First-Generation Features: Kierstin McIlwrath 

By: Susan Berube | Publish Date: March 20th, 2026

In our new first-generation features series, and in collaboration with the Office for Student Retention and Educational Innovation, we spotlight trailblazing first-generation students. These students are eager to share their story about how being a first-generation college student has impacted them and shaped their academic career.  

Kierstin McIlwrath, a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in social work, is a first-generation student who was born and raised in North Jersey, as were her parents. She graduated from Kean University in 2023 with her B.A. in psychology and a minor in American Sign Language (ASL). She has been a recreational cheerleading coach and softball coach for the last 10 years and is also currently a Care Manager at Bergen’s Promise, supporting youth and families. 

During her senior year of high school, McIlwrath felt very lost when she was preparing for college. As a first-generation student, it was hard to navigate decision-making, financial aid, and figuring out her path ahead.  

“My parents were a great support system, taking me on college tours and were happy wherever I ended up attending,” McIlwrath shared, “(but) my parents were not sure how college worked.”  

She had a great support system in her parents, but it was hard making decisions when she didn’t even know where to start. When it came to choosing classes, understanding financial aid, applying for internships, or preparing for graduate school, she felt completely alone. 

However, McIlwrath wasn’t alone. She was able to find extra support in school, especially regarding her biggest challenge – financial pressure. Not only was she a first-generation student, but she came from a lower-income household as well. This required her to work part-time jobs throughout college and now a full-time job during graduate school. Given this, one of her greatest resources in college was the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program. The program helped her prepare for graduate school and provided her with financial support. She was also surrounded by a community that could relate to her, and with mentors that supported her and encouraged her throughout her journey.  

McIlwrath’s journey wasn’t linear. There were times she felt out of place, struggling with imposter syndrome, questioning her ability to succeed, and further in her education. However, she was able to overcome this feeling by reminding herself that she has younger sisters looking up to her, and that, when or if they decide to attend college, they will have her as a primary resource and guide.  

Her main motivation to succeed has always been making her family proud and holding the distinction of being the first in her family to attend college, earn her bachelor’s degree, and attend graduate school. She may be the first in her family to do so, but she holds this distinction with pride. This motivation is what drove her to be involved with the EOF program, working part-time in the learning center, and being a support system for other EOF students. She also joined Greek Life, becoming a sister of Nu Theta Chi and serving as their president from 2022 to 2023. She was also inducted into multiple honor societies: Sigma Alpha Pi Leadership and Success Honor Society, Epsilon Omega EEO Honor Society, and Order of Omega. McIlwrath, despite all the obstacles and challenges, was able to make the most out of her academic journey and succeed when the path ahead was unclear.  

Looking forward, McIlwrath hopes to complete her master’s program and become a licensed social worker. She plans to work with the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency or become a therapist. 

When asked what advice she’d like to offer to other first-generation students, she stated, “The advice I would give to current first-generation undergraduate students is that it does not stop after you graduate. Keep pushing and reminding yourself that you can do more than you think. There will always be people cheering for you and will be proud of everything you accomplish.”