A recent graduate of G.W. Carver High School, Breunna Carter always knew she wanted to attend college, but had it not been for the Birmingham Promise, she would have picked an out-of-state school. “When I received a significant scholarship from Alabama A&M University and a commitment from the Birmingham Promise scholarship to cover most of my college expenses, attending an in-state university was a no-brainer,” Carter said.
When Carter attends Alabama A&M University in the fall, the scholarships from Birmingham Promise and the college will help alleviate any concerns of how she will cover rising tuition expenses.
The Birmingham Promise is a 501(c)(3) organization, which receives public and private funding to help students like Carter discover and achieve their dreams. The Birmingham Promise scholarship program can be used to help pay tuition and mandatory fees at any public two-year or four-year college in Alabama.
Carter plans to pursue a degree in civil engineering, and upon graduating, her hopes are to give back to the city that has invested so much in its students. “My heart is in Birmingham and after completing my degree, I will return back to lend my talents and knowledge to ensure that Birmingham continues to thrive,” said Carter.
The Birmingham Promise strives to make a better future more affordable and accessible for all Birmingham City Schools students, and Carter encourages those who are enrolled in the system to take full advantage of the program.
“To future seniors, take every opportunity that’s given to you,” Carter said. “You’ll never know what you can accomplish; so, take that leap of faith with the Birmingham Promise and you’ll be surprised at the outcome.”