Finding My Path in Tech: A First-Generation Journey with Last Mile

by Ruth Yunganaula, Last Mile Recipient

Starting Without a Roadmap

When I think about where I started, it feels like a completely different chapter of my life. I am a first-generation college student and the oldest of four siblings. Growing up, there was always a strong emphasis on working hard and supporting family, but there wasn’t a roadmap for navigating higher education or building a professional career in tech. I didn’t have examples in my immediate circle of what it meant to pursue a corporate career, earn a bachelor’s degree, or step into the tech industry. Everything felt new, unfamiliar, and at times overwhelming. 

The Weight of Responsibility

Financially, college was not an easy path. Being the oldest meant I felt a responsibility to succeed—not just for myself, but to set an example for my siblings. I knew that if I could figure it out, it would show them that they could too. But knowing that and actually having the resources to make it happen are two very different things. 

The Moment Support Changed Everything

That’s where Last Mile made a life-changing difference. 

I first connected with Last Mile through my college, though at the time I didn’t fully understand how impactful that connection would become. I was working toward my bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems at the CUNY College of Staten Island, and getting there required more than just attending classes.

Last Mile provided the scholarship and financial assistance I needed to stay enrolled and focused. That support removed a weight from my shoulders. Instead of constantly worrying about how I would pay for school, I was able to concentrate on learning, growing, and building my future.

As a first-generation student, that kind of backing meant everything. It wasn’t just financial support—it was belief.

What started as financial support evolved into something much deeper—a community that genuinely cared about my success. They helped me not only get through college, but graduate with confidence. They reminded me that my goals were valid and achievable. 

Translating a Degree Into a Career

My tech journey began during college. I knew I was interested in technology, but I didn’t fully understand how to translate my degree into a career. I started attending career fairs, introducing myself to recruiters, and trying to understand what companies were actually looking for. During this time, I joined Basta, which became another pivotal turning point for me. Through Basta, I received career coaching, interview preparation, and guidance on how to position myself as a strong candidate. 

With their help, I landed my first full-time role as an analyst at a corporate financial services company. That moment was surreal. Coming from a background where corporate environments felt distant and unfamiliar, stepping into that space was both exciting and intimidating. I was proud—but I was also aware of how much I still had to learn. 

Learning the Unwritten Rules

One of the biggest challenges I faced along the way was the lack of mentorship early on. As a first-generation student navigating both college and corporate life, there were so many unspoken rules I didn’t know. How do you advocate for yourself? How do you network effectively? How do you build confidence in rooms where you may feel like you don’t belong? 

There were moments of doubt. Moments where imposter syndrome crept in. Moments where I wondered if I was truly capable. But I kept going. And I didn’t do it alone. Last Mile and Basta both stepped in to provide mentorship and guidance when I needed it most. They helped me

see that asking questions is not a weakness—it’s part of growth. They helped me prepare, practice, and believe in my own abilities. That mentorship filled a gap I didn’t even realize I had. 

Support in Every Sense

Last Mile’s support made a difference in every sense. Financially, they helped me stay in school. Professionally, they provided encouragement and direction. Personally, they gave me reassurance during moments of uncertainty. As the oldest sibling, I often felt pressure to figure everything out on my own. Last Mile showed me that I didn’t have to. 

Stepping Into What’s Next

Today, my focus has shifted toward growth in new ways. Now that I’ve stepped into the corporate world, I’m concentrating on networking and learning how to navigate professional spaces more strategically. I want to continue building meaningful connections, strengthening my technical and analytical skills, and positioning myself for long-term advancement. I’m learning that career development doesn’t stop after landing your first job—it’s an ongoing process of learning, adapting, and stepping outside your comfort zone. 

The Example I Hope to Be

Most importantly, I want to continue being an example for my siblings and for other first-generation students who may not see a clear path ahead. If my story shows anything, it’s that support systems matter. Scholarships matter. Mentorship matters. Community matters. 

I am proud of how far I’ve come—from a first-generation student unsure of what the future held, to a college graduate working in corporate finance and technology. And I’m even more excited about where I’m headed next. 

This is only the beginning.