We are incredibly fortunate to have the Community College we do here in Muskegon with Muskegon Community College. It's a leader in the state when it comes to the type of institution they are and education they provide and they set a standard that others strive to achieve. As we've watched the development of the campus on Quarterline Road as well as the growth of the Downtown Muskegon campus, it's been with great pride that "Watch Us Go" has been very applicable to our educational opportunities here in Muskegon too.
Adaptation is underway this year at MCC like anywhere else, with the COVID issue. There's a lot more remote learning going on, there are a few less students getting their first taste of "college life" on the grounds of the college and of course, while some of the traditional feels of taking that next step in education are a little different for some, the quality of what's being taught is still paramount and standards remain high at MCC. Leaving with an Associates Degree or Certificate in a field from this college is a great step for anyone, and now, it could be yours free of cost as a thanks for the work put in as a "Frontliner" during the pandemic. 
Click Here for Futures for Frontliners at MCC
The Futures for Frontliners Program was announced in detail a week or so ago and it's basically a GI Bill for those who were working in essential roles during our national emergency. How do we thank those who have worked in places like nursing homes, grocery stores, delivery jobs, sanitation, retail and more? All great jobs and all vital as we've come to see, but to be able to give someone the chance to better themselves through an education...that's free...that's a great return to those who have done so much.
There are a few requirements.
Be a Michigan resident
Have worked in an essential industry at least part-time for 11 of the 13 weeks between April 1 — June 30
Have been required to work outside the home at least some of the time between April 1 — June 30
Not have previously earned an associate or bachelor’s degree
Not be in default on a federal student loan
Complete a Futures for Frontliners scholarship application by 11:59 p.m. Dec. 31
The site also notes that if you enroll in your local, in district community college, you'll be able to get your degree tuition free. That means you won't pay any tuition, contact hours or mandatory fees out of pocket.
It's a pretty incredible opportunity and to understand it a little better, we paid a visit to Dr. John Selmon. He's the Provost and Executive Vice President of Muskegon Community College and we discussed the opportunity for the frontline workers, and for the college. Take a listen.
A pretty amazing chance for those who grind it out to keep things moving while so many had to take a pause. Something to take away from all we've been through is just how essential any job really is. Some, have to have more than one essential job to make ends meet and some might have an essential job because it's really what they love and where they fit best. But, hey...if you're one of those essentials and there's an offer like a free degree for you, snap it up! Do what you love and add to it the security of a degree or a certificate to prove that your highly qualified to do what you do? Ya! Or if that job is just a stepping stone for what you really see yourself doing...grab this chance at Muskegon Community College and run with it! What a way to say thank you to all those who've helped pull us through. To visit Muskegon Community College online, click below.
