About
Ivory Bridges Foundation provides a pathway to an equitable future for first-generation college seniors by supporting them through a year of enrichment and intention.
2020
Ivory Bridges was founded
6
Number of Fellows
$10,000
Scholarship Amount per Fellow
Our Name
American colleges and universities were not originally created for all. The earliest universities served a dual purpose to train clergy and for the wealthy to signal their prestige to society. In the early 20th century, American colleges and universities were coined the 'Ivory Tower' due to their exclusive nature: a place where people were isolated from the problems of the world in favor of their own pursuits.
As time passed, colleges and universities became more inclusive, particularly for veterans, women, underrepresented minorities, and working-class communities. Although progress has been made, a substantial gap remains for students transitioning from college into the workforce, particularly for first-generation college students. Due to this pressing need, our mission remains strong: To "bridge" first-generation college seniors to an equitable future through a year of enrichment and intention.
Our Why
According to a report by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), first-generation college graduates earn a starting salary up to 17% less than their peers who studied the same subject. This economic reality poses stifling barriers for the financial and professional development of students who are the first in their families to attend college. At Ivory Bridges, we find this gap unacceptable.
We believe that students who are the first in their families to graduate from college should obtain a strong return on investment from their college degrees. We help turn what has traditionally been a year of stress into a year of enrichment and intention by providing coaches that use an equity-oriented and tailored approach to outlining career goals, building healthy financial habits, and nourishing a strong sense of self.
Our Who
We select six resourceful, talented, and ambitious first-generation college seniors who will go on to make prominent contributions to society. Each fellow embodies the resilience, diligence, and trailblazing spirit of those who are the first in their families to graduate from college.
Applicants must be enrolled in their junior year at an accredited college or university in San Diego County (i.e., California State University - San Marcos, San Diego State University, University of California - San Diego, and University of San Diego) and be on track to graduate in Spring or Summer 2024. Please visit the FAQ page for more information about eligibility.
Our How
Our fellows receive:
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$8,000 scholarship
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100% savings-match challenge up to $2,000
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1-on-1 career coaching sessions to outline career goals
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1-on-1 financial coaching sessions to build healthy financial habits
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1-on-1 wellness coaching sessions to nourish a strong sense of self
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Access to an encouraging and supportive professional community and network
Our Results
12
Number of Alums
100%
Graduation Rate
$59,113
Savings-Match Earned
Jerry Palacios
Class of 2022,
Alumni IBF Board Member
" After sending Analia [Career Coach] my resume and informing her about my 180-change in careers, she sent me a Loom video going into detail about how I can navigate through the change. Ever since then, the majority of the companies that I have applied to have gotten back to me asking about interviews. "
Martin Jesus Casas Maya
Class of 2022
" With the help of Ley [Financial Coach], I've been able to open a savings account, as well as obtaining a credit card. This has allowed me the opportunity to start investing in my savings and establishing credit. Additionally, I've also been able to learn more about financial topics that I used to view as "daunting" such as taxes, investing, and retirement plans. "
Tigist Assaye
Class of 2022
" As I met with Amy [Wellness Coach], I discussed my daily habits with her, such as daily exercise and my relationship with others. I have been able to evaluate the way that I communicate with others and reflected on my support system. Amy has helped me gain awareness about myself and my current actions towards my education and personal life. "
Application Details
Application Opens:
Wed. February 1, 2023
Application Closes:
Sun. February 26, 2023
Interviews:
Sat. April 1, 2023
Materials Required:
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(Un)Official Transcript
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3 Short Responses
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Letter(s) of Rec
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Resume
** We encourage you to follow our social media (@ivorybridgesfoundation) to learn more about our program, our coaches, and receive application tips.