Uber, ASU partnership celebrates 5 years
More than 1,000 graduates have received their degrees through the ASU-Uber partnership. ASU photo
By Lauren Ikenn
As Arizona State University continues to push the boundaries of innovation and accessibility in higher education, the university’s partnership with Uber stands out as an example of how corporate alliances can create new opportunities for learners.
The partnership, which offers eligible Uber drivers, couriers and family members 100% tuition coverage to ASU Online, has already celebrated more than 1,100 graduates and, as it reaches the fifth anniversary of its nationwide offering, recently expanded to include Barrett, The Honors College.
A pathway to second chances and academic excellence
For many Uber drivers, couriers and family members, the partnership with ASU represents more than just an educational offering. It’s a second chance to achieve dreams that may have once seemed out of reach.
“The Uber-ASU partnership is an example of the future of education,” said Josh Plotke, an Uber driver and current ASU Online student. “By giving drivers a college degree, Uber offers a second chance to achieve educational dreams, whether it’s finishing a degree or starting anew.”
This sentiment underscores the partnership's broader impact. Many drivers who had to abandon their academic aspirations due to financial constraints now find themselves back on track, thanks to Uber’s support.
“I wish more Uber drivers knew there isn’t a ‘catch’ with the college degree from ASU. It’s a genuine reward that can even be shared with a family member, allowing more people to access this incredible opportunity,” Plotke said.
Expanding opportunities through Barrett, The Honors College
In a significant development, beginning in fall 2024, the partnership will include coverage of Barrett, The Honors College.
This addition was driven by Plotke’s advocacy, highlighting the partnership’s responsiveness to its participants’ needs and goals.
“I reached out to various ASU and Uber leaders, and after a persistent effort, I’m thrilled that starting in the fall semester, Uber will cover the Barrett fee. This opens new doors for drivers aspiring to pursue graduate school or other advanced degrees.”
With this new addition also comes a new community.
“The most valuable thing about the honors college is having the opportunity to surround yourself with like-minded, academically ambitious students. It makes you feel like you aren’t alone,” Plotke said.
Corporate partnerships as a catalyst for innovation
For ASU, corporate partnerships such as the one with Uber are about expanding access to education and creating innovative learning opportunities that align with the evolving needs of today’s learners.
Sean Hobson, chief design officer at EdPlus at ASU, emphasized the importance of these collaborations.
“All partnerships are integral to ASU’s mission. They help us widen our aperture for learning, allowing us to offer more personalized and flexible educational experiences.”
Hobson highlighted how Uber’s technological expertise has been integral in crafting a seamless, user-friendly educational platform that integrates with the demands of Uber drivers' lives.
“Uber values learning and supports its earners in their journey toward various goals. We’ve worked together to create a frictionless experience that allows drivers to earn a degree while managing their work commitments,” Hobson said.
The partnership’s success lies in aligning both organizations' core values.
Liza Winship, Uber’s director of driver operations, articulated this shared vision.
“Drivers are the backbone of our platform, and we believe that the financial burden of student loans shouldn’t be a barrier to their career advancement. ASU and Uber have worked together to support our drivers in achieving their goals, whether earning a degree for themselves or a family member,” she said.
As the partnership celebrates its fifth anniversary, ASU and Uber are focused on expanding awareness of the program and reaching more students.
“There is unbelievable potential for what this partnership can achieve,” Hobson said. “We’re constantly evolving to meet the needs of our learners and creating opportunities that can be transformational for individuals and their families.”
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