Comments on: Bummed About Your Financial Aid Award Package?

By: Suzanne Shaffer

Suzanne Shaffer — Fri, 26 Aug 2016 20:39:45 +0000

Shannon, I feel your pain. Tell her to go to the financial aid office and ask for assistance. They might be able to help. Encourage her to get a job to help pay. Statistics show that students who work, usually do better in school. If you can get through this year, consider taking these steps. Have her go to community college in the summer to get credit for college courses. These are less expensive and can help her reduce her college time and expense. Have her apply for an RA position next year. Some colleges offer free room and board, or reduced room and board if she does this. Have her apply for the FAFSA next year–formulas change and if she’s a good student, she could get a college grant or scholarship award. Also, encourage her to apply for scholarships throughout college. There are scholarships available for current college students as well.

Short from that, she can transfer to a less expensive college, attend community college and transfer later, or take a year off and work and save money. It’s a tough pill to swallow, but going to college shouldn’t be such a financial burden on the family.

By: Shannon

Shannon — Tue, 23 Aug 2016 11:48:15 +0000

I am so unprepared. I had no idea about the steps I should have taken. My daughter officially started class yesterday and I am struggling to figure out how to pay for it. She made above average grades and a wonderful ACT so I really figured she would get some kind of offer. She did not and we are middle class but FASFA says we make too much money. I am in such need of help and guidance.

By: Suzanne Shaffer

Suzanne Shaffer — Wed, 20 Apr 2016 20:28:03 +0000

Anna, Please feel free to email me at suzannemshaffer@gmail.com. I would be happy to answer your question.

By: Anna Hobbs

Anna Hobbs — Wed, 20 Apr 2016 01:41:06 +0000

I follow you on Twitter. Very good information. I thought we had a college fund set up for both children since birth and just found out there is no money. My child is in 11 th grade. I have absolutely no idea how Fafsa works or where to start. The situation is slightly more complicated.
I would love to ask you a question.
For some reason my email addresses keep appearing as invalid.
Thank you for your time and for your posts!