Twisha Mohapatra in the audience during Oprah Winfrey's visit to UMass Lowell.
Twisha Mohapatra '21
Business

Twisha Mohapatra says her experiences in the River Hawk Scholars Academy and the Honors College have boosted her confidence, taught her leadership skills and set her up for academic success.

My self-esteem has skyrocketed. I’m a leader now. Before, I never thought of myself as a leader.
Read More About Twisha Mohapatra 
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 
Javier Palma stands in front of a white board in a UMass Lowell classroom
Javier Palma '23
Electrical Engineering, UTeach

Javier Palma is earning a teaching license along with his B.S. in electrical engineering.

I want to be a teacher who can create a much more comfortable classroom environment.
Read More About Javier Palma 
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 

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.
    Featured Story
  • Four panelists sit in chairs in front of a screen at the front of a room, talking to college students.

    Peer Leaders Get a Boost from UKG

    Peer leaders from the Office of Multicultural Affairs are now supported with scholarships and mentorship from workforce management software company UKG, a longtime industry partner of UMass Lowell.