When Milo Spears started college at Indiana University Indianapolis as a drawing and illustration major, she had big dreams of publishing her first book of illustrations and landing an illustrator job or internship. But like many students, Spears faced the challenge of focusing on her passions while juggling a busy schedule, connecting to resources and support, and staying financially secure. 

That’s when Spears discovered Indy Achieves. Through the program, she received a last-dollar scholarship to cover tuition and fees not paid by other financial aid, as well as student success coaching that connected her to resources she didn’t know existed. For someone who describes herself as “very self-reliant,” asking for help wasn’t easy. But Indy Achieves changed that. 

“There is something so undeniably helpful about knowing there is somebody in my court right now who wants me to succeed, who will do what they can within their power to give me the tools I need so that I can be successful,” Spears said. “Indy Achieves has taught me that you can rely on people.” 

The support Spears received gave her the confidence to thrive — not just as a student, but as a leader. Today, she works at IU Indianapolis’ Bepko Learning Center as an academic success coach, helping other students reach their academic goals. 

“During one of Milo’s coaching sessions, she shared with me how our conversations became a model for how she helps her peers as an academic success coach,” said Melissa Salerno, student success coach for Indy Achieves. “Watching our students grow and thrive through Indy Achieves is incredible, not just as students, but as thoughtful, and empathic leaders in our community.” 

Indy Achieves is more than financial aid — it provides students with the tools and support they need to stay in school and finish strong. A key feature of Indy Achieves is its student success coaching model that has boosted postsecondary retention by up to 13% compared to peers. 

“All I want in life is to engage in my passions and to help people,” Spears said. “And now I get to extend the same support I’ve received through Indy Achieves to my peers on campus.” 

Indy Achieves, launched by Mayor Joe Hogsett in 2018 and housed at EmployIndy, is on a mission to close Indianapolis’ skills gap by helping more residents earn high-quality degrees and credentials. The goal: 65% attainment by 2027.

In 2024 alone, Indy Achieves provided personalized coaching and support for 2,224 scholars— an investment projected to generate $11.8 million in annual economic impact once those students complete their programs. 

Beyond boosting overall attainment, Indy Achieves is committed to equity. The initiative works to eliminate gaps for students with diverse identities and backgrounds by expanding access to financial aid, offering Promise Scholarships and Completion Grants, and providing comprehensive wraparound services for Marion County college students enrolled at Indiana University Indianapolis.

Ready to achieve your goals? Discover scholarships and coaching through Indy Achieves by visiting employindy.org/indyachieves.