Sam grew up in Danville, Kentucky, where life was full of quiet routines, family pets, and wide-open pastures. His parents—a landscaper and a special education teacher—instilled in him the values of hard work, curiosity, and community. But Sam dreamed of more. He wanted to explore beyond what he knew, to meet new people, and to grow into the person he hoped to become.
That journey brought him to Berea College.
“One of the things that really drew me to Berea was the work program, because we get to work for the college,” Sam said. “It basically solves the problem of finding a job during college, so I don’t have to worry about juggling outside work that might not fit with my class schedule.” Every student at Berea works at least 10 hours a week, gaining important skills to prepare them for the future that awaits. The College also provides them a work stipend that helps them pay for personal items and other necessities. This helps Berea students graduate with the lowest educational debt in the country.
Sam chose Berea not only because of the No-Tuition Promise, but because he saw a place where students like him—creative, driven, and full of potential—could thrive. For Sam, who’s learning to navigate independence for the first time, Berea offered not just an education, but a launchpad.
Because of donors like you, Sam doesn’t have to worry about decades of crippling debt. But that’s only the beginning of what you’ve made possible. Before Berea, Sam had never even flown in an airplane. Now, he’s experiencing a semester abroad in Australia.
In fact, nearly 40% of Berea students study abroad—far exceeding the national average. Your support makes this possible. You’ve helped open the door to new cultures, new confidence, and a future full of possibilities. And you’re proving that the opportunity to study abroad is not something that’s only available to the wealthiest of students.
Sam’s gratitude runs deep. That’s why he’s a Berea Patron, joining fellow students who give back an average of $3 a month from their monthly work stipend to help future Bereans attend college debt-free. Since 2013, Berea Patrons have raised over $220,000—enough to complete more than 62 Tuition Promise Scholarships. Isn’t that inspiring? The dedication of Sam and his fellow Patrons speaks volumes about the impact of Berea’s educational opportunity.
“I’m grateful for what Berea’s donors have done for me,” Sam said. “I show my gratitude by being a Berea Patron, because I want to be a part of this positive movement, giving something back to the community here.”
Just like Sam and his fellow Patrons who give back to Berea every month, your gifts are creating the chance for an education like no other. Opportunities like study abroad, fully funded internships, the work program, and, of course, the No-Tuition Promise are what make Berea College different from any other institution. This fall, over 80% of first-year students came from families who could pay $0 for higher education.
None of this would be possible without your support.
Will you help open the door for the next student like Sam? Your gift today ensures that more students can thrive—debt-free, inspired, and ready to give back.