1st Generation College Student
Purpose
To support students who will be the first in their families to attend college and who may face unique barriers in pursuing higher education.
Award Amount
Each selected recipient will receive a $1,500 scholarship to support their educational or training pursuits.
Eligibility Requirements
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
- First-generation college student
- Parents/guardians have not completed a 4-year college degree
- Demonstrated academic potential and personal resilience
- Plans to attend a college, trade school, or accredited training program
Ideal Candidate
A motivated student breaking generational barriers, committed to creating new opportunities for themselves and their family. This student is determined, focused, and understands the significance of being the first to attend college.
Required Materials
- Completed scholarship application
- Transcript (official or unofficial)
- One recommendation letter (teacher, counselor, or academic advisor)
- 300–500 word essay
- Essay Prompt - Topic: Reflect on your experience as a first-generation college student and how this journey will transform your life and the generations to come.
Write a 300–500 word essay sharing what it means to be the first in your family to attend college. Describe the challenges you have faced—financial, emotional, cultural, or academic—and how you navigated these barriers. Discuss the motivation you draw from your family’s sacrifices, expectations, or hopes for you. Reflect on how your identity as a first-generation student has shaped your resilience, goals, and understanding of opportunity. Explain how a college education will impact not only your future, but also the future of your family and community. Conclude by sharing how this scholarship will support you in breaking barriers and building a lasting legacy.