We understand that first-generation students grapple with a myriad of challenges in their pursuit to higher education. From having to learn new and rigorous college application processes, and having no one at home to turn to for support in their day to day academics; being a first-generation college student creates obstacles that students otherwise do not have to grapple with. At Central Valley Scholars, part of our mission is to create accessible pathways towards higher education, and given that the Central Valley is home to the least educated congressional district in the nation (Daily Kos), our First-Generation Scholarship is one method in providing financial and celebratory support to first-gen college students in the Central Valley. 

 

The Central Valley Scholars First-Generation Scholarship recognizes exemplary first-gen college students in the Central Valley who, despite facing various obstacles, continue to pursue their educational journey. Our scholarships are developed with the core belief that all students are worth investing in and we select recipients on a basis of identity, need, and potential for growth; rewarding those who other educational organizations often dismiss. The First-Generation Scholarship invites vulnerability, encourages empowerment, and gives students in the Central Valley the space to validate their stories and find the beauty in their struggles. 

 

For purposes of this application, we define a first-generation college student as someone whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) did not complete a Bachelor's degree in the United States.