Inspiring video productions

First Degree

The journeys of first-generation college students

They are the first in their families to earn college degrees. Meet eight first-generation students and recent graduates as they overcome obstacles while pursuing higher education and its benefits. This new docuseries helps celebrate the 40th anniversary of Colorado State University’s landmark scholarship program for first-gen students – a program that delivers on the promise of land-grant education as it sets students on a path to a brighter tomorrow.

Justina Slim is living out her dream. This first-generation student grew up on a cattle ranch on the Navajo Nation and hoped to use her college education to improve Tribal livestock production to enhance both food security and Navajo culture. Now, she’s doing just that: After graduating from Colorado State University with a degree in animal science, Slim is working as a livestock extension specialist for Diné College, sharing science-based information with Navajo ranchers to benefit their operations. She is one of eight students and young alumni featured in an inspirational docuseries, called First Degree, which highlights first-generation scholars as they attain higher education and its benefits. https://csusystem.edu/first-degree/

Justina Slim herds cattle near Chaco Canyon.