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Humans of Reno

CHANGING FUTURES

Jan 16. 2019

Desirae Acosta is a 26-year-old coordinator for the First in the Pack program at the University of Nevada, Reno

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT SEMESTER

Acosta is preparing for the 2019 spring semester to help more first-generation students achieve their education goals for the future. 

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All services provided by the program are of no cost to students.

ABOUT FIRST 
IN THE PACK

First in the Pack is a program developed by the University of Nevada, Reno that is designed to help first-generation students succeed in graduating college.

Acosta began as a graduate assistant for First in the Pack. After graduating with her master’s degree, her boss at the time left for another position. Acosta then decided to step into the coordinator role. A year after being in a temporary position, Acosta applied for the full-time position. 

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“It was very intimidating to go up against almost 90 other candidates, but being a part of the program from its beginning allowed me to create something I’ve become so passionate about." 

 

Acosta says her vision for the program is what set her apart from other candidates. As of right now, she sees room for growth in the program, and is "just getting started." Acosta is not planning to change careers anytime soon

BECOMING
COORDINATOR
KEEPING MEMORIES

Acosta enjoys keeping her fond memories close by her desk as she works hard to serve students at the university.

ON A MISSION

The First in the Pack program's office stands empty on Jan. 16 during the university's winter semester. The program is getting ready for the spring semester to help more students with their journey in college.

ACHIEVING DREAMS

Acosta loves the relationships she builds with her students and the student workers that she supervises.  "It’s especially encouraging when I receive emails or [students] stop by the office to tell me their good news or a new accomplishment—It’s SO rewarding. I think to myself, 'Of everyone in their life, you wanted to let me know?!'"

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Acosta prepares advice for students every semester.

This semester, her advice is to "seek opportunities." 

"You belong here, so don’t let one person’s comments or any type of failure let you think otherwise. College flies by so don’t wait until 'next semester' and make the experience work for you. Ask for help and be honest with yourself and those that are here to help."

FASHIONISTAS of Reno

Dressing to impress

Jan 8. 2019

“I like to wear these clothes to improve my mood and put a smile on the face of others."

-Emma Marion

Emma Marion is a 19-year-old University of Nevada, Reno student. She is majoring in liberal arts and hopes to one day become a tattoo artist. Marion enjoys walking in downtown Reno to look at the murals and new art that artists put out in the city. 

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TRENCH COAT

PLAID ONESIE

Marion (19) makes sure to prepare for the cold when dressing up. On Jan 7. in downtown Reno, she wore a dark beige trench coat. Her roommate gave her the coat as a hand-me-down since it no longer fit her.  

Marion (19) loves to wear fun outfits. She wore a plaid onesie that she said she doesn't always wear out often but thought it best to wear that day.

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MATCHING BOOTS

Marion (19) also makes sure to match her outfits with her shoes. Her parents raised her with the idea that people will always make a judgment about you based on your shoes.

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Marion's (19) screw earring is another quirky aspect of her everyday attire. She says this piece of jewelry is her best conversation starter. 

SCREW EARRING

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