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How Casey Scholars set their sights on college—and got there 
Statistically, a young person in foster care is highly unlikely to go to college. Meet four students who were determined to beat the odds—and now encourage others to join them.
We honor Shawn, Lori, Michael, and Renee, whose stories illustrate a new reality for 18-year-olds leaving foster care: Most can now afford higher education.
Unfortunately, too few who are eligible know about new federal and state programs for postsecondary education and training vouchers (please see “To learn more,” at right).
And it still takes a lot of luck, persistence, and courage—along with the help of at least one adult mentor—to track down public and private sources of financial aid, apply for them, and start a new life on campus.
It’s our pleasure to profile four students who have challenged what one calls “the foster child stereotype” by aiming for college.
All are Casey Family Scholars, recipients of renewable grants that they’re using to pursue postsecondary education. Now in its sixth year, the Casey Family Scholars program is administered by the Orphan Foundation of America.
Meet Shawn Hunter 
Age
18 (entered foster care at age 9)
Major
Communications and journalism, concentrating in PR
Career goal
“I want to be in entertainment on TV—a video jock or hosting a show or acting.”
Why aim for college?
“My mom. I wanted to make her proud. I’m the first in my immediate family to graduate from high school. Also for self-fulfillment.”
What helped you most?
“Asking for help: my pride never got in the way. A lot in foster care couldn’t get help with their anger and trust issues, to talk to someone and deal with problems. They closed up instead.”
Best tip for others?
“College is all about time management. Without it, you won’t succeed. Tutoring can help you.”
Meet Lori Hutchinson 
Age
22 (entered foster care at age 13)
Major
Radiology services
Career goal
“To be a radiology technician.”
Why college?
“College wasn’t my original plan. I had a baby at 19. It was my boyfriend who motivated me by asking: ‘What will you do financially if something happens?’”
What helped you most?
“I didn’t like school: I moved all the time (never more than one semester anywhere) and had no friends. But I always kept in touch with my social worker. She became my mentor and guided me to the Orphan Foundation.”
What was the biggest barrier?
“It sounds funny, but just going to campus was a big thing for me—talking to the financial aid office, talking about schedules.”
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