Tuition Assistance Program Spotlight: Gwen, Workers’ Compensation

In a study by EdAssist, an organization that helps employers measure their college tuition assistance programs’ effectiveness, more than 80% of employees surveyed indicated financial aid played a critical role in deciding what company to join. Also, more than 70% of the respondents ranked tuition assistance second to healthcare in benefits importance.

When Gwen joined NJM in 2021 as a Property Damage Representative in the General Claims Department, she had attained college credits — but not enough to complete her degree.

Gwen became eligible for NJM’s Tuition Assistance Program after her first year with the company and decided it was time to earn her degree.

“I was close to graduating but didn’t have enough financial aid to pay for my courses,” she said. “NJM’s Tuition Assistance Program helped to cover the cost.”

The program reimburses up to $5,250 per employee per year for tuition, books, and related fees based on the course grade. It is part of the company’s commitment to providing employees with continuous learning opportunities, recognizing that education is essential for their professional and personal development.

Gwen graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business management from Southern New Hampshire University.

“I majored in business to make myself more marketable,” she said. “I minored in Human Resources because I enjoyed working in HR at a previous job.” Completing schoolwork after work provided Gwen with challenges that she overcame through perseverance.

“Working while earning my degree was difficult because I was raising my son,” she said. “I achieved it through effective time management and staying focused on my goal — to get my degree.”

Before graduating, she moved to a new department — Workers’ Compensation. Why?

“Because I enjoy a challenge and love growth,” she said. “Sometimes growth can be scary because it's unfamiliar, but I feel like growth is like breathing.”

NJM has helped many employees like Gwen pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees and apply that knowledge in their careers. She encourages others to consider taking advantage of NJM’s tuition assistance.

“I advise staying focused on your career path and doing it at your own pace,” Gwen said. “You might shed a tear or two along the way, and that’s OK. Just continue to push through. In the end, it’s worth it.”

Reference
“New Study Shows The Lasting Impact of Tuition Assistance,” https://investors.brighthorizons.com/news-releases/news-release-details/new-study-shows-lasting-impact-tuition-assistance (January 8, 2018)

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