7 Purdue Global students to receive First-Generation College Student Scholarships

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Much like the majority of Purdue Global students, Hosana Medbery’s journey at Purdue Global has been shaped by balancing her role as both a parent and a professional.

“Deciding to return to school wasn’t easy. I knew it would require sacrifices and perseverance,” Medbery said. “There were late nights, early mornings and moments where I had to dig deep to stay on course.”

On top of that pressure comes the financial responsibility of paying for classes — one that was made a little easier thanks to recent scholarships awarded to Medbery and six other Purdue Global students.

Purdue Global celebrated First-Generation College Celebration Day on Friday (Nov. 8) by announcing this year’s recipients of the First-Generation College Student Scholarships. Recipients received $500 toward their Purdue Global tuition and fees. The number of recipients is based on the funds raised annually through the Purdue for Life Foundation, including Purdue’s annual Day of Giving.

“Receiving this scholarship is more than just financial support,” Medbery said. “It’s a validation of my commitment and passion for my studies at Purdue Global. It allows me to focus more fully on my coursework and development, knowing I have this support behind me.”

Medbery is from Texas City, Texas, and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nutrition.

“This scholarship feels even more special because it acknowledges not only my hard work but also the journey that has brought me here,” Medbery said. “It’s a reminder that I’m on the right path, and it renews my resolve to make the most of every opportunity.”

The scholarship recipients and their programs:

• Christopher Collins, Schererville, Indiana — Bachelor of Science in legal support and services
• Nicole Evans, Jackson, Georgia — Associate of Science in legal support and services
• Elijah Johnson, Indianapolis — Bachelor of Science in health science
• Ginger Lowe, Huntsville, Alabama — Bachelor of Science in business administration
• Shyanna Kahookele, Salado, Texas — Bachelor of Science in information technology management
• Hosana Medbery, Texas City, Texas — Bachelor of Science in nutrition
• Tyra Ramlall, Crestview, Florida — Bachelor of Science in health care administration

First-Generation College Student Scholarships are open to Purdue Global students who have completed three terms of an eligible undergraduate associate or bachelor’s degree program at Purdue Global with a 3.5 or higher cumulative grade-point average. Candidates must meet Purdue Global standards for satisfactory academic progress, as outlined in the university catalog, and have no Code of Student Conduct violations.

In addition, applicants must submit a 500-word essay answering the following questions: What motivated you to pursue a college education? What advice would you give a student who is experiencing an obstacle or challenge while pursuing their degree?

First-Generation College Celebration Day has been recognized nationally since 2017, when it was selected by the Council for Opportunity in Education and the Center for First-Generation Student Success to commemorate the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965.

Additional scholarship recipient responses

Christopher Collins of Schererville: “Receiving this scholarship feels like an achievement and a definite confidence booster, knowing that when you apply yourself, great things can happen. It also helps take the weight off my shoulders by reducing the burden of repaying student loans in the future. The fact that I persevered this far makes this scholarship more than just financial assistance — it’s proof that hard work does pay off.”

Elijah Johnson of Indianapolis: “What makes this scholarship so special is that I have been a full-time student and parent trying to find a place for work and child care, which has been difficult. I can use this opportunity to finish my education without combating financial barriers and set a positive example for my family. I am really thankful for the opportunities that Purdue Global presented and provided to me in my journey thus far.”

Nicole Evans of Jackson, Georgia: “This scholarship means a great deal to me as it alleviates some financial stress, allowing me to focus more on my studies and personal growth. It not only provides financial assistance but also boosts my confidence in pursuing my educational goals.”

About Purdue Global

Purdue Global is Purdue’s online university for working adults who have life experience and often some college credits. It offers flexible paths for students to earn an associate, bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree, based on their work experience, military service and previous college credits, no matter where they are in their life journey. Purdue Global is a nonprofit, public university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and backed by Purdue University. For more information, visit https://www.purdueglobal.edu.