It’s the First-Generation College Celebration!

Remembering Your Why with CHS’ Jayela Davis

By Ryan Clark
CHS Communication Director

Jayela Davis knew from an early age that her passion would involve serving others in healthcare.

“I was enrolled in a magnet high school with a health sciences program that gave me a foundation in the healthcare field and careers,” says the Human Health Sciences (pre-PA) major from Louisville. “I recognized that I needed a more advanced and prestigious education to become fully enriched in this passion.”

So, she graduated high school early and sought out the HHS program in the College of Health Sciences.

“I graduated early in high school, was accepted, and started my college career journey at 16,” she says.

But that journey came with some challenges. Jayela, just like 27 percent of UK’s undergraduate student population, is a first-generation student, meaning her parents or guardians do not have a four-year degree.

This week is UK’s First-Generation College Celebration, and here in the College of Health Sciences, we’ll be highlighting some of our own first-gen students to tell their stories. Since the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and FirstGen Forward (FGF, formerly the Center for First-generation Student Success) hosted the inaugural celebration in 2017, hundreds of higher education institutions, corporations, government officials, non-profits and K-12 schools have joined together in recognizing the achievements of the first-gen community on and around Nov. 8.

First up, we have Jayela Davis. Here’s five questions with the prospective May 2025 graduate:

Why did you decide on UK and your major:

My family has always had ties to Kentucky, not only was it our favorite SEC team, but they offered unique programs such as the Human Health Sciences program that would cater to my needs to become the most prepared health professional.

How has it been navigating the world of higher education as a First-Gen student?

Before coming to college, I wasn't aware of the many opportunities available to first-generation students. I used to hesitate to share my background, fearing the assumptions others might make. However, I now feel a strong sense of pride in pursuing my degree, something my parents have always hoped for me but were unable to achieve due to their commitment to the military. While learning can be challenging without family members to guide me, I’ve found support from others here, which has made all the difference.

Why is it important for Colleges to reach out to assist First-Gen students?

Attending a large institution like the University of Kentucky can present unique challenges for first-generation students, particularly when it comes to navigating the campus and understanding the nuances of college life—details that may not be readily apparent without thorough research. However, the support provided by various campus resources fosters meaningful relationships and offers invaluable mentorship. Knowing that first-generation students are not alone in this experience enhances the college journey, making it more manageable and rewarding.

Has there been any one person or program that has helped you the most?

There's been a few people I’ve gained closeness with over the past four years. Mark Williams, in the office of student success, has given me life guidance, opportunities, and created a safe space for students like me to consult with him daily. The CARES program has a lot of great staff that make the office welcoming which makes it easier to ask for help. There are a lot of components to keeping my scholarships but they’ve made it clear what is needed to be done so I wouldn't have to worry about losing financial aid or my scholarship.

What are your future career goals?

I’ve gained a strong scientific curiosity during my college career. I’ll be going into the field of research specifically with an interest in metabolic regulation by nuclear receptors and transcription factors. Within my interest, I've found a focus on the effects of nutraceuticals on obesity-related comorbidities and their influence on the development and progression of diabetes. I am seeking out the Integrated Biomedical Sciences PhD program in hopes of continuing my career in research to become a research scientist! I value world health and would like to eventually contribute to large organizations such as the NIH, WHO, and CDC.

BONUS: What advice would you give to First-Gen students interested in CHS?

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

— Lao Tzu

Being a first generation student means you’re taking the initiative to seek out higher education. I advise students to remember their “why”. Remember why you wanted to pursue a college career in the first place whether it was for personal growth, to support your family, or to gain new experiences. It’ll keep you motivated when times are difficult. Be engaged, find your community, and prioritize what's important to you.