Hip-hop artist Dee-1 bridged his dream—he went to college and found his passion for music and teaching. He just wrapped his third consecutive tour with us, where he spoke with students about the importance of going to college and also inspired counselors and community leaders to nominate students for a $25K Bridging the Dream Scholarship. The nomination window is closed and winners will be announced beginning in November 2018.
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Dee-1's planning-for-college tips
Why go to college?
- It’s an investment in your future.
- You’ll have career options.
- You’ll meet new people and make connections you’ll value the rest of your life.
How to pay for college?
- Get your share of the $150 billion the government sets aside for students by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Max out on free money. Apply for as many college scholarships as possible!
- If you need a student loan, don’t borrow more than what you expect your salary will be after you graduate.
Why a degree matters?
- You can make more money if you have a college degree.
- Earn the return on money you’ve spent. Remember, you’ll have to repay student loans even if you don’t graduate—and that will be much harder without a degree.
In 2016, Dee-1 and Sallie Mae teamed up for a successful tour in five states, giving away $95,000 for college, and inspiring more than 3,000 high school students. See Dee-1 in action.

I had a huge dream to graduate college and it changed my life forever. Now, I want to help inspire high school students to bridge their dreams and make college happen.
— Dee-1