Jeremy Duford and other student talk over table with laptop
Jeremy Duford '23
Nutritional Science

A first-generation college student, Jeremy Duford was nervous about starting college. He says the River Hawk Scholars Academy was a tremendous support.

The RHSA provided a solution to every single thing. It’s a bridge into college.
Read More About Jeremy Duford 
Justin Baez Peguero stands in front of framed images of flags from around the world
Justin Baez Peguero '24
Business

Justin Baez Peguero is studying business, working three jobs and serving in student government.

If you work hard and take chances in life, that’s how you get opportunities.
Read More About Justin Baez Peguero 
Neyder Fernandez and Joe Kennedy
Neyder Fernandez '23
Political Science

Mass Lowell offered another “bonus” says Neyder Fernandez: the River Hawk Scholars Academy (RHSA), a supportive program for first-generation college students.

The price, the location, the people – a lot of my friends from high school are at UMass Lowell, so I felt like I would start off on a good footing.
Read More About Neyder Fernandez 
UMass Lowell student Debby Fernand stands next to RHSA Director Matthew Hurwitz
Debby Fernand '22
Psychology, Sociology and Race and Ethnic Studies

Psychology and Sociology major Debby Fernand serves on the university’s Student Mental Health Advisory Committee.

I just love being a part of this community. I love being around faculty and staff who mirror some of my interests.
Read More About Debby Fernand 

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.