My name is Mia Johnson, and I am a first-generation college student and graduate. I received my bachelor’s degree in 1995 from Western Michigan University and later obtained my MBA from Davenport University - the first in my family to also obtain a graduate-level degree. I am also a proud graduate of the Detroit Public School system, where I was introduced to and recruited to attend WMU. I am a Senior Human Resource Professional at a Fortune 200 Company in Detroit, MI. I’ve been in the human resource field for over 20 years. My interest in the field of Human Resources also began on the campus of WMU as a student recruiter.
Many of the ones that helped me become successful and substantially impacted my journey as a first-generation college student are still there, influencing great minds on the campus of WMU. Including Mr. Tony Dennis, who recruited me from Mumford High School at an introduction to ‘what is college’ event. It was my first exposure to college and the first time I ever even thought further than graduating from high school. Mr. Dennis not only showed me something new, but he also invested in me and my potential and aided in getting me admitted into Western. His wonderful wife, Dr. Betty Dennis, gave me my 1st work-study job, which introduced me to the importance of work ethics and responsibility. I cannot leave out the critical influence, and assistance Terry and Shanta James played as they ensured I could stay in school because my financial aid was right. I was an honor roll student throughout high school until I took Dr. Ben Wilson’s Black Americana Studies course. He gave me my first reality check, which showed me I wasn’t the stellar writer I thought I was, but he also encouraged me that I could become better. Thankfully I did.
My advice for current first-generation college students would be to believe and have confidence in yourself and your abilities. Don’t let the distraction of campus life, family, or other outside sources deter you from your goal(s). Use your resources, and don’t take this opportunity for granted. If you made it in, you can make it out.