ARE YOU ALL IN FOR THE LEAD SCHOLARS PROGRAM? YOU can help build momentum for the causes you care most about by clicking the social media icons on this page (to share the badge below) and show your Bronco pride!
Help first-generation college students maximize their SCU experience!
Founded in 2003, the LEAD Scholars Program ensures the success of first-generation college students (students whose parents did not graduate from a four-year university) by focusing on academic success, relationship building and community engagement. The LEAD Scholars Program provides academic and vocational development opportunities, holistic advising, peer mentoring, and community building through a variety of courses, programs, and support networks. For more info about LEAD, please visit: https://www.scu.edu/lead/.
Our students:
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Have high financial need. 72% of them receive federal Pell Grants.
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Are high achievers. 82% graduate in four years, higher than the general SCU population.
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Are diverse. 57% are Latino, 21% Asian, 8% African American, 9% White, and 4% Multiracial.
Your donation will make an impact by funding:
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Microgrants to help students with basic educational and living expenses, including textbooks, rent and food.
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Fellowships for student participation in study abroad, undergraduate research, unpaid internships, community-based learning, immersion programs, and summer school.
CURRENT LEAD SCHOLARS REFLECT ON THEIR FELLOWSHIP EXPERIENCES:
“I believe that education is the ultimate path for improving many social issues faced by people in developing countries, like Nepal. Just knowing that I was able to contribute to the education of young children, who will grow up to improve their communities, was enough motivation for me to continue my project and embrace the challenges that I faced.” -Manoj, junior Computer Science major; received a fellowship to develop educational programs for children in his home country, Nepal
“This summer I had my first classroom experience as a teacher. Not only did I benefit from the insights of the Breakthrough staff, but I also learned from the students and other teaching fellows. I was able to confirm that even though teaching is a tough job, it’s the profession I really want to be involved with.” -Edith, junior Liberal Studies major; funded to participate in a teaching fellowship with Breakthrough Silicon Valley
“I was given the opportunity to interview various residents at the shelter about their life paths, and used the qualitative interview skills I developed through my Health Equity Internship to conduct effective research. Through this experience, I had the opportunity to fully immerse myself in the community at Mekedonia and learn via accompaniment.” -Elleni, senior Public Health major; funded to return to Ethiopia, her home country, to engage in community-based learning at Mekedonia, a shelter for those who are elderly or mentally ill
