Gifty Kessie works with another student on a project
Gifty Kessie '23
Mechanical Engineering

Gifty Kessie takes advantage of opportunities to learn and grow – and then turns around and offers a helping hand to others.

I learned to never say no to any opportunity that comes my way.
Read More About Gifty Kessie 
Twins Jessica and Jennifer Dossantos
Jennifer Dossantos '23
Business

Honors College student Jennifer Dossantos is majoring in business because she’s inspired by her mom.

I wanted to have a major where I could have versatility, so business seemed like a good option.
Read More About Jennifer Dossantos 
Twins Jessica and Jennifer Dossantos
Jessica Dossantos '23
Nursing

Jessica Dossantos chose UMass Lowell for its patient simulation labs – and because her twin sister liked the university, too.

I want to become a travel nurse and go into different areas where I haven’t been before.
Read More About Jessica Dossantos 
Nadine Chamoun in front of Needham Bank
Nadine Chamoun '21
Business Administration

Business student Nadine Chamoun stepped out of her comfort zone for an IT internship. And she’s glad she did.

All of my professors have been great. ... It’s super cool to connect with them and learn how they got to where they are.
Read More About Nadine Chamoun 

River Hawk Scholars Academy News

  • Two young women blow bubbles through a colorful hoop that another woman is holding

    Meet the Librarian Who is Focused on First-Year Students

    Yolanda Hood, the UMass Lowell Library’s new first-year experience and instruction coordinator, ensures that students know about the resources and services that are available to them to help them succeed.
    Featured Story
  • Kelley-Lawson at chemo with her sister

    This New Year, Kelley Lawson is Grateful for a Fresh Start

    In this new year, Kelley Lawson is grateful for second chances. One year after extensive surgery and chemotherapy for Stage 4 cancer, Lawson shares some of the ways she’s winning this battle, one day at a time.
    Featured Story
  • UML biomedical engineering student Alex Hutchinson in Granada, Spain

    RHSA Expands with Study Abroad, First-Gen Student Conference

    The River Hawk Scholars Academy is expanding its programs for first-generation college students, including adding a study abroad course and a conference organized by students, thanks to federal aid and grants from nonprofits.
    Featured Story
  • A young man in glasses smiles while listening to someone talk in a conference room

    New Program Helps First-Gen Students Find Career Paths

    The River Hawk Scholars Academy’s new Pathways to Career program helps first-generation college students in their junior year take advantage of resources available to them in the Career and Co-op Center.
    Featured Story
  • U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan, UML Chancellor Jacquie Moloney and U.S. Sen. Edward Markey hold a ceremonial check for $500,000 for the RHSA

    UMass Lowell Gets $500,000 to Support First-Gen Students

    U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan and U.S. Sen. Edward Markey visited campus to announce $500,000 in federal funding for the River Hawk Scholars Academy, which serves first-generation college students at the university.