This scholarship aims to honor the life of Pete and Consuelo Hernandez by supporting underrepresented students pursuing higher education in California.
Among college graduates, those who were first-generation have lower median income and wealth on average when compared to non-first-generation graduates.
First-generation college students face an onslaught of challenges when pursuing their degrees and even after graduation.
First-generation college students are less likely to complete their degrees, as just 26% of people whose parents don’t have at least a bachelor’s degree achieve their own degree as compared to 70% of people whose parents attended college.
Any underrepresented minority high school student in California who will be the first in their family to go to college (first-generation) may apply for this scholarship. First place winner will receive $2,000, second place winner will receive $1,500, and the third place winner will receive $1,000.
To apply, tell us your planned major, adversity that you have overcome and how doing so has helped you grow as an individual.