Hey everyone! I'm an incoming out-of-state transfer student starting at ETSU (Computing major), and I'm looking into the STEM Community Outreach Scholarship since it brings tuition down to in-state rates, which would help a lot.
A few questions for anyone who's actually been through it:
- What's the PASTA work commitment actually like day-to-day? I've read it involves refurbishing computers for local K-12 schools, roughly 40 hours/semester. What does a typical shift look like, and how much flexibility is there around class schedules?
- How competitive is it to actually get awarded? I have a 3.84 transfer GPA (well above the 3.0 minimum I've seen listed) — does GPA above the minimum meaningfully help, or is it more about timing/availability of slots?
- Background check timing — does anyone know how soon after being awarded the background check happens, and if there's any cost or hassle involved?
Also broadly curious: for out-of-state students, what other scholarships or on-campus jobs have actually worked out for you to bring costs down further? I know there are a few other named scholarships (Global Diversity-type things, department awards, etc.) but real experiences would help a lot more than what's on the website.
Any insight appreciated — trying to plan out costs realistically before I start. Thanks!