Students asked to consider affordability

Sherry Douglas, Chadron State College director of financial aid, said the price of attending most institutions is going “out the roof” with monumental increases in tuition and fees to counter drastic cuts in state aid. While Chadron State has not been immune to increases, Douglas said Chadron State remains among the most affordable four-year colleges in the United States.

With the availability of scholarships, grants and loans, a college degree can be obtained for a manageable price, she said.

“At Chadron State, our students graduate with an average indebtedness of $11,000,” Douglas said. “I believe students will find that figure very favorable when making comparisons to other colleges and universities.”

Chadron State’s estimated total cost of attendance for two semesters is $9,420, with just $2,640 of that being tuition.

Tena Gould, Chadron State College director of admissions, said students shouldn’t necessarily equate higher price to higher quality when choosing an education.

“Our goal is to provide a quality education at an affordable price,” Gould said. “Our students graduate and have successful careers just like those who attend schools charging five times as much.”

Jacqueline Wells of Albion is a pre-medical student at CSC with a major in biology, and is an outstanding member of the Eagles’ track and field team. As the second oldest of seven children, she gives much credit to scholarships for helping her realize her dreams.

“At times my schedule gets really crazy so it is nice not to have to go to work to make money to pay for school,” she said. “To me, scholarships are one of the most important things that organizations and colleges can do to help prospective students.”

Douglas encourages all students to apply for financial aid, regardless of their financial status.

“If the grants and scholarships do not work out, all students have the capability to borrow,” Douglas said. “With the student loan interest rates at an all time low, student loans are very favorable for students. Parents may also qualify for Parents loans and the interest rates on these loans are also at an all time low.”

Students can apply for financial aid online at www.csc.edu/finaid. More information may be obtained by contacting the Financial Aid Office at Chadron State by phone at 1-800-CHADRON, ext. 6230, or by e-mail finaid@csc.edu.