<p>So I have been wondering for a while if I should consider myself the first generation of my family to go to college. My mother went to a community college for about a year and did not even get an associate's degree. And I've never met my real father, but from the way he is portrayed through story, I doubt he went to college either ( I can clarify this somehow, I'm sure). So should I mark the "I'm the first of my family to go to college" box, or not?</p>
<p>Also, when writing my college application essays, should I focus on my life's hardships or community service?</p>
<p>The fact that your mother took a few classes at a community college is not the same thing as attending college. And since you never met your real father, he obviously is not providing you with an environment or support reflective of a college educated family. Check the “first in my family to go to college” without qualms.</p>
<p>As for your essay, you might want to tie the two together if your personal hardships have given you any special insights into the community you are serving through community service, or if you have benefited from community services and are giving back in any way.</p>