New York Life Golden Futures Scholar Spotlight: Jessica Gao, Northwestern University

In 2025, New York Life partnered with Scholarship America and Zogo on the New York Life Golden Futures Scholarship. In order to be eligible for the program, students complete financial education modules in the Zogo app and submit an application through Scholarship America for the opportunity to receive a scholarship worth up to $20,000.

[Apply for the New York Life Golden Futures 2026 Scholarship through June 1!]

One of the recipients in the inaugural year of the program was Jessica Gao, who is studying economics at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. We spoke with her about the importance of financial education in reducing inequality, the impact of the scholarship on her college experience, and her aspirations for the future.

What inspired you to select your course of study?

I first witnessed the real-world impact of financial literacy while serving customers at the Cook County Treasurer’s Office. Most visitors’ questions could have been resolved with a fundamental understanding of the property tax system, and the unequal access to financial education was echoed in the city’s noticeable segregation in property values and tax payment rates. I wanted to help bridge these gaps by gaining an understanding of finance and the economy as a whole, and that inspired me to study economics.

How did you learn about the New York Life Golden Futures Scholarship, and why did you decide to apply?

I first learned about the [program] through a scholarship website. I applied because I believed that the scholarship was a valuable opportunity that would support me in pursuing a college education. I also wanted to learn more about financial literacy through the modules, which I believe is a very important skill that I also want to educate others about.

How would you describe the scholarship in one word?

Transformative. Receiving the scholarship has not only been a source of financial support, but has also given me confidence in pursuing my higher education. It has also allowed me to focus on making the most out of my college experience. Through the application process, I was able to reflect on my own educational goals, and I also gained a lot of personal finance knowledge, including the basics of saving, investing, and paying for college. The financial literacy modules have really helped me understand what financial stability can look like and how I can work towards it.

What is your dream for your future, upon graduation and beyond? How does this scholarship help you pursue those dreams?

I want to contribute to reducing urban inequities, especially in my hometown of Chicago. I believe that having financial literacy knowledge can help mitigate many inequities, and that’s why I want to help strengthen the quality of financial education that students receive in school. The New York Life Golden Futures Scholarship has allowed me to focus more deeply on my academics, extracurriculars, and personal growth in college. I’m extremely grateful for the support of the scholarship and intend to give back by providing scholarships someday so that other students can also have the opportunity to achieve their educational aspirations.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Live in the moment and be passionate about the things that you do!