First Scholars program

Helping NAU students become proactive, empowered, and engaged

The goal of the First Scholars program is to help first-generation college students succeed in school, graduate, and have a life complete with self-awareness, success and significance.

A four-year commitment, First Scholars engages students from freshmen through senior year in academic and social programming while also supporting students financially with a $2,000 scholarship.

The program is open to incoming first-time, full-time Arizona freshmen whose parent(s) or guardian(s) have not earned a bachelor’s degree. Please note, that in the 2022-2023 academic year, the First Scholars program will pilot opening the application to rising juniors.

Services and Resources Provided:

• Mentoring from staff and successful peers in the program
• Academic success workshops
• Tutoring in partnership with the Academic Success Centers
• Freshman transition course
• Service-learning opportunities
• Community building through social activities
• Connection to campus and community resources