At O’Cathain Law Group, we understand the challenges faced by first-generation college students, and we believe those who blaze new trails for their families deserve to be recognized and supported. That’s why we proudly offer the 2026 First in the Family Scholarship to celebrate and empower students who are the first in their families to pursue higher education and a career in law. This scholarship provides more than just financial support; it honors resilience, ambition, and the courage to pursue a new path. We understand that being first comes with unique challenges and expectations. Many first-generation students don’t just change their own stories – they rewrite their family histories. This is why we are investing in these students and in the ripple effects of their future impact on their families, their communities, and the industries they will help shape. If you are the first in your family to attend college and are an aspiring lawyer, this is the scholarship for you!
Application Deadline: May 31st, 2026
Winner Announcement: June 15th, 2026
Award Amount: $2,500
Eligibility
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents currently residing in any of the 50 states or Washington, D.C. They must be enrolled in a vocational program or an accredited two- to four-year college or university.
- High school seniors, college students, vocational students, and graduate students are welcome to apply.
- Employees of O’Cathain Law Group, their immediate family members (including parents, children, siblings, and spouses), and individuals residing in their households are ineligible to participate.
- All applicants should maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and be in good academic standing.
- Must be an undergraduate student pursuing a legal career.
Application Requirements
- The candidate must fill out the form below with all necessary information
- The candidate must submit a 750-1,000 word essay response to the prompt: How has being the first in your family to pursue higher education shaped your personal, academic, or professional journey so far, and what experiences or motivations have inspired your aspiration to become an attorney?
- Please note that all essays will be checked for Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) writing. If A.I. writing is deemed present in the essay, the application will be denied.
- The candidate must submit a professional resumé that lists their experience, both professional and academic.
- The candidate must submit a transcript from their current school. First-year college students, graduate students, or individuals who have recently transferred schools may submit an unofficial transcript from their current school, as well as the most recent official transcript from their prior school. High school students can submit proof of acceptance to their college or university.
- Preference will be given to students either from or attending secondary school in the state.
The recipient of the First in the Family Scholarship will be announced on June 15th, 2026.
For all scholarship-related inquiries, please use this contact form. We are unable to answer scholarship questions by phone, email, or through any other contact forms listed on this website.
(201)488-1161 