October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Did you know that in 2022, it is estimated that over 340,000 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the US? A cancer diagnosis affects a person in almost all aspects of their life during treatment. The physical, mental, and financial toll it takes can be overwhelming, and since cancer doesn’t follow a timeline, college students are often faced with a devastating diagnosis, threatening to derail their educational journey.

Thankfully, foundations recognize the burden student-patients and families of patients endure after a cancer diagnosis or loss, and offer educational scholarships to help ease the financial side of it. 

United Breast Cancer Foundation

According to their website, UBCF created The Audrey B. Mastroianni College Scholarship specifically for students who lost a parent to breast cancer and are living in single-family homes. “The scholarship is specifically designed to help turn higher education dreams into reality for students who have suffered the loss of a parent or guardian due to breast cancer. The Audrey B. Mastroianni College Scholarship was established in honor of Audrey B. Mastroianni, a firm believer in education and continued personal enrichment.”

Cancer for College

Founded by a two-time cancer survivor, Cancer for College offers multiple annual scholarships for cancer survivors. “Since inception in 1993, Cancer for College has awarded more than $6 million and 1,600 scholarships to cancer survivors all across the United States. Each year we award many general, nationwide scholarships as well as several specialty scholarships.”

National Collegiate Cancer Foundation

NCCF offers both survivor and legacy scholarships for people aged 18-35 who have either survived or lost a guardian to cancer. “​​The National Collegiate Cancer Foundation was established to provide services and support to young adults whose lives have been impacted by cancer and who have continued with their education throughout treatment or after their treatment.”

In addition to financial assistance, colleges across the country offer other areas of support for students faced with cancer. Check with your campus’ counselor to learn more about what your university provides. For more information about breast cancer and other cancers, please visit The American Cancer Society’s website.

Cover photo by Angiola Harry on Unsplash