Scholarships Made the Difference for Members of the Class of 2018
The vast majority of USF students benefit from financial assistance in order to make their higher education dreams come to fruition. Ninety-eight percent of incoming USF undergraduate students receive financial aid.
The average financial aid package exceeds $41,700, and more than 130 USF scholarships support first-generation students and other historically underrepresented populations.
Eight years on, we caught up with five members of the class of 2018 and asked them about scholarships, financial aid, and any retrospective advice they have for their undergraduate selves.
Catherine Flanagan ’18
How did scholarships or financial aid impact your USF experience?
My scholarship alleviated financial pressure, but it also displayed, for me, a mutual interest from USF’s side in having me as a student.
Do you have any advice for your past self that might help a current or future student?
Everything has a funny way of working out. The hurdle in front of you is not forever, and there is no ‘wrong path,’ just different paths to choose from. Also, surrender to curiosity more. You don’t have to decide what you want to be when you grow up and commit to that forever!
Alexis Page ’18
How did scholarships or financial aid impact your USF experience?
I was given a mix of grants and qualified for student loans. In my first year, I didn't have to work an on-campus job. That was something that I really wanted for myself and that my parents wanted for me.
Do you have any advice for your past self that might help a current or future student?
Take as many classes as possible outside of your major. My major was finance, and I only spent one year, post-college, in finance before pivoting. Eight years later, I'm still kind of figuring out what long-term kind of career I want!
Roger Yosuico ’18
How did scholarships or financial aid impact your USF experience?
I received Veterans Affairs aid, which really enabled my college experience. Being able to fully immerse myself in my education, social life, and the things I enjoy most helped me show up and be my best self — for the lifelong friends that I made in the dorms, for my classes, and creative projects.
Do you have any advice for your past self that might help a current or future student?
Soak up everything that San Francisco has to offer and keep a good sense of humor throughout. I’m no longer located there, but the best memories that I have were made by doing something adventurous and coming away with a good story and something to laugh about.
Joe Maravilla ’18
How did scholarships or financial aid impact your USF experience?
Scholarships were the main factor in moving to a whole new city in San Francisco. Tuition rarely crossed my mind, which alleviated pressure for my family, who all stayed in Guam. The aid also helped me stay accountable to my GPA and graduating in four years.
Do you have any advice for your past self that might help a current or future student?
Stay present. People often focus on jobs, career preparation — the journey goes by fast. Being intentional can alleviate some of the internal pressure you put on yourself for every test or deadline. Also, appreciate each day in college and the learning — not just the weekends!
Garrett Starr ’18
How did scholarships or financial aid impact your USF experience?
I was Pell Grant eligible, with a privately funded scholarship, merit-based scholarships from USF, plus loans. Aid was the deciding factor in my enrollment. It afforded me time to read, time to think, and time to learn.
Do you have any advice for your past self that might help a current or future student?
Even if you have supportive people in your life, own the process of setting up and deciphering your aid package — and look outside the box for scholarships and help. There’s so much information out there that I didn’t take the time to care about as a teenager.
