Education is free Now!!! Are you getting one? 

Although our economy is obviously in a mad struggle, we continue to receive monies from sources such as the Lottery to fund education. Federal Grants have been set aside to assist you with paying for your education. 

No need to cry….Just apply! Financial Aid Website

Most people are sitting around probably thinking they can go at any time and the training will always be there. I am not so sure about that. The way things are constantly changing in our economy, I would not bet on it. If you have time, go back to school. If you don't have time, make time. You are not just going for you, you are going for your family.  See video about "Keeping College Affordable and Within Reach: President Obama and Secretary of Education (2012)"                                            

With so many different avenues for attending school, there is no excuse for saying, "I cannot go because..." Between 2000 and 2010, the growth of students enrolled in degree-granting institutions increased 37 percent from 15.3 million to 21.0 million; With much of the growth being full-time enrollment. (National Center for Education Statistics 2012).

Apply for financial aid while it is available

With Federal funding being primary, another advantage of capitalizing on the opportunity for going back to school; is the massive array of Online Colleges that are available. Attending college online is convenient for single moms and dads or anyone who does not have the transportation or time to go to a physical class setting. Online instruction is set up to simulate the actual college classroom. It will never take the place of the actual class setting, but it is designed to provide the same convenience. This is an awesome advantage for getting started, but I must warn you that just as it is a must that you research anything else you decide to take part in, you must research schools as well.

Not all schools are accredited. This is not designed to scare you, but to make you aware that a key role in becoming educated is learning how to do research before you enroll. View link: http://www2.ed.gov/admins/finaid/accred/accreditation.html

The best way to get the bugs out; (eliminate the doubt) is to visit your local college campus. You will be able to talk face to face with a Financial Aid Advisor who can lead you in the right direction. Don’t worry if you do not plan to attend that particular school, most institutions are set up to assist you with any questions you may have regarding your educational needs. You may want to ask the following questions.

• How do I begin preparing for college?
• What types of aid do I get?
• Do I qualify for aid?
• How do I apply for aid?                    
• What about loans? Do I need them? 
• How do I manage my loans?

If you are unable to visit your local educational institution, please log on to the U.S. Department of Education Website:  http://www.ed.gov. That is all for now, please visit my next blog entitled “Getting Started with your education."