UNCF Support Enables Third-Generation College Student to Continue Family’s Legacy
Charria Gill of Richmond, CA, has always been passionate about becoming a math educator and earning a college degree. She is now achieving that dream as a graduating senior at Dillard University, a UNCF-member institution, studying mathematics and actuarial science.
A five-time UNCF scholarship recipient, Gill recently received the Tell Us About “U” scholarship for students sharing the impact of becoming a UNCF scholar and the Cox Enterprises Scholarship for STEM majors. These scholarships helped Gill continue her family’s legacy as a third-generation college student. Growing up around family members who attended college and became doctors showed Gill that a college education was within her reach. “I believe being a third-generation [college student] made it a less scary experience and I was more hopeful that I could achieve what they had,” she said. “It inspired me to see that all the powerful women on my maternal side were educated and doctors.”
With support from UNCF, Gill was able to focus on her studies, participate in campus activities and pay off debt instead of worrying about the financial burden of attending college. “I am able to pay for personal finances and save for future student loan payments,” she said. Becoming a UNCF scholar inspired Gill to continue applying to additional scholarships outside of UNCF, which helped her pay off car-related expenses.
At Dillard, she serves as a treasurer for the Omicron Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. One of her fondest memories on campus was watching her peers receive recognition at the senior honor convocation. “Seeing my peers excited for a day that has yet to come felt like a fever dream,” she said. “I am proud of how far my class has come.”
After graduation, she plans to attend graduate school to pursue a master’s degree in secondary education with a focus in mathematics. “Because of UNCF believing in me, I am able to have the best future and I am able to be the best me that I can be,” Gill said.
UNCF is proud of our students and alumni who have received scholarships that help them continue their education and graduate. These scholarships are invaluable to students, and UNCF is accepting donations to support students like Charria Gill in their academic endeavors.