what we do
OUR MISSION
To empower first-generation and low-income scholars from all educational backgrounds to excel and lead in the industries of today and tomorrow.
WHAT WE KNOW
We know the challenge is not just getting into college, it’s completing the journey to graduation. Far too few first-generation college students cross the finish line to earn their degrees and enter the workforce empowered by the knowledge, skills, and personal growth they gain along the way. The real challenge lies in providing the ongoing support necessary to help these students stay the course.
Our Holistic Approach
Financial Support
Each Anaya Scholar receives up to $5,000 over four years to help cover gaps in college expenses, such as tuition shortfalls, books, transportation, tutoring, and meals. This financial support ensures that no unexpected costs derail their academic journey.
Mentorship
Our scholars are paired with both adult and peer mentors, who provide consistent, personalized guidance throughout their college experience. Whether navigating academic, emotional, or financial challenges, our mentors are there every step of the way to ensure our scholars remain confident and focused.
Paid Internships
We help Anaya Scholars secure paid internships through our network of professional partners. These internships provide critical financial support while also giving our scholars valuable real-world experience in their chosen fields.
Professional & Career Building Workshops
We offer a series of targeted workshops for Anaya Scholars, designed to equip them with practical skills for life beyond the classroom. These workshops cover topics such as financial literacy, resume building, and sharpening interview skills, all aimed at preparing them for success in both their academic and professional lives.
Overcoming Barriers to Success
Through personalized support, mentorship, and resources, Anaya Scholars is dedicated to addressing challenges and ensuring that talented, motivated scholars can focus on their education and achieve their dreams of graduation and beyond.
Many of our scholars come from backgrounds where accessing and persisting in college can be a challenge. We are working to create a future where every scholar has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of the obstacles they face.
4. Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome
Feeling like you belong is crucial to academic and social success in college. Yet, for many first-generation and low-income students, college environments can seem designed for those from more privileged backgrounds, fostering feelings of self-doubt or imposter syndrome. At Anaya Scholars, we work to build a strong sense of community and belonging, offering support networks and affirming their place in higher education.
5. Limited Professional Networks
One of the key advantages for students from more affluent backgrounds is access to professional networks that can open doors to internships and career opportunities. First-generation and low-income students often lack these connections, making it more difficult for them to gain the practical experience and networking opportunities necessary for their future careers. Anaya Scholars connects students with industry professionals, mentors, and resources to help them build those vital networks.
6. Balancing Academics with Work
Many of our scholars must work part-time—often long hours—to support themselves and their families while attending college. This juggling act makes it harder for them to keep up with their coursework, participate in campus life, and take advantage of extracurricular opportunities that can enrich their academic experience. Anaya Scholars provides support, helping students manage these competing demands so they can succeed academically.
1. Financial Barriers
For many first-generation and low-income students, coming up with the funds for college is an ongoing challenge. Without the ability to rely on family financial support, students must depend on a combination of financial aid, loans, scholarships, and savings from part-time jobs. Even a slight change in their financial situation—such as losing a job or unexpected expenses—can jeopardize their ability to stay enrolled in college.
2. Lack of Guidance
Many Anaya Scholars are the first in their families to attend college. Without a parent or sibling to guide them through crucial decisions—such as selecting a major, managing financial aid forms, or understanding college policies like dropping a class—these students often feel overwhelmed. Our program helps fill that gap by offering one-on-one mentorship and resources to help them navigate the complexities of college life.
3. Family Responsibilities
Balancing school with family obligations is another hurdle faced by first-generation and low-income students. Often, these students must take on caregiving responsibilities for younger siblings or ailing relatives, and in many cases, work to contribute to family finances. These additional pressures make it harder for them to focus on their studies and participate fully in the college experience.