Support first-generation students
Join the 2518
Last updated: April 14, 2021
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On Saturday, October 13, 2018 President Astrid Tuminez announced her historic first-generation initiative—to raise $15 million dollars within three to five years to fund scholarships and programming for first-generation students. At the very moment President Tuminez made her announcement, the cost for one semester of in-state tuition was $2,518. That figure is not only representative of a cost, but also of an opportunity—an opportunity that a first-generation student might not have access to if not for the generosity of donors and community members.
2518 is representative of something else—our goal. We are looking for 2,518 students and UVU community members to join us in supporting our peers. President Tuminez has taken the lead—join her and join the 2518.
First-generation students are those whose parents/guardians have not completed a U.S. bachelor’s degree. These students are still considered first-generation even if a sibling or other family member has already completed a four-year college degree. More than 1 of every 3 UVU students are first-generation students.
Over 75% of first-generation students are from households with a combined income of $50,000 or less; 27% are from households with a combined income of $20,000 or less. Many first-generation students struggle with what has been described as “breakaway guilt”—their decision to pursue higher education comes with the price of leaving their families behind.
Only 24% of first-generation college students earned a bachelor’s degree, compared to 68% of their continuing-generation peers—individuals with at least one bachelor’s degree-holding parent. 85% of second-and third-generation students attempt college after high school while just 47% of first-generation students do the same.
