08/16/2025

Gig Work Could be the Secret to Expanding Access to College

A new partnership between Uber and ASU has led to dramatic results

Nailah Williams discovered her path to a college degree in the most unlikely place: behind the wheel of her Uber.

After years of jobs that forced her to choose between earning a paycheck and pursuing an education, she joined a program where Uber would cover her tuition for online classes at Arizona State University (ASU), where I teach. Created in 2018, the program covers tuition at ASU for drivers anywhere in the U.S. (or their beneficiary such as a child, spouse, or parent) who had completed at least 3,000 rides and met the rating requirements. 

With the newfound flexibility to work and study when she wanted, Nailah was able to complete a degree in urban planning while supporting herself and her family.

Please select this link to read the complete article from Fast Company.