She struggled as a first-generation college student and once wanted to become a veterinarian; now Shidika helps others find their place at Penn State
When Shidika Goode arrived at Penn State Mont Alto in 2009, she had one ambition: to become a veterinarian. Growing up in Philadelphia, she had dreamed of attending Penn State since she was eight and had spent much of her high school years volunteering at veterinary offices. But the transition to college proved harder than she had expected.As a first-generation college student, Goode had no family experience of higher education to guide her through academic decisions or campus life. She struggled during her initial years and often found it difficult to ask for help. Years later, those experiences would shape a career centred on making college easier to navigate for students facing similar challenges.
From struggling student to student success advocate
Goode initially believed she should be able to manage college independently. “Asking for help was a very big problem that I personally had,” she said. “I figured that, well, if other people can do this, I can just do it without help,” according to Penn State.Her outlook changed after she switched her major to photography and found a mentor who helped her understand academic challenges and make use of university resources. The experience taught her that seeking support was not a sign of failure.Today, Goode works as a student success advocate at Penn State’s Chaiken Center for Student Success. She meets students individually for academic consultations and coaching, helping them improve their performance, develop better study habits and connect with resources available on campus.“I get most joy and happiness helping other people succeed,” she said, as reported by Penn State.Her approach is shaped by her own experience as a student who once struggled to find direction. Rather than treating every academic problem in the same way, she tries to understand each student’s circumstances and offer support suited to their needs.
Building a community for first-generation students
Beyond individual consultations, Goode advises First-Gen Advocates, a student organisation that supports first-generation college students. It creates opportunities for students to meet, build friendships and take on leadership responsibilities through social activities, study sessions and campus partnerships.She has seen students who initially joined hesitantly become confident members and advocates for their peers. That transformation, she said, is among the most rewarding parts of her work.Goode has also continued her own education. After earning a bachelor’s degree in photography from Penn State, she completed a master’s degree in higher education at the university. She plans to begin a doctoral programme in higher education there in January.
Shidika Goode (Photo Credit: Steve Tressler, psu.edu).
Helping students find their place
Goode’s work also involves making students aware of practical support, including free academic coaching, campus resources and school supplies through the Chaiken Center’s School Supplies for Student Success initiative.Reflecting on her experience, she said she wants the students she supports to have a better college experience than she did.“Penn State’s a big place. There is some place for you somewhere. The hardest part is finding that place,” she said, according to Penn State.For Goode, helping students find that place is now central to her work. Her own journey from an uncertain first-generation student to a university staff advocate has given her an understanding of why guidance, encouragement and a sense of belonging can matter just as much as academic support.
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