(KGNS) - The Sames Scholars Program marked 24 years of helping students prepare for college with a kickoff orientation Tuesday at the Texas A&M International University Student Center Ballroom.

The program supports first-generation and other college-bound students with scholarships and mentoring."Education is the one thing that a student can earn, and it will forever change his or her life, and no one can take that degree or career away from you. You've earned it; it's yours," said Elizabeth Sames, co-founder of the Sames Scholars Program.

The program has awarded more than $2 million in scholarships and helped nearly 100 students graduate from college, organizers said.