Money here, money there, money where? That was the feeling in my head as I filled out my financial aid applications. While each college varies in its procedures and regulations, I feel Williams has one of the easiest procedures. Even with this though, my path to receiving my financial aid was still turbulent.
The weekend I filled out my IDOC and FAFSA was a loud one in my household as I had to procure our tax forms from my mom. After some finagling, I was able to fill out the necessary forms, but not without requesting some waivers and uploading proof of my immigration status. While these hoops seemed minor, the toll they took on my momentum left a mark. For anyone going through this process alone, I highly recommend you connect with another first-generation college student or academic advisor that has experience with these applications. As first-gen students, we are used to tackling the academic realm alone, but financial aid is one of the realms where going at it alone is not worth it.
Discovery is harder than replication, at least for college. It is easier to learn from others’ experiences and optimize their findings when it comes to these procedures. I filled out my financial aid forms mostly alone during my senior year of high school, but this time around in my first year, I got together with friends to finish them together. The effect was great, not only did I fear these forms less, but I felt more confident as I got to explain my understanding to others. If your school has a first-generation student affinity group, please join them (if you haven’t already)! I assure you their experience is invaluable.
Thus, during this financial aid season, please reach out to any recent college students, advisors, individuals, or even the financial aid office of your school, as they could provide a repository of experience and knowledge. This is not to supplant our value as firsts but to supplement our journey as overcome this crucial step.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me at “Connect with a Student” on the Williams College website.