Oral Roberts University
11/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/08/2024 10:11
Building New Beginnings: ORU Recognizes the Personal Resilience of First-Gen Students
Wall Street Journal ranked ORU #8 in America for "Student Experience" and named the University one of "America's Best Colleges 2025"
Tulsa, OK, November 8, 2024 - In honor of National First-Gen College Celebration Day, Oral Roberts University (ORU) recognizes the personal resilience of its first-gen students. Thirty percent of ORU's 2024 incoming class consists of first-gen students, and these future leaders are redefining what's possible in their shared commitment to higher education. Through targeted scholarships, dedicated resources, and continuous support, ORU empowers first-gen students from the beginning of their academic journey, through graduation, and into their future careers.
"At ORU, we are inspired by the trailblazing spirit of our first-generation students, whose resilience and determination embody the essence of what it means to be a leader," said Dr. William M. Wilson, President of ORU. "Their journey is a testament to the transformative power of education, and we are honored to support them every step of the way. We will continue to provide the resources first-gen students need to make a lasting impact on their families, communities, and the world."
ORU offers extensive support for first-gen students through targeted initiatives. Each student can work with an admissions specialist to guide them from inquiry through registration and move-in, ensuring they feel prepared every step of the way. Academic support includes Peer Success Coaches living on freshman floors, available for after-hours assistance and resource referrals. A network of tutoring, writing labs, academic advisors, student success coaches, and orientation programs further helps ease the transition to college life. Additionally, ORU connects students with local churches, campus clubs, resident advisors, and chaplains who offer guidance, prayer, and community. Together, these resources empower first-generation students to thrive academically, socially, and personally.
Central to ORU's ongoing support is the Quest First Scholarship, tailored exclusively for first-gen students. The University also hosts First-Gen Quest Day, an interactive event that guides prospective students and families through the admissions process. During Quest, first-gen students immerse themselves in the "ORU Experience" and receive personal assistance with enrollment, scholarships, and degree selection.
"Our Quest First Scholarship provides an opportunity for first-gen students to build a legacy for their families," said Alison Vujnovic, Vice President of Enrollment Management. "At ORU, education isn't just about a degree; it's about a calling to become a whole leader for the whole world. It's important to support and graduate first-gen students because their success in college will impact their futures and the next generation."
As part of National First-Gen College Celebration Day, ORU's first-gen students reflected on being the first college enrollees in their families:
"To me, being a first-generation student means carrying the weight of my family's expectations as I strive to break the cycle of education ending at high school," said Breanna Wright. "Being a first-gen student is a great opportunity to prove to those around me that it is possible to get a good education, no matter the finances, where you came from, or even your past. God has a plan for each and every one of us, and if it takes me being the first in my family to prove that, then let it be so. God is good, God is faithful, and God is hope. I know whatever I set out do, God will be with me."
"Being at ORU is truly an honor for both me and my family," said Wellison (Gabriel) Maia. "My parents and grandparents worked hard their entire lives, and my mom always dreamed of me going to college. For them, this is a huge accomplishment, and their pride and joy in my journey make it even more meaningful. Coming from a humble background, I feel blessed to be the first to reach new opportunities that were once out of reach. ORU has given me support along the way, and I am grateful for the chance to grow, learn, and make my family proud."
"For me, being a first-generation college student means having the courage to pursue my dreams and opportunities where no one in my family has ventured before," said Peter Estiverne. "Every accomplishment feels both personal and collective because it's not just my story, I'm also carrying the hopes of my family. I'm proving that where we come from doesn't define where we can go. It's not just about earning a degree, but about resilience, sacrifice, and possibility."
"Moving to ORU came at the perfect time and has truly been life-changing," said Chloe Moubarak. "Being here gave me a fresh start away from a difficult situation, and it's been the best experience of my life. I now have the chance to overcome the challenges my parents have faced most of their lives. As a business major, I'm diving deeper into the field my dad works in, but with greater opportunities to grow. The support I received during the application process made all the difference, especially when I had to manage a lot of it on my own. I'm so grateful for the resources ORU provided that made everything so much easier for me and my family."
"As a first-generation college student, my journey at ORU has been filled with challenges and triumphs," said Anaiya Scott. "Each step is a new milestone for me and my family, and I'm grateful for the support and encouragement I've received here. ORU has given me the confidence to pursue my dreams and the tools to make a difference in the world."
UNIVERSITY BRIEF
ORU is a Christian, Spirit-empowered, interdenominational university in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with 16 years of consecutive enrollment growth. Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ORU offers over 150 majors, minors, concentrations, and pre-professional programs at the bachelor's level, ranging from business and engineering to nursing, ministry, and more. Under the leadership of President Dr. William Wilson, ORU is preparing students from all 50 states and 160 nations from 2019 to 2024 to be whole leaders for the whole world.
The Wall Street Journal ranked ORU as the #8 university in the nation for student experience and one of America's Best Colleges (2025). This new category rates the best colleges in the U.S. to have a great experience while attending. This ranking is powered by one of the largest-ever independent surveys of verified college students and recent graduates in the United States. Niche has recognized ORU as one of the top 25 most diverse colleges in America, the # 1 best Christian college in Oklahoma, and the # 1 in Oklahoma for diversity. Princeton Review ranked ORU as the best regional college, and College Raptor ranked ORU as a Hidden Gem in the Southwest. Heritage.org classified ORU as a great option for families prioritizing freedom, opportunity, and civil society.
ORU has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report as:
- #1 in Undergraduate Teaching
- #2 in Most International Students
- #3 in Best Value
- #6 in Best College for Veterans
- #7 in Best Regional Colleges in the West