In honor of First-Generation College Student Celebration Month, UA Little Rock is profiling some of its outstanding first-generation students.

Latambria Hampton is a senior Donaghey Scholar from Jonesboro. She is a biology major with a concentration in molecular biotechnology who is planning a career in immunology.

What does it mean to you to be a first-generation student? 

To me, being a first-generation student means that my family is on the right track to ensure that more members can get a higher education.

How did your family react when you told them you wanted to earn a college degree? 

They were not at all surprised since I was known as the bibliophile of the family.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of college so far? 

The most rewarding aspect of college was figuring out what I truly wanted to do. It was not until my sophomore year of college that I realized I loved scientific research and wanted to become a biomedical scientist.

What made you choose UA Little Rock? 

I chose UA Little Rock for three reasons actually. My family is still somewhat close, the campus size is not too big or small, and because I got a full-ride scholarship with the Donaghey Scholars Honors Program.

What do you plan to do after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in immunology or microbiology.

Do you have any advice for future first-generation students? 

Being the first in your family can be scary for various reasons including financial or family burdens, but if you feel college is right for you, go for it. There is no bigger regret than looking back and wishing you did something when you had the chance. Additionally, UA Little Rock is non-traditional; we have veterans, full-time parents, grandparents, any other type of student you can think of, so try!

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Go Trojans!