Get up, get committed, and you could get paid. 

Thanks to a grant from Lockheed Martin, Rowan College at Burlington County students who are military veterans can earn a $500 stipend when they become active participants on campus. 

Entitled the VIP Program, the grant involves students completing tasks, like meeting with an advisor and attending orientation, to earn the money. The program not only provides financial support to cover academic expenses but highlights educational and post-graduation paths through interaction with abundant resources available at RCBC.

“At Lockheed Martin, we are committed to the academic and professional growth of our veterans and we are proud to support efforts that accelerate career preparedness and drive future achievements,” said Carlos Arcila, Military Relations Manager at Lockheed Martin.

RCBC’s assistant director of Military and Veteran Affairs David Reeves, an Army veteran himself, notes the lack of guidance many veterans face. So far away from a classroom for so long, they tend to lose the initiative to pursue higher education. He emphasizes the importance of programs like these, which give students the impetus to stay in the classroom.

“You haven’t done math in four years minimum, don’t know how to write a college paper,” Reeves said. “With this program, some of the other things they have to do will also build their skills. And, hopefully, it’s about becoming engaged. You meet different people and make friendships, and all that good stuff, and that keeps you connected on campus.”

Five RCBC students completed the program last academic year, which was also the program’s first. Michael Alexander, a construction management major and Army veteran, is one of the success stories.

“The program is pretty straightforward, which is how I like things to be,” Alexander said. “I got to ask plenty of questions, and the staff was so helpful and welcoming… I got paid to help myself grow.”

By participating in the program, selected student veterans are also eligible to work as paid peer mentors, guiding other students toward success while earning hands-on work experience and leadership skills.

If you are interested in the program, head to rcbc.edu/vip-program to learn more.