First Scholars Office

A first-generation college student means that your parents did not complete a 4-year college or university degree, regardless of other family members' level of education.

The term "Income eligible" often applies to students who are Pell-Eligible (as indicated as a result of their processed FAFSA). Another indicator is an individual whose family's taxable income for the preceding year (2023) did not exceed 150% of the poverty level amount.

If your are unsure of your classification as first-generation or low-income eligible, please reach out by visiting the Memorial Union 3rd floor, suite 3220 or email firstscholars@iastate.edu. The team is here to help you determine what classifications align with your personal status. 

The First Scholars Pathways to Success Program (PTS) is a comprehensive initiative designed to support all facets of the student experience, ensuring that every student has the resources and opportunities needed to thrive academically, personally, and professionally. This multifaceted program integrates various services and development opportunities to create a well-rounded and supportive environment. By addressing these critical areas, the Pathways to Success program ensures that students are not only academically successful but are also well-prepared for life beyond the university. This comprehensive support system empowers students to achieve their full potential and emerge as well-rounded, impactful individuals ready to contribute to society.

COMMITMENT:

By joining the Pathways to Success (Pathways) Program, students are taking ownership of their college experience and driving their own success.

Opt-in: Students may opt into the Fall 25/Spring 26 Pathways program here: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/6e82c77850e94816a710a02db43c43f7

Note: Pathways is limited to the first 125 students who sign up.

Program Elements:

• First Scholars Fall Welcome: Visit the First Scholars Office during the first week of classes, meet our staff and fellow students, and learn how to take advantage of all resources associated with the First Scholars Office.
• Roadmap Recharge Check-in: The First Scholars Office staff will reach out each semester to connect with you during a Roadmap Recharge meeting. These 1:1 meetings provide an opportunity to visit with a member of our staff, get connected with various support resources, discuss progress and goals, and celebrate successes.  If you find yourself in need of support amid shifting priorities, academic underperformance, or unexpected challenges, your FSO staff member will design a Course Correct action plan designed just for you.
• Mentor Meetup (optional): Each year we have a group of staff and faculty members who offer mentorship to our Pathways students. Take advantage of this time to connect, receive guidance and support, and use your mentor as true sounding board. (This program is limited by the number of mentors we have available.)
• Workshops: We offer various workshops throughout the year, in partnership with other offices and programs, that encourage academic and personal growth:
  • Academic Support & Success
  • FAFSA & Financial Wellness
  • Career Exploration & Readiness
  • Personal Well-being
  • Graduate School Preparation
  • Leadership and Identity Development
• First Scholars Virtual Community: Our virtual community on Canvas helps students stay connected to announcements and resources, even during the busiest times of the year. Students can join the virtual community by filling out this form https://iastate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8rnqiIrjB3YDe9U
• Annual National First-Generation Student Celebration Week in November: First-generation students are strongly encouraged to take part in this special week. Let us celebrate you!  Join the First Scholars staff, your mentor, and many other first-generation students, staff and faculty during this national week of celebration.

As you prepare for your next adventure, we invite you to leave behind a legacy that will benefit future Cyclones by donating your cap and gown. In partnership with Enrollment Services, the First Scholars Office is collecting graduation caps and gowns to donate to future graduating students who face financial barriers that prevent them from purchasing their own.

DONATION OPTIONS:

Collection Bins: Staff and collection bins will be at the north, south, and west entrances Hilton Coliseum immediately following commencement for undergraduate and masters robes.

Mail-in: If you need to hang on to your regalia for a while longer (for pictures or other occasions), you can pick up a postage-paid envelope at the above indicated Hilton locations and mail it in at a later date.

Starting in Fall of 2024, If you are a graduating student that is low income eligible and are needing help accessing regalia for graduation, please email firstscholars@iastate.edu.

The mentorship program is designed to offer you the guidance and support you need to thrive during your academic journey. Participating students will be paired up with a member of ISU faculty or staff who was also a first-generation and/or low-income college student. Mentors in this program are encouraged to share their knowledge and insights, from academic resources to career development opportunities, and strategies for achieving academic excellence. They are there to provide unwavering support, motivation, and encouragement, helping you stay focused on your goals.  You and your mentor can connect through in-person meetings, video calls, or email correspondence.

The First Scholars Office will coordinate various opportunities for both mentors and mentees to connect, making sure you have access to valuable resources and support. This program is an excellent opportunity for you to make the most out of your university experience. Whether you are seeking academic guidance, career advice, or personal support, this program is here for you.

You can join our community of students, staff, and faculty who are also first-generation and low-income eligible. Students can join the virtual community here https://iastate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8rnqiIrjB3YDe9U

First Scholars Senior Completion Grant program for First-Generation Low-Income Students seeks to provide targeted financial support to students who are at risk of not completing their degree due to financial difficulties. This grant is designed to reduce economic barriers and promote academic retention, ultimately contributing to higher graduation rates among first-generation, low-income students, including graduating seniors.

To be eligible for the grant, students must meet the following criteria:

• Demonstrate financial need, as determined by answers provided on the OneApp application and confirmed by Iowa State University Financial Aid Office
• Pell Grant eligible
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress (minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA)
• Be a graduating senior in fall or spring of the current academic year
• Priority consideration but not required: Be enrolled as a first-generation college student, meaning neither parent nor legal guardian has completed a bachelor's degree at a 4-year institution

The grant amount will vary depending on individual circumstances but will generally cover expenses such as tuition, books, housing, transportation, and emergency expenses. It may also be renewable on a semester basis based on re-application and continued eligibility. To access the application, students will need to follow the instructions on the Cyclone Success Assistance instructional PDF.

For consideration for Spring 2024, the application will remain open until May 10, 2024 or until funds have been exhausted. 

NOTE:

Iowa State University does not allow students to obtain a financial assistance amount that exceeds financial need. Thus, receiving a senior completion grant could impact your financial assistance package depending on your documented financial need. Further, a student may not be able to receive funds "in-hand" to pay for indirect academic costs such as rent, utilities, and food. Before applying for the senior completion grant students are highly encouraged to contact the Financial Aid office to determine if they would be impacted in this manner. financialaid@iastate.edu or 515-294-2223.

First Scholars Lunch & Open House   

11-12:30 PM | 3250 Memorial Union  

Join us in the First Scholars Office multipurpose room for a catered buffet lunch and learn about our academic, financial, career, and personal support programs for first-generation and income-eligible (Pell Grant-eligible) students. This is a fantastic opportunity to engage with our staff, explore our space, ask questions, and discover how you can opt into programs designed to support your success. Please RSVP for the catered lunch here.