Bethel-Tate and West Clermont First-Generation Students Awarded Scholarships
Two outstanding high school seniors from Ohio received the surprise of a lifetime on UC Clermont’s Decision Day. The University of Cincinnati Clermont College welcomed Braelyn Partin from West Clermont High School and Lily Hathcock from Bethel-Tate High School with open arms, celebrating their acceptance and awarding them scholarships to ease their financial journey into higher education.
A Journey of Perseverance: Braelyn Partin’s Story
Braelyn Partin, a senior at West Clermont High School in Union Township, was in for a big surprise when UC Clermont representatives walked into her science class with balloons, applause, and incredible news. She had been accepted to the university and awarded a $6,000 UC Grant along with a UC Clermont Merit Scholarship, covering her entire first-year tuition.
“I was shocked,” said Partin. “I did not expect the surprise or the scholarships. It feels amazing to be accepted to UC, and I’m so appreciative. I’ll be the first in my family to go to college; that’s important to me.”
Raised by her grandmother, Sally Partin, after losing her mother at a young age, Braelyn has faced significant challenges but remained focused on her education. With a 3.6 GPA and a strong work ethic, she has proven herself to be a dedicated student and leader at West Clermont.
“Braelyn is studious and has a great work ethic. She is a quiet leader,” said Angela Faulhaber, associate principal of West Clermont High School. “She represents the best of West Clermont.”
Braelyn plans to major in pre-elementary education but is keeping her career options open as she embarks on her college journey. For now, she is celebrating her new chapter as a proud member of the Bearcat family.
“This is a positive step, and it feels good,” she said. “I’m ready to go through college and start my life. I’m hopeful that UC Clermont will be the path to my future.”
A Future in Healthcare: Lily Hathcock’s Dream
Bethel-Tate High School senior Lily Hathcock was the second student to be surprised on Decision Day. In the school library, surrounded by family, teachers, and UC Clermont staff, she learned that she, too, had been accepted and awarded scholarships covering her first-year tuition.
“It feels great to be accepted to UC and earn scholarships that will provide me the funds to complete my major,” said Hathcock. “I did not expect this at all.”
Holding a remarkable 4.9 GPA, Hathcock is passionate about education and plans to pursue a career in physical therapy. Her interest in the field was sparked after suffering a cross-country running injury during her freshman year. As the first in her immediate family to attend college, she is determined to make the most of this opportunity.
“I value my education and furthering it,” she said. “Being the first in my immediate family to do something means a lot to me.”
Hathcock has excelled academically while also maintaining a strong presence in her school community. Through the College Credit Plus program, she has already taken UC courses online, earning dual high school and college credits. Beyond academics, she has served as an officer in the National Honor Society, played school sports, participated in student council, led the school’s suicide prevention group, and was even crowned homecoming queen.
“Lily is one of the brightest, most mature students I have ever taught,” said Ray McAdams, Bethel-Tate High School English teacher and advisor. “She is down to earth while being an incredible student and balances humor with a strong work ethic.”
Her mother, Debbie Hathcock, expressed immense pride and excitement for her daughter’s future.
“Lily has always excelled throughout her education,” she said. “She wants to have choices and the freedom to live and work anywhere. We are grateful for this offer and honor from UC Clermont and excited to see how Lily achieves her goals.”
Why UC Clermont?
As a regional college of the University of Cincinnati, UC Clermont provides an accessible and affordable pathway to higher education. With over 60 academic programs, including bachelor’s, associate, transfer, and certificate options, the college offers a world-class education close to home. In the 2023-24 academic year, UC Clermont awarded nearly $800,000 in scholarships, making higher education a reality for many deserving students.
“UC Clermont provides an opportunity for our students to earn a college degree, increase their earning potential, and improve their critical thinking skills,” said McAdams. “It gives them all the things that we know higher education can offer while still being local and affordable.”
Both Hathcock and Partin will be among the more than 3,000 students starting classes this fall at UC Clermont. As they step into this new chapter of their lives, they represent the strength, resilience, and determination of first-generation college students striving for success.
Applications for UC Clermont’s Fall 2025 semester are open until July 1. Learn more and apply today at ucclermont.edu/apply.
About UC Clermont
Located on 91 scenic acres in Batavia Township, UC Clermont College is an accredited, open-access institution committed to providing high-quality education. As part of the nationally recognized University of Cincinnati, UC Clermont offers a wide range of programs to meet diverse student needs. For more information, call 513-556-5400 or visit www.ucclermont.edu.