Temple University Program Paying Students for Not Working Takes Hold

Jobs, Skills and Training

A Temple University program that pays students up to $4,000 per year if they commit to not work more than 15 hours per week off campus is growing in popularity in its second year.  While the stated purpose of the "Fly in 4" program is to help the most disadvantaged students get through college in four years, the impact on the employment prospects of graduates could be substantial as an increasing number of employers require up to three years of work experience for entry level jobs.  Students participating in the program must sign an agreement that they will meet with an academic adviser at least once per semester, register for classes that are consistent with their academic plan, notify an adviser immediately if a required course is not available and complete at least 30 credits per year.  Not surprisingly, the program, which provides money for not working is wildly popular among students.  Though it is supposed to target the neediest students, nearly 90 percent of last year's freshman class signed the pledge, as did 93 percent of this year's freshman class.