My #UCFirstGen Story: Jeff Williams, CECH ’25
Jeffrey Williams is a student in the University of Cincinnati’s College of Education, Criminal Justice, Human Services, studying IT Cybersecurity. Jeff is a pioneer in his family as a first-generation college student.
What is your boldest vision for your future?
Either booking a cybersecurity analysis role at the NSA or Apple, and/or working at the FBI as a special agent. UC has provided me with proper academic and co-op guidance, various networking and volunteering opportunities, and life and social skills, which have prepared me to impact the world.
Describe a unique experience you’ve had at UC.
I was able to sit down with business professionals and practice my interview skills because of the UC business experience. I learned what to do and what not to do during an interview. I also learned the difference between business casual and casual dress styles.
How has the Gen-1/1MPACT House made an impact on your life?
The Gen-1 program has provided academic and personal support that helped me gain a sense of community and provided many life-changing experiences. This program is one of the main reasons why I attended UC; it has such a good reputation. The people in this program with me are my UC family. My Gen-1 advisor always supports me and tries to help guide me in the right direction.
What does it mean to you that you will be the first person in your family to graduate from college?
It means the world to me. Me graduating college will help influence my younger family members to pursue further education. I will break that generational barrier and provide a better means for my family.
First-Generation Celebration Day
First-Generation Celebration Day will occur Nov. 8, 2020, and UC is celebrating by highlighting our student trailblazers and examining the transformational impact of graduating with a University of Cincinnati degree. Follow #UCFirstGen and #CelebrateFirstGen on social media and consider supporting Gen-1 students like Jeff.
Related Stories
From research to resume: Grad Career Week prepares students for career paths
February 20, 2026
Graduate students at the University of Cincinnati will explore how their academic and creative work translates into professional success during Grad Career Week, March 2–6, a week-long series of workshops, networking opportunities, and skill-building sessions hosted by the Graduate College.
Social media linked to student loneliness
February 20, 2026
Inside Higher Education highlighted a new study by the University of Cincinnati that found that college students across the country who spent more time on social media reported feeling more loneliness.
Discovery Amplified expands research, teaching support across A&S
February 19, 2026
The College of Arts & Sciences is investing in a bold new vision for research, teaching and creative activity through Discovery Amplified. This initiative was launched through the Dean’s Office in August 2024, and is expanding its role as a central hub for scholarly activity and research support within the Arts & Sciences (A&S) community. Designed to serve faculty, students, and staff, the initiative aims to strengthen research productivity, foster collaboration, and enhance teaching innovation. Discovery Amplified was created to help scholars define and pursue academic goals while increasing the reach and impact of A&S research and training programs locally and globally. The unit provides tailored guidance, connects collaborators, and supports strategic partnerships that promote innovation across disciplines.