Melvin Cowan's family didn't have money for college, but we knew he was priceless

We couldn't afford not to accept Melvin. He was a dedicated high school student who wanted to change his life and help those around him. Now, through classroom experience and an internship, he's an enthusiastic mentor in campus clubs, and an agent of positive social change. Simply put, he's what Berea's all about—making the most of opportunities, and creating them for others.

A few years ago, Melvin was worried about his situation. His family didn't have money for tuition. In his neighborhood, drugs and crime surrounded him. He had few available options. But on a trip to Berea during his sophomore year of high school, Melvin learned about Berea's academic excellence, tuition scholarships and the internationally recognized Berea Work Program.