A group of students stands together on a farm which they visited as part of their academic enrichment.

Buckeye Generation Learning Community

The purpose of the Buckeye Generation Learning Community (BGLC) is to assist first-generation college students with their first year of college. Students, who participate in the BGLC can expect to be involved in opportunities outside of the classroom that will allow them to have a hands-on approach to courses and different majors. Students can also engage in social and cultural events planned by peer coaches to help them connect with their peers in the learning community.

Additionally, students will gain the opportunity to work closely with our BGLC faculty members, which can assist with exploring majors and the transition to the Columbus campus if that is their plan. Students will take two common courses in both the fall and spring semesters, which includes one general education course and an arts and sciences course each semester.

The learning community creates opportunities for students to form partnerships with each other and build professional connections. Student-centered social and cultural events are designed to create opportunities for exposure and social connectedness. This program is open to first-generation college students who are in their first year.

Benefits of participation:

  • One-on-one support and connections with faculty and staff through the major
  • Experiential learning trips off campus for unique hands-on learning
  • Academic scholarship in the fall and spring semesters*
  • Support for the transition to the Columbus campus, if that is your plan
  • Priority consideration for Newark Campus residence hall housing if you would like to live on campus*
  • Courses taken together as a cohort create a unique learning environment and opportunities for students to fulfill general education requirements for all majors

Application process

  • Students interested in becoming a member of the Buckeye Generation Learning Community should complete the BGLC Application for full consideration.
  • Applicants are encouraged to pay their Ohio State Newark Acceptance Fee for full consideration for BGLC
  • Students who apply by the April 1 deadline will be able to receive the $500 academic scholarship
  • For details on the application process and more students can visit: u.osu.edu/bglc

Who are the participants?

  • A population of 60 diverse first-generation college students.
    The Ohio State University defines first-generation as neither parent has received a bachelor’s degree.
  • These students are in their first year of college.
    Students who participate in college preparatory programs and enrolled in college courses while in high school are eligible.

BGLC Donor Partnership

Our Buckeye Generation Learning Community donors have made great impact in the lives of many. If you are interested in learning more about donating to the BGLC program, please visit the Ohio State Newark Giving page.

The scholarship fund is: Buckeye Generation Learning Community | Campus Campaign Fund Number: 315801

Lori Abshire headshot.

Fund established to support learning community

One staff member at Ohio State inspired the creation of a fund to help first-generation students for years to come.