The financial aid office is implementing new measures this semester in an effort to serve Prairie View A&M University students
more efficiently.In aninterview with The Panther, Tracie N. Matthews, director of financial aid, said the financial aid office is undergoing many changes to increase its accessibility and to give students more opportunities to gain scholarships. An example is the “Designated Tuition” scholarship. The $500 is awarded to Texas residents
on need-based criteria.
To improve the speed and reliability of the office, four new staff members have been added. They are Shanita Parker, a scholarship coordinator, Ursula Robinson , an assistant in the financial aid
office, Michelle Murray, a customer service representative,
and Lana Williams, a financial aid counselor.
The office now has 23 staff members. The office hours are now from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday , and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays.
The financial aid Web site located at pvamu.edu has also been revamped for easier information accessibility and processing.
Matthews said that many counselors have been incredibly busy processing files on students who have already submitted all of their information, but the financial aid counselors will be available after Sept. 6 to assist students with their financial aid needs.
“We have a long way to go for improvement; we have made strides to improve the financial aid office. This year students are being processed faster, and more students are being processed
before class begins and before the 12th class day. Notification
for students is being sent in the summer months and
more loans have been certified in a timely manner,” Matthews added.
In order for students to help with improvements, Matthews promised to provide a suggestion box at the front counter of the
financial aid office. She encouraged students who are having problems with the office or who have had problems in the past
to submit suggestions. “We’re here to service you,” continued Matthews.”If you have questions or concerns, please contact the financial aid office. Appointments are appreciated.”
As a general rule for handling concerns, Matthews advised that “e-mail is the best means of communication with the office, so it is important that students check their e-mail consistently.”
Matthews said she would continue to update students on
developments and scholarship opportunities.