Students who begin their post-secondary educations at the College of Southern Maryland not only earn credits at half of the cost of most Maryland colleges, but they are also eligible for additional savings through scholarships designed solely for community college graduates when they transfer to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
“The 2+2 Transfer Scholarship is open to all community college students in Maryland who are enrolled full-time or part-time, maintain a 2.5 grade point average and demonstrate financial need,” said CSM Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management Joan Middleton. “This scholarship is for students who are in their last semester at CSM and have been accepted into their transfer school. It is a wonderful gift from the State of Maryland for students who complete their community college degrees.”
Stephen Corcoran, of Lusby, plans to apply. He earned an associate degree in elementary/special education at CSM and has been accepted to the teacher education program at Towson University.
Corcoran developed an interest in special education while participating in the Best Buddies program at Calvert High School. After becoming chapter president of the organization and realizing that he demonstrated the patience required to be successful in this field, he decided on special education as a career. “I enjoy working with children and seeing them thrive,” he said.
“It would mean a lot to me to be awarded a scholarship through the 2+2 program because there are always roadblocks with financing college. Every amount I receive toward tuition is appreciated,” Corcoran said.
Students must complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) application by March 1 for priority awarding. All majors are eligible, with students enrolling in a science, teaching, engineering, computer science, mathematics or nursing program receiving an annual award of $2,000 and all other majors receiving $1,000 annually for up to three years or six semesters.
For information on transfer services at CSM, visit www.csmd.edu/transfer.
A FAFSA Line-by-Line workshop will take place on the La Plata Campus from 1-3 p.m., Jan. 25. For information, contact the Financial Assistance Department at 301-934-7531 or visit http://www.csmd.edu/Financial/.
The scholarship application and eligibility information is available at http://www.mhec.state.md.us/financialaid/ProgramDescriptions/prog_2+2.asp, with directions on how to apply.
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Stephen Corcoran of Lusby, left, accepts his associate degree in elementary/special education from CSM Trustee Chair Mike Middleton at the colleges Jan. 15 Winter Commencement. Corcoran plans to apply for the 2+2 Maryland Transfer Scholarship which could earn him a $2,000 annual scholarship award for enrolling in a teaching program.