UNCF Scholarship Helps First-Generation Student Major in Dental Hygiene
Providing dental care to underserved communities drives Bao Pham, a first-generation student at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) in Boston. Thanks to the Fidelity Scholars Program, administered by UNCF, Pham is a freshman majoring in dental hygiene and preparing for a career as a dental hygienist.
Pham, an international student from Vietnam, was worried about how he could afford a college education in the U.S. But with Fidelity Scholars and UNCF’s support, he was able to ease the financial burden. He learned that when you pursue college in another country, stability—especially financial stability—is the number one priority.
“When I was new to the U.S., I was worried about how I could afford college,” said Pham. “UNCF helped open doors for me—not only financially, but also by giving me encouragement and support. If you have a dream, this program is worth applying for.”
The Fidelity Scholars Program is a renewable need-based scholarship that provides financial support, mentoring, college coaching and mental health resources for students pursuing a four-year degree. Wraparound services from the program provide professional and personal support for first-generation students, helping them to thrive in college.
“UNCF provided access to academic resources like Upswing tutoring, which has been really meaningful for me—having tutors who are patient and supportive has helped me succeed in challenging foundation courses,” said Pham.
The additional resources provided by the Fidelity Scholars Program helped him succeed in demanding first-year courses. Without the need to work long hours to cover tuition, he was able to devote additional time to studying. “I’ve been able to focus more on learning instead of constantly worrying about finances or needing to work many hours,” he said.. “It has helped me stay motivated, confident and committed to finishing my program.”
Pham was inspired by his mom who’s a dental assistant. He knew that MCPHS was the right choice because of its strong health and sciences program and resources. “I liked being in Boston, where there are many opportunities in healthcare and community service,” he said. “MCPHS felt like the right place for me to grow academically and professionally.”
One of Pham’s most memorable experiences on campus was being able to help his classmates in a challenging course. “I helped my classmates understand basic chemistry.” he explained. “I enjoyed breaking down difficult topics step-by-step, and it made me happy to see my friends feel more confident and improve.”
After graduation, Pham plans to work as a dental hygienist in a hospital or a dental office. He wants to help people in underserved communities, including the Vietnamese community, and plans to become a dental hygiene professor to continue giving back.
Pham is grateful for the donors of the Fidelity Scholars Program and UNCF. Without this program, he said he wouldn’t be in college. “I honestly think I might not have been able to start college, or I might have had to stop school and work full-time very early,” he said. “Thank you for the Fidelity Scholars Program and UNCF for believing in students like me and helping make my goal possible.”
UNCFis proud of our students and alumni who have received scholarships that help them continue their education and graduate. Thesescholarshipsare invaluable to students, and UNCF is accepting donationsto support students like Bao Pham in their academic endeavors.