Jump Start Scholarship helping students transition from GED to COD

Twenty students have successfully transitioned from the GED program into credit classes at College of DuPage with the help of the new Jump Start Scholarship.

Introduced in fall 2011 for the spring semester, the Jump Start Scholarship awards $500 to students who are residents of District 502 and have successfully completed the GED preparation course at COD. The pilot program helps students begin their college education and improve their skills for employment.

“These students are so proud and thrilled to be at this point in their education,” said Brenda Marcy, coordinator of Scholarships at College of DuPage. “It's a great idea and we're glad to be a part of it.”

Applicants must have received the GED credential during the past 12 months and within three months of completing the prep course. The scholarship can be used for 1100-level credit course tuition, fees, textbooks or educational supplies within 12 months of award notification. By being enrolled in a credit program, these students may meet state eligibility for WorkNet and federal eligibility for the Pell Grant program.

Faculty members teaching GED review classes are telling their students about the Jump Start scholarship. So far, all 20 applicants have been eligible for the award, and more are expected to apply, Marcy said.

“With any new scholarship, it just takes a while to get going,” Marcy said. “But the word is spreading, because the recipients are so excited to be starting their college education thanks to this award.”

For more information, contact the Office of Student Financial Assistance at (630) 942-2251 or email financialaid@cod.edu.