From First-Generation College Student to Graduate School
How tribal scholarships and support programs helped me become the first in my family to earn a graduate degree.
Maria T.
Navajo Nation
Growing up on the Navajo reservation in Arizona, I never imagined I would one day hold a master's degree. My parents worked hard but never had the opportunity to attend college themselves. When I was in high school, a counselor told me about scholarships specifically for Native American students, and that conversation changed my life.
Finding the Right Resources
I started by researching scholarships through the American Indian College Fund and discovered the Gates Millennium Scholars Program. The application process was intimidating at first—essays, letters of recommendation, transcripts—but my school counselor and tribal education office helped me through every step.
When I received the Gates Millennium Scholarship, covering my full undergraduate tuition, my family and I cried together. It wasn't just about the money; it was validation that my dreams were possible.
Navigating College as a First-Generation Student
College wasn't easy. There were times I felt out of place, especially at a large university where few students shared my background. But I found my community through the Native American student organization on campus and the McNair Scholars Program, which prepared me for graduate school.
Key Resources That Helped Me
- Gates Millennium Scholars Program: Covered full tuition for undergraduate and graduate school
- American Indian College Fund: Provided supplemental scholarships and networking opportunities
- Tribal Higher Education Grant: My tribe provided additional funding for books and living expenses
- McNair Scholars Program: Prepared me for graduate research and applications
Graduate School and Beyond
With my undergraduate degree completed debt-free, I was able to pursue a master's degree in public health with a focus on Native American health disparities. Today, I work for a tribal health organization, helping to improve healthcare access in my community.
Advice for Others
- Start early: Begin researching scholarships in your junior year of high school
- Ask for help: Tribal education offices exist to support you—use them!
- Apply to everything: Don't self-select out of opportunities
- Find your community: Connect with other Native students for support
- Give back: Once you succeed, help others on the same path
My education journey showed me that the resources exist—we just need to know where to find them and have the courage to apply.