Raised in rural West Fairlee, Ailyn Langley followed her fascination with nature to Dartmouth. Now a first-generation college student exploring marine biology, she’s embracing new opportunities as she charts her path toward a future shaped by curiosity and discovery.
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Blog Archive: Searching for a College
This Thanksgiving, we give thanks to the students who share their stories—and their journeys—with us and talk with them about what they’re thankful for. Their experiences remind us how powerful encouragement from teachers, families, and communities can be.
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In celebration of National First-Generation Day, five VSAC employees reflect upon being the first in their families to go to college—and where they are now.
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Aerospace engineering is a challenge for anyone—and as a first-generation college student, Maria faced additional hurdles. With strength, hard work and the support of community, Maria persevered. Now, she’s carving out a career as an aerospace engineer.
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Julia Gosselin always felt at home in the woods—but finding direction in life was a challenge. Supported by mentors and her love of nature, she pushed through personal and academic hurdles. Now, she’s building a future rooted in conservation, community connection, and care for the environment.
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When Dallas Kelly received a Book Award scholarship to St. Michael’s College, the standout student faced a tough decision: follow her dream to a big-city school or make the more affordable choice. As her journey unfolded, she discovered that choosing affordability didn’t have to mean giving up on her dreams.
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Josh’s path—from rural Vermont to global relief work—was shaped by creativity, service, and the support of those who believed in him. Today, he leads WYKR and a local newspaper, driven by a belief in community, curiosity, and the power of being seen for one’s full potential.
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Hannah’s goal is to become the type of teacher she would have wanted. Prince built his own brand while earning his dietician’s license. Shavonna made her childhood dreams of the ocean come true with three research trips to Antarctica. And Jared credits his grandfather with teaching him everything he knows.
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From a refugee camp in Burundi to the college classroom, Pascaline’s journey is one of resilience, community, and an unshakable belief in the power of education.
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With determination, support, and VSAC’s Talent Search, Norah Harwood earned full scholarships to pursue her college dream and a sports-related career.
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