Empowering Local Students
The Brazos Valley Promise (BVP) program was created in 2021 to help equip underrepresented students in our local community with the knowledge and resources they need to access higher education. Participants engage in in-school and on-campus programming that encourages their academic success, prepares them for the college admissions process, and exposes them to all that Texas A&M has to offer. This programming continues from 9th-12th grades, and students who enroll at Texas A&M will continue to receive support through college graduation.
The Brazos Valley Promise program prioritizes local students who may feel overlooked and takes direct action to make Texas A&M more accessible to those who lack the resources to take advantage of the world-class opportunities in their own backyard — the Brazos Valley currently maintains a poverty rate that is almost twice the national average. Our goal is to help these students stay in school, graduate from high school and gain admission to Texas A&M University or another college of their choice.
Who is Eligible?
The Brazos Valley Promise program was created to increase college access for first-generation, low-income students. Program selection begins with student nominations in the spring of students’ 8th grade year. Students and families at participating schools will receive information regarding program eligibility and the nomination process from BVP staff and school counselors.For the upcoming school year, the Brazos Valley Promise program has partnered with high schools in Bryan, College Station, and Navasota ISDs. If you are a school or district leader interested in bringing BVP to your district, please contact bvpromise@tamu.edu.
What is the Benefit?
All students who complete the Brazos Valley Promise program and are admitted to Texas A&M University will receive full funding for four years of tuition and required fees.In addition to the financial benefit of this program, participants benefit from:
- Regular opportunities to connect with staff and students from Texas A&M
- Participation in activities and field trips on Texas A&M’s campus
- Additional support and guidance as they explore college options and the application process
- Continued mentorship and support through high school and college (for students who attend Texas A&M)
How Can Families Support?
Family support and encouragement is a critical component of student success, and for first-generation college students it is especially important that families are supportive of their student’s desire to pursue higher education.The Brazos Valley Promise program provides opportunities for families to learn more about preparing for and applying for college, and we encourage families of BVP students to be active participants in this programming. Other ways families can support their student include:
- Celebrating your student’s hard work in school
- Encouraging your student to take challenging classes
- Asking your student about his/her interests and passions
- Attending college access programs hosted by BVP and other community partners