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Rosen College of Hospitality Management PARTNERSHIP PROPOSAL

Matching Funds Opportunity: First-Generation in College Scholarships

More and more students are becoming the first ever in their families to enroll in college. However, only 24% of them go on to earn a bachelor’s degree. Most face the challenge of working full-time while in school in order to financially provide for large families. The Rosen College of Hospitality Management has one of the highest enrollments of first-generation students in Florida, with over 10% of its undergraduates falling into this category. Compared to other college students, first-generation students are more likely to be:

• Minorities • From lower-middle class or poor socio-economic families • No longer dependent on parental support • In need of scholarships, grants, student loans and/or other financial aid • Working full or part-time • Less academically prepared • Enrolled on a delayed basis

The average family of a first-generation student can only contribute $8,727 a year, leaving a financial gap of $7,000 per year, or $28,000 over the course of a four-year education. The State of Florida First Generation in College Matching Grant Program makes available a dollar-for-dollar match on private contributions that support these at-risk students. For the 2010-2011 academic year, approximately $108,000 will be needed to provide the $800 annual grant to each eligible Rosen College student, maximizing the match money. This is based on actual Fall 2009 enrollment, with 270 Rosen College students being the first in their family to attend college. Gifts must be received by December 1, 2010 to be eligible for the match. If you or your company can help with some or all of this challenge, please contact Jennifer Rickmann, Rosen College of Hospitality Management at (407) 903-8249 or jarickma@mail.ucf.edu.