Luis Pina Munoz realizes that he has a lot of eyes focused on him as he becomes the first in his family to earn a college degree.

The first-generation college student is earning his Associate of Arts degree at Western Nevada College this week, and he knows how important his academic accomplishment is at home.

As the oldest brother in my family, this has been one of the biggest motivators for me continuing my education beyond high school, Pina said. I know that my younger siblings are looking up to me and it makes me happy that I can serve as a role model to them. I feel as though it is my duty to show them that it is achievable.

Pursuing a college education became possible for Pina through federal aid provided by the Pell Grant and Nevada Promise, a state-funded scholarship and mentoring program available to high school seniors for up to three years of a community college education.

That financial aid and scholarship money have helped Pina focus on his studies.

Grants and scholarships have been a big help in my education as it has allowed me to work less hours, therefore also helping me focus more on school instead of work, Pina said. I am very thankful for the grants I have received because they have made it possible for me to truly focus on school.

WNC Director of Financial Assistance JW Lazzari formed a friendship with Pina over the past couple of years and is very impressed by his work ethic and friendliness.

Luis is a super hard worker and a great person. I look forward to watching him reach his goals. I know he has the drive and work ethic to be successful, Lazzari said.

During his education at WNC, Pina has enjoyed the flexibility that the colleges online and in-person classes have provided him. But attending college has presented some unexpected challenges.

The biggest hurdle I have experienced in going to college has been learning to find a balance in my life where I can focus on school and stay motivated while also managing my personal life, Pina said.

The future is bright for Pina as he intends to continue his college education after graduating from WNC. After taking a couple of additional classes at WNC, he plans to transfer to Truckee Meadows Community College for admittance into its Radiologic Technology Program. To reach these academic milestones, he credits his two biggest supporters at home.

I get my work ethic from my parents, he said. They are very hard-working and I feel as though I owe it to them because they have worked their entire life to make sure I receive the opportunity to pursue higher education. That is the reasonthat I put in so much effort into my work.