Pioneer Scholars Program
First Generation Students
A first generation student is one for whom neither parent has completed a degree at a four-year college or university. A student is still considered “first-generation” if his/her sibling has completed a degree at a four-year college or institution. Currently, about 40% of all incoming freshmen are first-generation students.
The Pioneer Scholars Program
The Pioneer Scholars Program is a first-year experience program for first-generation college students that is designed to offer these students greater support and direction regarding the academic, social, emotional, and financial aspects of college success. The program focuses on the intricacies of transitioning from the high school environment to the college atmosphere by introducing students to resources available to enhance and promote overall success as a student and young adult.
Through small groups, the students are introduced to other first-generation college students in their incoming freshman class, assigned an upperclassman first-generation college student mentor, and connected to resources that will help students become engaged and succeed on campus.
“Being a first generation college student has been a little tough without any advice from family members. The Pioneer Scholars Program has made this transition at Bellarmine that much easier. There were many things I was unaware of and this program was able to not only bring those things to my attention but it taught me how to utilize those resources as well. Having a peer mentor that I can go to anytime with questions is a wonderful asset to the program and the first year experience.”
-Erin Burgstaller, Pioneer Scholar
Program Facilitators
Amy Siegel, First Generation Advisor
Co-coordinator of the Pioneer Scholars Program
Assistant Women's Basketball Coach
asiegel@bellarmine.edu
502.272.8289
Amy is a BU alum of the class of 1999 and was a first-generation college student during her time at Bellarmine. Amy is also the Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach and holds a Master’s Degree in Education and Counseling Psychology.
“The Pioneer Program offers consistent enthusiasm and guidance to 1st generation students as they navigate through the transitions of college. It is important to provide motivation, expect hard work and acknowledge the desires of students. I believe that these characteristics are the keys to creating and enhancing opportunities for student success. I have a passion for motivation and hard work, which is the basis of my approach to working with students.”
Andrew Schroeder, Developmental Advisor
Co-coordinator of the Pioneer Scholars Program
Student-Athlete Advisor
aschroeder@bellarmine.edu
502.272.7450
Andrew is a BU alum of the class of 2004 and also the Advisor for Athletics. He holds a Master’s Degree in Education with an Emphasis in School Counseling.
“I love the Pioneer Scholars Program because it provides so many opportunities for a student. It provides them opportunities to engage and feel supported by their peers, to get great guidance from their mentors, and to connect in a comfortable and easy way with so many people at the university. One of Bellarmine’s greatest appeals for students is the sense of community they feel when they are here. This program really builds off that ideal.”