Managing Finances

There are several benefits to working while in college. While it might not be a good idea for a freshman, who’s already overwhelmed with the changes in her life, upperclassmen have much to gain from working a part-time job.

The mission of the Financial Aid office at TSU is to inform students and parents about the various types of financial assistance available and assist them in securing the necessary financial resources to reach their educational aspirations.

President Obama stressed that “there are few things as fundamental and necessary to American success than higher education. The best job qualification you can have is a college degree or advanced training.” However, college tuition has grown ten times faster than typical family incomes. While President Obama challenged colleges to lower tuition costs, he’s also made sweeping proposals of reform.

For college students, summer break is a chance to get caught up in coursework, earn money for the next semester, prepare for their career or simply relax and reconnect with friends and family.  There are many available ways to spend summer break – and it depends on your student and what year they are in, as to which direction is best for them. 

Most students go to college looking forward to becoming independent and managing their lives on their own. Managing their personal finances is part of that independence. Starting with your student early, and starting strong, will help ensure that their college experience does not end in debt and poor spending habits.

For college graduates, good credit is an invaluable asset – and with careful money management, an achievable goal. If your student graduates without any credit history, they may have trouble qualifying for a car loan or mortgage.

START EARLY
- The more time you give yourself, the better off you will be.
- If possible, start the process at least two years before you need the aid.
- Always remember that you should apply for scholarships about a year before you will receive the aid.

Holiday breaks are usually the first extended periods of time that families spend together since saying goodbye at the dorm in the early fall. College students are accustomed to new freedoms and new adult responsibilities, and while coming home can be a relief, it also can lead to new power struggles between parents and their kids. This article addresses common stressful areas and ways to avoid potential conflict – so that the entire family can enjoy time together.