Q&A with Single Parent Student Gary Thompson

Meet Gary Thompson! This single dad from Izard County is an inspiring example of perseverance and commitment to building a brighter future for himself and his family.

After a series of layoffs, Gary realized he needed to further his education to provide for his 9-year-old daughter, Shelby. He enrolled in Ozarka College’s welding program, and despite many years out of school and working part-time, he’s maintained a 4.0 GPA and is ready to graduate.  

Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund has named Gary the December 2024 Student of the Month. To learn more about this dedicated dad, ASPSF asked him a few questions. Here’s what he said:

Why did you choose your major and what are your career goals?
I chose the welding field due to the industry’s high demand for workers and its good wages. I plan to work on pipelines that carry fuel, such as gas, oil, and diesel, across the country with an expected starting wage of $45 an hour once I’m able to complete certifications.

Has your daughter been influenced by your return to school? 
She’s intrigued by me attending school and encourages me to excel because she excels in school, too.

What’s a challenge you’ve overcome?
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered is a limited income to support my family while going to school full-time. Finding after-school care for my daughter while I’m in late classes has also been a huge challenge. But with the support services at school and the ASPSF scholarship, these needs have been met! Knowing there is support when needed and connection to resources to help overcome obstacles has been important.

How did you use your flexible scholarship from ASPSF?
Funds were used to pay for necessities, such as car insurance, utility bills, and groceries. The support of this program while pursuing my dream will be forever appreciated.

If you could thank an ASPSF donor in person, what would you say to them?
There really are not words that are adequate to express appreciation. I’m just so grateful to have the support because without generous donors, continuing education and pursuing certification in a high-demand skilled field with good wages to better support my child would not be possible. 

ASPSF Recipient Gary Thompson receives his Fall 2024 Scholarship from volunteer Amber Grady.