North Central College in the News
North Central College financial aid senior director quoted in U.S. News & World Report
Aug 23, 2023
Kevin Towns discussed how to find scholarships as a first-generation college student
For many first-generation students, cost is the biggest obstacle to a four-year degree. The cost of college can discourage students from attempting to become the first in their family to obtain a four-year degree. However, there are many scholarships, programs and advisory resources available for first-generation students looking to fund their higher education.
Many scholarships available to first-generation students can be found online. Experts say a simple browser search for available scholarships is a great place to start, but warn that sifting through thousands of results can be overwhelming. Therefore, experts say creating a network of financial advisors and mentors is vital for finding extra funds and support, as well as getting help filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA).
Kevin Towns, senior director of financial aid at North Central College, was quoted in U.S. News & World Report, where he discussed building those mentor relationships and how the earlier those are formed, the easier it is to find the help that first-generation students need while in college.
“For example, a scholarship flew across my desk looking for students who were first-generation students limited in their resources,” said Towns. “And because I knew students, I was able to connect one to the application so they could get access to that.”
