As part of the U.S. Department of Education TRiO Student Support Services, Berea College’s Emerging Scholars Program is designed to support the academic, financial, personal, social, and career planning success of first-generation and low-income students. Students are considered first-generation if neither of their parents earned baccalaureate degrees.  Students must be enrolled at Berea College in order to apply for and join ESP.

The Emerging Scholars Program provides direct support for the first two years of a student’s time at Berea College, though students are welcome to stay in contact with academic counselors and continue attending events if they choose.

Students generally apply for ESP in the summer entering into their first year at Berea College. If a student wishes to join ESP after this point and space is available, they may apply to join so long as they meet the eligibility requirements.