21st Century Scholars Alumni
Stay connected by joining this network and sharing your story.
Our 21st Century Scholars alumni is a network of previous Scholars who completed the 21st Century Scholarship program and successfully graduated with a four-year degree. We love seeing the impact our alumni have already made on their communities as well as the stories of their success through this program.
The 21st Century Scholars program allowed me to chase my dream of being the first in my family to graduate from college. Without the program, myself and other low-income students would not be living the lives we live today. I am immensely grateful for the program and its impact on disadvantaged youth in our great state.
The 21st Century Scholars program is the only reason I could attend college. There are limited opportunities for folks in low-income rural areas, and this program is the main reason I could earn my bachelor's degree and later master's degree.
Without the 21st Century Scholars program, my life could have had a completely different trajectory. This program allowed me to pursue my degree without the worry of falling into immense debt. The resources that were available to me at Purdue thanks to 21st Century were incredible, and made me feel as though I was a part of this community that completely understood and supported me.
21st Century Scholars made it possible for me to put myself through college and prioritize experiential learning opportunities as I did. I was able to get a 4-year degree with very minimal student loan debt.
It took the worry out of things, I had no idea how I would afford college. Instead, I was able to afford it and purely focus on my classes and be able to have fun. That, and at least at Purdue, it was like I had a second group of mentors and advisors who were there to help me and guide me through my time there with any questions I had.
The tuition support from 21st Century Scholars made "going to college" an attainable reality. Without it, the burden of cost seemed like an impossible challenge to navigate. I passionately serve in my current role because I know first-hand how educational attainment can change the entire trajectory of your life. The scholarship program unlocked the first door and allowed me to keep challenging myself to unlock potential that might have remained untapped if I hadn't had the support when it was needed most.
The 21st Century Scholars program (coupled with the Purdue Promise program) was the biggest asset in achieving what I have at this point in my life. Without it, I would not have been able to attend college because of the costs. But it wasn't only the cost, I knew that I had someone on my side throughout my time as a undergrad because of my Promise coach. The courses I took taught necessary life skills and how to navigate college as a first-generation student. The confidence I gained from this has led me to pursue my graduate degrees. I will always be grateful to the Scholars and Promise programs.
The 21st Century Scholars program (coupled with the Purdue Promise program) was the biggest asset in achieving what I have at this point in my life. Without it, I would not have been able to attend college because of the costs. But it wasn't only the cost, I knew that I had someone on my side throughout my time as a undergrad because of my Promise coach. The courses I took taught necessary life skills and how to navigate college as a first-generation student. The confidence I gained from this has led me to pursue my graduate degrees. I will always be grateful to the Scholars and Promise programs.
The 21st Century Scholars program helped me prepare for college. Without the program, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to attend Purdue University and earn my bachelor's degree. While at Purdue the program prepared me as a first generation student. I had no idea what college was like or how to excel. The program allowed me to connect with others like me and learn how to be a great student. This has transcended into my professional life and my ability to connect with my clients and relationships. My ability to relate with others and provide them with strategies is directly tied to the 21st Century Scholars program. I am ever grateful for the ability to attend such a wonderful University and receive the education that I did.
The 21st Century Scholars program helped me prepare for college. Without the program, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to attend Purdue University and earn my bachelor's degree. While at Purdue the program prepared me as a first generation student. I had no idea what college was like or how to excel. The program allowed me to connect with others like me and learn how to be a great student. This has transcended into my professional life and my ability to connect with my clients and relationships. My ability to relate with others and provide them with strategies is directly tied to the 21st Century Scholars program. I am ever grateful for the ability to attend such a wonderful University and receive the education that I did.
It has helped focus more on my undergraduate degree and not worry on the stress of accumulating college debt while also pushing me to maintain in good standing.
Without the 21st Century Scholars Program I wouldn't be where I am today. The program made it possible for me to attend an amazing school, get a great education and leave to start my career without a ton of debt. My parents couldn't afford to send me to school, but I was determined to make a better life for myself and my family. Looking for help wherever I could find it, I was so lucky to have the 21st Century Scholarship and the staff to help make that dream come true. It's immeasurable the difference it made for me, and I am forever grateful. To this day, I'm motivated to pay it forward whenever I can.
As a rural, first-generation college student, 21st Century Scholars gave me the financial key to reach my goal of attending college. Now I can give back and help students every day navigate financial aid to truly leverage their 21st Century Scholars award.
The 21st Century Scholar Program allowed me to grow and expand throughout my undergrad to become a more well-rounded student. I was able to join dance marathon, become a Resident Assistant, as well as join different advocacy boards in undergrad. Due to this scholarship program, I did not have to take out loans! This aided me in continuing my education. I am currently obtaining my masters degree in Child Development in Chicago!
As a first generation college graduate, I am eternally grateful for the opportunities this program has afforded me both personally and professionally.
The 21st Century Scholars program provided me the avenues and opportunities to pursue a higher education I didn't know was possible. Through networking, professional development, and personal relationships, I have found a profession I love and continue to find purpose in.
Growing up as a child, I was told by my older sister that education was my ticket out of poverty. All 6 of us were 21st Century Scholars. Because of the time and investment my counselor spent with me applying for schools, submitting the fafsa, etc. I was able to attend college debt free and create the life I wanted, that my future family will need. I now work as a Career Coach with VU Adult Education assisting students with their next steps after earning their GED. Thanks, Lori McCintosh for changing the game for me and all my siblings!
Stay connected
There are more than 50,000 Scholar alumni who have successfully completed the 21st Century Scholars Program. Join other talented leaders from across the state of Indiana by connecting with our alumni network.
Join the 21 Century Scholars Alumni Network
Connect with Scholar alumni from across the state and be the first to receive new information about special events and more. Join the 21st Century Scholars LinkedIn community.
You’re eligible as an alumni if you:
- Fulfilled all 21st Century Scholars program requirements
- Earned a postsecondary degree or certificate
Take the Alumni Survey
We are always looking to share the stories of our scholar alumni. Consider completing the Alumni Survey below so that we can share your past 21st Century Scholars experience to help inspire young hoosiers today.
