I’m the first in my family to pursue college, and I live in Washington. Can anyone recommend scholarships specifically for first-generation college students here? It would be a big help as I prepare my applications.
There are several scholarships specific to first-generation college students in Washington. One you might want to look into is the College Success Foundation's Governors' Scholarship for Foster Youth. Although not exclusively for first-generation students, it does give extra consideration to students who are the first in their families to go to college.
The Pride Foundation offers over 50 different types of scholarships to students, including those who are the first in their families to attend college. Their scholarships are open to students residing in Washington state, a few specific counties in Oregon, or attending a college in Alaska and Idaho.
Additionally, the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS) may also be beneficial for you. It's not explicitly meant for first-generation students, but it is designed to help low- and middle-income residents in Washington State earn degrees in high-demand majors.
Be sure to check with colleges and universities you're interested in as well. Many schools offer their own scholarships for first-generation students. For instance, Gonzaga University offers the Act Six Scholarship Program for first-generation students, among others.
Remember to begin your search early and pay close attention to application deadlines. Good luck!
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