Wayne Law Celebrates National First-Generation College Student Day
November 8 marks National First-Generation College Student Day, a time to celebrate students, faculty, and staff who are the first in their families to pursue a four-year undergraduate degree in the United States.
At Wayne State University, this celebration continues with First Gen Fest on November 13. This campus-wide event highlights the accomplishments of first-generation students and the significant role they play in shaping the future.
Wayne Law joins the celebration by honoring its first-generation law students, who bring unique perspectives and extraordinary determination to the classroom. Their contributions inspire peers and pave the way for future generations.
To commemorate the occasion, Wayne Law highlights seven of its 87 first-generation students, showcasing their journeys, challenges, and hopes for the future. With backgrounds ranging from parents who do not have any college experience to those with parents who have earned an associate's degree or completed some college courses, these students’ inspiring stories reflect their resilience and commitment to making a difference. Their efforts enrich the law school community and embody the transformative power of education.
Wayne Law proudly shares these stories.
Meet Wayne Law’s First-Generation Students
Mohammed Bouzeid, 1L
As the son of Lebanese immigrants, Mohammed is the first in his fa
mily to attend college. His interest in law was sparked by witnessing the legal challenges his family faced while pursuing the American dream, inspiring his passion for advocating for the less fortunate through litigation.
On being a first-generation law student: "Being a first-generation law student means fulfilling dreams my parents and grandparents could only imagine—dreams that were unattainable due to war or financial challenges. It’s about paving the way for future generations and proving that with hard work, success is achievable. More importantly, it means carrying immense empathy. Having experienced struggles firsthand, I will channel that understanding to zealously advocate for clients facing similar challenges. This perspective ensures I approach every case with justice and compassion."
Oona Demko, 1L
The first in her family to earn a four-year degree in the U.S., Oona has
worked extensively in community and economic development, particularly affordable housing. After reevaluating her goals during the pandemic, she chose law school to better serve her community.
On being a first-generation law student: "Advocacy is essential to agency, and understanding the legal system is one of the most powerful forms of advocacy. Pursuing this path empowers not only me but also my family and community. Wayne Law has been incredibly supportive, providing resources like my Dean’s Fellow, Nia, and J.D. Advising sessions, as well as professors who generously share their time and expertise. I’m grateful for these opportunities, which have made my journey possible."
Lizarayne Herrington, 2L
A survivor of domestic violence, Lizarayne entered law school to advocate for survivors and improve access to critical resources. She co-founded White Ribbon Tennessee, an initiative that engages men in domestic violence prevention. Her leadership earned her the Commission on the Status of Women’s Allison Piepmeier Award in 2023.
Additionally, Lizarayne serves as a contributing editor of the Wayne Law Review and as president of the Latinx Law Students Association (LaLSA).
On being a first-generation law student: "Wayne Law has supported me through exceptional advisors and professors like Assistant Director of Student Engagement and Culture Veronica Beltran, Director of Employment Analytics and Bar Success Dean Michel, and Director of Externships and Professor Daniel Ellman, who have offered invaluable guidance. Even outside of the advisory staff Professor Nancy Chi Cantalupo, Assistant Professor Lynn Sholander, Assistant Professor Shannon Phillips, and Professor Paul Dubinsky have met with me to answer career-related questions and to support my long-term goals. Being first-generation means constantly navigating new experiences while feeling proud of the life I’m creating. My mother always emphasized the importance of education, and exceeding her expectations feels incredibly rewarding. As a Hispanic woman, I hope to inspire others in our community to pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges. LaLSA and I strive to show that your voice is needed, and you belong in spaces where decisions are made."
Nya Johnson, 2L
An award-winning creative, Nya has built productions across disciplines
including theater, dance, and film. She realized during her undergraduate studies that law played a critical role in the arts, inspiring her to pursue entertainment law.
On being a first-generation law student: "Law school felt like an entirely new language to me, but mentorship from Wayne Law faculty has been transformative. Having people in my corner to teach, challenge, and encourage me has been crucial to my journey. Being first-generation is deeply personal—it represents a bridge between the entertainment industry and legal practice. I aim to make the law accessible for artists and companies, empowering them to navigate this ever-changing industry."
Jared LaRue, 1L 
With a background in finance and a General MBA, Jared worked as a Financial Risk Analyst before attending law school.
On being a first-generation law student: "Wayne Law’s students and faculty have been incredibly supportive, sharing advice and insights that have helped me navigate law school and the legal field. As a first-generation student, I’ve learned the importance of building a network and utilizing resources to chart my path. Law school can feel overwhelming, but with resilience and optimism, success is attainable."
Erica Nelson, 2L 
Erica’s dream of becoming a prosecutor began in high school and solidified during her undergraduate years, where she studied Political Science and Sociology. At Wayne Law she is an active student and Co-Founder of the Wayne Law Chapter of the Christian Legal Society.
On being a first-generation law student: "Wayne Law has given me professors and staff who genuinely care about my success. The Wayne Law Student Affairs Office and Office of Career Success have been invaluable safe spaces. Being first-generation means creating a legacy of Black excellence. It’s about inspiring future students and showing them that they, too, belong in this space."
Yassmina Salloum, 1L
As the eldest in her family, Yassmina juggled full-time work, a three-year
accelerated undergraduate program, and her role as a role model for her younger sisters.
On being a first-generation law student: "Wayne Law has given me the opportunity to pursue a J.D., and I take pride in being part of such a diverse and inclusive law school. Making my family proud is one of my greatest achievements. Their smiles reflect their belief in me—a belief I’ve worked hard to earn. Being a first-generation student means honoring the sacrifices of my family and ancestors while inspiring others to pursue higher education. It’s both a responsibility and a privilege to pave the way for future first-generation students."
Wayne Law’s Commitment to First-Generation Students
Wayne Law remains dedicated to supporting its first-generation students as they continue to break barriers and create opportunities for others. By fostering an environment of inclusion, mentorship, and opportunity, Wayne Law ensures these students can thrive not only in law school but in their future careers. Their stories exemplify the power of education and the importance of representation in the legal field.