Murray State College has created a new initiative, the Aggie Work Scholarship Program, beginning in the Fall 2026 semester. The program is designed to expand student access to affordable education while providing hands-on work experience across Murray State’s campus operations.

“The Aggies Work program was developed to address student affordability while providing meaningful workplace experience,” said Amy McCain, Murray State College Dean of Learning and Student Success. “By combining campus employment with professional skill development, the program enables students to support their education while building experience that prepares them for future careers.”

The program serves eligible degree-seeking students enrolled at Murray State who are committed to maintaining academic progress and meeting work responsibilities. Participants typically average 15 hours per week over the 16-week fall and spring terms at designated campus locations, including the 1919 Hotel, Murray on Main stores, Clyde Kindell Farm and more. In return, students receive tuition assistance and, in some cases, additional support based on eligibility and placement.

“What sets this program apart is that it places students directly in active college operations rather than in simulated training environments,” said Becky Henthorn, Murray State College Provost. “Students work in real service roles that support fellow students, employees and the surrounding community as part of daily campus operations.”

Workforce placements will span several key areas of campus engagement and expose students to a variety of work environments that reflect regional workforce needs and common service-based industries.

At the 1919 Hotel at Historic Chickasaw Hall, students may assist with front desk operations, guest services, housekeeping and general hospitality support in a functioning hotel serving real guests.

At Murray State’s Clyde Kindell Farm, students gain hands-on experience in agricultural operations, including livestock care, crop production, facility maintenance and equipment support, in a working farm environment.

At one of three Murray on Main locations, students may support retail operations, customer service, merchandising, marketing activities and event coordination for campus and community events.

In addition to job placement, the program helps students develop transferable workplace skills through daily experience, supervision, and feedback. Students build competencies such as communication, teamwork, accountability, time management and adaptability, with these skills reinforced by their regular responsibilities rather than isolated training exercises.

“Aggies Work is an innovative approach to serving multiple priorities at once,” said Dr. Tim Faltyn, Murray State College President. “By embedding students in real-world work environments connected to their college experience, graduates will leave with both academic achievement and documented, relevant experience that will appeal to employers and help them get to work and support their families faster.”

Students interested in participating in Aggies Work will complete an employment application as part of the scholarship program's selection process. Applicants may also be asked to participate in an interview and placement process, subject to program availability and campus workforce needs. Applications for the Fall 2026 semester will be available by July 1, 2026.