and doing something that was better for me."

Holmes encourages high school students to consider college.

"College is hard, yes, but it's also fun. And just because you're a First-Generation student doesn't prevent you from being different from any other student here," she said.

She offers three tips for future First-Gen students.

"Reach out and use your resources like advisors in Financial Aid that are very helpful. I did not use them when I was a freshman at all, but as a junior and senior, I make appointments with everyone and ask them to look over everything. So definitely use the resources the university gives you," she said.

Her second tip was to socialize.

"Don't stay in your room. Socialize. Join the club. It'll make your first semester a little bit happier," Holmes said. "You'll get to meet more people, and you'll get more comfortable the longer that you're here."

Holmes suggested staying on campus on weekends and exploring the area, because it "makes you feel more at home." 

Her third tip was regarding attire.

"Don't wear your pajamas to class. They do studies on this," she said.  "The better that you dress, the better that you feel whenever you're doing testing and things like that. So I really found that even whenever we had the chance to wear like civilian clothes, I try to dress up a little bit, just because I feel like I pay attention better in class."