To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to respectfully request consideration for an Exception to Policy (ETP) through the Michigan National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program (MINGSTAP) to assist in funding my ongoing education. I am currently enrolled at Henry Ford College with a 3.7 GPA as of the Winter 2025 semester. I am committed to maintaining this performance and am actively working toward my long-term goal of commissioning through ROTC at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
This request comes after a series of personal and administrative challenges that affected my ability to submit Tuition Assistance (FTA) and MINGSTAP requests on time. During the Fall 2024 and Winter 2025 semesters, I was flagged, which prevented me from accessing ArmyIgnitED benefits. The process of being unflagged was delayed significantly due to my unit's monthly drill schedule and the time it takes for administrative actions to move through the chain of command. I am now unflagged and in good standing, but the deadlines for FTA submission have since passed.
Compounding this situation, I also experienced a personal medical emergency while simultaneously caring for my father, who underwent serious heart surgery. As his sole caregiver, I have taken on significant responsibilities at home, while also balancing academic demands, work obligations, and my duties in the Army National Guard. Despite these challenges, I remain disciplined, dedicated, and determined to continue my academic journey and professional growth.
MINGSTAP funding would make a critical difference in helping me stay on track toward my goals. It would ensure that I can continue to perform at a high level academically while fulfilling my responsibilities as a soldier and a caregiver. I respectfully ask for your support in granting me an ETP so that I can utilize the benefits I've earned to continue my education and pursue my full potential.
I understand the importance of respecting timelines and procedures, and I assure you that going forward, I will be diligent in submitting all MINGSTAP and FTA requests in a timely manner. I am deeply motivated to succeed and to represent the Army National Guard with integrity, discipline, and purpose.
Thank you for your time, understanding, and consideration of my request.
Respectfully,
