First Generation Program Success Story: Dana Liang

Dana Liang graduated from the International Baccalaureate program at Seminole High School in 2013. She went on to graduate from Seminole State College with an Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree in Accounting in Summer Term 2014. She then transferred to the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Fall 2014 to complete her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting.

Liang was a participant of the First Generation Program, the president of the Student Accounting Society, and an active member of the Student Government Association (SGA).

Liang says the best part about being a student at Seminole State was becoming involved on campus, which gave her the opportunity to learn, develop, and reflect on her self-identity and actions.

“Seminole State also offered me the opportunity to explore my career options and connect with people from diverse backgrounds,” Says Liang. “I enjoyed spending time talking with professors, advisors, and students on campus and their helpful advice and suggestions have pulled me through a variety of challenges."

Liang gives the First Generation Program credit for helping her and other students overcome the various challenges associated with being the first in a family to attend college. They were her first resource for advice and assistance with financial aid, scholarships, personal concerns, and academic/career choices. Her favorite aspect of the program was the one-on-one advising that she received. Liang had the opportunity to get to know her advisor and remain in touch throughout each semester.