As we wrap up another academic year, we are thrilled to celebrate the class of 2025 graduates! These first-generation scholars earned their degrees from multiple universities across the country, majoring in a wide range of topics, from business and STEM to social sciences and the arts. 

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As they crossed the finish line, we cheered them on at our virtual Graduation Ceremony last month, celebrating their hard work and plans for the future. Each of these graduates has a unique story to tell. From late nights to part-time jobs to juggling multiple classes during a pandemic, the class of 2025 went through a lot, but their unwavering commitment has paid off, and we couldn’t be more proud!

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Keep reading to meet some of the scholars in the class of 2025!

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“I wouldn’t have made it without each of my friends and family members. I’m excited to be closing this chapter of my life and opening another. Special thanks to ScholarMatch for the immense support, and shoutout to Anny, ScholarMatch advisor, for being such an incredible coach and friend.”

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Jonathan Lim

UC San Diego

Business and Psychology

Leonetti O'Connell Scholar 

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“I am forever grateful to all the family, friends, and mentors who believed in me and supported me during these last 4 years. ¡Si se puede!”

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Jazmine Stanek

Business Administration

CSU Fullerton

Leonetti O'Connell Scholar 

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“I dedicate all my work, along with every step that led to its completion, to my family, especially my mother and grandmother. Your love, unwavering support, and endless strength are a constant inspiration that I hold close to my heart. This achievement is yours as much as it is mine. I carry your sacrifices with me in everything I do.”

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Itzel Ramos

Political Science, Chicano Studies

Claremont McKenna College

Smart Cookie Scholar

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“I want to thank my mom for being there for me through my worst and best days. And thank you to my support system who stayed along the way.”

Romi Ocadiz-Cruz

Film Media Studies, Studio Art

UC Santa Cruz

Swig Scholar

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“As a first-generation graduate, I am forever grateful for every late night, every laugh, and every lesson. I’m deeply grateful to my family, friends, and ScholarMatch advisors who have kept me going. This chapter closes, but the journey is just beginning!”

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Miriam Villa Gongorra

Marketing

San Francisco State University

Adobe Scholar

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Flexible Scholarships and Individualized Mentorship: This Is What Impact Looks Like

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Our graduates didn’t walk this path alone. Through ScholarMatch’s college persistence program, our scholars received the personalized support needed to not only graduate but also embark on meaningful careers. With the help of ScholarMatch college advisors and career coaches, they secured internships, attended professional development workshops, and worked on solidifying career goals.

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Our scholars also had access to over $1.2M in flexible scholarships disbursed directly to them, which helped cover tuition and other school-related expenses, as well as hidden costs such as technology needs, summer housing, and emergency expenses.

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These outcomes are significant when we consider the odds. According to recent research, only 24% of first-generation students from low-income backgrounds earn a bachelor’s degree within six years. At ScholarMatch, we are proud to report an 80% graduation rate, thanks to our holistic, student-centered approach. 

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The Power of Community

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As we honor the class of 2025, we also celebrate the power of community. Thanks to all of our scholarship partners and many longtime supporters for coming together to help make college possible, guide scholars into meaningful careers, and welcome them back as alumni mentors who pay it forward for younger generations.

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Let’s build on this momentum to continue supporting the next generation of college graduates. Together, we’re showing what’s possible when first-generation students have access to opportunities and support that enable them to thrive.  

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If the class of 2025 has inspired you to get involved, we invite you to join us in this vital work and mentor scholars as they prepare to launch their careers. Learn more about our work and other ways to support our mission at scholarmatch.org. 

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