Meet the Class of 2026
This year, the First Tee College Scholarship Program welcomes 23 new scholars.
About the Program
At First Tee, we believe that helping young people build strength of character is fundamental to success in life. Our active learning experiences are all about ensuring young people build inner strength, self-confidence and resilience, so when they face new challenges they are equipped to overcome them.
Going beyond our core programs, the enhanced First Tee College Scholarship Program is designed to provide further support, life skill development and mentorship of our alumni through their journey. Higher education continues to be a critical factor in unlocking opportunities for young people to thrive, and First Tee is committed to their success.
First Tee College Scholarship Program supports selected alumni throughout their college career. The need and merit-based program provides scholarships up to $5,000 per year, renewable for up to four years of college admission. The program also provides professional development workshops, access to internships and full-time employment placement post-graduation. One of the key factors of the program is pairing Scholars with a dedicated adult mentor who will help encourage and guide them throughout the four years.
The program is open to graduating high school seniors planning to attend college the following year. Applicants must be active members of First Tee chapters and will be considered based on financial need, academic performance, chapter involvement, volunteerism and other criteria.
Year after year, we continue to be impacted by our exceptional First Tee Scholars. Take a look at what’s been going on in our program.
Winter Workshop
Our flagship event that brings together First Tee Scholars from across the country for four days of personal and professional development. Held annually during Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend, this event aims to:
- Build professional skills such as interview techniques and networking confidence
- Promote self-reflection through emotional intelligence assessments and self-care strategies
- Build relationships with industry professionals and other scholars across all classes
Set in Dallas, Texas, this premier experience allows our scholars a safe place to learn, practice and fail while also promoting connection points with First Partners and community members.
Pre-College Retreat
Incoming First Tee Scholars are brought together in Jacksonville, Florida for an intensive experience designed to prepare them for success in their freshman year and beyond. Held annually in late July, this foundational event aims to:
- Build essential college readiness skills including time management, study strategies, and campus navigation
- Promote self-awareness through goal-setting exercises and reflection on personal strengths
- Foster connections with fellow incoming scholars and upperclassman who share the First Tee experience
This event provides our newest scholars a supportive environment to ask questions, build confidence, and establish a foundation for their college journey while connecting with the broader First Tee Scholar community.
Scholar Spotlights
“Being a part of this program has continued to guide me throughout my college journey through offering leadership programs, mentor guidance, and a great family of support to lean on!
Being a First Tee National Scholar is something I will forever be proud of.”
Maleyna Gregorio
First Tee — Coachella Valley
University of California, Riverside