Saphira Augustin

Government & Sociology

College of Arts and Sciences

Class of 2029

I am a first-generation, low-income student from an immigrant family. Like so many of us, I arrived at Cornell without a blueprint, but the FGLI community caught me, guided me, and reminded me that our presence here is worth fighting for. At a moment when that community is under pressure, first-gen students need a representative who understands what is at stake. As a First at Cornell cohort member, my commitment has grown through OADI, QuestBridge, and the FGLI Office. When I am not in class or working, you will find me at Tuesday lunches in OADI, in the FGLI Office, or at our mixers. This community is not just something I advocate for. It is where I live. Beyond campus, I serve through the Ithaca Youth Bureau, Teach for America, NextStep Mental Health, and Beechtree Nursing Home. As your representative, I will fight for access fund expansion, grant alternatives to loans, financial aid and administrative transparency, equitable career support, transportation and move-out assistance, summer storage and housing, a First-Gen Alumni Mentorship Network, and FGLI mental health programming. I will also release weekly feedback forms to bring your concerns to Cornell administration, because representation should be a two-way street.

Shabana Mahdis

Global Development

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Class of 2029

I am applying to serve as First-Generation Student Representative because I understand the challenges of navigating Cornell without a roadmap. As a first-generation college student and a refugee, I came to the U.S. with limited guidance on higher education, and I know how overwhelming it can feel to figure everything out alone, from academics to opportunities and belonging.
   
At Cornell, I have worked to build community, seek resources, and support others in doing the same. I want to ensure first-gen students feel seen, heard, and supported, not just academically, but socially and professionally.
   
If elected, I will advocate for clearer access to resources, stronger mentorship networks, and spaces where first-gen students can share their experiences and build community. My goal is to make Cornell more accessible, inclusive, and empowering for all first-generation students.
   
I will listen, represent, and take action.