Always Wondering Always Trying

Abstract

Zhijiao Yang, a postgraduate accounting student at Durham University, diligently seeks her life’s direction as a first-generation college student. In this essay, Zhijiao narrates her journey, reflecting on her childhood as a left-behind child and the profound impact of her parents’ support on her education. The narrative highlights the resilience, open-mindedness, and self-reliance she has developed, and offers advice to fellow first-gen students on embracing challenges and navigating uncertainties.