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 
Veyli Ortiz Solis
Veyli Ortiz Solis ’20, ’21
Criminal Justice

Veyli Ortiz Solis earned a B.S. in criminal justice in just three years – with a perfect 4.0 GPA.

I always love to be challenged. I feel like that’s when I do my best work.
Read More About Veyli Ortiz Solis 
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 
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 

River Hawk Scholars Academy News

  • 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.
    Featured Story