Dutchmen First

First-generation students in years 1, 2, 3 or 4 are eligible for the Dutchmen First program. A first-generation college student is a student whose parent(s)/legal guardian(s) have not completed a bachelor’s degree.

*Please note that you are still considered a first-generation student even if you have a sibling(s) who earned a degree(s).

Program Summary

Eligible first-generation students who actively participate in the Dutchmen First program and complete all required workshops will receive a $500 scholarship per year.

Note: Scholarships are applied after the completion of each academic year, provided all program expectations are met.

Program Requirements

• Maintain good academic and financial standing.
• Participate in and complete 100% of Dutchmen First workshops each semester.
  • Workshops are strategically designed to provide information, resources, and connections to help first-gen students succeed.
  • Program pillars include:
    1. Professional Development
    2. Academic Skill Development
    3. Wellness Series
    4. Resource Development
  • Additional workshop options are available to accommodate schedule conflicts (e.g., work, athletics, extracurricular activities).
• Meet 1:1 or in a small group with an Academic Success Coach.
  • Meetings are available upon student request.
• Engage through Canvas.
  • Attendance and short reflection submissions will be used to track participation.

Eligibility: Students may participate in the program during their first through fourth years of enrollment at LVC.

Dutchmen First Program

The Dutchmen First program is dedicated to empowering first-generation students with the skills, resources, and connections they need to thrive at LVC and beyond. Our programming is built around four core pillars:

1. Professional Development
2. Academic Skill Development
3. Wellness Series
4. Resource Development

Program Highlights

• Monthly Workshops

  • Cover a variety of topics, strategically timed to provide ongoing support throughout the semester.
  • Each cohort receives programming tailored to their stage of academic progress.
  • Examples include a Financial Literacy Workshop on budgeting, saving with limited resources, and building strong financial habits.

• Community & Connection

  • De-stress activities and social drop-ins throughout the semester to help students relax, recharge, and connect with peers.

• Service Opportunities

  • Volunteer events each semester, allowing students to give back to local schools, nonprofit organizations, and neighborhood communities.

• Student Support

  • Resources, education, and guidance to help first-gen students develop healthy, productive, and sustainable habits for success.

Scholarships & Mentorship

• Scholarships:

  • Students can earn a $500 scholarship in years 1, 2, and 3 through active engagement in the program.

• Senior Mentors:

  • Fourth-year students have the opportunity to serve as Dutchmen First Mentors.
  • Mentors receive a special Dutchmen First graduation pin in recognition of their leadership and service.

• Develop a support network and resources to assist in a smooth transition to college and look to build a path to continued success.
• Dutchmen First workshops will not only provide tools to current first-gen students but also ensure that future generations of their families will have the tools to be successful.