God Qualifies the Calling of a First Generation College Student: The Mark of Jalen Williams

The transition from high school to college is a new adventure for everyone. However, for some students, that college acceptance means more than just a piece of paper – it represents the mark of a first generation college student attending one of the best Christian colleges. However, you might be wondering, what is a first generation college student? 

A first generation college student is someone who is the first in their family to attend a college institution following high school graduation. 

If you’re the first student in your family to start the college journey and pursue your own college degree, you’re in good company. Read this blog about Grace Residence Director Jalen Williams, an alumnus who was the first student in his family to graduate from college. 

Becoming a First Generation College Student

“My story starts with my family. But I guess everybody’s story starts with family,” said Jalen Williams, a first generation college student from South Bend, Indiana. 

Williams grew up as the second oldest of fourteen siblings. As an older brother to twelve, he always felt called to set a good example for those younger than him. He held himself to a high standard in high school and never let himself fall behind.

“That’s what led me to become a first generation college student – having a mindset of always pushing myself to higher levels in school,” explained Williams.

The encouragement of Williams’ mother and his passion for visual communication and design further prompted him to explore the world of higher education. 

“When I got to Grace, I became passionate about being a Christian college student who is an active contributor,” said Williams.

And that’s what he did. Williams majored in visual communication and design and minored in music production. As Williams grew as an artist and a Christian college student, he also grew as a campus leader.

During his time at Grace, Williams became involved in the Council for Diversity and Inclusion (now called Together We Belong) and served as president of the Black Student Association for the 2020-2021 school year. 

“My job as president of the Black Student Association was to create a space where black minority students can feel a sense of familiarity and build connections with other black students,” he said. “My vision was that people felt comfortable being themselves in any given space, that there was no weird racial tension. And that was my vision for all of campus – that we could all be ourselves, but also be together in that and celebrate our uniqueness side by side.”

Growing in his passion for diversity and connection, his experiences as a first generation college student helped shape this vision on campus, and eventually offered Williams a chance to extend these beliefs into his future career. 

Next Steps

When Williams completed his undergraduate degree, he enrolled in an online Certificate in Corporate Communication Strategy at Purdue through Grace’s partnership program. While pursuing this certificate, he worked as an audiovisual tech assistant for Grace College’s chapel, a place where students worship Christ in community. 

Following graduation in 2024, Williams was uncertain of where he’d end up next. Unbeknownst to him, Gershom Tadesse, the former residence director of Beta, recommended him for a residence director position. 

“That was a unique point in my life. God was pulling in a lot of different directions. I was learning to broaden my perspective in what God had in store for me,” Williams said. 

At the time, Williams wasn’t sure if he was qualified to be a residence director. Although he had no prior experience in residence life, God provided him with the leadership skills he needed to succeed in his career. 

As an employee, Williams has numerous responsibilities. 

“We wear so many different hats, you can really pull from so many different fields of what this role entails,” Williams said. 

In his position, Williams oversees Indiana Hall and Beta Dorm. Part of his daily life includes mentoring RAs, growth group leaders, and other students. His background in graphic design also provides him with expertise when designing posters and helping plan campus events. 

But most importantly, Williams strives to cater to and reach out to the small niches of students on campus whose interests or qualities might be overlooked. 

“I love learning the uniqueness of people that makes them unique as individuals and finding ways to uplift and highlight that for other people to see and experience,” he said. 

His rich cultural upbringing and experiences as a first generation college student allow him to engage with others and explore his passion for mentorship. While Williams’ career journey may have been unexpected, he couldn’t see it panning out any other way. 

“God doesn’t call people who are already qualified; he qualifies those whom he’s called for; whatever that calling may be,” Williams said. 

As a first generation college student, your new journey into higher education may be difficult, but you’re not alone. Similar to Williams, God will use your unique talents for His good.

If you’re interested in pursuing a college degree, research the best Christian colleges in your area. Schedule a visit at Grace College and explore these tips for first generation college students.