Getting the Most Out of Your Financial Aid
Photo By Richard Stephens
Navigating the financial aid system in college can feel like a huge challenge, and Centenary College of Louisiana is no different. With rising tuition and living expenses, having the right financial aid can sometimes make or break a student’s ability to continue their education. To get the inside scoop on how things are going at Centenary, The Conglomerate spoke with Lynette Viskozki, the Director of Financial Aid.
According to Viskozki, Centenary hasn’t seen major shifts in financial aid trends this year. The college offers strong financial aid packages, with institutional funds covering about 70% of tuition on average. A recent federal change to the Pell Grant eligibility formula means more students qualify for the Pell Grant, though the full impact at Centenary is still unfolding. As time goes on, it’ll be clearer how this change will benefit students at Centenary.
One of the biggest hurdles students face is taking full advantage of self-help programs like work-study and loans. While loans often feel like a last resort, Viskozki points out that they can be a great investment in a student’s education. “No one wants to take on debt, but federal loans typically offer low-interest rates that can make college more affordable,” she explains. Still, it’s hard to ignore the debt that comes with loans, so the financial aid office encourages students to weigh all options carefully before making a decision.
Centenary doesn’t automatically raise need-based grants when tuition or living costs increase, but students who face financial changes are encouraged to reach out. If you’re in an unexpected financial bind, there’s an appeal process where your situation is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The financial aid office uses FAFSA to determine your financial need, and that plays a big role in deciding how grants and scholarships are awarded. While there haven’t been any new scholarship programs recently, students demonstrating need might receive a mix of merit-based scholarships and institutional grants when they first apply.
Managing financial aid can be a little more complicated than just filling out forms. A common mistake students make is failing to follow through on work-study requirements, like actually securing a job or submitting timesheets. Another issue is students who mention financial struggles as a reason for leaving Centenary, but never actually reach out to the financial aid office. Missing those opportunities can hurt your eligibility for work-study down the line. This is especially tricky for first-generation students who might not be familiar with the financial aid process. If you’re ever unsure of what to do, don’t hesitate to ask the financial aid office for help — they’re there to guide you through it.
If you’re worried about how to pay for college, Viskozki recommends taking advantage of every resource available. That means considering federal loans, applying for work-study, and looking into outside scholarships. Many scholarships are available for first-year students, and your high school guidance counselor can help you find them. Centenary also keeps a list of outside scholarships that students can apply for. With financial aid packages being finalized in March and April, now is the time to get your FAFSA submitted. Meeting deadlines is key to making sure you get the best financial aid package possible, so don’t wait to reach out if you need help.
For many students, securing the financial aid they need is what allows them to stay in school and succeed. Staying on top of deadlines, reaching out for help when needed, and using every resource available permits them to take control of their future. If you ever have questions or concerns about your financial aid, the Centenary Financial Aid Office is there to help. As Viskozki recommends, don’t wait to reach out and take full advantage of everything the school has to offer. For more information or assistance, students should contact the Centenary Financial Aid Office directly.
