Presidents of 10 N.J. public universities and colleges encourage students to “come home”

The presidents of 10 New Jersey four-year public universities and colleges today issued a call for the 120,000 state residents who attend higher education institutions outside of the state to come home, enroll in New Jersey institutions, and help rebuild as a part of the all-new New Jersey Scholar Corps.

The institutions will accept credits earned with a grade of C or better from an accredited out-of-state college or university, promise a speedy review of applications and offer guaranteed housing, where available, based on availability at the time the student commits.

“New Jersey needs your energy, your intelligence, and your commitment,” the presidents wrote in a joint statement. “This is an unprecedented period in our history, a time that calls for everyday heroes to show up and give back. Think of the Peace Corps and AmeriCorps. Think of those natural disasters and crises when young people turned out to fight for what’s right, to push us toward a hopeful future.”

As New Jersey seeks to recover from the most devastating effects of the coronavirus outbreak, the state will need more bright, talented young people to help rebuild its businesses, non-profits, schools and health system.

An estimated 33,000 residents leave New Jersey each year to attend a college or university in another state. The presidents of the participating public colleges and universities have partnered to offer a unique incentive for them to return home.

“We have already seen an uptick in students showing an interest in staying in state to attend college,” says President Ali Houshmand of Rowan University. “The NJ Come Home campaign provides an added incentive, particularly for those who are looking to make a difference in the lives of others. For those studying out of state, now is the time to consider staying home in New Jersey.”

The New Jersey Scholar Corps will provide students with volunteer opportunities to serve their local communities, while gaining valuable experience and building their professional networks.

The participating institutions are Montclair State University, the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Rowan University, Kean University, New Jersey City University, Ramapo College, Stockton University, The College of New Jersey, Thomas Edison State University and William Paterson University.

Students and families may learn more about this new initiative at NJComeHome.org.