Private scholarships more important than ever
Posted on Oct 21, 2009 by JRF
A recent article from CNN reports that college tuition rates are steadily increasing while financial aid is dwindling, making it incredibly difficult for low-income students to earn a college degree.
Students are relying on loans to not only pay their tuition, but to afford their room and board and other living expenses while in school. In this economy, it’s more important than ever for private scholarships like Jeannette Rankin Fund to help students cover their out-of-pocket expenses.
Our scholars often report that JRF scholarships allow them to take out fewer loans, sometimes even allowing them to graduate debt-free. JRF scholars may use their awards to pay for rent, utilities, child care, or even car repairs. These everyday expenses can be giant obstacles to completing a college degree, especially for adult students, like those served by JRF.
Cheryl Lewis says, “The JRF scholarship has enabled me to focus on full-time classes by helping me to bridge the gap when I had to cut hours at work. It has allowed me to stay in school when I otherwise may have been forced to drop out due to financial difficulties. As a result, I have succeeded in making the President’s List for the fall semester with a perfect 4.0 GPA.” Cheryl has received the JRF scholarship for the 2008 and 2009 school years.
As long as college expenses and federal financial aid continue to be out of balance, private scholarships like JRF will be critical to helping low-income students gain access to higher education.
Tagged: scholarships, jrf scholars, college expenses, education
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