Driving Opportunity Scholars Program at University of Akron aims to increase job preparedness for underserved students

Fifteen students accepted to University of Akron for the 2021-2022 academic year have a new scholarship available that will not only provide full tuition and fees assistance, but also support recipients through mentorship, internships and co-ops, and other career-focused activities through Goodyear. The Driving Opportunity Scholars Program, funded by the Goodyear Foundation to the tune of $1.6 million, was established to promote diversity in the highly-skilled workforce in Ohio by seeking out students from socioeconomically disadvantaged communities.

A news release from the university provides details of the scholarship program, saying that selected students will receive a full scholarship for tuition and fees, as well as multiple opportunities for mentorship. Students will be paired with both a professional mentor from Goodyear and a peer mentor from the Office of Multicultural Development at UA. Opportunities will be available for internship and co-op positions at Goodyear and students will be invited to participate in training activities with the company. 

University of Akron President Gary L. Miller reacted to the creation of the Driving Opportunity Scholars Program in the news release. He stated, "Goodyear is a dedicated corporate and community partner, and we are deeply grateful for the investments they make in our University and the incredible opportunities they give to our students." Miller went on to add, "The Driving Opportunity Scholars Program will allow our students unprecedented access to seasoned professionals and exciting internship opportunities that are sure to be life-changing."

CEO and President of Goodyear, Richard J. Kramer, spoke about the importance of creating opportunities to students from underserved communities, "Inclusive opportunities are needed to build a diverse workforce to help corporations succeed, both today and in the future. Driving Opportunity will nurture the growth of underrepresented students as they expand their skills, build a professional network and create a career path." Kramer went on to say, "We are excited to collaborate with The University of Akron to invest in these students' futures and in Goodyear's. Beyond funding student activities and scholarships, our funding will also support the program coordination, coaching and mentoring to students throughout their UA education."

Eligibility for the scholarships is based on high school GPA and ACT or SAT scores, as well as coming from a disadvantaged socioeconomic background, with preference given to first-generation college students. Applicants will submit an essay and video and complete an interview. In addition to the financial assistance and mentorship, recipients will receive a laptop. Students will participate in a study abroad or service-learning experience and complete a capstone project.