About Our Program

Our Mission

The Balfour-Hesburgh Scholars Program (BHSP) is committed to guiding high-achieving students from low-income environments, under-resourced high schools, and first-generation college backgrounds toward academic success and personal growth. Through our dedicated programs and support systems, we build a vibrant community of future leaders ready to make a meaningful impact in the world.

Program Highlights:

Summer Institute

  • An enriched four-week, credit-bearing academic program, where new Balfour Scholars are introduced to the expectations of university life and join a supportive learning community, laying a strong foundation for a successful college experience.

Homestead Service Immersion

  • A life-changing 6-week program that offers a unique blend of intellectual engagement, service, and leadership. It begins with a 1-credit course in the spring semester that grounds the summer experience in critical issues related to immigration and prepares scholars to work with young people in migrant farm communities.

Weekly Course

  • After the Summer Institute, first-year Balfours participate in a 1.5-credit fall semester course, Knowing Ourselves, Being Ourselves. This course provides an opportunity for students to reflect on their values and beliefs, and discern their academic and career goals based on those values and beliefs.

Alumni Networking

  • Each year, the Balfour Scholar-Alumni Mentor Networking event connects juniors and seniors with accomplished Balfour graduates in major cities across the country. This gathering offers valuable career insights, advice, and mentorship, helping students broaden their professional networks and explore potential career paths with guidance from experienced alumni.

Balfour Student Board (BSB)

  • The BSB plays a key role in advancing BHSP’s pillars of leadership, service, and intellectual engagement. They organize community-building events, workshops, and alumni networking opportunities to enrich the BHSP experience and expand its impact.

Funding Opportunities: Support for Your Journey

  • BHSP provides financial assistance to ensure you can focus on your academic and professional growth:
    • LSAT/MCAT Preparation
    • Summer Study Abroad Opportunities
    • Research Funding
    • Summer Class Tuition
    • Internship Travel and Housing

How to Apply:

  • See Frequently Asked Questions

Get Involved and Stay Connected

For more information, explore the BHSP website or follow us on Instagram @balfour_hesburgh_scholars to stay updated on events and community highlights. BHSP is dedicated to nurturing the potential of its scholars and providing opportunities to achieve their goals.