Fear / How am I going to pay for college?

“How am I going to pay for college?” That’s a fear on the mind of the majority of people going to school for the first time or returning to school. When I was a financial aid analyst at our Medical campus, I heard students say things like, “I can’t do it—College is just too expensive!” and I saw time and time again students giving up too quickly. The key thing to remember is to view financial aid as a friend. Yes, a friend. Hang with me on this: Think of grants as a friend who gives you money but doesn’t expect you to pay them back. Think of the Stafford loans as a friend that is willing to give you the money, but you will have to pay them back with a little interest. (And the interest rates are usually lower than other types of loans, so it’s fair friend!) One thing you need to keep in mind is that everyone’s situation is different and there are several options to make the best financial plan for you. Don’t ever feel like you can’t go back to school because you don’t know how you are going to pay for it. Keep in mind there is always a way. And if you can’t get yourself to think of loans and grants as your friend, I assure you that our financial aid analysts will listen to your questions, give you answers and advice, and maybe even a good nudge if you need it…just like a good friend.