By Veronica Gonzalez Hoff, Division of Student Affairs

The Division of Student Affairs is helping students break the financial barrier associated with participation in activities through the Aggie Experience Fund. Students will have the opportunity to apply for funding to help them participate in activities, events and programming that require fees.

Donors and other partners hope the establishment of the Aggie Experience Fund will enable students of all backgrounds to have the opportunity to participate in “the other education” through university-recognized organizations, committees, or programs that have a cost associated with participation. 

Some of those opportunities that have a cost associated with participation include Fish Camp, Aggie Transition Camps, MSC Stark Northeast Trip, Freshman Leadership Organizations, Sport Clubs, and leadership conferences.

One of the strategic goals for the Division of Student Affairs is to offer student programming and experience opportunities to students of all financial means. Some of these experiences require participation fees that are cost-prohibitive for some students. 

“As envisioned, The Aggie Experience Fund will ensure that every Aggie has the opportunity to be part of our vibrant campus community,” said Daniel J. Pugh Sr., vice president of the Division of Student Affairs. “All too often, we hear that personal financial resources or access to discretionary funds inhibit a student from joining or participating in the Aggie Experience. Thanks to our donors, individual students and student organizations will be able to access opportunity funding to those in most need.”

Fees will be approved only if the area of participation (student organization, committee, or program) is recognized and in good standing by Texas A&M University. Participation in the event or program should also benefit the institution. The area of participation must reflect the Aggie core values while creating a shared experience around traditions, leadership and service, diversity and inclusion, and/or, involvement and engagement while promoting safety and wellbeing.

Funds will not be allocated to students requesting below a $50 fee threshold. If fees fall under the $50 threshold and extreme financial need is determined by Student Financial Aid, a committee will review the application as appropriate.