How Chick-fil-A Scholarships Are Changing Lives
At Chick-fil-A Park Blvd & Plano Pkwy, we don’t just serve chicken—we serve opportunities. Through scholarship programs like the Remarkable Futures Scholarship (funded by Chick-fil-A, Inc.) and our restaurant’s own Beyond Chikin Scholarship, we invest in the education and future success of our team members.
This year, several of our outstanding employees earned scholarships to help fund their academic and career goals. Their stories are a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the power of community support.
If you’re a Chick-fil-A team member (or considering joining our team), these scholarships could be your key to unlocking a brighter future. Keep reading to meet some of this year’s recipients—and discover how you can apply!
Evan Olson: Future Trauma Surgeon
Evan Olson, August 2025
Evan Olson isn’t your typical pre-med student. Between studying biochemistry at Samford University, prepping for the MCAT, and leading the Samford Food Heroes Club, he’s also a three-year Chick-fil-A team member—and a two-time winner of the Remarkable Futures Scholarship.
A Calling for Medicine & Service
Evan’s passion for medicine started early. "Ever since I was young, I’ve been fascinated by science and the human body," he shares. But it wasn’t just the academic challenge that drew him—it was the opportunity to make a real difference.
His time at Chick-fil-A and mission trips to Zambia and Ecuador showed him the impact of compassionate care. "At Chick-fil-A, something as small as remembering a customer’s name can brighten their day. As a future ER doctor, I want to bring that same level of care to patients in their hardest moments."
Evan’s discipline comes from years of competitive swimming (15+ hours a week!) and earning the rank of Eagle Scout. Though an injury ended his college swimming dreams, it reinforced his resilience. "Swimming taught me to push through even when I didn’t feel like it—just like working the lunch rush at Chick-fil-A!" He credits his father in showing him how to be a Godly man and to work hard and take pride in every endeavor.
Now, as President of the Samford University Food Heroes Club, he leads efforts to rescue surplus campus food for local shelters.
How the Scholarship Helped
When Evan first received Chick-fil-A’s Remarkable Futures Scholarship, last year, he was "surprised and grateful" to have been awarded the scholarship. He has since been awarded twice. It has reduced the financial pressure of his long academic journey, "Medical school means taking on a lot of debt. This scholarship lifts a huge financial burden so I can focus on my studies,” he shares.
Advice to Future Applicants
His advice to other team members? "Don’t hesitate to apply every year! Chick-fil-A truly invests in employees’ dreams, no matter where they come from."
James Caver: Future HVAC Specialist
James Caver, August 2025
James Caver, the oldest of three siblings from Whittier, California, understands the weight of hardship—and the power of resilience. At just eight years old, he lost his father to a rare heart condition, a loss that reshaped his family’s life. Their subsequent move to Texas became a defining chapter, teaching him early on that challenges don’t have to break you—they can forge strength. Now a second-year HVAC student at Collin College Technical Center, James is channeling that perseverance into building a stable future in the trades.
Though his father’s passing left a void, his legacy lives on in James. "Everyone who knew him tells me how genuine and caring he was," James shares. "I strive to be that kind of person—someone who makes a positive impact, no matter what." That drive led him to Chick-fil-A Park Blvd. & Plano Pkwy. in May 2022, where he found more than just a job—he found a second family.
As a Front of House team member, James quickly bonded with his coworkers, discovering a sense of belonging in the fast-paced environment. "What I enjoy most is the team bond we have with one another," he says.
A Scholarship That Made Dreams Possible
When James learned about Chick-fil-A’s scholarship opportunities, he saw a chance to ease the financial burden of his education. He made it his priority to work hard both at the store and at his school with the hopes of winning a scholarship. His dedication paid off when he was awarded the Beyond Chikin scholarship from Chick-fil-A Park Blvd. & Plano Pkwy. "It lifted a huge weight off my shoulders," he says. "My family and I weren’t sure how we’d cover tuition without me working extra shifts, so this was a game-changer." He adds, “I can’t thank Josh Ding enough.” The scholarship allowed him to focus fully on his HVAC studies, bringing him one step closer to his goal of a stable, rewarding career.
“Receiving the scholarship was a game changer. It had lifted a huge weight off my shoulders.”
James credits operator Josh Ding and Chick-fil-A, Inc. for creating a workplace that invests in its employees' futures. "This scholarship showed me that Chick-fil-A doesn’t just see us as workers—but also as individuals whose dreams,ambitions and futures matter" he says.
That sense of support has strengthened James’s confidence as he pursues his ambitions. The lessons he’s learned on the job—staying organized, balancing responsibilities, and giving his best effort—are the same habits he plans to carry with him into his career and future goals.
Advice for Fellow Team Members: Take the Leap
For those considering applying for a Chick-fil-A scholarship, James’s message is simple: "Go for it. The application process was straightforward, and the impact is life-changing."
Terine Sia: Future Nurse Anesthetist
Terine Sia's story begins in Sibu, Malaysia, but her dreams are taking flight in the United States. As an aspiring Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), Terine embodies the dedication and compassion needed in healthcare. "Since I was young, I've loved caring for my family," she shares. "Now, as my parents grow older, I want to use my nursing skills to give back to them – just as they've given everything for me."
"My parents sacrificed everything to give us opportunities in America," Terine shares, reflecting on her family's immigration journey. "They somehow always put warm food on the table, even when money was tight," Terine recalls. Her older sister stepped into a parenting role, creating a family dynamic built on sacrifice and love. These experiences taught Terine the patience and empathy that will make her an exceptional future nurse.
Terine Sia and Chick-fil-A Operator Josh Ding
Leading at Chick-fil-A & Beyond
“The application process is super simple. I tell every team member to just DO IT!”
What began as a high school job became a transformative experience for Terine. Now an Orientation Manager with five years at Chick-fil-A Park Blvd. & Plano Pkwy behind her, she doesn't just train new employees – she's redesigned training programs to better support emerging trainers.
Her favorite part of the job? The human connections. She absolutely loves creating meaningful connections with customers and has had the opportunity of meeting great people and learn from them throughout her time at Chick-fil-A.
A Scholarship That Became a Lifeline
"I didn't even know about the scholarship when I first started working here," Terine laughs. But once she learned about Chick-fil-A's Remarkable Futures Scholarship, in her senior year of high school, she did not hesitate to apply.
Terine is a three-time recipient of the Remarkable Futures Scholarship – an achievement that took on profound meaning after a life-altering car accident last year.
"When I had to stop working during recovery, the scholarship allowed me to continue my studies without worrying about finances," she shares. "It wasn't just about the money – it was knowing my Chick-fil-A family had my back."
The application process? "Super simple," Terine emphasizes. "I tell every team member: just DO IT. The few minutes it takes to apply can change your life."
Why Chick-fil-A's Investment Matters
For Terine, Chick-fil-A’s support is about much more than a scholarship. “Operator Josh Ding and our managers genuinely want to see us succeed,” she shares.
That commitment and support has shaped the way Terine approaches her future in nursing. As she works toward her degree, she carries with her lessons learned at Chick-fil-A—how to thrive as part of a team, serve others with compassion, and lead by setting the right example.
Terine's Advice to Fellow Team Members
Apply early and every year – persistence pays off.
See your job as career training – customer service skills translate to any field.
Lean on your Chick-fil-A community – they want to help you succeed.
"Chick-fil-A didn't just give me a job – it gave me the foundation to build my future," Terine reflects. "Now, as I work toward becoming a CRNA, I'm living proof of what happens when a company truly invests in its people."
1. Who is eligible for Chick-fil-A scholarships?
Chick-fil-A Inc. offers multiple scholarship opportunities, including:
Remarkable Futures Scholarship (Corporate):Team Members need to be employed at a franchised, company-owned and/or affiliated restaurant at the time of application and award, but there is no requirement of hours worked or length of service to qualify. Both full-time and part-time employees in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico are eligible. Local Restaurants may have additional application requirements.
Local Chick-fil-A restaurants may also offer scholarships. Please check with the management regarding their requirements.
2. How much money can I receive?
The Remarkable Futures Scholarship has different tiers.
Leadership Level: Awards up to $2,500 per year (renewable for up to 4 years).
True Inspiration: Awards a one time $25,000 scholarship.
3. What can the scholarship be used for?
Funds can cover tuition, books, fees, and other education-related expenses at accredited institutions (colleges, trade schools, etc.).
4. Do I need perfect grades to qualify?
No! While academic performance is considered, Chick-fil-A also values leadership, community involvement, and work ethic.
5. How competitive is the application process?
Thousands apply, but many awards go unclaimed simply because team members don’t apply! Take the chance—you could be one of them.
6. Can I apply more than once?
Yes! Evan and Terine (featured above) won multiple times. Reapply annually to maximize your opportunities.
7. How do I apply
Remarkable Futures: Apply online via Chick-fil-A’s scholarship portal.
Local Scholarships: Check with restaurant management.
More information about scholarships and tuition assistance can be found at Chick-fil-A’s Remarkable Futures.
Don’t let doubt hold you back—apply today and take the next step toward your dreams!
Interested in joining our Chick-fil-A Team? Click the button below to explore positions at Chick-fil-A Park.
Phai Nguyen works as a data engineer by day and has spent nearly a decade on the floor at Chick-fil-A Park Blvd. by night. This is the story of what happens when two very different worlds make each other better.