First-Generation College Student Amber Hayden Receives ‘Realizing the Dream’ Scholarship

Amber Hayden ’27 (English, Secondary Education) was one of 28 recipients to receive the annual “Realizing the Dream” scholarship from the Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI).

The “Realizing the Dream” Scholarship recognizes one first-generation college student from each private, non-profit college and university in Indiana. Through a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., recipients receive $5,000 to continue their undergraduate studies. 

This scholarship will support Hayden’s studies to become an English teacher, a goal inspired by her own experiences with her teachers growing up.

“I’ve always known that I wanted to be a teacher because of the overwhelmingly positive experiences that I’ve had with teachers over the years, starting with my mom when I was homeschooled, to sixth through twelfth grade, when I transitioned to public school,” said Hayden.

Hayden enjoys learning how to be an educator in college. At UIndy, she has learned about classroom management, lesson planning, and how to teach English specifically, but she also feels she has grown as a person. 

“I believe that a college education helps equip you not only academically but also as a person,” said Hayden. “With just my first three semesters here at the University of Indianapolis, I’ve already noticed that I have become more confident in myself, grown more empathetic, and become a more well-rounded person. I’m very thankful for that.” 

Although Hayden feels happy about pursuing her dream career, she has faced some challenges as a first-generation student.

“As a first-generation college student, I have run into several obstacles with things like finances, academic expectations, and long-term planning because I’ve not done this before,” said Hayden. “Even though it has been a struggle, it still has motivated me to keep going because someday I might be able to help students with something similar they’re going through.”

In February, recipients of the scholarship attended a banquet at the Eiteljorg Museum. At the banquet, Hayden and her fellow recipients honored an instructor who helped them throughout their educational journey. Hayden chose to honor her former English teacher, Iana Allen, at Greenwood Community High School. She admires Allen’s dedication to her students and is inspired by her teaching. 

“She really made things like analyzing, reading, and writing very fun. She was honest, dedicated to her students, and caring in the best way,” said Hayden. “She very much inspired me to go down the path that I am today.”

Because of this scholarship, Hayden feels less burdened by educational costs when going down this path.

“One word or phrase that comes to mind when I think about what this scholarship will do for my education is relief,” said Hayden. “I’m very thankful for the financial aid that I’ve received from the University of Indianapolis, but I was not awarded or offered any money from the state or any substantial student loans, so I am still struggling financially. This scholarship will really take a weight off my shoulders by making a dent in the costs that I have to pay.”