Applications for Tillman scholarships open until mid-February

from Tillman Military Scholars Foundation
Army News Service

1/30/2013 - WASHINGTON -- Service members, veterans and their spouses have until Feb. 15 to apply for financial aid through the Tillman Military Scholars program.

The Tillman Military Scholars program removes financial barriers to completing a degree program. The scholarship covers direct study-related expenses such as tuition and fees, in addition to other needs such as housing and child care.

"After five years of service in the Army, I was set on transitioning out to attend business school, but lacked the financial resources to pay for the two-year program," said Thomas Allison, a former Army captain, Army Ranger, and Tillman Military Scholars program scholarship recipient. "I had always been motivated by the exceptional sacrifices of Pat Tillman and thought the program sounded like a great fit."

Allison applied for the program and was granted a scholarship. He said he applied to help fill the gap in funding between what was provided by the G.I. Bill and the actual cost of attending school. He also said that being part of the Tillman Military Scholars program community has provided for him more than just financial rewards.

"I was able to attend the Pat Tillman Leadership Summit in Maryland where I met dozens of other Tillman Military Scholars from across the services," Allison said. "During the conference, we held discussions on issues relevant to transitioning veterans, visited members of Congress in D.C., and had the opportunity to perform a service project in Baltimore."

Allison also participated in "Pat's Run," last April, where he was able to network with other run participants.

"While the race was fun, the coolest part of this event was the opportunity to network and hang out with scholars and other veterans who showed up for the weekend," Allison said.

The Tillman Military Scholars Foundation also provides access to transition assistance tools, career guidance, entrepreneurial and service-related workshops such as those provided through Inc. Magazine and the Clinton Global Initiative conferences, and unique job opportunities following school.

Those interested in applying to the program or learning more about the criteria and application process, the benefits and expectations of the program or the Tillman Community can visit http://www.pattillmanfoundation.org/tillman-military-scholars/apply/.