Breaking New Ground Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Kisner Law
About the Breaking New Ground Scholarship
Kisner Law awards the Breaking New Ground Scholarship to support first-generation college students pursuing higher education. The program is intended for students demonstrating academic excellence, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to careers in business, transportation, or liberal arts and sciences. Awards are distributed on a biannual basis to provide ongoing support as recipients progress through their studies. Prospective applicants are encouraged to apply if they are preparing to be the first in their family to earn a college degree.
Description: A Kisner Law scholarship supporting first-generation students who demonstrate academic and professional promise in specified fields.
Award Value: $1,500 awarded each semester; the scholarship is distributed biannually.
- Supports first-generation college students
- $1,500 per semester, awarded twice per year
- Focus on business, transportation, and liberal arts and sciences
Applicant Qualifications
Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria that emphasize both academic commitment and real-world responsibility. The scholarship targets students who balanced work with school and who intend to enroll in a two- or four-year college or university. Applicants must meet age and residency requirements and demonstrate how they plan to pursue their chosen field. The program seeks candidates who have shown leadership and community engagement in addition to classroom achievement.
Eligibility: Applicants must be first-generation college students, at least 17 years old, citizens or permanent residents of the U.S., committed to attending a two- or four-year college or university, and have a record of maintaining a job while in high school.
- First-generation college student requirement
- Must be 17 or older and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Documented commitment to enroll at an accredited two- or four-year institution
Application Requirements
To apply, students must complete the digital application and provide supporting documentation that verifies their enrollment status and background. The application collects contact information, school of enrollment, and other relevant details required for evaluation. Applicants must submit a two-page essay describing personal history, motivation to become a first-generation graduate, employment history, and how their interests align with business, transportation, or liberal arts and sciences. Additional supporting materials should be included as requested in the application to demonstrate eligibility and readiness for college.
Required Materials: Completed digital application, proof of enrollment at the intended college or university, and a two-page essay outlining personal history, work experience, academic goals, and field-specific interests.
- Submit the digital application and contact/school information
- Include proof of enrollment at the intended institution
- Provide a two-page essay describing background, work history, and academic/career goals