Raritan Valley Community College student Jei Budiharto of Piscataway was named on Mar. 25 as one of 31 New Jersey community college students selected as a semifinalist for the Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship, according to the nonprofit Jack Kent Cooke Foundation.
The scholarship aims to help high-achieving community college students complete their bachelor’s degrees without debt at any accredited four-year U.S. college or university by providing up to $55,000 per year for two to three years. The award is designed to remove financial barriers and allow recipients to pursue advanced studies at leading institutions.
This year, there are 485 semifinalists chosen from over 1,300 applicants nationwide, representing 224 community colleges across 37 states. Selection was based on academic achievement, perseverance, and leadership qualities. Budiharto is majoring in engineering with a focus on biomedical engineering and plans to transfer after graduating in May. Budiharto serves as Vice President of Information and Media for the Student Government Association, is a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and acts as Internal Coordinator for the Filipino Peace Club.
“Through the Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship, the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation works to ensure that exceptional community college students have the opportunities to reach their full academic potential,” said Cooke Foundation Executive Director Giuseppe “Seppy” Basili. “This year’s semifinalists reflect the remarkable talent and ambition found in community colleges nationwide.”
Recipients receive more than just financial support; they are also provided with personalized educational advising from Deans of Scholar Support who assist them during their transition into four-year institutions and help prepare them for future careers. Additional benefits include access to internships, study abroad programs, graduate school funding opportunities, and membership in a network of over 3,800 fellow scholars and alumni offering mentorship throughout their academic journey.
The foundation will announce this year’s scholarship winners in May.
The New Jersey Business and Industry Association serves as the nation’s largest statewide employer association representing employers across various sectors according to its official website. The association advances competitive excellence among its members while delivering essential information and services according to its official website. Michele Siekerka is president and chief executive officer according to its official website. The association supports private-sector employers throughout New Jersey according to its official website, facilitates partnerships among businesses, government entities, and academic institutions according to its official website, and offers advocacy along with practical information intended for business prosperity according to its official website.