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MIDLAND, Texas — Irland O’Brien is a first-year student at Midland College. She studies nursing close to home in the Tall City, which is something she didn’t think was even possible until she received a scholarship.
“The scholarship was what pushed me towards being able to make a decision to be able to stay closer to family while I did my first few years,” said O’Brien.
O’Brien is one of thousands of students at Midland College benefiting from over $1.4 million in scholarships this fall. The school offers more than 200 scholarship opportunities with no extra application required, just a FAFSA.
Director of Scholarships Meredith Walker says those generous donations are an investment in students from all walks of life.
“If you’re coming with a GED, we have a scholarship for you,” said Walker. “If you’re coming with a family, we have a scholarship for you. If you’re a single parent, we have scholarships for you. Really, there’s nothing that should be a barrier to you entering college and getting a scholarship opportunity as well.”
The Legacy Scholars Program is one of Midland College’s most impactful. It covers full tuition for eligible Midland County high school graduates.
O’Brien is one of the recipients. She says she’s on track for a strong final eight weeks, and it’s all thanks to the school taking care of her.
“It’s extremely comforting knowing that I can focus on my education and not have to have the pressure of having to find a financial job to stabilize,” said O’Brien.
Walker also tells us that the college is hoping to match the $1.4 million for the coming spring semester, helping give students financial consistency as they work toward their degrees.