'It's easier if you're middle class': first-generation students on going to uni
What are the challenges of being the first in your family to go to university – and how does it shape your experience?
Is higher education still the preserve of the middle classes or have tuition fees opened up access? What are the challenges of being the first in your family to go to university – and how does it shape your academic experience?
We asked four first-generation students about their experiences. From struggling to pay for books and scrambling for a rental guarantor to not wanting to let your family down, here’s what they said.
Dalal Barahman, 21, first year medical student at Manchester University
I’m one of seven and none of my six older siblings went to uni. I feel that perhaps they followed each other and this seemed like the safer option. A lot of people were telling me to go for something else – not in a malicious way, but because they didn’t want me to be rejected. They thought it’d be easier to get an apprenticeship or a job.
Money was an issue, but I was part of the Manchester Access Programme for students who come from low socio-economic backgrounds. They guide you through the application and the costs, and mentally prepared me for it all.
Before going to uni I had the mindset that it was just for middle-class people. I think this was because my school would bring people in to do talks and they spoke so poshly I didn’t even understand the words they’re using. But when I actually went to open days I saw the diversity there.
In terms of work, I get more stressed because I’ve come this far. My family and friends know I’m the first to go and they are so proud of me and I think I can’t mess this up. It makes you take it a lot more seriously.
I don’t tend to think about the debt. The tuition fees are paid by student finance and will come out of my pay packet later, and I still live at home so my living costs are lower. Before I started I didn’t know how I’d afford the books, the equipment, travel, placements ... But there are funds and grants you can apply for.
Sometimes I do feel disadvantaged because I have to live at home. In first year it felt like everyone was having fun and I was a bit left out but as time goes on I don’t mind. I don’t have to pay rent and I get hot meals cooked for me.
