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If you're a college student in Texas and you haven't been vaccinated for COVID, you could get a scholarship if you get the jab.

The Texas Tribune reports public universities in the state are enticing students and employees to get the shot with the lure of free tuition, paid days off, gift cards and other incentives.

Texas A&M University in College Station and Texas A&M International University in Laredo have dangled the possibility of winning free tuition and fees in front of students if they get the jab. In Lubbock, Texas Tech University is offering prizes such as scholarships and free parking, while faculty and staff could win Tech football tickets and concert tickets to see singer Amy Grant and Alton Brown Live.

The Tribune says the increase in hospitalizations among those who are college age is a reason for the incentives being offered by universities.

“We’re hearing anecdotally from our health department that it is our age group or our student demographic that seems to be lagging in the vaccination in getting their vaccine,” said Juan Castillo, vice president for finance and administration at Texas A&M International. “College students think they’re invincible and ‘oh that won’t happen to me.’”

Faculty and staff at Texas A&M are required to be tested for COVID-19. That requirement starts today. Those who do not get tested could face reprimands and disciplinary action.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently tested positive for COVID and is encouraging Texans to get the vaccine amid the rise of COVID cases in the state of Texas.

So, what is your opinion of these universities in the state of Texas offering incentives to students and staff for getting the COVID shot? Give us your thoughts and opinion on Facebook or on our station app.

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