Serving First-Generation Students
At Bellarmine University, Pioneer Scholars are our first-generation students, those who will be the first generation of their family to graduate from a four-year, higher education institution. This program supports first-generation students in adjusting to the social and academic challenges of college life.
Nearly 40% of Bellarmine freshmen each year are first-generation students. We celebrate the diversity and strengths that our first-generation students, faculty, and staff bring to our campus. Housed within the Student Success Center, the Pioneer Scholars program offers support services, enrichment programming, and leadership opportunities for all first-generation students throughout their time at Bellarmine University.
In their first year, Pioneer Scholars have the option to participate in our Early Arrival Program to make connections on campus before other students arrive. Once the semester begins, they will attend Pioneers 101 (BU022) each week, where they will connect with their Pioneer Scholars Peer Mentor and engage in programming related to topics such as academic skills, community engagement, and career development. Additionally, throughout their time at Bellarmine, first-generation students will have ongoing access to the “I’m First” Community of staff and faculty who also identify as first-generation college students and so understand their experiences.