The Path

The Kelly/Strul Emerging Scholars Program:
Creating the Path Toward Graduation

Since the 1970s, earning a college degree has become almost essential for long-term financial gain and career stability. Today, more than 17 million individuals attend college nationwide, of which 7.4 million are first-generation college students. Yet, 90% of low-income, first-generation students will not complete their degree due to various factors.


The FAU Kelly/Strul Emerging Scholars Program aims to defy those odds. The program champions the academic goals of first-generation, low-income individuals by addressing barriers to educational access, providing wraparound services to support academic success, and transforming students into civically responsible global leaders. From acceptance to graduation, every scholar in the program follows an established path to graduation:


  • Acceptance

    1.  The Program provides a Comprehensive Financial Aid Package that includes tuition, fees, books and supplies, a meal plan and housing for the four years of a students’ collegiate experience. 

    2.  New scholars and parents receive a thorough overview of the program and its requirements during Orientation. 

    3.  Students receive Individualized Advising by professionals who understand the challenges first-generation students experience. 

    4.  An Academic Success and Retention Plan helps scholars stay above a 3.0 GPA and on track for graduation.

    5.  Scholars are matched with First-Generation Peer Mentors and meet regularly to discuss their experiences. 

  • Owl Pride & Getting Involved

    6.  The program plans a calendar of Social Activities.

    7.  Monthly Meet-Up Events provide a platform for students to engage with one another and program staff. 

    8.  FAU is nationally recognized as a leader in Undergraduate Research, and all scholars are encouraged to participate.

    9.  Scholars can apply to be considered for a Study Abroad program and other Enrichment Opportunities, including Semester at Sea, Festival of Nations, Alternative Spring Break, and International Education Week

  • Graduation Prep

    10.  Financial Literacy Workshops help scholars manage and maximize their money.

    11.  Scholars participate in Career Planning and explore different majors and career options through workshops, such as resume writing, interview techniques, emotional intelligence, and professionalism. 

    12.  Students secure Internships that allow them to earn money while learning important career skills.

    13.  Scholars attend workshops to sharpen their Networking Skills. 

    14.  Attending and presenting at regional and National Conferences provide value-added experiences.

  • Giving Back

    15.  As sophomores, juniors and seniors, scholars serve as Peer Mentors to Kelly/Strul first-year students. 

    16.  Scholars Represent the Program by meeting with supporters and attending donor events. 

    17.  As alumni, Scholars Become Donors to support the next generation of first-generation students.