The power of community support in a successful college experience

MARIANA SHAFFER, AGRICULTURAL COMMUNICATION AND MARKETING, BS '26

Graduating senior Iman Castelli, majoring in Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management (ESPM) and minoring in Urban and Sustainable Studies, navigated college as a first-generation student while balancing work, school, and the uncertainty of her professional path. In her experience, success at the University of Minnesota wasn’t defined by doing it alone. Instead, it was built through a strong support system: nearby family, mentors who guided her, and a community that helped her navigate challenges.

Family played a central role in Iman’s upbringing, as she moved across states and continents. Because of this, staying close to family became a key factor in Iman’s college decision. Choosing to live at home during her freshman year provided a sense of familiarity at a time when everything else felt new. 

As a first-generation college student, Iman didn’t know what to expect, making that support even more important. Another major influence in her decision to attend the University of Minnesota was the President’s Emerging Scholars program (PES). Iman described PES as a safety net; a community she could turn to when she felt anxious or overwhelmed, especially during her first year. 

“The whole process of learning how to navigate school, work and a social life is a lot to balance, and I think PES, and specifically my advisor within the program, helped me learn what works for me. They assured me I wasn't the only one feeling that way and connected me with plenty of resources, which helped lower my anxiety greatly.” Iman said.

Beyond her first year, PES remained a consistent source of support. 

“PES especially helped me whenever things got too stressful, like when I was worried about a class or how large my credit load was,” Iman explained. “I would schedule an appointment with my peer mentor or advisor, and it would help me a lot.” 

The program not only helped Iman adjust to college life but continued to support her throughout her undergraduate experience. She also served as a peer mentor to other students in PES, giving back the support she had received.

In addition to her involvement in PES, Iman spent last summer as an undergraduate researcher for CFANS, working on a community plant breeding project. Her work focused on improving resilience for East African crops in Minnesota, reflecting the growing East African community in the Twin Cities. Through this hands-on experience, Iman discovered she does not see herself working in an office in the future. Field work aligned closely with her passion for urban and environmental studies, and she found purpose in doing work outdoors.

As she looks ahead to life after graduation, Iman is exploring graduate school opportunities with guidance from her Ecology of Managed Systems professor, Nick Jordan. Navigating post-grad decisions can feel overwhelming, but having mentorship has made a meaningful difference. Jordan has helped her explore programs, connect with graduate students, and even connected Iman with her summer research position. 

“I really value professors who go above and beyond to help you,” Iman said. “Undergrad can be tremendously hard, and when you have resources and know there are people who want to help you, it makes it a lot easier and a lot less stressful.” 

Reflecting on her four years at the University of Minnesota and CFANS, Iman believes the connections she built with her professors will stay with her the longest.