First Scholars Program

The First Scholars program, Regis academic and leadership advising group for first generation college students, is raising money on Regis Gives Day to support academic scholarships for next year's student cohort. First Scholars is a four-year program which helps those who are the first in their immediate family to attend a college or university to navigate the challenges of academia. Students learn the ins and outs of creating community connections, master how to access academic support and resources, gain leadership skills, and learn how to navigate the complexities, and occasional bureaucracy, of the higher education system.

This academic year, the First Scholars Program is helping 44 first-gen students achieve their academic and career goals with over $36,000 in scholarships. When Celine, a senior and neuroscience major from Los Angeles, first set foot on campus, she was shy and intimidated by her new surroundings. Celine credits the First Scholars Program with helping her get involved in campus life, including as a residential assistant in her sophomore and junior years. "First Scholars helped me build the confidence I needed to put my feet on the ground and say, Yeah, I'm here. I can do this. It has opened doors for me."

The pre-med student now co-leads Somos, the Latinx student group on campus, and has offered leadership and mentoring to first-year program scholars for the past three years. When you join your dollars with those of others in the Regis community on April 12 for Regis Gives Day, you help future students like Celine reach their potential. Donate to the First Scholars Fund on April 12 to empower first-gen student to take the lead on campus and in their careers.