This is an article in a series on Davenport’s first-generation students, meaning neither of their parents has a bachelor’s degree.

There was a time when first-generation student Cellyon Benning doubted whether he belonged in college. Now, the first-year business student at Davenport University knows he is exactly where he belongs, and he is proud of himself for becoming the person he always wanted to be: stronger, determined and focused on the future.

The Lansing native admits his journey to Davenport wasn’t easy, but well worth the struggle. “For me, being first-gen means facing challenges without always having someone there to guide you,” Benning said. “I’ve learned to believe in myself and to ask for help when I need it, and I’m so proud and happy that I made it this far.”

Benning came to Davenport in pursuit of a better future and has settled in nicely as a college student and wrestler for the Panthers. He is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration, with the goal of earning a master’s in mental health counseling.

“I’ve always wanted to be a counselor because I’m passionate about helping people overcome their struggles and find peace within themselves,” he said. “I’ve learned that everyone faces battles, some you can see and some you can’t, and that having someone to talk to can make all the difference.”

Benning said he wants to be a counselor so he can help people by listening without judgment, offering guidance and helping others grow stronger mentally and emotionally. “For me, becoming a counselor isn’t just about having a job; it’s a way to give back and make a real difference in people’s lives,” he said. “My life hasn’t always been the best. I’ve struggled a lot, especially at a young age, and I just want to be the listening ear that I never had. I want to help people overcome challenges, build healthier habits and improve their emotional well-being.”

Being a first-generation college student can come with a lot of mixed emotions, and is something Benning has experienced. “Sometimes I feel like I’m carrying a lot of weight on my shoulders because I am the first in my family to pursue a bachelor’s degree, but I also know that every challenge I face, like financial issues and self-doubt, plays a part in my building a better future,” he said.

Despite his initial lack of confidence, Benning is succeeding as a first-gen student and said it’s partly because of the resources Davenport makes available to students. “It’s been easy for me to succeed at Davenport because of things like free tutoring and the First-Generation Peer Mentoring Program.”

The First-Generation Peer Mentor Program pairs first-generation students with peer mentors who provide guidance on navigating college life, coursework and accessing essential resources. This mentorship has proven to reduce student stress, build community and create a supportive environment that empowers first-generation students to thrive.

The program, Benning said, has been beneficial because it provides him with guidance, support and encouragement. Having someone a little older to talk to, who is also a first-generation student, has been especially helpful to him. “The Peer Mentor program has helped me adjust to college life and to feel more connected on campus. It’s also helped me to be more confident, stay focused and succeed both academically and personally,” he said.

Benning also appreciates Davenport’s ACES class, a first-year success course designed for first-generation students and the unique challenges they face. The course is taught by Dr. Jodi Hicks, director of Student Transitions and Academic Readiness. Benning said she has had a big impact on him. “You can just tell how much Dr. J. cares about her students and their futures,” he said.

For Hicks, helping first-gen students overcome obstacles that might derail their educational journey is of the utmost importance. “It’s so rewarding as a professor to see a first gen student like Celly gain confidence and recognize the gifts he’s been given,” said Hicks. “He has great leadership qualities.”

Another confidence booster for Benning has been his time on the wrestling mat. He wrestled three years at Lansing Everett High School and is now wrestling for Davenport as a redshirt freshman.  As a redshirt member of the team, he is able to compete at tournaments but sits out at other matches. “I’m giving myself time to grow as a wrestler,” he said. “This redshirt year will allow me to get stronger, improve my technique and learn from the upperclassmen.”

Wrestling has given Benning more than just wins; he said it has taught him discipline, respect, humility, mental toughness and to believe in himself. “Through early mornings, tough practices and constant competition, I’ve learned that success comes from hard work and consistency. The sport has pushed me to stay focused under pressure and to keep going even when things get difficult,” he said.

What he appreciates most about wrestling, he said, is the confidence it has given him, and it has surrounded him with teammates who feel like family, pushing each other to be better every day.

As Benning reflects on his first few months at Davenport, he can see how far he’s come in a short amount of time. “I have learned a lot about myself since arriving on campus,” he said. “I’ve grown so much as a person and know that being at college has pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me to become more confident and more independent.”

To learn more about Davenport’s First-Gen Initiative, click here.