Veteran reflects the personal growth and determination of first-gen students at USF

By Sarah Sell, University Communications and Marketing

From surviving Hurricane Katrina to serving in the U.S. Navy and now becoming a first-generation college student at USF St. Petersburg, Camrie Hingle's path has been anything but ordinary. As the university prepares to celebrate First-Gen Week, Hingle's story reflects the pride and determination shared by thousands of first-gen students across USF.

Born in New Orleans, Hingle's childhood changed forever when Hurricane Katrina struck in August 2005. After evacuating with her family and returning to find their home underwater, she learned early how to adapt and persevere.

"Going back to see the damage was devastating. We lost everything," Hingle said. "But I realized later that even if you lose material things, you can never lose what you learn, and that mindset has stayed with me ever since."

After high school, Hingle joined the Navy, serving seven years as a parachute rigger and earning the rank of petty officer first class.

"It opened my eyes to the world," she said. "I met people from every walk of life and learned lessons that continue to shape who I am."

During her service, she met her fiancé, Zack, who also serves in the military as a recruiter. After several relocations, the couple settled in St. Petersburg with their 8-month-old daughter, Zuri, who has become Camrie's greatest source of motivation.

Now in her first semester pursuing a marketing degree, Hingle hopes to build a career in sports marketing. Inspired by her parents' entrepreneurial drive, she aims to create financial stability for her family.

"I grew up watching my parents run their own small business," Hingle said. "They didn't go to college, but they taught me to work hard and never give up."

More than 7,000 USF students are the first in their families to attend college. To help them succeed, the university offers programs that support academic achievement, personal growth and a sense of belonging. USF was recognized in 2024 as a First Gen Forward Network member for its continued commitment to student success.

From Nov. 5 to 12, USF will celebrate First-Gen Week with events on all three campuses, including a Nov. 8 induction ceremony in Tampa for Tri-Alpha, the national honor society for first-generation students.

"As a first-gen college graduate, I know firsthand the power of access to opportunity," said Clara Buie, USF's assistant vice president for student success in Tampa. "This induction ceremony honors the journey of our students and the champions who walk beside them, reminding us that being first gen is not just a personal achievement, it's a collective triumph that opens doors for future generations."

Buie's words echo the spirit of First-Gen Week as USF celebrates students who are paving the way for future generations. And for Hingle, that means a constant lesson reinforced through every chapter of her life: growth never stops.

"Knowledge is something no one can take from you," she said. "That's what keeps me going."

Events across all three campuses - from Tampa's Kickoff at OMA Bull Market to First-Gen Flapjacks in St. Petersburg and the First-Gen Celebration at Bull Market in Sarasota-Manatee - will give students a chance to connect and celebrate their achievements.

Check out the events for First-Gen Week Nov. 5-12