PRESS RELEASE

Groups Scholars sets students up for college success

KOKOMO, Ind. — Joining the Groups Scholars program gave Grace Casey a jump start on college success.

“I can’t imagine going into my first semester without it,” the Indiana University Kokomo freshman said. “I was even able to help other new students and show them how to get places they needed to be. I just loved going into my first semester already knowing people, and with some credits under my belt.”

Already having friends on campus gave her a confidence boost as well.

“It prepared me because as soon as I walked on campus, I knew where I needed to be,” she said. “I would see other Groups Scholars on campus too, and we had already built a community before our first semester started.”

The Groups Scholars program was created to increase college attendance among first-generation, underrepresented students at IU. It provides academic, financial, and social support to underrepresented Indiana college students, all the way to graduation. Those selected receive a free laptop, four credits of summer tuition, and up to $500 in scholarships for the fall and spring semesters. The priority application deadline for the 2025-2026 incoming class is March 1. Interested students can apply here.

Casey, a new media, art, and technology major from Indianapolis, said Groups Scholars helped her transition successfully from home school to college life.

“It’s a whole change going from home school to college, and to build some comfort level in the classroom was very reassuring,” she said, adding that because of the requirement to attend two campus events each semester, it’s pushed her to participate in campus life and not just go to class and go home.

“It’s allowed me to be part of the campus,” she said. “I’ve gone out of my way to try to get to know people.”

Students accepted into the Groups Scholars program take two classes during the second summer session, with tuition and fees covered. They include an A101 first-year seminar, and a general education class such as Introduction to Sociology or Topics in Environmental Chemistry, specifically for Groups Scholars.

Casey said even after the summer classes ended, they continued to meet with their instructors, who check in to be sure they are succeeding, and to answer any questions they might have. Students must participate in at least two of the monthly activities offered, and meet with their assigned academic advisor.

Brandi Keith, one of the Groups Scholars faculty members, said the program levels the playing field for the student population it serves.

“They may come from a high school that didn’t have as many resources to prepare them,” Keith said. “Many are the first in their families to go to college, and the knowledge we can give them about how it works makes a huge difference. It gives them a jump start to success.”

For more information about the Groups Scholars program, or to apply, go to kokomo.iu.edu/groups-scholars.

Education is KEY at Indiana University Kokomo.