D’Andrè Butler ’25 is charting a remarkable path as a first generation student at Pace, ambitiously striving towards a sense of independence he has long craved. He’s thrown himself into the collegiate experience, not just in his academics as a writing and rhetoric major, but in student worker positions and club leadership.
D’Andrè juggles these roles and opportunities in the hopes of making the most of his time in school, a testament to the drive and ambitions so characteristic of his fellow first generation peers.
What does it mean to you to be a first generation student?
It means the world to me that I am someone in my family who made it to college and will not stop until I get my well-earned degree.
What are some of the challenges of being a first generation student?
As a first generation student I feel like I have to work harder than most people to make sure my spot at this school, as well as my future, is secured.
Budgeting my money is a unique challenge as a first-generation student. I have taken on the role of paying most of my tuition on my own, so knowing what to spend money on and what to sacrifice as a 20-year-old college student has been hard, but beneficial. Taking that into account, I have to work multiple jobs in order to finance my education while juggling student leadership roles.
Why is it important to be part of a first generation student community?
Connecting with other first-generation students is important because they are the only people who can relate to and understand my work ethic and my need for independence.
Why did you choose Pace?
I chose Pace because they offered more financial support and helped with my goal of independence. I knew moving to New York and making something of myself was something I always aspired to academically.
What’s been the best part of your Pace experience?
Networking has been the best part of my Pace experience. Since freshman year I have grown so much by creating opportunities for myself and making connections with pretty important people. I’ve worked as a resident advisor, a writing tutor, and a student assistant, while still staying involved in clubs. I’m the vice president and a choreographer in the hip-hop dance club and performance team, and vice president for a brand new fashion club called The House of Style.
