FOCUS, Fostering Opportunity, Community, and Unwavering Support, is an intensive semester-long career development program designed to close the gaps in post-graduation outcomes and starting salaries among first-generation students and their peers. The program aims to positively impact career trajectories, earnings potential, and long-term economic security.
Eligibility:
- Currently enrolled on-campus undergraduate student
- Second-year or sophomore student or a first-year transfer student
- First-generation college student (e.g., neither parent has completed a four-year college or university degree)
Applications Open: Monday, August 18 - September 3, 2025 (11:59 p.m.)
Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend an information session.
Registration is encouraged but not required. Visit Handshake to register. For online Info Sessions, you'll need to register to get the Zoom link.
Approximately 40 applicants will be selected each semester based on a holistic assessment of their need for career development support. Key selection criteria include:
- Quality of current resume
- Previous internship or work experience
- Clarity of career and/or academic major decisions
- Presence and quality of LinkedIn profile
- Alignment between applicant’s expectations and the program’s objectives and offerings
Attend our Info Session to learn more about the FOCUS Program and how you can apply. Accepted FOCUS Scholars will receive a $1000 scholarship to participate!
For more information or questions, please contact the Senior Assistant Director for Inclusion Initiatives, Dr. Pankaj Desai at pankaj1@illinois.edu
*This program is open to all eligible persons, regardless of race, color, or national origin. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request, please contact careercenter@illinois.edu.