At 27, Sophia lives a life defined by caring for others. A nurse manager, National Guard veteran, and lifelong wildlife rehabilitator, she balanced full-time work, military service, and community commitments as she earned her nursing degree, debt-free.
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Blog Archive: Applying to College
Jess has turned her passion for rural life, maternal health, and community advocacy into motivation for closing justice gaps in underserved communities.
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We’re taking a moment to recognize some of the remarkable students who worked with VSAC and are now graduating from high school, college, and training programs. Each story reflects resilience, effort, and determination. We’re grateful they chose to share their journeys with us.
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Nikki embraces hard work. From her early days as a caregiver to her current role in orthopedics, she’s steadily building her skills, fueled by a passion for science and patient care. Now, she’s setting her sights on what’s next.
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Liah’s love for her hometown of Canaan, Vermont, is matched only by her motivation to succeed. With help from mentors, local opportunities, and a Saint Michael’s College Book Award, she’s heading to school to study business—while helping balance the unique challenge of having all four of her siblings attend college at the same time.
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At VSAC’s Day at the State House, we celebrated 60 years of investing in education—and in Vermont’s future. Students took the podium to share their personal journeys, offering powerful reminders of what’s possible when opportunity meets determination.
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Aubrianna is wrapping up high school with a clear plan: enlist in the Air National Guard and study aerospace engineering at Clarkson. She already has a background in community service, mental health, Junior ROTC, and aviation.
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Giving—and receiving—guidance shaped Maura Thompson’s path through high school. As a first-generation college student with a dream to work in medicine, she’s building a future rooted in the power of connection.
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A college degree isn't measured in credit hours alone, but in the miles traversed and connections made along the way. Not one to shy away from a challenge, Brad found a transportation solution for school that works for his budget, values, and lifestyle.
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Ashley describes her education journey as a bit of a smorgasbord. Now the Executive Director of the Upper Valley Habitat for Humanity, she pursued multiple opportunities and certifications that boosted her employability and career—while accumulating less than $5,000 in student debt.
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