February 2009 Archives

In the midst of a financial crisis, it's nice to be on the side of offering students the opportunity to get some cash.  This time of year is when Kelley, IUPUI, and the Federal Government can help you afford next year's classes. :)  All you need to do is APPLY.

One of my roles in Kelley is coordinating the scholarship process for new and continuing students.  It's absolutely amazing the number of scholarships that are given to just Kelley students each year.  You can see what was given out in 2007:  Kelley Scholarships   At the same time, I'm always surprised at the percentage of students that don't apply.  It's free money!!  I know that if I was eligible, I'd apply! :)  Last week, current Kelley students that are eligible for 2009-2010 scholarships were invited to apply and their applications are due this Friday, February 13th.  If you received this letter...submit your application.   

IUPUI also has an Office of Student Scholarships that is a great resource for continuing students.  There is ONE application for all of the scholarships...that's pretty nice. The deadlines can vary, so just make sure you check out the Continuing Student Scholarship Application. 

Lastly, make sure you file the FAFSA.  What's that, you say?  Well...it's the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.  It's how you can find out if you are eligible for federal grants and/loans.  If you are eligible, then you decide what you want to accept.  In regard to loans...never accept more than you need.  You have to pay it back after you graduate. :)  This is one application that applying early definitely helps.  The priority deadline is March 1, 2009 so complete the FAFSA soon!   

Unfortunately money doesn't grow on trees.  I googled it...trust me...I'm paying back my student loans. :)  Take the time to apply for some extra cash for school and maybe they'll show you the money! 

I think that my favorite part about each semester is registration time!  There is just something about looking up all of the classes and figuring out your schedule.  I think part of that has to do with organization.  You need to check with all of the course pre-reqs, degree requirements, and of course, MEET WITH YOUR ADVISOR!!  It is very important that all students meet with an advisor so that you can make sure that you are meeting all of the requirements.  There is always the chance that the requirements have changed and you will want to make sure you are following to correct track.  It is a simple 30-mintue appointment.  If you do not want to come into the office, we have online advising or you could even take a phone appointment.  There is really no reason why you could not meet with an advisor

The cool thing about registering for the fall is that I get to register at the same time!  I have recently been accepted to Indiana University's Higher Education and Students Affairs (HESA) doctoral degree.  I will be starting in the fall and am pretty pumped.  I am currently looking up all of the classes that I get to choose from, and once again, I get excited thinking about all of the degree requirements and finding out what I need to do to reach the goal of getting an Ed.D (Doctorate of Education) degree.  I feel like a freshman all over again.  There are so many things to learn and people to meet.  I am excited that some of the classes will be taught in Bloomington which is a beautiful campus.  Now I will feel that pressure that all of you feel when you are given assignments and have papers to write.  But it is important to stay focused and do your best!

Enjoy this nice weather!  And MEET WITH AN ADVISOR before you register!