The Leadership Scholar Program (LSP) aims to assist academically and professionally qualified Marines prepare for and apply to highly selective colleges and universities.

By providing academic support, the LSP helps Marines achieve their dream of attending the college of their choice. Sgt Tyrek Jackson is one of the many Marines who recently benefited from the program.

Sgt Jackson initially connected with the LSP through the Voluntary Education Center at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. He aimed to pursue a degree in economics.

Ms. Rosette Obedoza, an Education Services Specialist at the Voluntary Education Center, assisted Sgt Jackson in reviewing his transcripts and essays, and she introduced him to the veteran admissions representatives at the University of Chicago. Throughout the process, Sgt Jackson remained in contact with the LSP.

In December 2022, he applied to the University of Chicago and recently received his acceptance letter. He will begin his studies in the fall of 2024, and he recommends the LSP to other Marines.

“The Leadership Scholar Program was a fantastic resource throughout my application process, and I would advise all future veteran applicants to trust the process and believe in yourself,” said Sgt Jackson. “Peer-to-peer mentorship has been instrumental throughout my journey in pursuing higher education,” he said. “The program showed me that a prestigious education was within my reach and advocated on my behalf to their partner schools.”

Jackson started his journey as a Marine who had to take the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) to use tuition assistance. When he is finished, he will be a graduate of the University of Chicago.

Are you looking for more in-depth assistance with the Leadership Scholar Program or Tuition Assistance services? Contact the Voluntary Education Center nearest you.