31 March 2025 3 minute read
Kamina Griffin, C'2025, a first-generation student at Spelman College is navigating her way through higher education with determination and an unwavering sense of purpose. Growing up in a family where higher education was not the norm, Griffin found herself charting a new course not just for herself but for future generations. With her eyes set on making the lasting impact that spans business law and sports, she is focused on building a path for herself and making a lasting impact for future generations of underrepresented students.
"Pursuing higher education has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences," she shared. Through every obstacle, Griffin has used her journey to break barriers and with each step, create a space where students like her have the tools and resources to succeed.For many first-generation college students, the absence of family guidance can make navigating higher education feel like a steep uphill climb. Griffin however, recalls approaching this challenge head on.
"I had to figure it out on my own," said the economics and comparative women's studies double major. Lacking a roadmap from her family, she relied on her resourcefulness, making it her mission to find the academic and professional resources to succeed. Griffin‘s journey was not without its difficulties, but each set back strength to resolve to succeed and deepen into her commitment to her goals. One of the most impactful parts of her experience has been Spelman‘s First-Gen Scholars program.
"It’s like having a second family," she reflected. The program gave her mentors, networking opportunities, and essential career-building workshops, all of which have been pivotal in helping her refine her goals and expand her horizons. With Spelman's strong emphasis on sisterhood, Griffin’s involvement in this program has fostered a sense of community that has been essential to her success, making her college experience more manageable and enriching.
Griffin‘s personal experience has motivated her to give back to others facing challenges. In response to the lack of opportunities for minority students in tech and entrepreneurship, she founded SECURE.
"SECURE emerged from my struggle to find opportunities," Griffin explained. The initiative seeks to break down the barriers that minority students face as they pursue careers in the field by providing them with the resources they need to thrive. The program has not only provided valuable resources for students, but it also provides a platform for them to network and build the connections that can often seem out of reach. Through SECURE, Griffin hopes to help other students create opportunities for themselves and pave the way for other students to have the resources and opportunities they deserve.
Balancing her academic commitments, internships and entrepreneurship is no easy feat, but Griffin has learned to master the art of time management.
"I approach everything with the mindset of running a business," she said. Griffin credits her ability to stay on top of her commitments to staying organized and proactive, especially when it comes to seeking help when needed. Strategic planning and a strong work ethic have propelled her forward, but she also emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health.
"Taking time for yourself and knowing when to step back is just as important as working hard," she said. Recognizing that self-care is just as important as hard work has been essential to her long-term success.
Spelman has provided Griffin with a solid foundation for both her personal professional growth. "Spelman has provided me with a lifelong sisterhood and support system that’s been invaluable," shared the Jackson, Mississippi native.
She firmly believes the College gave her the tools she needs to succeed, particularly as it relates to feeling supported and empowered to take risks and pursue ambitious goals. Initially, she’s known to overcome feelings of imposter syndrome and navigate spaces where she is one of the few underrepresented individuals. As a Black woman in business and law, Griffin has faced challenges, but the College's emphasis on sisterhood and community has played a significant role in helping her develop the self assurance needed to succeed in competitive fields.
Mentorship has been a cornerstone of Griffin‘s growth and she’s grateful for the guidance of her mentors. One standup mentor is Tracy Hughes, senior director, talent & The Collective at Wasserman. Her mentorship helped Griffin navigate the intersection of sports representation and business and overcome the unique challenges that come with being a woman of color in these industries.
"Tracy has been an incredible resource, guiding me through the challenges that come with being a Black woman in business and law," Griffin said. Griffin‘s relationship with her mentors has shaped her understanding of how essential it is to have someone in your corner who can offer support and encouragement during challenging times.
For other first generation students who may be struggling with their own journey, Griffin offers this advice:
"Own your space. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, apply for opportunities, and remember that your background is your strength."
She encourages them to stay resilient, trust in their abilities to succeed, and take full advantage of the opportunities encounter. Griffin‘s story shows that with persistence, hard work and a commitment to excellence, that anyone can achieve their goals. Griffin is not only creating a brighter future for herself but for under representative students everywhere. Through her leadership in business law and sports, she is breaking barriers and ensuring others will have the chance to succeed just as she has.