Scholarship Report: A Return to the Classroom, Campus Life
For most Coast Guard Foundation scholarship recipients, the fall semester has brought them back to the classroom for in-person learning with their peers and professors. Campus life is in full swing, and they have had the opportunity to participate more fully in the arts, athletics, and community activities. Some, however, continue to learn online and in hybrid classes that offer both distance learning and in-person lectures and labs.
For everyone, it’s an adjustment after the pandemic disrupted traditional learning for the better part of two years, both in and out of the classroom.
“None of us could have expected that an extended spring break would completely derail my entire college experience,” shared Jamie Newsome, current senior at Auburn University and Coast Guard Foundation scholar. “Online classes at home, versus online classes in my apartment… it was really difficult for me to focus and shift my whole way of learning.”
She added, “I know the Coast Guard Foundation provides scholarships to a lot of Coast Guard children, and I am just one of those extremely grateful people who has benefitted from your generosity. So from the bottom of my heart, I thank you.”
We checked in with some of our scholars who are busy with their studies this fall. Here’s what they had to say:
“I am involved in quite a bit. I am taking six classes, working at an internship for 20 hours a week, serving in a leadership role in marching band, and volunteering with a marketing club on campus. This is a picture from my first football game of the season- I am saxophone section leader.” -Kya Garibaldi Kennesaw State University, Class of 2022
“We’ve had lots of ROTC training in preparation for advanced camp this summer, and academics have been challenging, but it’s nothing I can’t handle. The generosity from the Coast Guard Foundation has made it much easier to focus on school and worry less about finances.” -Devin Krass, University of North Georgia, Class of 2023
“I am really proud of so far that I have 4 A’s and a B. Since college can be extremely stressful and challenging, having good grades is a huge accomplishment.” -Taniya Swinson, North Carolina A&T State University, Class of 2025
“I am pleased with my improvement in my art classes and my participation in the Honors Colloquium. I am proud of having branched out and met many new people, and made many new friends. I look forward to the spring semester with excitement!” – Allison Franklin, Belhaven University, Class of 2025
Since 1990, the Coast Guard Foundation has offered scholarships to the children of Coast Guard members enrolled in college and technical/trade school. Annually, the program awards up to $500,000 in scholarships based on academic achievement and school and community involvement.
Scholarship Open Season: The open application period runs from February 1-March 15 each year and requires a completed application, transcripts, essay, and a letter of recommendation. Eligible applicants may apply for a scholarship each year they enroll in a degree program for up to four years. For more information, please email Sage Williams, Coast Guard Foundation Program Manager.
