Firstmark’s First-Gen Futures Scholarship

Spring 2027 Semester

• Recipient(s) must be enrolled full-time, as defined by the University, and actively pursuing a degree at the University.
• Recipient must be a continuing undergraduate student who has completed at least 30 cumulative college credit hours at the time of application.
• Recipients must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, or greater, on a 4.0 scale.
• A personal essay (750 words maximum) reflecting on their experience as a first-generation college student, how they have grown during their time at the University, and how their experiences prepared them to lead and serve others.
• An impact essay (500 words maximum) describing a leadership experience, involvement opportunity, or service project that has positively impacted the campus or community and what they learned from the experience.
• An activity resume highlighting their campus involvement, leadership positions, employment, volunteer work, research, internships, awards or honors.
• Two (2) letters of recommendation. At least one letter of recommendation must be provided by a university faculty member, academic advisor, research mentor, internship supervisor, employer, organization advisor, or community/school mentor.

Preference will be given to applicants who are first-generation college students within their family. First-generation is defined as an individual whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) have not completed a four-year bachelor’s degree program.

Additional preference may be given to applicants who:
a. Hold an officer or leadership position in a student organization.
b. Serve as a mentor, orientation leader, ambassador, peer educator, or tutor.
c. Participate in undergraduate research or experiential learning opportunities.
d. Demonstrate significant service to the community.
e. Work while enrolled and maintain academic success.