The University of Northern Iowa has been a stepping stone in the success of many former Alamo Community College District students.

Started more than six years ago, the Palo Alto College Bridge Scholars Program has helped more than 90 Palo Alto students obtain a bachelor’s degree. Of those, 26 have moved on to gain an even higher level of education.

Michael Ximenez, a Student Success Specialist at St. Philip’s College, said, “Not only did I receive an excellent education, I also received an awesome experience.

The experience of going to college out of state was very unique in that it made my personality and understanding of the world grow. I can’t say that I would change anything, except someone could have told me to enjoy college because it will not last forever.”

The UNI Bridge Scholars Program covers in-state tuition/fees and room and board costs through a combination of federal grants, institutional grants, hometown or university scholarships, student employment and/or loans.

Palo Alto students who are interested in the UNI/Bridge Scholars Program must be nearing completion of a two-year degree. They must also have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 and qualify for financial aid.

Once the student is enrolled at UNI, they must take a minimum of 12 semester hours and maintain a 3.0 grade point average.

Some former UNI students have decided to give back to the ACCD by becoming part of the advising staff at local colleges here in San Antonio.

Kimberly Koog, a Student Success Specialist at Northwest Vista College, said, “Overall, the program was a great opportunity for me. I was able to attend college that I may not have been able to afford otherwise. This was also a great opportunity because I was able to get away and concentrate on my studies. I would definitely be a different person today if I did not pursue this.”

The UNI/Bridge Scholars Program has proven to be a very effective way of helping former Palo Alto students succeed in their professional lives.

Andres Arispe, a current UNI student and Electronic Media major said, “By deciding to attend UNI, I have opened so many doors and opportunities where I now realize I can go wherever I want to go. San Antonio is and will always be my home, but being able to see the world and experience new things definitely worth it.”

Charley Garcia, Transfer Advisor for Palo Alto College, fully backs the UNI/Bridge Scholar Program, and he wants every student who can meet the qualifications to take the challenge.

“Would you be willing to move to Cedar Falls, Iowa? Would you be willing to do without carne guisada tacos, roasted corn and pan dulce for those two years? Is driving 22 hours away from home just too much to overcome or sacrifice?” asked Garcia. “This is an opportunity to change your life. Come on! Take a chance.”

For more information on the UNI/Bridge Scholars Program, contact Charley Garcia in the Welcome Advising Center at (210) 921-5170.