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 
Nadine Chamoun in front of Needham Bank
Nadine Chamoun '21
Business Administration

Business student Nadine Chamoun stepped out of her comfort zone for an IT internship. And she’s glad she did.

All of my professors have been great. ... It’s super cool to connect with them and learn how they got to where they are.
Read More About Nadine Chamoun 
Nery Rodriguez reads with a child
Nery Rodriguez '22
Public Health

For Nery Rodriguez, public health is the perfect major to combine science with helping people and communities.

With public health, you’re looking at a population and how to deal with health disparities.
Read More About Nery Rodriguez 
Sean Simonini speaking at podium.
Sean Simonini '26
Political Science, Biology

Sean Simonini is making an impact at the Statehouse and beyond.

UMass Lowell is about the grit, the work ethic. It’s everybody on an equal playing field. I love that mission.
Read More About Sean Simonini 

River Hawk Scholars Academy News

  • UMass Lowell students line up on the South Campus lawn.

    Students Get a Head Start on Course Work and College Life

    A range of special summer programs offer a head start on college classes and campus connections for incoming first-year students, transfer students and high school students. Some even offer full scholarships.
    Featured Story
  • Two young women blow bubbles through a colorful hoop that another woman is holding

    Meet the Librarian Who is Focused on First-Year Students

    Yolanda Hood, the UMass Lowell Library’s new first-year experience and instruction coordinator, ensures that students know about the resources and services that are available to them to help them succeed.
    Featured Story
  • Kelley-Lawson at chemo with her sister

    This New Year, Kelley Lawson is Grateful for a Fresh Start

    In this new year, Kelley Lawson is grateful for second chances. One year after extensive surgery and chemotherapy for Stage 4 cancer, Lawson shares some of the ways she’s winning this battle, one day at a time.
    Featured Story
  • 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.