OJ Daring moved from sunny Jamaica to snowy Vermont—and while the winters were cold, his passion for film burned bright. With support from VSAC’s GEAR UP program, he found the momentum to pursue film and finance at Champlain College.

When Dallas Kelly received a Book Award scholarship to St. Michael’s College, the standout student faced a tough decision: follow her dream to a big-city school or make the more affordable choice. As her journey unfolded, she discovered that choosing affordability didn’t have to mean giving up on her dreams.

Josh’s path—from rural Vermont to global relief work—was shaped by creativity, service, and the support of those who believed in him. Today, he leads WYKR and a local newspaper, driven by a belief in community, curiosity, and the power of being seen for one’s full potential.

Back-to-school can mean anything from daycare drop-off and the first big yellow bus ride to a shiny new set of tools or dorm move-in day. As students of all ages head to school this September, National College Savings Month reminds families about the importance of focusing on future education, too…

Hannah’s goal is to become the type of teacher she would have wanted. Prince built his own brand while earning his dietician’s license. Shavonna made her childhood dreams of the ocean come true with three research trips to Antarctica. And Jared credits his grandfather with teaching him everything he knows.