Online university offers ‘resilience scholarships’ to help students during pandemic

RICHMOND, Virginia (WWBT) – An online university is making it a little easier for its students this year, giving over $ 1 million to students who say they just can’t make ends meet because of COVID-19.

“We saw a greater need during the pandemic than at any time in our history,” said Western Governors University regional vice president Rebecca Watts.

This is because over 70% of WGU students work full time and take online courses full time. It’s hard enough on its own, but when the money doesn’t come in because of COVID, it makes it worse.

“They work so, very hard, they’re goal-oriented, they’re tough, they’re resilient. That’s why it’s important for us to help them achieve their goals, ”said Watts.

So the university offered the “resilience grant,” which goes directly to students most affected by the pandemic – giving $ 2,500 in the first term, then $ 700 for each term thereafter.

“They just provided such a platform for my type of frame with housework, and I’m constantly working, so the platform and the concept was just perfect for me,” said Anthony Riveria, WGU graduate. .

Anthony is already a graduate of WGU and now owns his own business – so he hasn’t applied for the resilience grant, but says he knows a lot of who it could benefit from.

“WGU – they’re amazing. They’ve really helped me and a lot of others who go to school to keep their lives on the right track,” Riveria said.

The university says this grant is given on an individual basis and will work with others to make sure everyone has a chance to be successful.

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