First, but never alone

Executive MBA student LeVincia Porch ’26 currently leads International Strategic Operations at 365 Retail Markets, spearheading expansion efforts and driving operational excellence. She is also the founder and Board Chair of Evolve, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting children of parents affected by addiction in the Chicagoland area.

Here, she reflects on what it means to be the first but not the last. As a first-generation MBA student, she shares how her family history inspires and invigorates her professional pursuits and how community continues to play a crucial role in shaping success. 

Imagine walking through the woods. Every footstep you see behind you is your own, and ahead of you, there are none. You glance from side to side noticing trees and undiscovered land for miles — it seems like you are alone. Each step you take is a scary risk, yet you persevere.  

You continue to forge your own path, and you begin to realize that people are following in your footsteps. The subtle voices and cheers encourage you to pick up your stride, and you begin to place each foot on the ground more confidently. You turn left and realize it isn't the best route, so you return to the middle of the forest. Unsure that straight is the correct route, you turn right, instantly trip, fall and wince in pain. Now you're wondering if this journey is even worth it.

A little beaten up, discouraged and unsure if you're going the right way, you persevere. The subtle voices and the cheers get louder. You have arrived.

This is the path and the experience of many first-generation college students. It is a wildly daunting journey as many of us prepare to adventure through uncharted territory. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 54% of undergraduate students in the United States identified as first-generation. While MBA numbers are still being determined, estimates show that the percentages for first-generation students in Executive MBA programs are far less with an estimate between 5% and 10%.  

Rest assured, even though you are first, you are not alone

As someone who has been the first and the ‘only’ (only woman, only Black person, and/or only Black woman) in many rooms and scenarios, I understand how scary it can be to embark on a journey by yourself without any guides. Sometimes, you question your presence, whether you will be seen, and if your worth, input and experience will be valued. While you may be the first, you are not alone. Many came before you with their wisdom, perseverance and the beautiful ways they have carved a path for you — this is your superpower.

There's a hidden power behind every first-generation student's journey, a driving force often stemming from a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of education. In my case, that force was embodied by my grandmother. Education was essential to her, and, when I was a teenager, I found out that she never finished high school.

Her unwavering belief in the power of education inspired me to continue my learning journey, even when it felt daunting. I have witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs of pursuing education. She instilled a deep love for reading, education and continuous learning.   

With varying levels of formal education, my family and ancestors have demonstrated resilience and a commitment to learning that has profoundly shaped my journey. I do not travel nor arrive alone, I come with many — I am my ancestors’ wildest dreams.

Finding others who understand these challenges can make all the difference. I recently found that connection with Clinton Snider ’26, a fellow first-generation student and cohort 140 classmate. He reminded me of the power of community and support. During a class weekend and social hour, we discovered we both shared the experience of being first-generation students. It was immediately like finding a sense of home. Although our journeys varied, we arrived at Kellogg as pillars of strength, perseverance, grit and proof of what is possible.

During our conversation, I learned that uncertainty, financial challenges and fear of the unknown were also part of Clinton’s story. “It was tough to find my footing after college. I had no financial flexibility to move away from home for internship opportunities and entry-level positions that I had received. It was hard,” he confessed. “When I was allowed to move to Chicago for a job, a friend gave me money from his annual bonus and drove me from Alabama, so I wouldn’t have to forgo another career opportunity. It was one of the most extraordinarily selfless acts of kindness I have ever received. Because of this simple act, I could start my career in the city I had dreamed of living in.” 

There will be several people throughout your journey who will be critical in your advancement. Lean on your mentors, friends, family and key supporters. And when you arrive at Kellogg, lean into this community — you are not alone.

Remember those subtle voices and cheers from the forest? They are here at Kellogg, in the shared laughter of your cohort and in the quiet moments of solidarity with those who understand your journey.

Those voices and cheers will grow louder with each step you take, guiding you toward your destination. You have arrived. We have arrived.

As you navigate the twists and turns of your EMBA journey and make your way through unchartered territory, remember the path that others have forged for you and the path you are now assigned to forge. Keep moving forward with courage and perseverance.  

Read next: A Ukrainian entrepreneur’s road to an EMBA at Kellogg