First-generation college students experience additional barriers to success compared to non-first gen peers from childhood to graduation. These students are less likely to receive financial support, be given encouragement from educators, or have the know-how to navigate the increasingly competitive higher education admissions landscape. Those who do attend college are more likely to be ostracized, have trouble forming social connections with others, and often have a lower retention rate than non-first gen students. Lindsey emphasizes a need for both an “instilled sense of possibility” from a young age and an “institutionally-cultivated sense of belonging” to succeed in higher education." Lindsey is an undergraduate senior at Tulane University, majoring in Psychology and Gender & Sexuality Studies. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx