The financial aid office at Prairie View A&M University is making more strides than ever to accommodate student needs in 2005. Last week was officially labeled Financial Aid Awareness Week. Alene Williams, a financial aid counselor, says that “the key element in having a smooth year in the financial aid office is for all students to meet the March 1 deadline.”
On Thursday Feb. 10, the Financial Aid Open House was held on the first floor of the MSC. The event had a Mardi Gras theme with a live D.J. playing the best of Zydeco and other popular hits. The open house was held for lenders and the financial aid office to provide students with information on different avenues for getting financial assistance.
Lenders such as Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Loan Star, Nellie Mae, National Education, and others provided students with advice on borrowing money.
Deidre Hayes of Bank of America said, “When looking for the right lender ask questions like what are your benefits, repayment options, and discounts.” It may be important to choose lenders like Bank of America that are nationwide to be able to keep a close relationship.
Senior vice president and student lending manager of First National Bank James T. Carroll, III, agreed with Hayes that “accessibility is important.” Carroll advised students to not borrow money if it is not needed and to pay off all loans as soon as possible.
A booth was set up by the financial aid office for students interested in scholarships. Available scholarships included the Eisenhower Transportation Fellowship and the Earnestine B. Winslett Scholarship. There were also departmental scholarships for various majors.
Linda Durham, head of the scholarship office, assured students that any information needed for scholarships will be at the student’s disposal. March 1 is the deadline for PV scholarships. Information about scholarships from outside sources can be obtained from the scholarship office in the MSC.