Empowering First-Gen Students to Achieve THEIR College Dreams
OUR MISSION AT FIRST GEN TEXAS IS TO PROVIDE FREE COLLEGE COUNSELING, MENTORSHIP, AND BILINGUAL SUPPORT TO HELP FIRST-GENERATION COLLEGE STUDENTS BUILD STRONG ACADEMIC AND EXTRACURRICULAR FOUNDATIONS, SECURE FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS, AND ACHIEVE THEIR COLLEGE DREAMS.
We envision a future where every first-generation student in Texas has the opportunity to succeed in college, transforming not only their futures, but also their families and communities.
Who we are
Ilse Rassin - Co-Founder, First Gen Texas
Ilse Rassin is the heart behind First Gen Texas. As a first-generation American and proud daughter of Honduran immigrants, Ilse understands firsthand the challenges of navigating the U.S. college admissions process without guidance. Although her parents had college degrees, they were unfamiliar with the American education system, leaving Ilse to find her own path to Baylor University, where she earned a B.A. in English, followed by an M.B.A. in Marketing from the University of Houston.
After a successful career with Accenture and two decades devoted to raising her children and volunteering in their schools, Ilse found her calling in the college counselor’s office at her children’s high school. It was there that her vision for First Gen Texas was born—a vision rooted in equity, access, and the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to pursue higher education.
Ilse earned her Certificate in College Access Counseling from Rice University in 2024 and has since supported students in Houston and Honduras on their journeys to college. Her work is deeply personal and purpose-driven, grounded in the belief that college isn’t just a dream—it’s a goal that can be achieved with the right support.
Ilse resides in Houston with her husband and co-founder, Keith. They are the proud parents of two college graduates and are committed to opening doors for the next generation of first-gen scholars.
Keith Rassin - Co-Founder, First Gen Texas
Keith Rassin is a seasoned entrepreneur, educator, and mentor who brings decades of leadership and business expertise to First Gen Texas. As co-founder, Keith combines his passion for innovation and education with a deep commitment to community impact. His experience launching and scaling mission-driven companies—including his work at eConserve LLC—has shaped his understanding of how to build sustainable solutions for underserved communities.
Beyond the business world, Keith has a long-standing dedication to student development through his role at the University of Houston’s Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship, the #1-ranked undergraduate entrepreneurship program in the nation. As a faculty member and founder of the Cougar Venture Fund, he mentors students and guides real-world investment projects that prepare them for future success.
Keith’s belief in creating pathways for opportunity, especially for those who might not otherwise have access, fuels his work with First Gen Texas. By empowering first-generation college students with the knowledge and resources to pursue higher education, he’s helping to level the playing field—one student at a time.
He holds a BA from Tulane University and a JD/MBA from the University of Houston. Keith lives in Houston with his wife and co-founder, Ilse, and their golden-doodle, Rey.
OUR WHY
First Gen Texas is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to guiding first-generation, low-income students in Houston through the college application process. We understand the challenges you face and provide free, personalized mentorship every step of the way.
Why We Do It:
To break financial and systemic barriers to college.
To provide resources and support that many first-gen students lack.
To ensure students feel confident in their college journey.
Contact us
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