Scholarship Saga: Students Left in Lurch

Students at a Massachusetts college are facing a financial nightmare after the institution's sudden closure. Alisha DiTaranto and Anne Brown, two recent graduates, were each awarded $10,350 in state scholarships. However, months later, the funds remain untouched, leaving them worried and frustrated. The college's bankruptcy filing has put the stipends in limbo, and the students fear they might have to repay the money as a loan. "It's not fair," DiTaranto said. "This is state money meant for us, not the college's to keep." The scholarships were part of a $129,375 program for 13 students studying behavioral health. The recipients were required to work in an eligible behavioral health setting within six months of completing their degree.

If they fail to meet the requirements, they'll have to repay the funds. Brown received an email about a loan disclosure statement, which only added to her confusion and stress. "I don't understand why I'm being asked to repay money I never received," she said. The students are now struggling to make ends meet, with some relying on family members to cover their expenses. They're seeking help from the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education and the state attorney general's office. A spokesperson for the department said they're exploring options to get the funding to the students. Meanwhile, the students are left wondering if they'll ever receive the stipends they were promised.

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