Born and raised in Idaho, Logan Powell blazed his own path as a first generation college student, facing adversity from health issues to family who were not able to provide the support that all college students need.
“I had imposter syndrome (when I started college),” said Powell. “I thought everyone had their college paid for, or could just call someone up if they needed help.”
Powell learned from an early age that his time might be limited as well. Diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis as an infant, then with diabetes and other ailments, Powell had to find the courage to believe in himself.
“They said I wouldn’t make it to high school,” said Powell. “It was terrifying being a kid and thinking I had less of a timeline than everybody else.”
Powell learned to self-advocate and build supportive relationships starting with an advisor’s help at the College of Western Idaho, and then as a transfer student in the TRIO Teacher Prep program at Boise State.
At Boise State, Powell found support from TRIO advisors Estefany Giehm and Edvin Subasic, whose passion for helping students inspired Powell to look for ways to help others while he is in the program.
Powell will start his professional year in the teacher education program in spring 2025 as an intern in a local classroom, followed by student teaching to gain the experience he needs to become a certified secondary English teacher.
“My challenges have created a kind of humility to connect with people,” said Powell. “I asked myself how I could be of the most use to others, and asked myself how I can benefit society the most. Education spoke to me.”