Elvira Barron, '10
First-generation student realizes college dream
October 19, 2009
Elvira Barron, ’10, helps her mother take care of three younger siblings at their home in Chesterfield County, Va. They both work part time to pay the bills, and money is tight.
Barron was born on a ranch near Guanajuato, Mexico, but her father wanted a better life for his family, so he moved them to Richmond when she was three years old.
"My father had completed some technical schooling and was one of my biggest inspirations to keep going and do well in school," Barron says. He died when she was in the ninth grade, but Barron held fast to her goal of becoming the first person in her family to attend college. She knew, however, that she would need a full scholarship.
The timing was fortuitous. Three years ago, the University implemented a financial aid package equal to full tuition plus room and board — with no loans to repay — for new first-year students who are residents of Virginia. They must qualify for admission. Their family's total income must be $40,000 or less, and they must demonstrate eligibility for need-based financial aid. They also must be traditional undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the United States.
"We are always looking for ways to improve our aid programs, including improving access for low-income students and finding ways to better serve our Virginia residents," says Cindy Deffenbaugh, director of financial aid. So far, 41 students have benefitted from the Virginia plan, including Barron, who continues to receive the scholarship.
"It's a very big deal for me to have this opportunity," says Barron, who is majoring in psychology with a minor in education. She hopes to become a teacher, then pursue a doctorate in childhood development and possibly work as a school counselor.
Barron's two brothers, sister, cousins, and other extended family members are ecstatic about her success at Richmond. "They always say I am their role model," she says. "And my mom is extremely proud of me."
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