Georgia Southern University military spouses awarded scholarships to pursue their dreams
The Georgia Southern University Foundation, with the support of The Landings Military Family Relief Fund, has awarded four scholarships to students who are spouses to military members. The Landings Military Spouse Academic Assistance Fund is given to students who are pursuing their dreams while their spouses serve in the armed forces. This is the first time the spouse scholarships have been awarded to Georgia Southern students.
The four scholarships cover a year’s tuition as well as provide an additional $500 dollars. They were awarded to:
- Valerie Rinck, political science and international studies senior
- Anna Buie, health sciences and kinesiology sophomore
- Molly Aliperti, accelerated nursing senior
- Nayibeth Sanchez, health sciences and kinesiology senior
The awards are meant to help military spouses earn degrees and support their families in the process. For some, this scholarship provides a path to complete their dreams.
Sanchez met her husband before he joined the armed forces. When he did, she put her career goals on hold. The Sanchez family has three kids, the oldest is now 21 and the youngest is 15. Sanchez is on track to graduate with her undergraduate degree within a year.
“It's hard enough for a student who doesn’t have children, and they feel that they don't have enough time,” said Sanchez. “Girl, you have time for everything. Trust me, you got it. Somehow, one way or the other, you're going to draw it out, pull it from somewhere.”
Military spouses are known for the sacrifices they make for their partners. Scholarships like this one allow students to pursue something they can call their own.
Aliperti met her husband in high school, and he went to West Point Military Academy shortly thereafter. She began following him across the country supporting him, but was ready to begin establishing a career of her own.
“This was the perfect opportunity,” said Aliperti. “Finding the funds to go back to school as military spouses is very challenging. So getting that call and not having to worry about that was just a blessing.”
Georgia Southern University has a strong and proud history of supporting veterans, current-serving military personnel and their families, and has accumulated many awards for its dedication to this community of proud men and women. Information and resources are available on the Military and Veteran Services webpage.
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