Financial Literacy

1
Financial Literacy

• Presentation By
• Elizabeth Ochoa

2
Budgeting

• 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.
• For pointers on developing a budget, or to get
  tips for keeping your budget on track, consider
  using the ECMCs Budget worksheet.
• 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.

3
Education Pays

• 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)

4
Dont Let College Costs Keep You From Earning a
Degree!

• If applied for Financial Aid, talk to the
  Financial Aid Office if you have a change in
• 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)
• 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.
• Before accepting a loan, however, consider the
  following

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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.

6
Questions?

• Additional Contacts
• Elizabeth Ochoa
• Financial Aid, Outreach Specialist
• [phone]
• elizabeth_ochoa_at_westvalley.edu