The disparity between the educational attainment of Mexican heritage and White individuals illustrate a need for research on factors associated with the high educational attainment of some immigrant and first-generation students of Mexican descent. Using autobiographies, student interviews, and family interviews as data sources, this article explores one prominent theme that emerged: Students' desire to honor parental struggle and sacrifice with academic achievement--"Ganas." The implications and recommendations for further research are discussed. (Contains 1 table and 3 boxes.)