A First-Year Experience Designed to Help You Flourish

At Lawrence, first-generation college students are trailblazers, innovators, and leaders. The 1847 Scholars Program celebrates the strengths, resilience, and potential that first-generation college students bring to campus while providing a strong foundation for a successful transition to college life.

Designed for first-year students whose parent(s)/guardian(s) did not earn a bachelor’s degree, the 1847 Scholars Program helps students flourish in their first year at Lawrence through mentorship, academic support, career exploration, and a built-in community of peers.

Through a supportive cohort model, students gain practical tools for navigating the academic transition, exploring goals and possibilities, building confidence, and making meaningful connections across campus. The program is grounded in the belief that students thrive when they are empowered to recognize their strengths, explore possibilities, and design a college experience aligned with their aspirations.

Whether you already have a clear direction or are still exploring your path, the 1847 Scholars Program is here to support your growth, help you discover new opportunities, and equip you to make the most of your Lawrence experience.

Program Components

Weekly first-year seminar (1 unit per term)

1847 Scholars participate in a one-hour-per-week seminar each term of the first year focused on helping students thrive academically, personally, and professionally.

Topics include:

  • Navigating the transition to college
  • Academic success and well-being
  • Building self-advocacy skills
  • Exploring majors, values, interests, and future possibilities
  • Career discernment and goal-setting
  • Experiential learning opportunities, including research, internships, study abroad, and community engagement
  • Designing a meaningful and fulfilling Lawrence experience
Dedicated staff/faculty mentorship

Students receive ongoing support from professional staff/faculty who are invested in their success and available to help them navigate questions, opportunities, and challenges throughout the first year.

Peer Mentorship & community

1847 Scholars join a cohort of fellow first-generation students and are connected with peer mentors who understand the transition to college firsthand. The program creates opportunities to build friendships, share experiences, and develop a strong sense of belonging.

Financial award

Students who successfully complete the 1847 Scholars Program will receive a $1,000 sophomore scholarship award following successful completion of the program requirements.

The award recognizes students’ commitment to investing in their personal growth, academic success, and future goals during the first year.

Program Expectations

1847 Scholars commit to:

  • Enrolling in and actively participating in the 1847 Scholars seminar (1 unit) during all three terms of the first year
  • Approaching the program with curiosity, reflection, and a willingness to explore opportunities for growth

The program is designed to fit alongside a full Lawrence academic experience while providing structured support during an important transition year.

 

Program Eligibility

The 1847 Scholars Program is open to incoming first-year students whose parent(s)/guardian(s) did not earn a bachelor’s (four-year) degree. 

Apply

Ready to take the next step? Apply to join the 1847 Scholars Program and begin building a foundation for a thriving first year at Lawrence. Application deadline: June 24, 2026.