Chloe Shafer’s college journey as a first-generation student was a blend of daunting challenges and empowering self-discovery. Growing up in an under-resourced public school in central Ohio, Chloe did not have much exposure to higher education until they became a QuestBridge College Prep Scholar, which opened doors to prestigious institutions. Chloe ultimately attended Yale, where they encountered an “entirely new world”. Through Yale’s programs for first-generation students, Chloe found a community of peers and faculty with shared experiences, offering invaluable support. Today, Chloe pays it forward, helping guide and uplift the next generation of first-gen students. 

While looking back on their journey fondly, Chloe’s college experience was not without struggle. Housing, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, was a constant concern. Alongside peers, Chloe advocated for safe, on-campus housing and had to adjust to independent living –– a dramatic shift from the security they were used to.  Despite the challenges, Chloe’s resilience only strengthened, fueled by an optimism that each hardship would make them stronger. They found solace in mentorship, leaning on mentors for guidance and now draws on those experiences to support the students they work with today. 

Chloe credits their undergraduate years with helping them understand themselves as a learner, finding what truly motivates them and laying a foundation for their future in higher education. Today, they serve as college & career advisor at Brush, Shaker Heights and Maple Heights High Schools. When asked about their plans for the future, Chloe says they one day want to attend grad school, as they are on a constant journey to gain a deeper understanding of the world. For now, they are happy where they are – empowering students of all backgrounds and helping them along their educational journeys. “I want to get students to places where they can be happy, where they can succeed and where they can be fulfilled,” Chloe says.