The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has unveiled its Spring scholarship application cycle, spanning from March 1st to 31st, 2024, earmarking up to $2 million to support student tuition in the upcoming year. Among the novel initiatives introduced in this scholarship cycle is the GIA Aspire Scholarship.
Chris James T. Boehner, a GIA Graduate Gemologist (GG) and recipient of the 2020 scholarship, shared his experience: “Receiving a scholarship let me take more risks after graduating. Since I didn’t have a mountain of student debt, I was free to explore all sorts of interesting opportunities. It also helped me fast-track my education because I no longer needed to save for tuition. I started my GG program two months after receiving my scholarship!”
The GIA Aspire Scholarship program is tailored for graduating high school seniors or recent alumni from four San Diego County high schools: Steele Canyon High School, Rancho Buena Vista High School, Alta Vista High School, and Health Sciences High and Middle College.
We believe that investing in the education of aspiring professionals is key to the continued growth and success of the gem and jewelry industry,” stated Robyn Burrell, GIA Director of Financial Aid. “By providing opportunities for students to pursue their passion, we aim to create a diverse and skilled workforce that will shape the future of our industry.”
Up to $100,000 in scholarships will be designated for the GIA Aspire Scholarship. Recipients stand to receive partial or full scholarships for any On-Campus program commencing between July and December 2024 at the GIA Carlsbad campus, with program durations ranging from 7 to 26 instructional weeks.
GIA’s scholarship offerings extend beyond the GIA Aspire Scholarship, encompassing needs-based scholarships and Veteran’s scholarships. Need-based scholarships are available year-round for prospective U.S. students, contingent upon the completion of a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
