Biography

Judy Van Wyk is a Professor of Sociology at the University of Rhode Island, where she has been teaching and conducting research for over 26 years. She is a first-generation college student and former single mother who built her academic path after initially leaving high school, later earning her GED and progressing all the way to a PhD within a decade. Her journey reflects resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to education and personal growth. Having navigated college as a first-gen student herself, she understands the challenges students face and brings that lived experience into her teaching and mentoring. As a mentor, she is passionate about supporting student success through skill-building and encouragement. She reminds students, “You’re on the right path. You will be your best self from this experience,” and offers guidance across areas such as academic skills, navigating college systems, identity development, research opportunities, and balancing family expectations.