UTSA Athletics is a national leader in supporting first-generation student-athletes. Throughout the 2025-26 school year, GoUTSA.com will spotlight the department’s first-generation student-athletes, coaches, administrators and staff.
Sabrina Wick will be a sophomore on the UTSA Softball team in 2026. She is a first-generation college student from The Colony, Texas.
Q: How is attending college as a first-generation student a unique experience?
Sabrina Wick: “It means a ton! Being a first-generation student has allowed me to learn independence, resilience and allowed me to build opportunities. My parents have also been a huge part of this journey, as they have always been super encouraging and supportive, and I think that’s what makes it an even bigger deal to me.”
Q: Why is attending college and graduating important for you?
Sabrina Wick: “Attending and graduating college is so important to me because of my parents. I know both of them want the best for me and they are so supportive of me. My parents have been there for me throughout every struggle, and I can’t wait to graduate and use that education to better people’s lives.”
Q: How impactful is it to attend UTSA, where approximately 45 percent of students are first-generation, including more than one-third of student-athletes?
Sabrina Wick: “It’s extremely impactful! Being around others like me allows me to grow better connections and relate with others’ experiences. Coming to college can be stressful for sure, as it’s a whole new area and completely different people, but knowing that they share similar experiences as me makes me 100 times more comfortable.”
Q: How important is competing in athletics to first-generation college students?
Sabrina Wick: “Competing in athletics as a first-generation student is amazing. My parents have been with me through every game and practice, and it makes me so proud to be able to play in front of them for a couple more years. I’m an extremely competitive person and I always want to be the best, so being a first-generation student allows me to push myself to be the best in both athletics and academics.”
Q: What advice would you give to other first-generation college students?
Sabrina Wick: “Don’t be afraid to make a change and take that leap. College is amazing! You get the opportunity to not only expand your knowledge, but also to meet people from all over the world. And if anyone ever doubts you, prove them wrong.”