Scholar Achievement Award

The dual life of a military service member and a student is one defined by unparalleled commitment, discipline, and resilience. For those of Puerto Rican heritage or residents of Puerto Rico, this journey reflects not only a dedication to service and education but also a deep connection to their cultural identity. The Helpful Army Links Scholar Achievement Award was created to honor the achievements of these exceptional individuals who balance military service and the pursuit of higher education, highlighting their invaluable contributions to both their nation and their community.

Puerto Rican service members have long been recognized for their courage, dedication, and contributions to the U.S. Armed Forces. Whether serving on active duty, in the reserves, or in the National Guard, they embody values of leadership, perseverance, and commitment. The Helpful Army Links Scholar Achievement Award is exclusively for these military-affiliated students who graduate with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Puerto Rico.

This award celebrates the unique challenges faced by military students who must navigate the demanding worlds of academia and service simultaneously. By restricting eligibility to service members with Puerto Rican heritage or residency, the award reinforces the importance of their cultural and geographical ties, fostering pride in their identity while recognizing their remarkable achievements.

Education is a transformative tool and achieving a bachelor’s degree while serving in the military is a testament to extraordinary determination and hard work. Candidates for the award must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, a standard that underscores the value of academic excellence. This requirement not only highlights their intellectual achievements but also their ability to manage the dual responsibilities of service and scholarship.

For Puerto Rican service members, graduating from a local institution strengthens their ties to the island and showcases the importance of investing in their community. The Helpful Army Links Scholar Achievement Award honors this milestone, serving as a symbol of their success and dedication to personal growth.

The life of a military service member is filled with unique challenges, from demanding schedules to deployments and training commitments. For those pursuing a degree, these challenges are magnified as they must balance the rigorous demands of military service with the complexities of academic life. Despite these obstacles, Puerto Rican service members persevere, embodying resilience and a steadfast commitment to their goals.

The Helpful Army Links Scholar Achievement Award acknowledges this extraordinary effort, recognizing that these individuals are not just students but also soldiers who serve their country with honor. Their ability to excel in both roles sets them apart as leaders and role models within their communities.

The Helpful Army Links Scholar Achievement Award honors the unique accomplishments of Puerto Rican service members who exemplify excellence in both military service and education. By celebrating their academic achievements, cultural heritage, and dedication to their nation, the award highlights the profound impact of these individuals on their communities and inspires future generations to strive for greatness. It is a testament to the strength, determination, and pride of Puerto Rican service members as they forge new paths of success, embodying the values of both scholarship and service.

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for the Helpful Army Links Legacy Award, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Military Affiliation:

Must be a current member of the U.S. Armed Forces, including active-duty service members, reservists, or National Guard members.
ROTC cadets actively enrolled in a Puerto Rican college or university are also eligible.

Puerto Rican Heritage or Residency:

Applicants must either:
- Be of Puerto Rican heritage (by descent) or
- Be permanent residents of Puerto Rico.

Education:

Must be graduating from a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Puerto Rico.
The degree must be conferred during the current academic year (or within the past 12 months).

Academic Achievement:

Must have maintained a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher throughout their undergraduate studies.

Good Standing:

Military service members must be in good standing with their respective branch of service at the time of application.

Community Impact:

Demonstrate a commitment to community service, leadership, or other contributions to the local Puerto Rican community or military organizations.

Documentation:

Applicants must provide proof of the following:
- Military affiliation (military ID, or a letter from a commanding officer).
- Puerto Rican residency or heritage (e.g., house address or similar).
- Academic achievement (e.g., official transcripts or diploma).

Additional Considerations:

Special consideration may be given to applicants who have overcome significant challenges in balancing military service and academic pursuits or have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities.
Self-nominations and nominations by commanding officers, faculty members, or peers are accepted.

Optional Letters of Recommendation:

Letters of recommendation are not required, but they will be accepted if submitted.

Apply Now

Award Application

The Helpful Army Links Legacy Award

Important Instructions:

Before submitting your application, please:

Carefully Read the Requirements: Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria for the award.
Fill Out All Fields: Complete every section of the application form accurately.
Submit Necessary Documents: Include the following:
- Your school transcript (official copy).
- Proof of military service
- Optional Letters of Recommendation: These are not required but will be accepted if submitted.

Incomplete applications or missing documents may disqualify your submission.

If you have any questions, please contact us at helpfularmylinks.org.

Thank you for your attention to detail, and best of luck!