Marine Corp veteran, James Corbitt, 23, served as an Aviation Electrical Systems Technician for five years. After leaving the military, Corbitt began working towards an Engineering degree at a California community college.
Corbitt’s dream is to become a Biomedical Engineer Researcher. He wants to better the lives of other veterans by enhancing technology used in prosthetics and artificial tissue.
“As school went on, I started looking for resources to help relieve the financial burden from additional costs of books, lab manuals and school supplies. My science courses, heavy homework load and part-time job kept me busy. That’s when I found out about the scholarship,” said Corbitt.
Corbitt was awarded the VFW's “Sports Clips Help A Hero Scholarship,” which encourages him to stay focused and get everything done.
“School and work alone has been a juggling act filled with long days and relentless studying,” says Corbitt. “This gift shows that people have faith in me and believe that I can accomplish the tasks set before me.”
Corbitt understands that education seems intimidating to many veterans—from the long college applications and essays to dealing with professors and taking exams.
“Despite everything, education is very doable. There is great support everywhere for veterans and no class is harder than boot camp! Apply the core values you have been taught in the military and pursue your dreams,” said Corbitt.
“It is your support and belief in me that is the great motivator in this pursuit. It allows me to focus more on school and worry less about how I will be able to afford everything,” said Corbitt.
The Help A Hero Scholarship was created to provide service members and veterans with the financial assistance needed to complete their educational goals without incurring excessive student loan debt. Awarded twice a year, scholarships help cover the cost of tuition and fees. For more information on the Help A Hero scholarship, visit www.vfw.org/scholarship.
Photo caption: VFW's "Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship" recipient James Corbitt.