Transcript Financial Literacy - West Valley College

Financial
Literacy
Presentation By:
Elizabeth Ochoa
Budgeting
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According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES),
the research arm of the U.S. Department of Education, students
who dropped out of postsecondary institutions cited financial
reasons as the primary catalyst for leaving school.
Learning to develop and manage a budget is a key skill set that will
help you achieve both short- and long-term financial goals
throughout life – skills that are especially handy during college
when money is typically tight.
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For pointers on developing a budget, or to get tips for keeping your
budget on track, consider using the ECMC’s Budget worksheet.
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And remember, keep your eyes on the prize.
The time you put into your budget, and the choices you make to
keep your budget on track, will pay off over the long run by
providing you with greater financial independence and security.
Education Pays
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While the cost of college may seem intimidating, keep in mind that
people are willing to help you find the resources – scholarships,
grants, and loans – you need to attend college. What's more,
people are willing to help you for free. Talk to the financial aid
office for tips on how to start your search.
Adults with advanced degrees earn four times more than those
with just a high school diploma. (U.S. Census Bureau)
Not only do college graduates earn more, but your future
employers expect some college education. Ninety percent of the
fastest growing jobs in the new information and service economy
will require some postsecondary education. (U.S. Department of
Education)
There are more benefits! College graduates are less likely to be
unemployed and are more likely to be in better health and active
in their communities than those with only a high school diploma.
(College Board)
Don’t Let College Costs Keep
You From Earning a Degree!
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If applied for Financial Aid, talk to the Financial Aid Office if
you have a change in:
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Dependency Status
Marital Status
Income and Assets
Child Support
Number in Household or College
Private elementary/secondary school tuition
Medical or dental expenses (not covered by insurance)
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If you have exhausted scholarships and grants and still
need additional money to pay your college costs, Federal
education loans may be a good option for you. Unlike
grants and scholarships, loans must be paid back with
interest.
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Before accepting a loan, however, consider the following:
Only Borrow What You Need
 While
loans are a critical way to help
finance a postsecondary education, only
borrow what you need and amounts you
can pay back once your education is
complete. Borrow wisely.
 Learn more about your responsibilities first.
Learn more about the repayment process
so that you know what your obligations
are.
Questions?
Additional Contacts:
Elizabeth Ochoa
Financial Aid, Outreach Specialist
(408) 741-2660
[email protected]