JTC 24: First-Gen Student is Going Places

As a first-generation college student, Graham Gustafson knew enrolling at the University of Mississippi would be challenging for him. But that did not stop him, and now that he's graduating with a bachelor's degree in social work, he's aiming even higher, at graduate school.

"Learning how to be a student was challenging," the Hattiesburg native said. "It took me a few semesters to truly understand what it takes to be a student and be successful."

Gustafson says he chose to enroll at Ole Miss out of high school for several reasons.

"It gave me a chance to get away from home while still being around some of my friends from high school," he explained. "I was also thankful to receive a lot of financial support that really helped me focus more on the experience Ole Miss could offer me while not having to worry about tuition."

He also had an opportunity to participate in the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Program.

"This program gave me the opportunity to truly learn what it means to do research and gain insight on a graduate school experience," Gustafson said. "This program gave me the confidence to continue my education. I truly believe that the program has given me a leg up on my future."

His example has helped inspire his brothers: Matthias will be a first-year law student this fall; Solomon is a sophomore journalism major.

Gustafson said he is still learning as he navigates graduate school applications and enrollment.

"It has been stressful, but it has helped me grow into what I think has been very successful," he said.

Finding a strong support system in his sophomore year provided a key component to Gustafson's academic achievement.

"By gaining new friends and mentors, I realized that I could truly be successful," he said. "I am very thankful for the people that have helped me along the way to get to the point I am at. My academic adviser truly had a great influence on me personally and professionally."

Drew Lefmann, instructor of social work; and Kristy Durkin, instructional assistant professor of social work; also played significant roles in Gustafson's Ole Miss experience.

"(Lefmann) was there for me when I got overwhelmed with the way things added up and helped me figure out what I needed to do to keep moving forward," Gustafson said. "Once I had him as a professor this past semester, I saw him in a more professional environment and it was a great experience.

"I hope to keep in contact with him as I continue throughout my academic and professional career."

I want to be an influence on the further generations of social workers like my professors were to me"

Gustafson said Durkin was one of the most influential professors he had throughout his undergraduate years.

"She encouraged me to try things outside of my comfort zone and kept pushing me to do better and better," he said. "I do not think I could be at that point without her support. She is one of the reasons I am thankful enough to be going to graduate school this upcoming fall."

Lefmann remembers his first impression of Gustafson.

"Although quiet and reserved, I sensed a deep curiosity to learn and grow," he said. "What I remember most is what it felt like to sit with him in my office. He didn't have out any electronics to be distracted with, and he sat calmly and attentively throughout our meetings.

"He asked good questions and was open to sharing about himself. He was always polite and well-mannered and seemed to take the responsibility of learning seriously."

Durkin said Gustafson has an "instant likeability" factor which helped him to build strong connections and support networks inclusive of peers and faculty from disciples and organizations across campus in a wide range of areas.

"I believe that Graham has perhaps the most growth potential of any undergrad student I have ever taught," Durkin said. "Graham seeks out and goes after opportunities that most students shrug off.

"I have no doubts that Graham's insatiable quest for knowledge will continue to inspire scholarly activities."

Gustafson said he is looking forward to the next step in his academic journey.

"I will be attending the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign to pursue a master's of social work with a concentration in health, aging and mental health," he said. "After completing my master's degree, I want to work within nursing homes and with the growing geriatric population.

"This population is often forgotten about, and I want to help support mental health awareness within this population."

Gustafson said he also hopes to one day also become a professor, helping influence more males to get into the profession of social work.

"I want to be an influence on the further generations of social workers like my professors were to me," he said.

A favorite quote of Gustafson's is by Steve Prefontaine, who said, "To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift."

"This has been one of the quotes that has stuck with me since high school," Gustafson said. "It reminds me to always give my all towards the things that I care about.

"In social work, you need to always do everything you can; you are an advocate for people who can't always fight for themselves."

See more photos from Graham Gustafson's Journey to Commencement