From FAMU to Tuskegee: UNCF Scholarship Launches Chai Comrie’s Career in Wildlife Conservation
Chai Comrie of Winter Haven, FL was a recipient of the renewable Ben’s Original Seat at the Table Scholarship, administered by UNCF in partnership with the National Urban League. Comrie, a recent graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), currently attends Tuskegee University’s (one of UNCF’s-member institutions) College of Veterinary Medicine, where he is pursuing a doctorate of veterinary medicine.
“This scholarship allowed me to dedicate time to my coursework and professional development, which ultimately allowed me to complete my undergraduate degree in just three years,” Comrie said. The UNCF scholarship covered his tuition as an undergraduate at FAMU studying agricultural science with a concentration in animal science (pre-veterinary), , while helping him apply to veterinary school. “The funds from UNCF covered my tuition and fees, which allowed me to redirect other funds to pay for the applications to vet school,” he said. He was able to pay application fees and apply to eight schools.
UNCF’s support not only assisted Comrie financially, but also aided in his professional development. The donors of the Ben’s Original Seat at the Table Scholarship selected Comrie to attend the National Urban League’s Youth Leadership Summit. The five-day summit provides students with hands-on activities, pitches, and various hands-on learning opportunities, according to their website. “After my first year, the scholarship sponsors allowed me to attend the National Urban League Youth Leadership Summit, which allowed me to not only present my experience as a student leader but also develop my public speaking skills,” he shared.
At FAMU, Comrie served as a climate policy fellow and an ambassador for the College of Agriculture and Food Sciences. Comrie was drawn to FAMU because the university provided support and guidance that helped him pursue his goal of becoming a conservation veterinarian. “The resources and encouragement available at FAMU assured me that this institution was the right choice to foster my academic and professional aspirations,” he said.
His most memorable experience on campus was participating in the JOIDES Resolution (JR) Academy’s expedition aboard their U.S. research vessel during his spring semester as a freshman. Through the expedition, he traveled on an ocean drilling vessel from Heraklion, Greece, to Tarragona, Spain, learning about marine geology and paleoclimatology. Students participated in 12-hour shifts on the ship, studying the earth’s core and its connection to climate control. “The intense nature of the expedition, with long working hours and challenging tasks, built my resilience and ability to perform under pressure,” said Comrie. “As an aspiring conservation veterinarian, understanding climate control and the effect on the environment is critical.”
UNCF scholarships supported Comrie throughout undergrad. The financial support allowed him to fully embrace being a student at FAMU, while connecting him with professionals in his field and arming him with practical experience that helps in his academic journey and throughout his career.
After graduating from veterinary school, Comrie plans to pursue a career in wildlife conservation and animal health. He’s passionate about protecting endangered species and promoting environmental sustainability.
UNCF is proud of our students and alumni who have received scholarships that help them continue their education and graduate. These scholarships are invaluable to students, and UNCF is accepting donations to support students like Chai Comrie in their academic endeavors.