The journey of Aaliyah Coleman ’21 was anything but a straight line as a first-generation student.
“Allegheny gave me something I carried with me from the moment I left: the ability to hold complexity,” says Coleman, who majored in biology and minored in Black studies while at Allegheny College. “Allegheny shaped me into someone who asks more intentional questions, listens more carefully, and isn’t afraid to advocate loudly for students who feel invisible.”
The winding path of Coleman’s career ultimately created meaning, leading her to be named a 30 Under 30 honoree by the Pittsburgh Business Times and a Fab 40 Under 40 honoree by the New Pittsburgh Courier.
Coleman’s current work is dedicated to helping students find where they belong as a student support and success life coach coordinator at the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC). In the role, Coleman connects students to the programs, mentorship, and resources to succeed.
She says what keeps her motivated each day is making a student’s path a little clearer and seeing students achieve milestones, such as graduation or their first job out of college.
I think often about the version of me who arrived at Allegheny not entirely sure she belonged there, and I want her to know: she did,” reflects Coleman on her experience as a first-generation student. “And for any current Allegheny student who feels that same uncertainty, you belong there, too. I’m rooting for you.
Coleman notes that her biology background taught her to look at systems differently by always observing factors that affect student development, patterns, and root causes. Coupled with her minor in Black studies, Coleman’s unusual combination provided her with the necessary skills to analyze systems with empathy and a commitment to equity.
Earlier in 2026, Coleman earned her master’s in business administration from Western Governors University. She continues to stay busy outside of work with the launch of a coaching practice and podcast.
“Don’t wait until you have it all figured out to start. Your path will evolve, and that’s not a flaw in your plan; it’s part of the process,” advises Coleman. “Get curious about yourself early: what lights you up, what you stand for, what kind of impact you want to have.”
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