The To the Stars STEM Scholarship is a $1,000 dollar award and mentorship program supporting high school seniors who will be the first in their family to pursue a STEM career. The scholarship is designed for students with the passion to excel in STEM but who may lack financial resources or support systems. This program recognizes students ready to push boundaries, embrace new possibilities, and pursue their STEM journey with drive and purpose.
High school seniors beginning college in Fall 2026
First-generation STEM students. Parents may have a degree, but not in STEM
Minimum 3.0 GPA (transcript required)
Engagement in at least one extracurricular activity, leadership role, job, or family responsibility
Personal Statement, 500 words max
High School Transcript
Letter of recommendation optional but encouraged
Click apply above!
March 27, 2026: Application deadline
April 1-24, 2026: Interview finalists
May 4, 2026: Winner notified and enrollment details confirmed
The scholarship includes one-on-one mentorship throughout the recipient’s academic and early professional STEM journey. Guidance includes academic planning, career exploration, and support navigating college as a first-generation STEM student.
Hi, I'm Hannah Gruenwald. I am a Scientist at Los Alamos National Laboratory and an Engineering Duty Officer in the United States Navy Reserve. I was a first-generation STEM student from a rural farming community in Iowa, where careers in science and engineering weren't common. My path forward wasn't clear from the beginning, but I found great mentors along the way who helped shape my continued journey. I went on to earn a PhD in STEM and have worked at three National Labs. Now, as I continue working towards my own career goals, I also want to help students like you reach yours – and beyond – no matter where you come from. I created this scholarship to encourage students like you to aim high by setting ambitious goals, and to trust that passion and persistence can get you anywhere. In addition to financial support, I will provide one-on-one mentorship to help you realize your potential and tackle your biggest dreams with confidence. Wherever your STEM journey leads, I hope this scholarship helps you take that first step – to the stars and beyond.