by Yaretzi C. '26

For the third year in a row, Lick-Wilmerding High School hosted its First-Generation College Trip, this time traveling to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to tour local colleges and universities. Created by Co-Director of College Counseling Gabriela Mejia, the trip aims to support First-Gen students through college visits during LWHS’ February break, to supplement their college application journey.

This year’s group, composed of 8 juniors and 5 seniors, kicked off the trip with a family brunch at LWHS before heading to the airport. Once in Philadelphia, each day began with a college visit. We explored a broad spectrum of institutions, from Ivy League universities like Princeton and the University of Pennsylvania to small liberal arts colleges like Haverford and Swarthmore. In the afternoons, we immersed ourselves in the city, from Philly cheesesteak sandwiches to its lively streets, ending the day gathering over dinner and conversation.

Throughout the trip, new friendships formed quickly, creating inside jokes, making our tour-guides laugh (shoutout to Owen!) or being a little too loud on the trains. We created bonds that will return with us in LWHS hallways. Although there were fun surprises like running into LWHS alumni or R&B icon Miguel, the highlight of the trip was on the penultimate night. 

That night, and continuing a yearly tradition, the seniors hosted a Q&A for juniors, offering advice or words of wisdom. The conversation shifted from our usual laughs and light-hearted tone into something more raw and vulnerable. In many ways, it was a passing of the mantle to the next generation of college applicants. 

First-Gen is a term often thrown around, but many fail to understand its implications. Being a First-Gen can be intimidating and isolating. Because of language, financial, or immigration status barriers, many of us have no other choice but to become our own support systems, proof-readers, and financial advisors. This trip is more than a series of campus visits, it’s a reminder that we are not alone and that we trailblaze not only for our families, but also our community at large. 

Maybe some of us will find ourselves in Philadelphia for college in a year or two! Wherever we go from here, the First Gen trip helped broaden our horizons and show us what is possible.