Biosketch
- Name: Kujan Patel
- College: College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
- Major: Education
- Hometown: Tewksbury, Massachusetts
- Brief introduction about who you are, your role, and your academic focus:
I am an Education major at UMass Lowell and a Peer Leader with the River Hawk Scholars Academy. As a first-generation college student, I understand how overwhelming college can feel, which is why I’m passionate about supporting students academically, advocating for their needs, and helping them feel seen and supported. I hope to become an educator who creates inclusive spaces where every student feels they belong. - Favorite hobbies: Spending time with friends and family, listening to music, and travelling.
- What is your favorite thing about UMass Lowell (UML)?
My favorite thing about UML is the strong sense of community and the genuine support from faculty, staff, and peers who want students to succeed both academically and personally. - Why did you choose to attend UMass Lowell?
I chose UMass Lowell because it felt like a place where I would be supported both academically and personally, especially as a first-generation student. - What are your future academic and/or career goals?
My goal is to become an educator who not only supports students academically but also advocates for their needs and helps create inclusive, supportive learning environments. - What has being involved with the River Hawk Scholars Academy meant to you?
RHSA has given me a strong sense of community and belonging. It has helped me grow into a confident leader while allowing me to support students who are navigating experiences similar to my own. - What inspires you to support RHSA and/or first-generation students?
The support and encouragement I received when I first started college made a huge difference in my experience. Because of that, I want to be that same source of support for other first-generation students and help them feel confident and supported. - Looking back, what advice would you give to yourself in your first year of college?
I would tell myself to trust the process, ask for help without hesitation, and remember that it’s okay not to have everything figured out. - What advice would you give to fellow UMass Lowell students?
Take advantage of campus resources, build connections, and remember that you belong here. - What does it mean to you to be a first-generation college student?
Being a first-generation college student means stepping into unfamiliar spaces, learning through trial and error, and growing more confident with each experience. - What inspires you to want to help first-generation students in the RHSA?
I’m inspired by my own experiences as a first-generation student and the impact that mentorship and support had on my transition to college. Through RHSA, I want to help first-generation students feel seen, supported, and confident as they navigate their college journey.