Q&A with Jeramiah Vega ‘25 (nursing), and Taye Daniel-Ayibiowu — known on campus as Coach T, head men’s rugby coach. They are among 24 pairs in the First Gen Connect program, matching first-generation college students with faculty or staff who were first-gen college students and who understand some of the challenges of navigating college.
Jeremiah, what have you done together?
Coach T and I have met up 4-5 times this academic school year (as of February), when our schedules have permitted it. We have grabbed lunch or an afternoon snack and spoke about perspectives on college and life.
What’s good about this mentoring program?
What’s good about the First Gen Connect mentoring program existing is that it gives students help and guidance, pointing myself and others in the right direction.
How has your mentor been helpful?
Coach T has been helpful with random advice as I navigate through situational things in college. For the most part he’s given me an ear that has understood me.
What have you learned that you could offer as advice for others?
Use your time wisely and put your priorities in the right place, from an academic and health standpoint.
Coach T, what do you hope to share through this relationship?
Through this relationship, I hope to share wisdom, inspiration, and tips on life, that when Jeremiah encounters tough situations within life he’ll be able to push through them.
Coach T, what have you gained from this connection?
Besides a mentor and mentee relationship I believe we both gained a friendship that will hopefully last a lifetime. I look forward to shooting a text or call to Jeramiah just to check up on him, for years to come. It’s important to have people in your life that you can rely on.