A freshman chemistry major from Hinesville, Georgia, Geovanii Pacheco is pursuing a career in pharmacy inspired by his personal experiences navigating the healthcare system for his older brother, who has autism. A local pharmacist’s support left a strong impression on him and shaped his goal to provide similar assistance to others.
“It really resonated with me,” Pacheco said. “As a pharmacist, I’d like to embody what she did for us, for others as well.”
Pacheco is currently enrolled at Georgia Southern University and benefits from the National Science Foundation’s S-STEM Scholarship Program Award. This grant supports Pell-eligible students seeking degrees in science fields including biochemistry, biology, chemistry, geosciences, mathematics, physics or sustainability science. The program aims to ease financial burdens while also offering mentorship and structured programming focused on student retention and professional development.
“I can say that I’m not going to college with any financial stress,” he said. “I have no money coming out-of-pocket.”
The scholarship covers remaining tuition costs after other forms of aid are applied. It also pairs students with faculty mentors and provides resources designed to help them succeed throughout their academic journey.
Sara Gremillion, Ph.D., professor of biology and principal investigator on the grant, explained the intent behind the program: “They may not have a strong expectation about what to expect in college,” said Gremillion. “This program not only removes financial barriers, but it also surrounds students with the support they need to navigate college and plan for their future.”
Through this initiative, Pacheco participated in an early move-in week called Basebamp where he met fellow scholars and his mentor before classes began. His mentor, Shainaz Landge, Ph.D., associate professor of chemistry, introduced him to student organizations and research opportunities.
“Students such as Geovanii serve as prime examples of the fulfillment derived from mentorship and teaching,” said Landge. “Their growth and engagement highlight the critical role that effective mentorship plays in fostering both academic development.”
Over five years, the program will support dozens of students across eligible majors by providing individualized scholarships up to $15,000 per year based on need along with continued faculty mentorship.
For Pacheco’s family, receiving the scholarship was significant relief. He recalled sharing the news with his mother: “She was tickled, let me tell you,” he said. “It lifted so much stress off her shoulders. It was life-changing.”
Applications for next year’s cohort are open until February 1, 2026.
