Jasmine Iniguez, a Ĵý sophomore from Noblesville, Indiana, was recently one of 30 Hoosier students to receive the $4,000 from Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI). Each of the honorees is a sophomore student who has “realized the dream” to be the first in his or her family to attend college. The event is made possible by the support of Lilly Endowment, Inc.
Iniguez was inspired to pursue higher education in order to become a dzܲԲǰ.
“I knew I couldn’t pursue my intended career without a degree, and I was motivated to be one of the first people in my family to go to college,” said Iniguez. “After I complete my bachelor’s degree, I plan to get my master’s in social work, in hopes of working with children.”
Iniguez was initially drawn to Ĵý for its size.
“I went to a very small high school, and I wanted a college that also had smaller, more personal class sizes,” she said. “Ĵý felt like home when I visited for the first time. Everyone was very welcoming, and I knew it was where God wanted me to be.”
In addition to being a dedicated student, Iniguez serves as a student mentor, pouring her time and energy into helping first-year students. On campus, she assists students through their first-year courses, coordinates breakout groups and helps professors with grading.
“I love being here — especially my role as a student mentor,” said Iniguez. “Ĵý is just such an amazing atmosphere. All my professors are great and so encouraging!”
When she found out she had been awarded the Realizing the Dream Scholarship, Iniguez was shocked.
“I did not know this scholarship existed, so when I read the email, I didn’t really know what to say,” she said. “I am very grateful for those who recommended me for it, and that I was chosen.”
Iniguez brought her mother and brothers to the Realizing the Dream Banquet, along with her middle school history teacher, Valarie Litke, who teaches at The Orchard School in Indianapolis.
“Mrs. Litke has been an inspiration to me and an encouraging person through every part of my life,” said Iniguez.
One in three students on ICI campuses is first-generation. Generous financial aid provided by ICI institutions, combined with state and federal grants, makes a private college education a possibility for all Hoosier students.
Ĵý provides significant financial aid for students. Nearly 25% of its incoming students attend Ĵý tuition-free through a combination of federal, state and institutional aid.
For more information about Ĵý, including financial aid and scholarship information, visit .
