By Angeline Syribouth and Karissa Chittavong
Social Media Manager & Online Manager
The THRIVE scholarship program at Amarillo College has become a staple for many students in their learning career, giving the students a chance to continue their education without having to worry about costs and expenses. Amarillo College has extended the THRIVE program to continue supporting students. Eligibility for THRIVE requires students to have: graduated from an AISD school since freshman year with a GPA of 80 or higher, maintain good attendance, and have no history of being expelled or (DAEP). To apply, students must be enrolled in Amarillo College, have completed their FAFSA, and completed the AC Foundation Scholarship Application.
“In June 2024, THRIVE partners approved an extension of the program through August 2030,” communications coordinator, Kim Bruce, said.
Students, like Alessandra Vital (psychology major), participated in THRIVE saving not only expenses, but also helping her long-term future.
“THRIVE is giving me the time to save my money now, even as I’m attending college,”. Vital said. “It’s helping me not worry about the cost of college, and save up for my future degrees and living expenses. It’s truly a great option for getting my associates degree practically for free, and allowing me to focus my money on future endeavors.”
While non-THRIVE students, like Quiton Matthews (English major), find themselves relying on another form to pay for their education.
“Currently, I pay with my own money with assistance from my parents, both for classes and for textbooks,”. Matthews said. “While I can’t say much in the way of emotions, I can say with certainty that academically it would have pushed me to do my very best with my classes, and financially it would have been a weight off my shoulders to be able to pay more easily for Amarillo College.”
Matthews was unaware of the THRIVE program, and said if he had known earlier he would have applied for it.
“I didn’t know about it,” Mathews said. “This is the first time I’ve heard of it. Had I known earlier, I am almost certain I would have applied for it.”
With the extension of THRIVE, AC officials have discussed the idea of a new scholarship program., This would provide more opportunities to be given to students and make education more accessible and attainable.
“At a recent budget retreat, the Amarillo College Board of Regents discussed options for a new scholarship program,” Bruce said.. “While no new scholarship program has been approved, the AC Board, faculty, and staff continue to explore opportunities to expand educational access for the community.”
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