Hot dogs and financial aid for all

The hot dogs steamed in the cold air Friday as they sat next to the books about financial aid and bags of give-a-ways.

Snacks and freebies were there to entice students on their way from class to stop by the table set up in the Ferguson Center Plaza by the University's Financial Aid Office.

Travis Hall, a counselor with financial aid, said the treats were popular, but not the reason they were out there.

"We've already served a couple hundred people," Hall said. "We're also letting them know that if they need any help our office is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. until 4:45 p.m."

The office, located in the Student Services Building across from the Ferguson Center, is designed to help current and potential students out with the financial aid process.

The Capstone's financial aid center provides a multitude of services for students, Hall said.

"We provide counseling, assistance with completing the application process, general financial aid advice," Hall said. "We're really here to help with whatever they need."

Stephen Greer, a senior majoring in religious studies, said he thinks setting up tables in high-traffic areas helps out students who may not know about their financial aid options.

"I think it's a good idea," Greer said. "I was looking for getting financial aid anyways this just made it easier. If no one knows about it they can't take advantage of it unless you get the word out."

Errol Lewis, a freshman majoring in general health studies, expressed similar sentiments.

"It's very convenient, I knew the office was around here but I wasn't sure where," Lewis said.

Students around the country have to fill out government forms for scholarships, grants and loans every year. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is one of the most popular forms of financial aid the government gives out.

Students are given aid based on need as determined by tax returns and other federal documents. States also have their own in state scholarships many times with deadlines early than the federal ones.

Other forms of financial aid include private scholarships offered by booster clubs or other organizations and loans and grants through the University. Some students receive one of the work study programs through FAFSA, where they are more easily able to get a job either at the University or one of the participating local businesses, Hall said.

Most financial aid applications are complicated, but the University's financial aid offices can help with that, said Alicia Bogdanoff, a graduate assistant majoring in advertising and public relations.

"It can help students a lot as far as stressing about things with school. It's one less thing to worry about with school," Bogdanoff said.