Janelle Christopher and her mom, Lorainne.
Janelle Christopher '22
Education

Janelle Christopher started studying at UMass Lowell at the same time as her mom, Lorraine.

We were both first-gen college students at the same time.
Read More About Janelle Christopher 
Jennica Hamm studying on her laptop in the sitting area of Cumnock Hall.
Jennica Hamm '26
Applied Biomedical Sciences

Jennica Hamm was mentored and is now a mentor herself, helping first-year students get acclimated to campus and academic life.

Read More About Jennica Hamm 
Nery Rodriguez reads with a child
Nery Rodriguez '22
Public Health

For Nery Rodriguez, public health is the perfect major to combine science with helping people and communities.

With public health, you’re looking at a population and how to deal with health disparities.
Read More About Nery Rodriguez 
Monica Kong headshot
Monica Kong '22
Public Health

The River Hawk Scholars Academy, a support program for first-generation college students, gave Monica Kong the confidence she needed to succeed – and lead.

The RHSA empowered me not only as a student, but as a leader and a person who wants to serve the community.
Read More About Monica Kong 

River Hawk Scholars Academy News

  • Three people stand in front of a research poster and talk in a room.

    A Big STEP Forward in Student Success

    The growing STEM Training and Excellence Program (STEP) is expanding access to academic support and research opportunities, helping students build confidence, gain hands-on experience and prepare for future careers.
    Featured Story
  • Visiting Lecturer Matthew Beyranevand, left, and student researcher Melanie Khiem outdoors in front of trees

    Precalculus Coordinator Aims to Improve Math Education

    Visiting Lecturer Matthew Beyranevand ’03, ’10 aims to improve students’ understanding of higher mathematics – and to make precalculus classes more fun. Two undergraduate students are helping him while gaining research experience.