As a first-generation college student, Joly Bui ’20 wasn’t sure what would come next after her undergrad years, so she turned to her TCU professors.
“Senior year was when I started asking professors about their career paths, and they were all more than willing to explain their story and offer advice,” said Bui, a May supply and value chain management graduate who hails from Arlington. “The professors and faculty at TCU truly want you to succeed and will go out of their way to check up on you even after you’ve graduated. They are the best.”
In February, Bui will begin her new job as an associate business transformation consultant at IBM. She answered some questions about her Horned Frog first-gen experience:
What brought you to TCU?
JB: I wanted to attend a school that prioritized student success — I didn’t want to just be another student. I wanted to get to know my professors and build meaningful relationships with those around me.
What are some of the strengths you believe you possess as a first-generation college student?
JB: Perseverance — I knew I couldn’t just give up when things didn’t go my way. I had to pick myself up at times when I lost sight of my goals. The students, faculty and staff have also been a blessing along the way. Everyone does their best to bring positivity into the community and helped me remain optimistic about the future. Gratitude is another one — I appreciate opportunities as they come forth, and in return, I’ve always tried my best to help guide underclassmen who are trying to figure life out like I was.
What was your biggest challenge as a first-generation student and how did you overcome it?
JB: For me personally there was always a feeling of self-doubt. Regardless of my achievements, I was never satisfied, and consequently thought of all the ways I could have done better. It was also difficult attributing my achievements to my efforts — it always felt like luck. It’s still a work in progress, but eventually I’ll get past it.
What did graduating from college mean to you and your support system?
JB: At first, graduating college only meant better career opportunities and a chance to build the life I wanted. Now I look back and am extremely thankful for the people I’ve met and experiences I’ve been able to have that shaped me into who I am today.
What guidance or advice would you give to other first-generation college students?
JB: It can be intimidating as a first-timer in college when you’re in a classroom of students who seem like they have it all figured out. Everyone seems to navigate academia so well and know what they should be doing to get to their goals, etc., but in reality, no one really knows what they’re doing. As a first-gen college student, while it might feel as if you’re going through this alone with little to no expectations and uncertainty, I think there’s a freedom in creating your own picture of what college should be like. College isn’t something you can figure out overnight, but as long as you’re genuinely putting in the effort, cultivating relationships and taking the initiative for your future, there’s nothing stopping you. There’s always a way to achieve your goals.
What do you love most about being a Horned Frog?
JB: I love the spirit at TCU. It’s refreshing and energizing. The Christmas tree lighting is always beautiful.