University College at Rockland is offering the Osher New Beginnings Scholarship for the summer and fall semesters to encourage more Maine people of all ages to give college a try.

The Osher New Beginnings Scholarship was established for those who are first-time college students or for those who have not attended college in at least three years and have completed thirty or fewer successful credit hours. An Osher Scholarship will cover the cost of tuition, fees and required books for one course. Students do not need to be accepted to a degree program to be eligible to receive an Osher New Beginnings Scholarship.

The scholarship is widely available through University College Centers statewide. With eight local Centers in communities across Maine, University College offers students the convenience of staying close to home while studying for a degree, often helping them to balance family and work responsibilities. It has been the ideal solution for adults who hold some college credits, but who left before completing their degree, or those with no college background who now wish to take that step forward.

"New Beginnings Scholarships are available at the Rockland Center for both summer and fall,” said Deborah Meehan, Director of University College at Rockland, in a news release.  “It is important that students apply now while the grant is readily available. The application process is quick and easy, and an advisor is here to answer questions and help people get started.”

Meehan added: “We know that life can get in the way of starting or completing a college degree. This scholarship can set you on a positive track and give you time to explore ways to make the college experience fit into your life.” 

The New Beginnings Scholarship is made possible by a gift made in 2000 from The Bernard Osher Foundation. Since then, thousands of students have received scholarships and have enrolled in university courses.  Scholarship recipients benefit from the personalized support of experienced advisors and are encouraged to make use of tutoring services, as well as a variety of skill-development workshops.

    For more information about Osher New Beginnings Scholarships, contact University College at Rockland at 596-6906 or visit learn.maine.edu/get-started/osher-scholarships/