Southeast Missouri State University's Academic Support Services aimed to provide additional assistance to its students by hosting "Beyond the Basics," a seminar that provided important information on how students of all collegiate levels can receive funding to cover their academic expenses.
Financial aid is an essential and mandatory component that is on the to-do list of recent high school graduates and returning college students. In addition to providing those in attendance with information on how to fill out their Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA form, the session included reminders of important deadline dates, additional financial assistance websites and handouts providing financial assistance organizations. In addition, Sarah Niswonger, Southeast's Financial Aid Coordinator the guest speaker provided a powerpoint that included tips on how to save money and information on how to complete the application. She also provided additional information on what to do if a student's FAFSA record is chosen for verification.
Niswonger's presentation also included explanations of key terms individuals might see upon completion of their applications such as direct subsidized loans, which is a type of loan an undergraduate student might be eligible for based on financial need along with being enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours for the semester.
The procedure to view a variety of scholarship and grant opportunities available through the university's student portal was presented in addition to suggestions to consider parents' and own place of employment for some scholarship and grant opportunities.
"I thought the turnout was excellent.....I was unsure about the number of students that would actually attend but I thought it went very well," Niswonger said.
If any additional assistance or questions about financial aid feel free to visit the office 9 a.m.to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or feel free to call the Students Financial Services office at 573-651-2253 or by email at sfs@semo.edu.
