Historically Black Florida A&M University signed a partnership agreement with the U.S. Coast Guard to facilitate training and recruitment for USCG members. The College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative Scholarship is designed for high-performing college sophomores and juniors who demonstrate academic and leadership excellence and desire to serve their country. The program is designed to help students chart their course through the power of education and service in the military, reduce student debt burden, achieve financial stability and health insurance while guaranteeing a job after graduation.
Rear Admiral Will E. Watson, who serves as the director of Governmental and Public Affairs for the Coast Guard, said “We’re offering opportunity – from internships, externships to scholarships to employment. We’re offering opportunity. We know that the talent is here. Young professionals who are looking for an opportunity to make a mark, to make a difference in this world and we are here to say that ‘You can do that in the United States Coast Guard.’”
As part of the agreement, full-time students who are qualified and selected for the program will receive up to two years of tuition, books, and fees paid, a competitive monthly salary, medical benefits, and a host of other benefits. The current stipend is $3,500 per month.
“We have a much greater opportunity here to expose our young men and women to all the things the Coast Guard has to offer,” said Larry Robinson. president of Florida A&M University.