Steve Akana / Roundup
In a room inundated by the raucous sounds of hammering and drilling coming from construction being done in an adjacent room, the Academic Senate worked through their agenda Monday.
During the meeting, Pierce College Financial Aid Director, Anafe Robinson addressed the Academic Senate and stressed to its members to urge students to apply for financial aid.
According to Robinson, there are a lot of students who have myths or misconceptions about the availability of financial aid.
“Some of these myths are students believe they have to be enrolled in twelve units to get financial aid or students think they need to save their financial aid for when they go to a 4 year university,” said Robinson. “A lot of students disqualify themselves without even applying.”
Approximately $30 million has been given out in financial aid for the 2009-2010 academic year and there is still more money available for students.
The ASO and Academic Senate for the district promoted financial aid awareness in February, which was implemented in 2008 as a means of informing students about the financial aid.
The Financial Aid Office has computers available for students to complete the online application, which has been simplified in order to make it easier for students and assistance is available to those who are having difficulties completing the application.
There are also Financial Aid Workshops available to students throughout the semester that can help them with the financial aid process.
Students who have not yet applied for financial aid are encouraged to do so.