Parent Association News

By Maria Probasco, President, UNM Parent Association

I would like to focus on the subject of scholarships in my news to you this month. After having two children complete college with the third graduating in May, I know first hand how expensive it can become for families supporting their children in their educational endeavors. The cost of books alone is enough to break the bank not to mention room and board, personal expenses, and student fees.

The University of New Mexico has outstanding scholarship opportunities available to students. Information can be found at the Financial Aid Office or (505) 277-8900 and the National and International Scholarships and Fellowship's (NISF) office or 505-277-0428. In addition, you will also want your children to seek information regarding scholarships from the department in which their academic interest falls under. Just last week, I read an advertisement in the Daily Lobo of available scholarships that the Alumni Association was encouraging students to apply for. The Parent Association's Scholarship application process will also begin in a couple of months. Information will be available at the website.

There are other types of scholarships and opportunities that not only bring in additional dollars to students but also academic recognition. Some of these are the Goldwater, the Truman, the Fulbright and the Rhodes. As a parent of a Goldwater, Truman and Rhodes recipient, I can tell you that these scholarships are available to all students. However, students must take the initiative to apply for them. Even at times of self doubt about eligibility and qualifications, I always encouraged my children to apply. I often told them that the only thing that could happen is for them to be told "no." The understanding was that the more scholarship they applied for the higher the chances they would be considered. If they did not apply, they would have no chance at all.

Some scholarships require more preparation than others and it is one of the reasons the application process needs to start early. I know that you as a parent want to see your children succeed and graduate debt-free. I also know that you care enough to encourage them to check out all the available scholarships and the qualification requirements and to keep reminding them to apply. Staying connected and engaged with our students does make a difference and ensures their academic success.

Go Lobos!