First generation in college students are those whose parents did not earn a bachelor’s degree and many of these students require extra support to succeed in higher education. However, generous scholarship donors help make it possible for first-gen students to excel! The below first generation students share their gratitude for the scholarship support they received from private donors.
“The Helios First Generation Scholarship helped relieve some of the financial strain of college so that I could focus on fulfilling my dream of earning an associate degree in early childhood education and becoming a teacher.”
– Melissa Creel
“The Helios First Generation Scholarship helped me graduate with my associates degree debt free. I am the oldest of six children; I hope that my graduation from college shows my younger siblings that they can accomplish the same. I am now working toward a bachelor’s degree in education at the University of West Florida. My goal is to work as a school guidance counselor. Helping children succeed has always been a goal of mine and I am very grateful for the opportunities I have been given thus far.”
– Christine Abagail Bella
“As a Vietnamese American and first-generation student, I have struggled with identity and forced independence. My parents do not know how to speak English and thus, they have not been able to help me with school nor career preparation. Thankfully, I have had support from Pensacola State College and its instructors. Scholarships like this have allowed me to navigate my college career with the supplies and financial support necessary to be successful. I want to express my sincere gratitude to the donors who have provided me this opportunity.”
– Danny Nguyen
“The Helios First Generation Scholarship helped me afford school. I plan to earn an associate in arts in elementary education, then further my education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in social work with a minor in child welfare. My ultimate goal is to make a positive impact as a teacher.”
– Brittany Harris
“Thank you for the First Generation Scholarship. My hours at a part-time job, which I depend on to supplement my income so that I can afford to continue my education, were recently cut due to the pandemic. Thus, I am extremely grateful for your support which will enable me to continue my education to become a Registered Nurse. I aspire to earn my nursing degree so that I can care for others in need. Thank you for your generous contribution to my education!”
– Coby Myers
“The scholarships I received provided me the opportunity to prove to my children that prayer, hard work, and dedication are the keys to success. It feels great to be accomplish one of my dreams and to be a first-generation college graduate.”
– Kequanda Stallworth
“Without these funds, I would not have been able to attend school. I graduated from adult high school while working full-time and caring for my father as he battled terminal cancer. My dad saw me walk across the graduation stage before he passed! I am now pursuing an associate degree while raising my two sons. My long-term goal is to earn a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration and then a master’s degree in leadership. These dreams are made possible by generous donors who support scholarships. My family and I are sincerely grateful.”
– Margaret Douglas
“Thank you. When I saw that I received this scholarship, so much stress and anxiety rolled off my shoulders. I am in the process of moving into my own home. I moved out of a toxic environment as soon as I turned 18 and started working. Now, at almost 20 years old, I can afford somewhere to live on my own. Knowing that you are willing to invest in my education and my future made my year. I cannot articulate my gratitude for this award. Your support is going to help me confidently complete my college education. Thank you for making school possible for me this semester. You are a real hero.”
– Marissa Greene
“This scholarship helps lighten my financial load and encourages me to continue my education. I am a late bloomer, having started college at the age of 43. It is not easy to balance a job and school, but I am optimistic about my future. I want to set an example for my two grown sons. This semester will be my first taking three courses rather than two. I am excited and nervous for this challenge. Thank you again for helping make my education possible.”
– BillieJo Bernal
“I feel honored to have been a recipient of the Helios First Generation Scholarship Award. Receiving this award allowed me to focus on my studies rather than educational expenses. I am grateful for the generosity of this organization and very excited for my future.”
– Macy Neal
“Thank you for this scholarship! This award has given me faith that there are people like you who care about my future and my education. Your scholarship has helped me afford the course materials needed to complete my degree. I am very thankful for the support you have provided for PSC students like me. You are very generous, and I hope to meet you in-person one day so that I can give you the hand shake you deserve. Thank you so much.”
– Troy Watts