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James Russell’s Journey from Rural Kentucky to Success as a First-Generation College Student

James Russell’s journey from a rural town in Kentucky to achieving higher education reflects the significant impact that a person’s geographic and economic background can have on their identity and aspirations. His story highlights the challenges faced by first-generation college students.

James Russell’s Journey from Rural Kentucky to Higher Education

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Nov. 12, 2024) — The impact of a person’s geographic and economic background can significantly influence their identity and aspirations. This is reflected in the experiences of James Russell, a student from Johnson County, Kentucky, who seeks to rise above the challenges associated with his rural upbringing.

Russell describes his hometown as a “rural and impoverished area,” locally known as a “holler.” While he has a strong connection to his community and values its people, he has faced obstacles such as economic disparities and limited resources. These challenges have served as motivation for him to pursue a college education.

Determination to Pursue Higher Education

During his senior year of high school, Russell became determined to find a university that would provide the necessary support for his aspirations. He targeted the University of Kentucky (UK), drawn by its commitment to serving the Commonwealth, while also expressing concerns about the feasibility of attending given his status as a first-generation college student.

“I knew that I wanted to go to college. But as a first-generation student, I didn’t think I would get the opportunity,” Russell stated. “I never wanted to put the burden of paying for college on my parents. That’s just something I didn’t want to do, so I always had to push myself.”

Turning Aspirations into Reality

Turning his aspirations into reality involved years of dedication. Russell focused on his academic performance and ultimately achieved the qualifications necessary to enroll at the University of Kentucky in the fall of 2021. He acknowledges the vital role that scholarship support from donors played in making this opportunity possible.

The University of Kentucky recently concluded the $2.1 billion Kentucky Can: The 21st Century Campaign, which is noted as the largest fundraising campaign in the Commonwealth’s history. This initiative aimed to enhance educational opportunities, research, and community service to improve access to higher education.

Throughout the campaign, over 53,500 donors contributed more than $495 million to assist students with financial needs. The establishment of the UK LEADS program aimed to reduce unmet financial needs through analytics, resulting in the collection of over $24.5 million for more than 1,500 scholarships.

This campaign had a significant impact on first-generation college students, who represent approximately 25% of the student body at UK. More than $26.9 million was specifically allocated to support these students during the campaign, including Russell.

A Hope for a Better Future

“The scholarship I received means hope — hope for a better future,” Russell remarked. “Without that scholarship, I would never have been able to pursue my passions.”

Currently, Russell is enrolled in the Stanley and Karen Pigman College of Engineering. As a Pigman Scholar, he is focusing on electrical and computer engineering, with aspirations of digitally mapping coal mines, thereby honoring his community’s heritage while introducing innovative technologies.

“Coal mining was an industry people around me were always in. Many of my neighbors were coal miners,” he explained. “I want to honor that history while bringing in new technology and perspectives.”

Future Aspirations and Community Contribution

Through his academic journey at the University of Kentucky, Russell has developed confidence and resilience. He aims to support his family in the future and is dedicated to contributing to his community.

Russell envisions creating outreach programs and partnerships with local schools to provide technological education and mentorship, ultimately preparing the next generation for diverse career opportunities and contributing to the revitalization of the Appalachian region.

“For me, success is not just about personal achievement; it’s about lifting others as I rise,” he said. “I’d love to help those in Eastern Kentucky flourish, even if that means helping kids learn to program. I just want to do as much as I can to help people from Eastern Kentucky have the most opportunities possible.”

Celebrating First-Generation Students

In recognition of first-generation college students, the University of Kentucky’s CARES First-Generation Student Services will celebrate First-Generation Week from November 11-15.

(Original source: https://uknow.uky.edu/student-news/holler-higher-ed-james-russell-s-first-gen-journey)

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