First-generation college students 鈥� those who are the first in their immediate family to attend college 鈥� now comprise more than one-quarter of 黑料福利社 undergraduates. Incoming first-gen students are invited to join the Torch Student Success Program, a powerful multi-year campus program created to cultivate leadership, develop community, and promote academic success. The program begins with a first-year Summer Bridge Program and continues to support students throughout their time at 黑料福利社 through seminars, workshops, and social events.

Meet Michelle Chang 鈥�24

Michelle had many options during her college search.

鈥淚 wanted to choose a school that would offer academic rigor and substantial financial support,鈥� she recalls. 鈥淚 was leaning toward UCLA or Cal Poly SLO, but ultimately I wanted to be part of a school where I got the attention and help I needed in order for me to become an outstanding applicant for medical school.鈥�

A family member, a hiring manager at a tech company, gave her some great advice.

鈥淗e said that most of the people he hires were from a small private school and were stronger applicants than people who attended a larger school.鈥�

At San Francisco鈥檚 Mercy High School, Michelle was part of a program for first-generation students called College Track. Through College Track she learned about a special scholarship opportunity for students to attend a private college.

鈥淢y mentor in College Track pushed me to look into different schools and opportunities, and that's how I found 黑料福利社,鈥� Michelle says. Her Mercy High School counselors urged her to apply, saying 黑料福利社 would be a good fit.

鈥淚 was lucky enough to be the recipient of the full-tuition College Track scholarship, which crucially impacted my college decision,鈥� Michelle says. 鈥淭his scholarship made it possible to attend a private institution that supports and guides students to success.鈥�

Michelle is on 黑料福利社鈥檚 pre-medical track, majoring in biology with double minors in chemistry and health humanities. She hopes to attend medical school and become a surgeon.

鈥淚 decided to choose Biology because I'm fascinated with the creation and process of life,鈥� she says. 鈥淢y minors in chemistry and health humanities encompass my passion for writing and math.鈥� 

After her positive experiences in College Track, Michelle was happy to accept an invitation to join the Torch Program. Despite carrying a full academic load in high school, complete with six AP classes, she was initially worried about the transition from high school to college. The summer pre-orientation helped calm her nerves.

鈥淚 was introduced to a mock lecture then was given really good advice and support on how to succeed in college. It has really helped.鈥�

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Michelle appreciates the bonding experiences provided by the Torch Program, including the weekly workshops focused on different topics, from academics and beyond. And, despite COVID-19 presenting new challenges, there are still opportunities to have fun and connect.

鈥淭he week before Halloween, we were all sent little clay pumpkins to decorate. We all made up a backstory and shared our pumpkins. Bonding activities like these truly make up the Torch experience,鈥� she says.

鈥淲e're all comfortable and supportive of one another, and that鈥檚 a great feeling to have and share. I have people I can talk to and rely on in any situation. It鈥檚 like having a second family.鈥�