From First-Generation Student To Future Teacher, Powered By Donors

By Lily Dohmen ’27

For Cecilia Asti, becoming a teacher started as a thought in the back of her mind. She originally planned to go into law, but after reflecting on what she truly wanted, she realized teaching was where she felt called.

Working with students throughout high school confirmed that decision. As a secondary education major at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, she is focused on creating the same kind of safe, supportive environment her teachers once gave her.

A, first-generation college student, Asti is navigating college on her own. With no financial support from her family, paying for school has always been her responsibility.

That is where donor support has made a real difference. Support through the N Fund – College of Education and Human Sciences Scholarships/Fellowships have helped reduce financial stress and allowed her to focus on her education.

Instead of constantly stressing about tuition, Asti has been able to plan for her future. She is even able to set aside money for living expenses, like moving into a new apartment. It’s something she said would have been difficult without scholarship support.

The impact of donor support goes beyond finances. It has given Asti a sense of confidence and independence, especially as she shares her progress with her grandparents, who raised her.

“I feel really good knowing I can do this on my own,” she said. “My grandparents do not have to carry that burden, but they still get to see me succeed.”

Asti plans to teach middle school, a group she believes is often misunderstood. She wants to create a classroom where students feel safe, supported and heard, especially during such a challenging stage of life.

Her passion comes from her own experiences, including a teacher who once showed her kindness during a difficult day. That moment stayed with her and continues to shape the kind of educator she hopes to become.

Donor support is helping make that future possible. By reducing financial stress and allowing her to focus on her goals, scholarships are directly shaping the impact she will have on her future students.

“I want to thank donors for helping me achieve my goals and focus on school without me worrying about how I am going to afford it,” Asti said.