Higher Education: Preparing for the Future
January 28, 2011
Dear Neighbor,
As the U.S. continues to grow in the 21st century, it is important to support opportunities for higher education for our children. Community colleges, technical schools, and four-year universities provide valuable opportunities for our children to grow, learn, and prepare for the jobs of the future. Part of this preparation includes planning for financing college and participating in internships. In this newsletter you will find information about these two important aspects of higher education.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid
Do you or someone you know have plans to attend college soon? On January 1 of each year, the Department of Education begins accepting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, commonly known as the FAFSA. This application for federal aid was designed to offer prospective students a chance to obtain grants and loans that will help them pay for college.
In 2010, the Department of Education released a new form that streamlined the process of applying for aid. This update eliminated 20% of the form’s questions, making it faster and easier for you. The new system also offers an online process that gives you an instant estimate of your eligibility for federal loans and Pell Grant awards.
Federal authorities estimate that 1.5 million students eligible for Pell Grants do not apply. While you may be unsure if you qualify for aid, my office strongly encourages you to complete the FAFSA form to determine whether you or a family member may be eligible for assistance.
Click here to find out if you are eligible to apply for aid through the FAFSA. You can fill out the application online by going here.
Every year, the FAFSA form helps more prospective students attend college and have a chance at furthering their education. Please feel free to contact my office if you have any questions. Internships
For those in college, I invite you to consider interning in Washington, D.C. in my Congressional office. My office offers internships in both the Washington, D.C. office and our 3 district offices. Internships can provide a valuable opportunity to participate first hand in government service and the legislative branch. Among the internship responsibilities: general office duties, research, constituent correspondence, attending congressional hearings, meetings and receptions, and database management. The skills, knowledge, and experience gained from an internship will be applicable to career opportunities and other challenges. Internships are generally limited to students who have completed at least one year of higher education. Please click here for more information.
Sincerely,
U.S. Congressman Mike McIntyre
Representing the 7th District of North Carolina |