There’s no doubt having a degree can open doors for career opportunities and advancement potential. Going to school requires time and commitment — and money. While you’ll have to manage the first two, Publix might be able to help you with the cost, through the tuition reimbursement program.

“Thanks to the tuition reimbursement program here at Publix, I was able to complete four years of college without having to take out a single student loan,” said Information Systems Programmer Kelly Amig.

Kelly started at Publix in 2000 as a part-time cashier while she was still in high school. She attended college full time after graduating from high school in 2003, and by 2007, she had earned a bachelor’s in business administration and marketing. She also had advanced in her career at Publix, including positions in accounting, manufacturing supply purchasing, strategy support, corporate purchasing, human resources and now information systems.

As a full-time college student, Kelly juggled her time, accommodating a 30 – 35 hour-per-week work schedule to pay for costs not covered by tuition reimbursement.

“It was hectic but worth every minute,” she said. “I’ve been able to grow personally and professionally because I’ve stayed with Publix.”

To see if you’re eligible for tuition reimbursement or to find approved areas of study, visit
PASSport > Personal > Career & Self Development > Tuition Reimbursement or www.publix.org > Career and Self Development > Tuition Reimbursement. You can print and complete the program application, then fax it to (863) 284-3325. It takes about a month to process the application, so give yourself some time.

To apply for tuition reimbursement after you’ve been accepted into the program, print a reimbursement request form from PASSport or www.publix.org. Fax the completed form, a grade report and a receipt showing detailed tuition costs and payment methods, such as check or credit card, student loan, scholarship or grant. It takes up to four weeks to process the request; once approved, the reimbursement is added to your regular pay statement.

“The tuition reimbursement program process couldn’t have been easier,” said Kelly, adding that she would absolutely recommend the program to other associates.