Transforming Futures: The Inspiring Stories of the Dr Pepper Tuition Giveaway
This weekend, Dr Pepper will host the 16th annual Tuition Toss during halftime of the Big 12 (Arlington, TX), SEC (Atlanta, GA), Big 10 (Indianapolis, IN) and ACC (Charlotte, NC) College Football Conference Championship games. Eight finalists will take to the field in front of a roaring stadium and millions of viewers at home, competing for the grand prize: a $100,000 tuition award. Their challenge? To throw as many official league footballs as possible into oversized Dr Pepper cans in just 30 seconds.
Every year, the Dr Pepper Tuition Giveaway changes lives by providing students with the financial support they need to pursue higher education. Through moments of courage, resilience, and triumph, contestants rise to the occasion and discover just how transformative one opportunity can be.
Here are the inspiring stories of eight finalists who turned their dreams into reality, thanks to this life-changing program.
SEC ‘22
In 2022, Kayla embarked on a journey that would forever change her life. Like many students, Kayla started her scholarship search with modest hopes, scouring opportunities and offering $1,000 awards. But as she calculated the cost of her university education, she realized she needed a different approach. Kayla shifted her focus to scholarships offering $10,000, then $25,000, and eventually stumbled upon the Dr Pepper Tuition Giveaway, which offered up to $100,000.
Dr Pepper held a special place in Kayla’s heart. Introduced to the soda by her grandmother as a child, it carried both nostalgia and the promise of opportunity. Game day brought a whirlwind of emotions as Kayla prepared for the Tuition Toss. Practicing with headphones to mimic the roar of a crowd, she visualized success.
The contest proved intense. Kayla tied with her fellow finalist in two rounds, first scoring 8-8, then 16-16. Although her challenger ultimately claimed the win based on contest rules, Dr Pepper’s generosity shone through—they awarded each a $100,000 prize
This scholarship transformed Kayla’s life. She earned her doctorate in occupational therapy, passed her board exams on the first attempt, and began her career debt-free. Free from the financial weight of student loans, Kayla purchased a home, bought a car, and poured her energy into helping children achieve milestones once thought impossible.
“Winning wasn’t just a dream,” Kayla says. “It gave me the freedom to live a meaningful life and dedicate myself fully to my patients.”
Big 12 Finalist ‘ 23
For finalist Adanna, the journey to the Dr Pepper Tuition Giveaway was years in the making. Setting an ambitious goal to apply for 100 scholarships during college, Adanna refined her application every year since 2019. Her video submissions evolved with her passions, teaching her the value of resilience and adaptability.
Finally, in November 2023, Adanna received the call she had been waiting for—she was a finalist. On game day, the thrill of competing at such a prestigious event was overwhelming. Although her toss didn’t unfold as planned, Adanna earned a runner-up prize, which proved transformative.
The scholarship eased Adanna’s financial stress, allowing her to focus on long-term goals, including pursuing a master’s degree in communication sciences and disorders. It also bolstered her confidence in her ability to succeed, which she channels into her role as a college academic advisor focused on degree planning and helping students succeed.
To future finalists, Adanna offers this advice: “Stay calm, focus on your rhythm, and enjoy every moment. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
SEC ’23
Andrew’s life transformed in extraordinary ways after winning the 2023 Dr Pepper Tuition Giveaway. As a transfer student from Sandhills Community College, Andrew made a bold leap by enrolling at UNC-Chapel Hill’s prestigious Kenan-Flagler Business School.
At UNC, Andrew thrived by immersing himself in campus life and professional development. He joined impactful organizations such as Circle K International, the marketing club, and Alpha Kappa Psi, a highly respected business fraternity.
During his first semester, Andrew distinguished himself through his entrepreneurial spirit. He raised nearly $5,000 individually for Make-A-Wish, earning the top spot in his entrepreneurship class of over 100 students. His team collectively raised an impressive $8,700, securing second place out of 50 competing teams.
Fueled by the financial support of Dr Pepper, Andrew is closer than ever to achieving his dream of working in the NBA. At the same time, he’s committed to creating unforgettable college memories and pursuing graduate school.
“The Dr Pepper Tuition Giveaway empowered me to overcome challenges and focus on making a positive impact,” Andrew shares. “It changed the trajectory of my life forever.”
PAC 12 ‘22
In 2022, Marvin balanced college courses, two jobs, and a passion for fitness when the Dr Pepper Tuition Giveaway provided a life-changing breakthrough. Winning the $100,000 prize eased his financial burdens and gave him the flexibility to pursue his goals with renewed focus.
Game day was an unforgettable experience for Marvin. The stadium buzzed with energy as Utah and USC fans roared, creating an electric atmosphere. While Marvin can’t recall the final score of his toss, he vividly remembers the adrenaline rush and the joy of celebrating his win in front of the iconic Las Vegas sign.
Since winning, Marvin’s life has flourished. The scholarship allowed him to pursue youth advocacy and entrepreneurship, accelerating his academic and career aspirations. To future finalists, Marvin offers simple but powerful advice: “Cherish every second. This experience is one of a kind.”
ACC ’21, Runner Up
Runner-up in 2021, Kellen approached the Dr Pepper Tuition Giveaway with creativity and heart. Initially hesitant about creating a TikTok video for the application, Kellen overcame his doubts by channeling his passion for storytelling.
Drawing inspiration from Indiana Jones, Kellen crafted a cinematic video that wove together his health challenges, work ethic, and family support. The process of filming and editing became a labor of love, and when he was selected as a finalist, Kellen felt immense gratitude.
On game day, Kellen’s nerves melted away as he stepped onto the field. Although he narrowly missed the grand prize by milliseconds, he embraced the experience and the $20,000 runner-up prize.
Since then, Kellen has pursued professional acting opportunities, secured commercial representation, and explored graduate school options. The scholarship eased financial pressures, allowing him to focus on his craft and future goals.
“Stay present and enjoy the ride,” Kellen advises. “The memories you make will last a lifetime.”
ACC ‘23
For 2023 winner Noah, Saturdays in his household were synonymous with college football. Watching the Dr Pepper Tuition Toss on TV was a cherished tradition, but Noah never imagined he’d one day take the field.
Encouraged by his mom, Noah applied for the giveaway and was overjoyed to be named a finalist. Game day brought a mix of excitement and nerves, but as halftime approached, Noah focused on the task at hand. With practice and determination, he scored 12 points, edging out his competitor and winning $100,000. The scholarship lifted a significant financial burden, enabling Noah to explore new opportunities, such as studying abroad in Europe. “Winning was more than a competition,” Noah says. “It was a blessing that opened doors I never thought possible.”
Big 10, ‘22
Abraham first heard about the Dr Pepper Tuition Giveaway in 2019 but lacked the confidence to apply. By 2022, however, Abraham had grown and decided to give it a shot. His determination paid off when he was named a finalist.
On game day, Abraham was struck by the intensity of the toss. Despite the nerves, he gave his best effort and cherished the entire experience. Winning the $100,000 scholarship allowed him to pursue his dream of becoming a physical therapist without the burden of graduate school debt.
“Looking back, I wish I had practiced more,” Abraham reflects. “But the experience was unforgettable. It gave me the belief that I could achieve anything.”
Big 10 ’23
Sid, a third-year aerospace engineering major at Georgia Tech, combined his love for exploration and storytelling to win the 2023 Dr Pepper Tuition Toss. Discovering the scholarship program late one night, Sid channeled his creativity into a compelling application that earned him a spot in the finals.
The experience was unforgettable. On game day, Sid stepped onto the football field with laser focus, energized by the roaring crowd. Coinciding with his birthday, the moment became a defining milestone. After his victory, he celebrated with his family and best friend, indulging in brownies and ice cream to cap off the incredible day.
Winning the scholarship has allowed Sid to pursue opportunities he once thought impossible. From bike-packing across Norway and studying abroad in Poland with GE Aerospace to completing the Grand Canyon’s Rim2Rim run, Sid’s adventures have been fueled by the freedom that the scholarship provided.
Sid’s academic and career journey continues to flourish. He interns at an electric propulsion startup and remains deeply involved in campus life at Georgia Tech, including Greek Life and aerospace research. Reflecting on his preparation for the Tuition Toss, Sid likened it to solving an engineering challenge.
His mantra, “Why not?” inspires others to embrace life’s possibilities.