Seminole State College offers $250 to students, staff members who prove they are fully vaccinated

SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Students at Seminole State College can get paid for getting a COVID-19 vaccine.

The college is rolling out the incentive program now that in-person classes have resumed.

The college is offering students $250 if they prove they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

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Some students said they would appreciate the extra cash, while others said they are still not convinced.

“Just looking forward really to getting things back to normal,” said William Bernys. “I know it’s a cliché thing to say.”

The fall semester started this week with a return to full campus operations.

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“The health and safety of our employees and students is always at the forefront of this,” said Mark Richardson, manager of public relations and communications.

The college is using federal funds to pay students and staff members if they prove they are fully vaccinated by Oct. 15.

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“A lot of people struggling these days,” Richardson said. “If money was there, it was eligible for students, and we’re more than happy to help them out.”

Students like Juliana Barrera said the financial incentive is not enough to persuade her to get the shot just yet.

“I think it’s a very hard decision,” she said. “Ultimately, I think I need a little bit more research.”

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Bernys said he supports the idea. “I think it’s a good incentive in order to encourage people to get vaccinated and help slow down the virus.”

The college is holding vaccination clinics in Altamonte Springs and at the Sanford/Lake Mary campus through Thursday.

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