As first-generation students, we realized early on how much of a gap exists in access to opportunities.
We saw how much students could benefit from knowledge, resources, and real-world experiences at a younger age.
Driven by the need for earlier exposure to mentorship, research programs, and internships, we launched NextGen Scholars.
What began as a small initiative has grown into a thriving community, connecting students to career exploration events, scholarships, internships, and research opportunities — empowering the next generation to lead with confidence.
NextGen Scholars was founded by Stella Ghevondyan and Grisha Tamazyan, two first-generation students passionate about making opportunities more accessible.
Together, they created a community where young scholars can connect to mentorship, career exploration, research programs, and real-world experiences to shape their futures with confidence.
Current Fourth Year Undergraduate Student at University of California, San Diego, Majoring in Public Health and Minoring in Biology and Education Studies
Current Fourth Year Undergraduate Student at University of California, San Diego, Majoring in Molecular and Cell Biology