The Aggie Assurance program was designed to provide equal opportunities for higher education to students from underprivileged families.
Though programs such as this one lend themselves to criticism, especially from those who are already on merit-based scholarships or grants, it’s important to look within our hearts and extend a genuine concern for the educational welfare of potential members of the Aggie family.
People complain about each other every day. They may not realize it, but when they are complaining about the state of the country, the way the local government is run or even the way their sausage and egg McGriddle is made, they are complaining about people, the decisions they make and how those decisions and subsequent actions impact everyone around them.
The only way to improve this situation is to educate people. It’s a general rule of thumb: when confused, seek an answer. Ask somebody. Fill in the blanks. Isn’t that what higher education teaches on a grander scale? We are filling in blanks we didn’t know existed, enabling us with the power to be the ones to change the future.
Programs like Aggie Assurance are a good way to begin the cycle of positive change necessary to bring about future world leaders. So much potential goes unrealized in the ghettos and barrios of the world from lack of funds, or even lack of information, on how to obtain these funds.
The program is set to begin with the fall 2009 semester, applicable to the Class of 2012. It is expected to apply to 5,200 students next year and affect at least 1,500 immediately upon enrollment. Just think: 1,500 more fresh, young minds that may not even have been given this opportunity prior to this program.
Instead of criticizing the program, maybe we should stop thinking about the injustices done to us and think about all the good things that will come from it for others. After all, isn’t that what the Aggie spirit is all about?