A First-Generation LVC Student Shares His College Search Experience

Landon Sexton ’28, an Economics major from Donegal, Pa., talks about making his college decision and Lebanon Valley College’s Dutchmen First Program which supports first-generation students through their transition to college and provide helpful resources throughout their college journey. The D1st Athlete Nation is an offshoot of the Dutchmen First program focused on first-generation student-athletes as they balance academics, athletics, wellness, and personal growth at LVC.

“During my college decision process, I was incredibly nervous—to the point where I almost did not go to college at all. Even after deciding on LVC, I still felt so nervous about taking such a big step in my life and often avoided anything related to college until the last minute.

Since I was coming to college as an athlete, my coach offered me the opportunity to attend an overnight visit to meet my future teammates and experience college life at LVC. I declined this offer, claiming I had already “seen everything I needed to see,” which was not true. This was my cover-up for being so nervous about going to college. On top of that, I am the first person in my family to attend college, so the entire experience was unfamiliar and intimidating, which added to my anxiety about making the transition.

However, once I got to LVC and started meeting my teammates and building relationships with them, my nerves began to fade. I quickly realized that I had been overthinking the entire process, and what I had once feared turned into an amazing and rewarding experience that overall helped me grow as a person.”

What would you say to a First-Generation student considering LVC?

“I would tell them that the nervousness they are feeling is completely normal, especially when it is a completely new experience for not only them, but also their family. I felt the same way before coming to LVC, but once I arrived and met my teammates and friends, those nerves instantly went away.

If I could give one piece of advice, it would be that everyone else is or has been in the exact situation you are currently in, so take advantage of that. Be yourself, step outside of your comfort zone, and don’t be afraid to ask for help, the support system here makes the transition much easier than you might expect.”