Q&A with first-generation student Branden Lor

In honor of National First-Generation Student Week, Branden Lor, senior natural resource science and management major from Lee's Summit, Missouri, discusses his experience as a first-generation college student.




A student poses for a portrait.

Q: Why did you choose Mizzou?
A: I chose Mizzou because CAFNR aligned with my interest in natural resources. It also provided me with the chance to get knowledge from hands-on experience and interdisciplinary learning. 

Q: Why CAFNR/your chosen major?
A: I chose CAFNR because I loved being in the nature and wanted to make a career out of it. The natural resource science and management program provides me the knowledge to help me build a strong foundation to make a meaningful impact in my future career. 

Q: What were/are some challenges you faced as a first-generation student?
A: A challenge that I faced as a first-generation student is not knowing what I was getting myself into when I decided to go to college/university. 

Q: Who has helped you overcome those challenges?
A: Family and friends. 

Q: What’s your favorite part of attending Mizzou?
A: The knowledge and hands-on experience that is being shared from all the professors that I have taken courses with. 

Q: What advice would you give other first-generation college students?
A: The advice that I would give to other first-generation college students is to be yourself, build connections while attending college, and go to your professors or the Student Success Center if you need help. 

Q: How will your college experience impact your future?
A: My college experience impacted my life by solidifying what I wanted to do in my career and getting the knowledge to succeed in my career.