A Dream Reignited: How One Man’s College Plans Were Transformed
Joseph Collin, 38, had a simple plan: take a few classes at Del Mar College while saving money to complete the surgical technology program. However, that plan changed dramatically when he discovered Del Mar College’s new Freedom to Dream tuition waiver program.
On May 21, Collin committed to full-time studies at no cost—an opportunity he calls life-changing. “This puts me in a position to challenge myself,” he said, embracing a faster and more affordable route to his career goals.
What Is the Freedom to Dream Tuition Waiver?
Approved by the Del Mar College Board of Regents in March, the Freedom to Dream tuition waiver offers up to three years of free tuition and fees for qualifying students who reside in the college’s taxing district. Participants must enroll full-time and maintain at least a 2.0 GPA.
The program aims to increase access to higher education, particularly for first-time college students and adult learners with 12 or fewer prior college credit hours (excluding dual-credit courses taken in high school).
Program Response and Eligibility Stats Show High Demand
Since its announcement, the program has gained significant traction. Del Mar College says over 2,130 individuals have inquired about the program. More than 1,140 qualified from these, and over 530 have already signed agreements to participate.
Del Mar College President Mark Escamilla emphasized the program’s goal: “We want our students to have the freedom to fully focus on what’s most important.”
A Shift Toward Full-Time Enrollment for Student Success
Del Mar College reports that a majority of its students currently attend part-time. This tuition waiver encourages full-time enrollment to help students complete their degrees or certificates within three years. Options include associate degrees, Level I or II certificates, or Occupational Skills Awards.
The financial model involves initial funding from the Del Mar College Foundation, with future sustainability tied to state funding based on student outcomes. As students complete their programs, the state provides financial support to cover tuition waiver costs.
Real Student Stories: From Part-Time Plans to Full-Time Dreams
Juliana Henson, a recent graduate of the School of Science and Technology High School, originally planned to work and attend college part-time. Thanks to the tuition waiver, she’ll now study nursing full-time without the burden of tuition.
“I think it’s a good initiative,” Henson said, though she wishes it had come earlier for her older sister.
Similarly, Vincent Treviño, who graduated from Carroll High School, is leveraging the waiver to continue paramedic training at Del Mar. He aims to pursue a career as a physician assistant.
Corazón Alvarez, a Calallen High School senior, chose Del Mar College because of the waiver. She’ll study diagnostic medical sonography to become a pediatric ultrasound technician.
“The waiver saved us from financial stress,” said her mother, Gloria Rodriguez. “I think it’s a huge blessing.”
Broad Eligibility Across Coastal Bend
Students residing in the Corpus Christi, Calallen, Flour Bluff, Tuloso-Midway, and West Oso districts—and parts of London and Robstown—are eligible. While the waiver targets new college students, returning adult learners can qualify with 12 or fewer earned credits (excluding dual credits).
Application and Financial Aid Flexibility
To apply, students must confirm eligibility through an online form at delmar.edu/freedom. Importantly, the waiver acts as “first dollar” aid, which applies before other financial support like scholarships or Pell Grants. This waiver allows students to use the additional assistance for textbooks or living expenses.
Looking Ahead: A Pilot with Long-Term Promise?
Del Mar College has approved the tuition waiver only for students enrolling in fall 2025. However, Board Chair Carol Scott hinted that it could continue if the program proves sustainable.
“We’ll evaluate participation and the financial model,” Scott said. “I think the board’s interest would be to keep it going.”