First-Generation College Student Shares Her Story of Faith, Growth, and Belonging
By Rory Hill
Kimmi Gale, a senior studying Communication Disorders at Brigham Young University, embodies resilience, growth, and a commitment to helping others feel they belong. As a first-generation college student, her initial experience at BYU was challenging, but her journey ultimately led to profound self-discovery, strengthened her faith, and brought leadership opportunities.
Reflecting on her first year, Gale opened up about the challenges she faced. Growing up, the idea of going to college felt unattainable. It wasn’t until a junior high teacher recognized her potential that she began to believe in herself. “She told me, ‘You could go to college. You can do whatever you want to do,'" Gale said. “It was the first time I considered going to college a possibility."
After working hard throughout high school, Gale was able to get into BYU, and she was excited for college. At first, her college experience wasn’t what she expected. “I felt like everyone knew what they were doing except me," she said. So overwhelmed by loneliness and uncertainty, she decided to leave college after her first year. “I thought, BYU isn’t for me. College isn’t for me. I don’t belong. So, I decided I wasn't going to come back."
Gale’s decision to step away from school turned out to be a pivotal moment. The summer following her freshman year, she began working as a paraprofessional in a special education classroom. There she discovered her passion for helping children overcome challenges. “I loved working with kids who felt like they were failing and helping them see they weren't," said Gale. Inspired to become a speech therapist, Gale knew she had to return to college, despite her doubts.
Determined to change her approach, she sought to immerse herself in the BYU community upon her return. She became a tour guide, which shifted her perspective on belonging. “I started focusing on what I could do for BYU instead of what BYU could do for me," she said.
Through her role, Gale connected with prospective students who were often nervous about starting college. Sharing her story with them helped her not only inspire others but also heal and grow herself. “As I helped others feel like they belonged, I started to feel like I belonged, too."
Eventually, a professor encouraged Gale to join the McKay Leadership Fellows, and she embraced the opportunity to foster belonging across the School of Education. “I wanted to help not just my major feel included but all majors," she said. “We’re all here to support each other."
Throughout her experiences, Gale learned the importance of reaching out to others, especially in moments of personal struggle. “When you feel like you don’t belong, it’s easy to want someone else to make it better. But I’ve found that reaching out and serving others is what helps the most."
Gale credits her faith for helping her navigate feelings of isolation. “These experiences taught me how deeply and individually the Lord loves us," she said. Facing challenges helped her understand that Christ is not just a Savior for the world but her personal Savior.
This perspective also informs her approach to leadership and mentoring. “Everyone is so different, and that’s beautiful. We’re here to help each other with our strengths and weaknesses."
For students who feel like they don’t belong, Gale offers heartfelt advice: “It’s hard, and it doesn’t feel good to feel like you don’t have a spot. But the key is to get involved. Talk to people in your classes, reach out to professors, and look for ways to serve others."
She encourages students to shift their focus outward. “If you’re feeling alone, remember that there are probably others feeling the same way. Go talk to them. Serve them. That’s how you find belonging."
Her journey is a testament to the power of persistence, community, and faith. She reminds students that even in moments of loneliness, they are never truly alone. “There’s always someone who wants to help and love you, and if you can’t find that person, remember that Christ is always there," Gale said.
Through her struggles and triumphs, Gale has learned that belonging is not just about finding a place—it’s about creating one. In doing so, she has become a wonderful example for others seeking a sense of belonging.