First-Gen Trailblazer: Green Crosses the Finish Line

When University of the Ozarks graduating senior AntErica Green steps onto the Commencement stage on Dec. 20, she won't just be accepting a diploma-she'll be rewriting what's possible for her family. The Clarksville native is becoming the first in her family to earn a college degree, a milestone she hopes will ripple through the younger cousins who look up to her.

A 2022 graduate of Clarksville High School, Green will receive a degree in biology, with minors in criminal justice and philosophy.

As a first-generation college student, Green said the achievement feels both personal and generational.

"Being the first to graduate from college is a huge accomplishment for me, and I'm proud to set an example for my younger family members," Green said. "It feels like I'm breaking barriers and opening doors for the next generation. As I walk across the stage, I think I'll feel proud, grateful, and emotional. I'll be thinking about all the hard work, sacrifices, and support that helped me get to that moment. It will feel like both an ending and a beginning."

Among those sources of support, Green said, was the University's TRIO Student Support Services program, a federally funded initiative that provides free, personalized academic services for first-generation and other qualifying students.

"TRIO has been a huge part of my success," Green said. "My TRIO advisor supported me both academically and personally and helped me navigate things like financial aid, course planning, and time management. TRIO gave me a safe space, resources, and people who genuinely cared about my success. Having that support system made a big difference in helping me stay motivated while balancing work and school, and it played a major role in helping me become a college graduate."

Green is also part of the first graduating class to participate in First Look, a new TRIO SSS summer bridge experience launched in 2022. The program brings first-generation students to campus before their first semester to help ease the transition to college life.

"Students attend mock classes, explore the campus, meet upperclassmen, connect with faculty, and stay in a residential hall," said Lori Wineland, student success advisor and academic skills coach. "TRIO SSS and other campus departments provide a variety of workshops intended to increase student's connection to campus. First Look creates an environment for students to build skills and knowledge to help them be successful during their time at Ozarks."

Green said Wineland played a particularly meaningful role in her college journey.

"My favorite professor has been Professor Wineland, who taught me during my freshman year," Green said. "She has always been supportive, caring, and committed to helping her students succeed. She is also my TRIO advisor and has been an incredible source of guidance and encouragement throughout my time at Ozarks."

Green's accomplishments are all the more notable given her demanding schedule. Throughout college, she worked an average of 36 hours a week at Johnson Regional Medical Center while maintaining her studies-and will still graduate in just 3½ years.

"Some obstacles I've faced include balancing school and work, managing stress, and pushing through moments where things felt overwhelming," Green said. "Staying determined, staying organized, and relying on my support systems helped me stay focused on my goals. Balancing school and work has taught me time management and discipline. I stay organized, plan, and make sure to set priorities so I can be successful in both areas."

With her background in biology and criminal justice, Green plans to pursue a career in forensics.

"My long-term goal is to become a forensic scientist or homicide detective, possibly specializing in DNA analysis or crime scene investigation," Green said. "I want a career where I can contribute to the justice system by helping provide accurate, science-based evidence for real cases and provide justice to people families."

Green said she chose to attend her hometown University because she wanted a place where she could form deep academic and personal connections.

"The smaller class sizes, welcoming community, and opportunities for mentorship made Ozarks the perfect fit for me," Green said. "My experience at Ozarks has been so meaningful and transformative. I've grown academically, personally, and professionally."

Topics: Student Stories