After serving in the Marine Corps and owning his own business for many years, Gary Martinez decided to pursue his next dream — enrolling at the University of Dayton as a first-generation student.
“I wanted to prove to myself that I could do this, and I wanted to prove to my daughter that, no matter how old you are, you can still pursue a dream,” said Martinez, who is now in his second year studying dietetics and general studies. He was up for the challenge on his own, but when he learned he was receiving the Osher Reentry Scholarship, it made his first steps a little lighter.
Awarded to students aged 25-50 who have experienced a gap of five or more years in their education, the Osher Reentry Scholarship adds diversity of age, thought and perspective to the student body.
As an Osher Reentry Scholarship recipient, Martinez has fully immersed himself in the holistic student experience at UD. “I wouldn’t be able to take as many classes as I’m taking right now without the scholarship, and I probably wouldn’t be as stress-free,” he said.
Beyond helping students make UD a reality, the scholarship allows nontraditional students to access a wealth of helpful resources. Returning to school after many years away poses its academic challenges — re-engaging with study habits, adjusting to new technologies and balancing coursework with new family responsibilities.
Through resources like the Write Place, students have the ability to ease back into the world of academia. Trey Bruner, a veteran majoring in health and wellness, utilizes the Write Place often.
“There’s been a large gap of time since I took English 101,” he said, “so having someone get eyes on your paper and give you feedback besides your professor is pretty valuable.”
While students like Martinez and Bruner benefit from the resources and opportunities afforded to them by the University, the entire community benefits from the unique perspectives that they bring to the table.
“I think there's such tremendous value to nontraditional students that provides a level of perspective to the traditional 18 to 22-year-old students in the same classes with them,” shared Bruner, noting how he strives to lead by example in all of his classes. “It’s just value-added all around, to the individuals and to the University.”
Thanks to the Osher Reentry Scholarship, the University of Dayton continues to deepen its commitment to inclusive excellence and the common good, allowing nontraditional students to navigate tough obstacles with the help of the Flyer community.
“The difference one scholarship makes can either make you or break you,” shared Martinez. “And for me, it’s making me. It’s allowing me to pursue my education. It’s allowing me to pursue another goal.”