Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Sandra Meija Mejia, a first-generation student from Hixson, had initially hoped to move away for college. 

But the allure of guaranteed employment and a sought-after degree in just 27 months – while being close to her parents – was too much to pass up. 

“I know how important college is, and it can provide many, many opportunities,” Mejia reflected.  

Mejia and 26 other classmates from East Tennessee State University’s College of Business and Technology will make history as the first graduates of the BlueSky Tennessee Institute, a milestone they will celebrate at ETSU’s Fall Commencement later this week.   

BlueSky Tennessee Institute is a remarkable partnership between BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee (BCBST) and ETSU that offers students the opportunity to earn an ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree in computing in 27 months at no cost to the student and receive a job offer for a competitive position with the company upon graduation.  

Although students are free to seek employment where they wish after completing the program, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee’s goal is to hire BlueSky students after graduation. 

That goal was met in the very first graduating cohort: all 27 students will go to work in competitive roles with the company. 

“This partnership with BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee exemplifies the innovative spirit of ETSU,” said Dr. Tony Pittarese, dean of ETSU’s College of Business and Technology. “We are incredibly proud of these graduates for paving the way and demonstrating the tremendous opportunities this program creates for our students and region. In addition to their classroom studies, each of these students was mentored by a BCBST executive and completed a full year of internships where they had the opportunity to work alongside information technology professionals in different parts of the organization.” 

Students getting hands-on learning opportunities is at the core of ETSU’s approach to education. Across a range of programs, ETSU aims to help students shift seamlessly from enrollment to employment.    

“Programs like BlueSky Tennessee Institute highlight ETSU’s dedication to preparing students for successful, in-demand careers,” said Dr. Kimberly D. McCorkle, ETSU’s provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs. “This collaboration demonstrates the power of innovative partnerships in delivering education that equips students with the skills to thrive in today’s workforce.” 

Mejia credits the program’s supportive staff for helping her hone a range of skills.  

Software engineers taught her coding. Instructors helped her develop a game. Staff pushed her to be creative.   

“Being a cohort of one student, you are setting the way for others who come after you,” she said. “I will always remember this part of my life because it has been a great journey.”  

The BlueSky Tennessee Institute is currently enrolling its fourth cohort of students. For further information, visit the BlueSky Tennessee Institute Program.