First-Generation Innovation Fellows Application Applicant InformationFull Name* First Last Preferred Name (if applicable)UCA Student ID Number*UCA Email Address* Phone Number*Major(s)*Minor(s) (if applicable)Expected Graduation Date*Classification*FreshmanSophomoreJuniorSeniorGraduate StudentEligibility1. First-Generation Status*To be eligible for this fellowship, you must identify as first-generation. A first-generation college student is someone whose parent(s) or primary guardian(s) did not complete a four-year college degree. Do you consider yourself a first-generation college student?YesNo2. Campus Involvement*Please list any organizations, clubs, leadership positions, employment, volunteer experiences, or campus programs in which you currently participate. 3. Availability*This fellowship requires one office hour each week; one mentor meeting each month; bi-weekly cohort meetings; and program planning and implementation throughout the academic year (approx. 3-4 hour weekly time commitment). Can you commit to participating from September 2026 through September 2027?YesNoShort Answer QuestionsTell Us Your Story*What does being a first-generation college student mean to you? How has your experience shaped who you are today? (250-500 words)Why Do You Want to Become a First-Generation Innovation Fellow?*What excites you most about this opportunity? What do you hope to gain, and what do you hope to contribute? (250-500 words)Innovation Challenge*If selected, you will help design programs and resources that improve the first-generation student experience. What is one challenge facing first-generation students at UCA that you believe deserves more attention? Describe the issue and share one idea you have for addressing it. (250-500 words)Building a Better UCA*Imagine you had a $1,000 budget and a team of your own design to help develop and implement your idea to support first-generation college students. Describe one event, resource, campaign, or initiative you would create. Who are specific members of your tem to ensure your idea is a success (e.g. students, professors, staff, off-campus community members and leaders)? What would the success of your idea look like? (250-500 words)Intersectionality and IdentityIdentityThe First-Generation Innovation Fellows Program values the many identities and lived experiences that shape our campus community. Please tell us about any communities, identities, or experiences that have influenced your perspective. Examples include, but are not limited to: student parent, transfer student, military-connected or veteran, rural student, low-income student, international student, neurodiverse student, student with a disability, LGBTQ+, race or ethnicity, religious or cultural communities, student organizations, affinity groups, or any other identity or experience that has helped shape who you are. There is no expectation that you identify with any particular group. We ask this question because we value diverse perspectives and want our Fellows to represent the many experiences of first-generation students. (Optional - 250-500 words)ReferencesPlease provide one faculty or staff member who can speak to your leadership potential. Name of Reference* First Last Campus Department*Position*Email*
