I remember when being eighteen years old meant unchallenged entitlement. My generation (those born before or around 1980) was taught “the sky’s the limit.” At eighteen years old, I had a free ride (with the help of United States Department of Education, but in my mind, still free) to Virginia Commonwealth University. Two years later, I found out that the sky was not the limit.
I’m less bitter, but not angry at all for the reality that living in this world comes at a cost. Now in my early thirties, and far removed from a lot of life, I needed creative ways to help me pay for a return to academics.
Cappex.com was a website I’ve found very useful in my search for non-loan methods of paying for college. I’ve enclosed a link to the site here. The site has proved very helpful, and during those nights where I have a surprising abundance of energy, I’ve completed a profile, filled out scholarship applications, and searched foundations that grant education-related funds to students. Needless to say, I feel more accomplished.
For all returning Northern Virginia Community College students, I hope this link helps at least in exploring alternative means of paying for college. Loans are a last-ditch option for me personally, but I still think this information can be useful for others.
Welcome back, and here’s to a successful, eventful, and scholarly Spring 2012.