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#its one of those alumni scholarship fund things
snailboxes · 11 months
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lboogie1906 · 3 days
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UNCF, the United Negro College Fund, known as the United Fund, is a philanthropic organization that funds scholarships for Black students and general scholarship funds for 37 private HBCUs. UNCF was incorporated on April 25, 1944, by Frederick D. Patterson, Mary McLeod Bethune, and others. UNCF is headquartered in DC. In 2005, UNCF supported approximately 65,000 students at over 900 colleges and universities with approximately $113 million in grants and scholarships. About 60% of these students are the first in their families to attend college, and 62% have annual family incomes of less than $25,000. UNCF administers over 450 named scholarships.
UNCF’s president and chief executive officer is Michael Lomax. Past presidents of the UNCF included William H. Gray and Vernon Jordan.
Though founded to address funding inequities in education resources for African Americans, UNCF-administered scholarships are open to all ethnicities; the great majority of recipients are still African-American. It provides scholarships to students attending its member colleges as well as to those going elsewhere.
Graduates of UNCF member institutions and scholarships have included many Black people in the fields of business, politics, health care, and the arts. Some prominent UNCF alumni include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.; Alexis Herman; Spike Lee; Samuel L. Jackson; General Chappie James; and Dr. David Satcher.
UNCF adopted as its motto the maxim “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.” This maxim has become one of the most widely recognized slogans in advertising history. The motto was notably mangled in an address to the organization by VPOTUS Dan Quayle, who stated: “And you take the UNCF model that what a waste it is to lose one’s mind or not to have a mind is being very wasteful. How true that is.” The motto, which has been used in numerous award-winning UNCF ad campaigns, was created by Forest Long, of the advertising agency Young & Rubicam, in partnership with the Ad Council. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence
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wcat2023 · 3 months
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From Classroom to Cabin: Achieve Your Aviation Dreams with Wingsss College's AME Course
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Introduction
If you have a passion for aviation and wish to work in aircraft maintenance, enroll today in the best Aircraft Maintenance engineering college in Pune for an AME course at Wingsss College of Aviation Technology. With our advanced AME study, Ambitious fans of aviation can fulfill their dreams.
Understanding Aviation Maintenance Engineering (AME)
The airline industry depends on the engineering of aircraft maintenance. AME specialists play a very important role in guaranteeing the safety and airworthiness of airplanes. To meet strict legal standards, they must inspect, maintain, and repair airplanes.
 Why Choose Wingsss College for AME?
For the best course in aviation, there is one best place Wingsss College of Aviation Technology (Wcat).  Our advanced facilities, industry-relevant course of study, and knowledgeable instructors provide the ideal foundation to launch a career in aircraft maintenance.
Curriculum Overview
Our AME course study is focused on covering all aspects of aircraft maintenance. From fundamentals of aviation to advanced repair techniques of aircraft, students gain overall knowledge and practical skills essential for a successful career in AME.
Modern Facilities
Wingsss College offers premium facilities and infrastructureto guarantee that our students are in a conducive learning environment. Our modern workshops, labs, and simulated training facilities provide for practical skill development and hands-on learning.
Industry-Relevant Training
We know the value of practical experience in aviation industry education. Hence, to provide possibilities for practical training, we have tied up with top industry partners. Through internships, apprenticeships, and job training, our students can obtain significant experience before entering the industry.
Talent of Faculty
Our faculties are experienced with years of experience in aircraft maintenance. Throughout our students' academic journeys, they give our students vital perspectives and knowledgeable guidance, offering an abundance of knowledge.
 Career Opportunities
A variety of options in the aviation sector becomes available to those who complete Wingsss College's AME course. Our graduates are prepared to pursue fulfilling positions in airlines, maintenance organizations, and aircraft manufacturing industries due to the increasing demand for competent AME experts.
Student Success Stories
Wingsss College is proud of its alumni, and their achievements provide witness to the high caliber of instruction we offer. Our students have accomplished amazing things in the field of aircraft maintenance, from landing renowned work placements to going overseas to further their education.
Admission Process
Enrolling at Wingsss College of Aviation Technology is your first step towards an exciting career in aviation maintenance. Our admission process is straightforward, ensuring equal opportunity for all aspiring candidates. Visit our website or contact our admission office for more information on eligibility criteria and application procedures.
 Scholarships and Financial Queries
We think talented students shouldn't face the funds-related problems for their education. We provide a variety of financial help and scholarships to assist talented people with their academic endeavors. Examine our scholarship offerings to determine your eligibility for support. Visit our website for more information related to scholarships.
Graduates Club
There are many benefits to joining the Wings College of Aviation Technology alumni club. Our graduates have access to special networking occasions, training for career advancement, and help to find employment. Become a member of our expanding aviation professional network and benefit from important industry connections.
 Continuous Learning and Development
At Wcat, learning doesn't stop after graduation. We are committed to supporting our graduates in continuous learning and professional development attempts. Explore our advanced training programs and certification courses to stay updated with the latest advancements in aviation maintenance.
 Conclusion
Take the AME course at Wcat to start an enjoyable journey toward a rewarding profession in aviation maintenance. Our industry-focused curriculum, outstanding facilities, and committed instructors make us the ideal Launchpad for realizing your aviation aspirations.
FAQs
Does enrolment in Wingsss College's AME course require existing aviation experience?
That's not required to have any prior aircraft experience. People who are dreaming about pursuing a career in aircraft maintenance are passionate about this industry and come from a variety of educational backgrounds are welcome to enter our AME course.
Are there any age restrictions for admission to the AME course?
There are no age restrictions for admission to the AME course at Wingsss College. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria and fulfill the required academic qualifications, you are welcome to apply.
What sets Wingsss College apart from other aviation institutes offering AME courses?
Wingsss College stands out for its holistic approach to aviation education. We combine theoretical learning with practical training.
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msmunifystudyabroad · 7 months
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Current Trends in Canadian Education Consulting: What to Consider
Are you considering studying abroad in Canada? It's a fantastic choice with its world-renowned educational institutions and diverse culture. But finding the right guidance can be overwhelming. That's where education consultants come in. In this article, we'll delve into the latest trends in Canadian education consulting and help you find the best consultancy for studying in Canada.
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Table of Contents
Headings
The Role of Educational Consultants
Tailored Academic Pathways
Integration of Digital Services
Assistance with Immigration Matters
Expanding Scholarship Opportunities
Adapting to Post-Pandemic Educational Landscape
Prioritizing Mental Health and Well-being
Building Alumni Networks and Providing Career Guidance
Transparent Fee Structures
Client Feedback and Reviews
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. The Role of Educational Consultants
Educational consultants play a pivotal role in helping students achieve their academic goals in Canada. They serve as intermediaries, guiding students through the intricate process of study abroad. Their expertise can make a substantial difference in your educational journey.
2. Tailored Academic Pathways
One of the latest trends is the emphasis on customized academic pathways. Consultants are now tailoring education plans to meet the unique needs of each student. Whether you have interests in the arts, sciences, or specialized fields, they will assist you in discovering the perfect program.
3. Integration of Digital Services
In today's digital era, education consultants have embraced technology. They offer virtual counseling sessions, webinars, and online resources. This digital transformation ensures that students from all corners of the world can access their services conveniently.
4. Assistance with Immigration Matters
Navigating Canada's immigration regulations can be intricate. Education consultants now provide comprehensive support for immigration matters. They assist with visa applications, work permits, and other essential documentation, simplifying the transition process.
5. Expanding Scholarship Opportunities
Pursuing education in Canada can be financially demanding, but consultants are actively seeking scholarship opportunities. They help students explore various funding options, making education more accessible to deserving candidates.
6. Adapting to Post-Pandemic Educational Landscape
The global COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped education worldwide. Education consultants have adapted by offering guidance on online learning, quarantine procedures, and health and safety measures. They continue to keep students informed about the ever-evolving landscape.
7. Prioritizing Mental Health and Well-being
Mental health has become a top priority for students, especially those studying abroad. Consultants now provide resources and support for mental well-being, ensuring that students have a fulfilling and healthy experience in Canada.
8. Building Alumni Networks and Providing Career Guidance
The most reputable consultancies establish robust alumni networks. They offer career guidance and connect current students with successful alumni, providing valuable insights and opportunities for the future.
9. Transparent Fee Structures
Transparency is a cornerstone of the consulting industry. Esteemed consultancies are transparent about their fee structures, ensuring that students have a clear understanding of the costs involved. Hidden fees are a thing of the past.
10. Client Feedback and Reviews
Before selecting a consultancy, it is essential to hear from past clients. Reviewing testimonials and feedback can provide insights into the quality of service you can expect.
Conclusion
Selecting the right consultancy for your Canadian education journey is a pivotal decision. The current trends in Canadian education consulting highlight personalization, digitalization, immigration support, and a holistic approach to student well-being. By considering these factors, you can make an informed choice and embark on a successful educational adventure in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What services do Canadian education consultants offer?
Canadian education consultants provide a wide range of services, including personalized academic planning, immigration assistance, scholarship guidance, and career counseling.
2. How can I identify the best consultancy for studying in Canada?
To find the most suitable consultancy, research their services, read client reviews, and consider their transparency in fee structures. It is also essential to ensure they offer the academic programs you are interested in.
3. Are scholarships readily available for international students in Canada?
Yes, there are scholarships available for international students in Canada. Education consultants can assist you in exploring these opportunities and guiding you through the application process.
4. How has the COVID-19 pandemic impacted education consulting in Canada?
The pandemic prompted education consultants to adapt by offering online services and addressing health and safety concerns. They continue to support students through these challenging times.
5. Do education consultants provide assistance with post-graduation career planning?
Many education consultants offer career guidance and facilitate connections with alumni networks to help students plan for their post-graduation careers.
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yinses · 3 years
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college au! headcanons
gojo satoru, geto suguru & nanami kento
rqst: college au for nanami, geto and gojo?
a/n: so i divided it into three categories to help keep my head straight. honestly almost straight kicked gojo out of college bc i couldn’t decide on a major for him. the jjk discord server is heaven sent for my sanity. ty everyone again 🌺
last time i should have to post these. hoping everything is fine now. 
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gojo satoru
MAJOR
—he starts off undecided for a long time. the fact that he’s on scholarship allows him to be more flexible with his classes given that he’s not responsible for costs. he grew up with expectations from his family but university is suppose to be his opportunity to spread his own wings and grow from his experiences.
—so he tries a bit of everything- sciences, music and social studies- anything to prompt a spark. (took a business class once and made a point to sit next to nanami everyday just to annoy him) by his second year he’s getting as frustrated as his counselor because if he doesn’t decide soon he’ll be a potential 5th year senior.
—he’s overthinking it but gojo wants to invest in what he believes will make the most significant impact to his ability. his counselor takes those crumbs and runs with it.
—he gets steered towards political science and actually excels at it (that advisor gets a raise). surprises most of the class with his analytical skills because they thought he was just a pretty boy- surprise he’s beautiful and smart.
—develops a vested interest in governmental policies. might run for president one day idk. brings donuts to his early am class. doesn’t share.
SOCIAL
—he’s not the jock per say, but as the star athlete of the basketball team, the school likes to take advantage of his image to draw in sponsors.
—his face is plastered all over the auditorium whether they’re in season or not. sometimes it’s not even to promote basketball, gojo is pretty and they’re not afraid to use it. which also makes him one of the most recognizable faces on campus.
—due to his student athlete contract, he’s not allowed to sign autographs freely in the event they’re attempted to be sold as quick cash. but yikes, he can barely walk to class without someone stopping him for a picture. to the best of his ability he tries to laugh it off, poster boy image and all, but it gets pretty fucking old and annoying quickly. especially when it makes him late for his next lesson and the instructor shows no sympathy.
—his height didn’t only help him get into basketball, but its also convenient when it comes to shouldering politely through the student masses. his golden rule is don’t make eye contact. the busier the crowds the easier it is for him to pretend like he could’t possibly have heard them.
—gojo doesnt scout fraternities, fraternities scout him. but he’s not interested in the slightest. as an athlete he already gets into any social circle he wants without the additional effort. that and he doesnt think he could tolerate an alpha male trying to exert his dominance without barking back.
—loves to show up to parties but always arrives late enough to the point where they don’t think he’s coming. it helps him slip in when he wants too. he’s a connoisseur of all alcohol varieties and a master of beer bong. he’s not necessarily the life of the party but his presence is kind of hard to miss.
RELATIONSHIPS
—he gets too much attention to date casually. most potential suitors are in it more for the benefits they receive than him anyway. he’s got enough on his plate with career indecisiveness and games to try to pursue anything serious before third year.
—he’s not completely celibate though. he tries to keep the same partners as long as he can. not only to keep himself clean and safe but because he often goes into an agreement to keep it casual. sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. either way he gets coined as a ‘heartbreaker’ before the end of his freshman year. frankly the rumors obscure most of the truth and give him more freedom. people always expect that he’s with someone even when he’s not, which helps keep his invasive teammates off his back.
—gojo can easily graduate without securing something tangible but there is still a window for potential.
—you’re both his consistent classmate and occasional friends with benefits. its the former title that keeps bringing him back around. he cant exactly avoid you without subjecting himself to 8am classes. it helps that the sex is good too.
—he can text you an offer to study together for the next test and roll over after an hour and wreck you for the rest of the week. its hard to tell who gets addicted first but he does appreciate the way your skin looks when youre wearing his marks.
geto suguru
MAJOR
—he’s a STEM kid, particularly interested in bio-genetics to improve overall health. he believes that simply becoming a physician just keeps the issue at bay and his goal is to eradicate the problem at its source.
—since high school he’s been cataloging different programs across the country before deciding what he wanted and putting all his efforts into it. so it’s no surprise when he gets in.
—geto doesn’t need counselors but they’re required so he listens to them prattle on about using university as an opportunity to explore. this man came in with more college credits than most sophomores, he knows what he wants.
—always on-time to class and never misses an assignment. also that kid who goes above and beyond, even on the simple stuff. he rarely gets teased about it, not even behind his back. geto straight up scares some people even when he’s smiling.
—not afraid to correct teachers when they’re wrong. in fact he lives for it.
—he’s the one who graduated early and starts his master’s program before most of his age group declare their own majors.
SOCIAL
—he tends to frequent the same circles- handpicking his acquaintances out of class rosters, clubs and honor lists. he’s less in it for the friendship and more so to scout for potential research partners.
—met gojo in one of his science electives and literally carried him through the class. they somehow end up friends but only really hang out at each other’s places- bunch of chill movie nights and pizza.
—there is no interest in fraternities, but he does join university funded clubs that allow him to further his research. they give him unique access to labs, take him on trips to different conventions and have an alumni list a kilometer long for future collaborations.
—the man does not party but he will occasionally slip into quieter bars to ease some of his frustrations. he actually enjoys karaoke thursdays , not to sing for himself but the drunken antics of others bring him some amusement.
—smokes weed occasionally, but only his own product. it helps him relaxand fan out the stress. he never sells it but sometimes gojo nicks some of his stash. given that he gets drug tested often, geto doesn’t know how the athlete never gets caught.
RELATIONSHIPS
—not interested in seeking out relationships in the slightest. the man has a plan and he’s already married to it.
—he’s not completely immune to sexual advances though and occasionally splurges but none of the friends with benefits crap. he’ll hit it once and stay celibate for the rest of the year easily.
—you might be able to squeeze in as his fellow lab partner. remain invested in the work and not him and he’ll start noticing the little details of your company- the way you subtle perfume lingers on his lab coat hours after you’ve adorned for the day, how he knows you have to keep your hair up for safety precautions but he thinks about running his fingers through it daily and your mind, damn, he wonders what else you can come up with when he has you laid out on his sheets.
—if he’s interested, geto won’t hesitate to broach the topic. he’ll ask you out for coffee and when you try to bring up research he’ll be upfront about his attraction. ultimately if you start dating the two of you are an absolute unit- not that you weren’t before.
—you’re the one variable he didn’t plan for but he’s glad to have added you to the equation.
nanami kento
MAJOR
—he was made for the business world, brought by a CEO who raised him to inherit the company. administration major marketing minor.
—takes initiative in all his classes and is often coined as group leader for projects. mostly keeps to himself  and only speaks up when prompted or disagrees with something.
—he takes the earliest sessions possible because it means less people more often than not. doesn’t really care if its in the front, middle or back but always sits near the edge.
—doesn’t really want to but it looks good on his resume so he joins the marketing team where they present mock business plans for competitions. they win a lot. nanami honestly doesn’t care. but again it looks good.
—it only took him a brief summer internship to learn that he found nothing satisfying about board meetings and macro management.
—he decides to invest in law school to handle the company from a legal standpoint instead.
SOCIAL
— sort of like geto, only wants to make friends on a need be basis.
—he would rather keep to himself but knows the benefits of socializing so he interacts with his frequent classmates when he can- through study groups or car pooling to seminars.
—he does join a fraternity, its the same one his father did (and uncles, cousins, whatnot. its a generational thing). its geared towards bettering future leaders. they focus building resumes, charity events and run the organization like a proper business. nanami gets elected president by his third year and runs two terms.
—the only parties he attends are networking events- full of wine and fancy horderves. wine is plentiful but he’s always nursing a scotch on top of his headache. if one more person squeezes their stocks into a conversation he’s going to personally take down the whole market
—zero interest in college party life. spends some of his downtime at the campus theater watching old time movies and classic plays.
—he’s the coffee shop hoe. he wakes up early sometimes just to sit by the window and read some casual literature. has his own thermo that gives him free refills to cart to class. do not talk to this man before he’s had his caffeine.
RELATIONSHIP
—he probably has a high school sweetheart that he’s still clinging too, whether on the same campus or long distance. it helps him because he can’t really see himself pursuing a relationship while focusing on school.
—he’s been with you long enough that you understand his ambitions and won’t feel bested by them. the two of you have a system- starting the day off with sweet ‘good morning’ texts before class and ending the day with long conversations as you digest the last 12 hours.
—nanami is independent but he is thankful to have you to rely on when classes start to overwhelm him. the two of try to escape briefly for the weekend when you can. often going to near by reservations just to get off campus
—other times the two of you will cuddle close on your dorm bed, his long fingers combing through your hair while he reads over some notes for class.
—sometimes you have to be the one to tell him to take a break and to enjoy life while he can. even if that means dragging him the events and concerts hosted on campus. he resists at first but you can see the tension ebbing away as the night comes to a close.
—the two of you start living together in your senior year just because you can. he insists on buying a house. not only because he can afford it because it can be rented out after graduation. always the business man.
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hallowgracie · 3 years
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Crystal Magic: Talia Marchand’s Squad
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tags | @the-traveler-is-with-me​, @written-inmoonlight​, @stardustspiral​
I have not spoken nearly as much about Talia and her friends, so I thought I might give you a quick overview. Talia isn’t in the first few chapters of Crystal Magic because she’s away studying at the Royal Academy. 
Ondrina doesn’t currently have a royal family, but there may have been one according to old legends, which lends the Academy its name. 
Whatever the true history, the Royal Academy accepts the brightest and most talented students across the Ondrina System, offering scholarships to those unable to make the requirements—those like Talia, who are exceptionally bright and hardworking.
At school, there’s a cast of characters who are her friends:
Gawain Laheris. 
His childhood is lost in a fog over his memory, caused by the crisis on Gardenia he fled from. He has never returned to the Wild World at the edges of space, and instead has thrown himself into books and studying in hopes of doing his adoptive family proud. 
With a book of folklore about magic that is his only remaining link to Gardenia and his biological family, Gawain is an expert in the differing beliefs and approaches to magic in Ondrina. Still, he dreams of a palace on that world that claims to hold the secret to his origins. 
inspirations: Lancelot du Lac, Sir Gawain, and Prince Desire from the Sleeping Beauty ballet
Ellowyn Rhodopis.
Her father’s last request in the will was that his daughter be sent to the Royal Academy, much to her stepmother and stepsisters’ dismay. And yet, the only way they could access their inheritance was if they sent her with the dedicated funds, and so they did.
A clever girl with a love of making things, she carries a little paper pop-up box that was made by her father for her everywhere she goes. She is always determined to find solutions to her problems and has an unrelenting sunny and cheerful disposition. She may have loved and lost, but she’s determined to continue loving and living anyway. 
inspirations:  Cinderella, Belle
Jem Candor.
The more blunt of a duo with Ivan Charmont, Jem is equally as courageous and curious about the world around him. While he is honest to a fault and is much more solemn in the way he conducts himself, he is still one of the kindest students at the Academy. 
His mother was alum, and while she is no longer around, Jem is determined to do her legacy proud and become the exact scientist and adventurer that she was. When he sees what’s happening at the Academy, he realizes that he must find out how far the rabbit hole goes. 
inspirations: The crystal and candor fairies from the Sleeping Beauty ballet, Alice in Wonderland, Merlin 
Ivan Charmont. 
The other half of a duo with Jem Candor, Ivan is confident and bold, with a certain wit to his words. Indeed, there is nothing Ivan enjoys more than an engaging debate or argument, and he even finds some joy in essays from sneaking in clever wordplay.
For all the charm and pretty words, Ivan carries himself with a sincerity and daring that Jem and others admire. He also has a strong moral compass that he will always do right by—even when it is a difficult decision. 
inspirations: Prince Charming from the Sleeping Beauty ballet, Ivan from the protagonist of the Firebird Ballet. 
Lila Syringa.
The sweetest girl at school, Lila is always willing to lend a helping hand to others. She comes from a large and talented family, with many sisters who also won places at the Academy not merely through being alumni but for their own brilliance. 
While Lila feels she did lean more on her family’s legacy than her own intelligence, she chooses to value her compassionate and empathetic heart ove academic pursuits. However, she’s no slouch and she’s far more talented than she gives herself credit for.
 inspirations: the Lilac Fairy, the Fairy Godmother, the Lady of the Lake 
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mueritos · 4 years
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hi!! i'm a senior in high school and i'm about to commit to a college, do you have any tips on handling tuition and stuff? i'm doing research on loans and grants, but i dont really understand the whole process of paying for college
Hi there! I can only give information based off my own experience as a college student but also as a worker in my schools financial aid office. These are essentially the kind of questions I would answer on the daily.
Tuition will vary by school in how the allocate it. Sometimes your tuition will include books and other expenses (printing, the library, gym, textbooks, etc), while other schools’ tuitions will have all of those things as an extra thing to pay for (ex, you’ll need to pay like 25 cents for printing or for a gym membership at your school). Tuition also varies based on whether your school is a public or private institution. Private schools do not receive funds for the college itself through the government (students can apply for federal aid and receive it), hence why their tuitions are often higher (as well as to cover the cost of more expensive things). Private schools mostly rely on donations from alumni, the community, investments and their endowments. Often, endowments aren't that accessible and must be times correctly because they fluctuate with the stock market. Public school (like state schools) usually have lower tuition costs because they receive aid from the federal government. Room and board will vary from college to college, as well as whether or not meal plans are attached to that and cost.
Student loans are either federal or private. Federal loans come from the state level, private are often thru alternative lenders like banks. When you fill out the FAFSA, your school will process it accordingly and let you know how much Need based aid you qualify for. This need is based off your own income, your parents’, how many people live in your home, how many are in college as well, etc and etc. You can receive aid through federal direct loans like unsubsidized and subsidized loans. Subsidized loans are seen as more favorable, as their percentage of interest usually stays the same throughout schooling and you don’t have to pay for that interest while you are in school. Unsubsized can be awarded to anyone under some qualifications, but its interest rate can fluctuate and will need to be paid while you are in school. Alternative loans are through banks like Wells Fargo or Sallie Mae. These have their own interest rates and its best to speak with a representative from where you seek to get a loan from in order to understand their terms. You do not need to pay your loans while you are in school unless it is six months after your graduation (or you deferred your loans for longer after graduation), or you drop below a specific number of registered classes (half time/part time) that would mean you are not a full time student. Dropping below a full time student may also mean you might not receive federal aid.
Grants and Scholarships are money you do not need to pay back. Grants can be private or federal. Some grants can be given out by organizations, fellowships, families, etc, while others are given based off the FAFSA and need based aid. Scholarships can be need based or merit based, which means you can receive a scholarship from your school for being below a certain socio-economic level or because you had a high GPA in high school. Other scholarships can be based off demographic. Be careful with external scholarship policies in your school tho; if you reach a certain amount of money thru outside scholarships, your school may take away some of the aid they gave to you to balance it out. For example, my institution has a max of 5000$ in outside scholarships before shifting your aid. Another thing about outside scholarships is that sometimes they have fine print about how the money should be applied. Sometimes the money will go to you with no policy, other times it will, and other times the scholarship check will be sent to the school as a check with or without this policy. No worries, the policy attached to some outside scholarships is just about whether or not it will be applied entirely for the fall or spring semester, split between both, or have no preference. Keep this in mind.
Paying for school is usually done in payment plans, whether this is online or in cash/check. Books can be bought online using credit from a loan (credit will be extra funds applied to ur account by overextending a loan to pay for books), or with your own money or scholarship money. Some people pay their tuition bills all in one go, others dont. Most payments are usually the first of every month.
In my own advice, don’t be ashamed of taking out a loan. I know it can be scary, but just know that there are lots of people who can’t go to school without loans. I had my entire first year paid for with scholarships and my federal direct loans, and because tuition fluctuates, I will using more funds from my federal direct loans to pay for it. It’s best to get as much free money as possible, but again, don’t feel ashamed. Also, colleges are not legally allowed to give you advice on loans, they may, however, have a preferred lender list that can give you some insight on the lenders they have worked with in the past. Another piece of advice I will give is that your first financial aid award doesn’t have to be your last. I usually get calls from a lot of parents stressing about the cost they were initially awarded and they are pleasantly surprised when they are told that they have the option to appeal for more aid! This process may vary between schools, but you can usually appeal as many times as you’d like. You just need to write up a letter of sorts explaining why you need more funds, they may ask you for some documentation to verify (i.e, a death in the family, disability, proof of orphan/etc), but also keep in mind that the funds you may receive from an appeal may or may not be a lot. This is why they allow you to appeal multiple times. I’ve seen families get only a couple hundred while others got a few thousand more. And again, if you are caught in the semester with a sudden change in your financial situation, you can appeal or ask for more aid.
Keep a good relationship with your financial aid counselor, do your paperwork on time, be nice and patient, and just. Dont be an asshole! If you’re angry in your counselor’s office about a disbursement mistake without hearing them out first, they will be less keen to help you next time, or at least in a timely manner.
I hope that helped you! Let me know if you have any other specific questions. Good luck in the future!
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Corruption is for charitable donations? Paving just how for illegal methods, the "prestige company" of rich Canadian entrepreneurs exposed
Editor's notice: "Dark Money" chronicles the stories from the world's top companies using various unlawful means to combine their commercial jobs. For example, after WikiLeaks, the biggest drip in history-confidential information revealed from the International League of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) in 2016. The Panama Documents have made the information of corruption, taxes evasion, and money laundering of global political figures and rich chaebols public one at a time. This article is an excerpt from your profession of Canadian billionaire Victor Dahdaleh: After the charges of bribery were exposed with all the Panamanian paperwork, he placed on the mask of "charitable wealthy businessman" to cover up his unlawful benefits. On June 20, 2016, Victor Dahdaleh, putting on a deep reddish and blue graduation gown, got up from his chair and walked onto the podium within the conference hall of York University or college in Toronto. There is a round of applause. York University is one of the most prestigious educational institutions in Canada. Lately, it has established an excellent reputation around the world, especially in business schools and legislation schools. Because the beginning of the 21st one hundred year, Dakhdal has been probably one of the most important customers of the institution. Dakhdal (still left) received a doctorate in law from York University or college in 2016 and addressed the graduates. Victor Dahdaleh Foundation (victor dahdaleh base) There is a building named after him on the campus, and there will be another soon after. In 2015, Dahdaleh donated US$20 million to greatly help the school set up the "Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research" (Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Study). Mamdouh Shoukri, the leader and vice chief executive of York University, called it a "disruptive gift" and also "the biggest alumni donation in the annals of the school." IN-MAY 2016, Dakhdal donated US$3.5 million to McGill University in Montreal to fund new important posts in neuroscience study. He received the school's administration diploma in 1975. McGill University or college praised him as Britain's greatest donor. In November 2016, Dakhdal donated more than $6 million to the "British Lung Foundation" (Uk Lung Foundation)-again, this is the organization's largest donation. In recognition of his charitable deeds, York University awarded Dakhdal the highest honorary diploma in law. When he stood in the central podium of the conference hall, he advised the market: "Do your very best to be always a good citizen. & most importantly," he ongoing: "Once you succeed, be sure you drink water and think about the resource." When he While standing on the podium praising the virtues of altruism, his resources in Switzerland were frozen. Since 2009, the Judicial Courtroom office in Bern provides continued to file felony proceedings against Dakhdal on suspected cash laundering, and contains frozen a lot more than 60 million U.S. dollars-this large sum may only be Dakhdal's total property A little part of. From smelting to mining, the purchase of the upstream and downstream of Worldwide Aluminum Dakhdal made huge amount of money through bribery. That is just the first step in his astonishing career. In a series of activities, he laundered money and gained prestige and status in the global liberal elite circle. All processes started with Alcoa (ALCOA, hereinafter known as Alcoa). As soon as Dakhdal shifted to Alcoa's Swiss workplace, he stepped in to the company's sphere of influence. IN-MAY 2000, Alcoa merged with another American aluminum giant Reynolds to be the world's largest aluminum company. Before approving the merger, the EU Executive Committee necessary Alcoa to sell a few of its European property to avoid monopoly. Alcoa's forging and warm extrusion herb in Indiana. Shutterstock Among the shares that the company must sell, section of this is a 50% ownership of a Reynolds-acquired refinery in Stade, Germany. The Love Channel With Swing on Blogspot was Dakhdal, who was simply no longer only a corrupt intermediary, but also an important participant in the global aluminum market. In June 2004, the rest of the 50% of the Stade refinery had been also looking for a buyer. The seller is the Norwegian energy organization Norsk Hydro. Dakhdal paid 110 million U.S. dollars at that time and possessed all shares within the Stade smelter. This acquisition also allowed him to obtain 10% of the company known as "Halco", which is the owner of 51% of the shares of Guinea Bauxite Business (CBG). The latter is a bauxite mining organization within the Republic of Guinea. (The rest of the 49% from the shares are kept by the Guinean authorities.) The Guinea Bauxite Corporation has exclusive legal rights to one of the world's largest established reserves of bauxite in the world, and Dakhdal is now also divided. From then on, he was in a mansion in Belgravia, and he began to purchase his bauxite directly from Africa and sent it to a refinery in Germany. He changed himself into a vertically integrated light weight aluminum tycoon. Further reading: The largest borderless cooperation in history-the journalist firm behind the Panama Papers, 6 things you should know At the peak from the philanthropy with numerous donations to the mid-2000s, Dakhdal launched the third motion: to be a global philanthropist. He established a foundation in his own name and donated huge amount of money to universities, healthcare research, and liberalism. He furthermore gave thousands to the individual rights organization Global Crisis Group (ICG) and backed cancer research at Imperial College in London; a lot more than 20,000 bucks was donated to the Institute of Community Policy (IPPR), a left-wing think tank in London. In 2007, the National League of Nations (NECO) granted Dakhdal using the "International Ellis Isle Medal of Respect"; this prize is to identify people who have "professional, private or charitable efforts to the worldwide community." Dakhdal entered an increased social circle, donated money to the Labour Party in England, and became a pal of former Uk Prime Minister Blair and previous US Chief executive Clinton. In 2004, when he has been in full control of Stade, he had already started donating towards the Clinton Foundation. It is rumored that the quantity of donations fell between 1 million and 5 million US dollars. (The building blocks did not disclose the actual amount.) The Clinton Base and the Dakhdal Foundation possess jointly supplied a scholarship to enable outstanding learners from poor nations, especially the center East, to get into McGill University. McGill University been the most glorious minute of Dakhdal's philanthropy: In '09 2009, he persuaded the institution to grant Clinton an honorary level. What is even more impressive is the fact that while the All of us Section of Justice's felony investigations of Alcoa and Dakhdal were in full swing, he also persuaded Clinton to visit Montreal to get the honor. On the early morning of Oct 10th, when Clinton stood in front of about 700 spectators, Dakhdal smiled proudly and personally hung a hood on Clinton's shoulders and awarded the amount. In the film record of this ceremony, Dakhdal gave Clinton a heavy embrace. In his talk, Clinton known as Dakhdal "my pal." His conversation lasted nearly an hour, and he recurring the necessity of "moral responsibility" frequently. He put forward many data on worldwide inequality and adjustment of the fundamental social structure. The numbers are usually precise and terrifying. He put a lot of statistics collected in to the content of the wonderful speech, these information accurately and powerfully clarify the trend of global injustice and the structure used to control the indegent. If he previously also told the story of Dakhdal at that time, it would completely illustrate how business bribery (especially the size of Alcoa) can deepen inequality and weaken the prospects for democracy by empowering authoritarian regimes. Wrap the dark money company with moral prestige. Now, Dakhdal continues his philanthropy, splitting time taken between Greater london and another large mansion-the latter can be his and his wife's big home in Paudex, Switzerland, situated in A remote alley. Nowadays, Dakhdal (pictured) proceeds his philanthropy. The image implies that he visited Cambridge University or college in December 2019 and donated 瞿25 million in the name of the foundation to the Uk Lung Base (British Lung Base). Research on mesothelioma. victordahdaleh.com Generally there, Dahdal is constantly on the reap the benefits of his long-term partnership with Alcoa in his old Morris Hotel building. Harco, their jv in Guinea, experienced a surplus of US$117 million from 2015 to 2017, and Dakhdal got 5% (Editor's notice: approximately NT$175 million) . The role from the intermediary illustrates perhaps one of the most destructive effects of high-level commercial corruption: it is a disturbing cycle in which prestige paves just how for corruption, which paves the way for increased prestige. Through the Alcoa test in Pittsburgh, Charles Gibbons, an attorney representing Bahrain Aluminium, said one mid-day: "The truth will observe the trajectory from the questions you ask and unfold before you." Dakhdal's profession , Which just implies that lies are usually piled-up where no-one dares to ask. This statement furthermore applies to foreign government officials who get bribes. Only once the powerful Western systems and professions (companies, banking institutions, and attorneys) elect to ignore black cash, can corrupt international officials have the ability to acknowledge bribes and launder money. Just like those bribery behaviors that use intermediaries, the impact of corruption not merely stays overseas, but additionally disturbs us at home. This article certified excerpt from "black money", Author: David ??Montero (David Montero), together publishing. Editor in charge: Zhang Tingluo
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lewishamledger · 4 years
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Leo the lionheart
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Words by Hugo Greenhalgh
Images of Lionel de Jersey Harvard courtesy of Harvard University Archives
A rather surprising but once well-loved name appears on a grave near the Dissenters Chapel at Brockley and Ladywell Cemeteries.
Lionel de Jersey Harvard holds the distinction of being the first “Harvard” to attend Harvard University. Lionel’s story is one that helped to re-establish Harvard’s original ties to south London, and while he was killed in the First World War in March 1918, aged just 24, his legacy still survives on both sides of the Atlantic.
The story actually begins in Southwark, where John Harvard was born and raised over 400 years ago. Baptised at Southwark Cathedral, he attended school locally at St Saviour’s Grammar School and is arguably its most famous pupil.
Tragedy struck, when in 1625, the bubonic plague took the lives of John’s father and seven of his siblings. Suddenly in receipt of a large inheritance, which was shared with his mother, Katherine and his one surviving brother, Thomas, John was able to attend Emmanuel College, Cambridge where he completed a BA and an MA.
When Katherine and Thomas also passed away, John decided he would emigrate to New England in the summer of 1637, along with his wife Ann. The couple settled in Charlestown, Massachusetts, where John served as a clergyman. He died, childless, of consumption the following year.
On his deathbed, John bequeathed half of his estate and his personal library to the local New College in Massachusetts, which had been established to help train ministers. In 1639, it was renamed Harvard College in his honour.
That John left no children proved a source of fascination down the years. When a statue of Harvard was commissioned in the 1880s, sculptor Daniel Chester French was forced to deal with the conundrum that no physical description of what he looked like existed.
For his model, he used a student named Sherman Hoar, a descendent of Leonard Hoar, an English-born near-contemporary of John Harvard’s, and the fourth president of the College. “He has more of what I want than anyone I know”, French said of his model.
Not long after that statue was erected, back in south London, Lionel de Jersey Harvard was born on 3 June 1893 in Lewisham. His father Thomas was the youngest son of the Reverend John Harvard, who himself was a descendant of Thomas Harvard – the brother of the original John Harvard. Young Lionel attended St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School – a continuation of the same Southwark school John had attended in the 17th century.
Just like John, many of Lionel’s close family had studied at Emmanuel College. However, when it came to his turn, the family’s financial situation prohibited him and he instead began work with a marine insurance brokers.
News of this Harvard clan made its way back to New England by pure happenstance. In 1847, Edward Everett – then president of Harvard – had written a letter to an English minister George Bancroft, asking him to return some books to Lionel’s grandfather, the Reverend John Harvard.
Some years later Mark Antony De Wolfe Howe, a Bostonian editor, came across the letter in his efforts to compile an anthology of Bancroft’s own correspondence. Intrigued by the Harvard connection, he entrusted his friend Louis Holman to make some enquiries on a trip to England in 1908.
Holman began to exchange his letters with the Harvards and was invited into the family home at Queen Leaze, Forest Hill, not far from where the Horniman Museum had just opened. He was enamoured by the family and was shown genealogical records of the Harvard’s heritage.
Speaking to the Massachusetts weekly newspaper the Cambridge Chronicle in September 1911, Holman said, “If similarity of ideals can be construed as evidence of relationship, the Harvards of Forest Hill are true descendants of the family to which belonged the namegiver of Harvard university.”
He reported back the news of Lionel’s predicament around his future education and it did not take long for a group of Harvard alumni to offer to cover the cost of tuition to come and study at Harvard, which would make him the first Harvard to do so.
It was the opportunity of a lifetime, and Lionel jumped at the chance. “This wholly unexpected information filled the Harvard home in London with happiness”, stated the Cambridge Chronicle.
Lionel actually failed the entrance examinations at his first attempt, but that was perhaps to be forgiven due to the differences in English and American curriculums. Following a period of intensive tuition, he was able to get the grades he needed to be accepted by the Harvard examination board. In September 1911, he set sail from Liverpool on his transatlantic voyage on a steamship called the “Canadian” and was greeted in Boston Harbour by Louis Holman.
The sense of fanfare around his arrival can be gleaned from contemporary reports. “Harvard of Harvard here”, proclaimed the Boston Evening Transcript. The Cambridge Chronicle were even more gushing: “...the appearance of this manly young English boy in the freshman class at Harvard this fall is an incident worthy of note in the history of America's most ancient institution of learning.”
As a freshman, Lionel lived at Weld Hall, a towering redbrick dormitory off Harvard Yard and a stone’s throw from the statue of his heralded ancestor. He made the most of the privileges a student has on offer, joining members’ clubs such as the Signet Society and the Hasty Pudding Club, the oldest collegiate social club in America.
On arrival, Harvard was met with a barrage of questions around his sporting pedigree. “He has never played baseball,” the Chronicle reported.
“The only kind of football he has played is soccer —so he may yet qualify for a football team. He also plays tennis.” However, he recognised that he was principally there to get an education. “Harvard is just a good, wholesome, everyday boy, and apparently the one thing he doesn't wish is notoriety of any kind. He came to study.”
It would seem that once Lionel settled in, he flourished at Harvard. In his junior year, he won the Boylston Elocution Contest for a recital of Alfred Noyes’ The Highwayman, for which he was awarded $30.
He also appeared in annual Elizabethan theatricals as a member of a men's fraternity, performed with the Glee Club, and volunteered for the Harvard Christian Association. Lionel’s most notorious acting role was his portrayal of his own ancestor John, as part of the celebrations for the 150th anniversary of the Hollis Hall building.
“The part of John Harvard was well taken by Lionel de Jersey”, the Cambridge Chronicle reported. So striking was the performance that his classmates began to refer to him as ‘John’.
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When graduation came in the summer of 1915, Lionel was given the honour of composing both the Class Poem and the Baccalaureate Hymn. He graduated cum laude in English, and 1915 turned out to be a good year for the arts at Harvard, with the poet EE Cummings, Pulitzer Prize-winning writer John P Marquand and composer Roger Sessions also finishing in the same year.
Harvard was widely regarded as a positive influence during his four years spent at Harvard and a fitting continuation of the legendary surname. In their write-up of his graduation, the Harvard Alumni Bulletin proclaimed, “Harvard has had good reason to be proud of her sons, but seldom more than of that son who bears her very name. Whatever may befall him, the romance and reality of his career must win him peculiar measure the Godspeed of his fellow alumni.”
Sadly, the fate to which this final line eluded to was met relatively swiftly. Just two days after graduation, Lionel returned to England to enlist in the Army. He joined the Grenadier Guards in September 1915 and left for France in March 1916.
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Lionel was shot during the Battle of the Somme and spent months recovering before returning to the frontline. In March 1918 he was killed in action, whilst in command of Number One Company of the First Battalion.
Aged just 24, Lionel’s young life had only just been getting started. Harvard College were quick to honour his memory. They named a freshman dormitory Lionel Hall after him, which was funded personally by Harvard President Abbott Lawrence Lowell and completed in 1925.
Those who later resided in the hall included Peter Benchley, creator of the film series Jaws, and the author and screenwriter Erich Segal.
A scholarship was also set up in his name, which funds a year’s tuition for a student at Emmanuel College, where Lionel had once intended to study. Back in England, his name was added to the family stone at Brockley and Ladywell Cemeteries.
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metallicmagpie-blog · 6 years
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scholarship masterpost
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As someone who has been profoundly influenced by the cost of college in the US, I really wanted to help other people be better prepared than I was and make some dents in student debt. Having also gone to a public school without a fully developed counseling department, I missed out on a lot of info about scholarships and ways of paying for college. Additionally, I haven't seen much financial-aid based advice floating around the studyblr community and wanted to help fill that gap as well. 
The following is a compilation of information, sources, and general help that will maybe bridge that information gap for those who don’t necessarily have easy access to it. I’m afraid the guide is pretty US-based simply because that’s the only system I have experience with, but perhaps others will be willing to add on. So here you go!
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A scholarship is free money. You don’t pay it back (unlike a loan), and it is gifted to you by an outside organization. There are tons of places to find them, and they can greatly help reduce your cost of college.
Every scholarship has its own requirements for applying, and may ask you to do something (write an essay, make a video, etc) in order to compete.
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Need Based Scholarships:  You must demonstrate financing need to qualify for the scholarship. Usually, you’ll need to have filled out FAFSA and have an EFC (expected family contribution) lower than a certain number. 
Merit Scholarships: Merit scholarships are awarded to the participant who demonstrates the most merit, or worthiness. This can be due to academic success, an personal talent, volunteer work, or other qualities that make someone a great candidate. 
Both need and merit based scholarships may have additional requirements, such as only being open to people of certain genders, ethnicities, or backgrounds. 
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- The internet! Its full of scholarships, seriously. And tons of sites curate them, so I’ve added an entire section on that below.
- Local Community: If you have a local Rotary or Lions Club branch, these organizations almost always have scholarships for local grads. You can also check with any other organizations such as the community center, other clubs/fraternal associations, or businesses. 
- At your job/your parents job: Parents work for a sizeable company? Many offer scholarships that are only open to the families of those employed.  They can ask the HR department, or you can look on the company website. Other companies offer tuition assistance or scholarships for employees (ex: Chick-Fil-A has a 2.5k employee-only scholarship), so you should check your own place of work too. 
- Career Center/Counselor: School counselors can get a bad rap, but they have tons of resources! Ask them if they have any scholarship info (they definitely will, they get sent this kind of stuff) if its not already posted in the room. 
- Your current school: This is for both high school students and college students. If you’re a high schooler, check with the PTA to see what they offer, and check what the school offers (again, ask the counselor!). They usually at least have something small, often for students nominated by the teachers. For college students, check the financial aid web page for your school. Many list scholarships the school has partnered with or promotes, as well as alumni scholarships (funds provided by past graduates for current students). 
- Your future school: Applying for college this year? Some schools will automatically send your application to relevant, school-sponsored scholarships for consideration, while others will require you to specifically choose this or to complete additional materials. Look this up early so you don’t miss any deadlines!
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(I have personally used these websites and can vouch for them. However, I would love to add others as well so let me know!)
Fastweb - the OG scholarship website. Its literally just a huge list of lists of scholarships. Its not the prettiest website (or at least didnt use to be), or the easiest to sort through, but there is definitely plenty of opportunities. 
Chegg - A legitimate source of scholarships, although they tend to list very popular and very competitive ones. While these are, of course, worth a lot of money, you’ll want to make sure you’re very competitive before applying so you don’t waste time. 
Cappex - Yep, you have to sign up. But its totally worth it. Aside from having a really organized list (sort by amount, requirements, deadline, etc), they will also send emails to remind you of deadlines for apps you’ve started or scholarships your might qualify for. It will also help you look for colleges that fit your needs if you’re not sure where you want to go. 100% free. Highly recommend. 
GoingMerry - This one is really really new, and I only know about it bc my school counselor let us in on it. Its supposed to be kind of like a commonApp for scholarships. So far it shown itself to have a lot of smaller, individual scholarships rather than large popular ones which is really nice. (non ref link).
DoSomething - This organization makes monthly initiatives (ex: get friends to register to vote, run a canned goods drive) and if you participate you can submit an entry for a scholarship. There are about 5 campaigns per month and they usually pick winners randomly. They’ll email with you with new campaigns and winners regularly. Its a good way to impact your community and maybe get some money for it!
This is definitely not a comprehensive list, but it will certainly get you started!
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Some final words:
1. NEVER pay for a scholarship service. Sites that do this (such as Scholly) are scams. A legitimate scholarship fund/website will never charge you to apply for or match to scholarships. 
2. Watch out for lottery scholarships where you have to sign up. Sites like Niche or Scholarship Points, etc will advertise that if you sign up you “could win a [insert large amount] scholarship”. In reality you’ll just get a lot of spam, since the entire thing is a lottery system and designed to increase their search engine rankings. 
3. Make sure you know what you’re applying for- a judged or a lottery type scholarship. The former means you’re actually competing based on your application, while the latter simply has basic qualifications and then you’re thrown into a drawing (aka much less likely to win anything for your efforts).
4. Found a lot of scholarships? Make an excel sheet of them if they’re on different sites. This will help you keep track of due dates, eligibility, prompts, etc. 
5. Don’t get discouraged! Apply to as many scholarships as possible. Free money is out there and while it may take you some time to win it, it is definitely attainable and you can do it!
Now go and get your free money!
(ps would anyone be interested in a guide to federal student aid/subsidized and unsubsizied loans/CSS/FAFSA/etc? I would be happy to put it infographic form too if that would help   -- @metallicmagpie)
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The Good School, ch. 1
Title: The Good School // AKA the Good Place High School AU no one asked for Chapter: 1 Summary: Eleanor Shellstrop has been plucked from her ordinary life in Phoenix, Arizona, to attend prestigious boarding school, Iverson Academy for the Gifted, thanks to her intelligence, social activism, and passion for the performing arts. Except for one thing: they’ve got the wrong forking girl. Pairings: Chidi x Eleanor
There were only three things on Eleanor’s mind: her headband was itchy, it dug into her scalp, and it was the actual worst. It was a required part of her new school uniform, since the dress code explicitly stated that all hair must be held firmly in place. What kind of rule was that? Hair must be held firmly in place? Please. The racial undertones were not lost on her.
The secretary, whose name Eleanor hadn’t bothered to remember, called from her desk with a sticky-sweet smile, “Miss Shellstrop? The headmaster will see you now.”
As she stood from the ancient chair she’d gotten comfortable in, a tall, white-haired man popped his head out of his office and smiled. Everyone loves smiling here. “Eleanor Shellstrop? It’s so wonderful to meet you.”
“Yes,” she said, shaking his hand, “it’s great to meet you too, Mr—“
“All students are welcome to call me Michael.”
“That’s…progressive of you,” she replied.
He ushered her inside his office and handed her a small water bottle and an individually-packaged sugar cookie covered in blue and gold icing — the school’s colors. “I like to encourage an open and transparent environment here amongst student and faculty. I’m sure you and your parents read through the brochure before your arrival, and I must say, I’m surprised and disappointed they weren’t able to come see you off.”
“That makes one of us,” she mumbled.
If he heard her, Michael made no comment and continued on with his spiel. “All of the main housing and academic policies will be gone over at orientation in just a few minutes, I’ll even walk you there myself. But I just wanted to review your file with you, especially because it’s so rare that we even accept students so close to the start of the school year.”
“Thank you for allowing an exception,” she interjected.
“Nonsense, Miss Shellstrop,” Michael said as he opened a folder marked with her name. “You are an exceptional student and it would have been my biggest failure had I not successfully championed your application with the rest of the school board. You had a 3.9 unweighted GPA transferring in, volunteered with your local city government, and your passion for the performing arts made you an incredible candidate and a shoo-in for our program here at Iverson Academy for the Gifted.”
“Iverson Academy for the Gifted,” she repeated, “Cool.”
“Enough about your accomplishments, I’m sure you’ve heard praise all your life, so why don’t I walk us over to the first day orientation and I can start selling Iverson to you?”
They stood together and Eleanor tugged on her sky blue plaid skirt, just one more thing about the whole situation that made her deeply uncomfortable. Michael guided her down the hallways, which were decorated with various portraits of presumably past headmasters and founding figureheads. She mused, “A lot of old white men roamed these halls.”
“Iverson Academy was once an exclusive boarding school for privileged sons of wealthy families,” Michael replied, “it’s a bit of a sore spot, understandably, but in 1975, we opened our doors to everyone.”
To everyone who could afford it. He continued, “Of course, the price tag is still hefty, but several of our alumni are kind and generous enough to help fund scholarships for those who wouldn’t get the chance to be here because of a silly thing like that. Like you.”
They arrived at a pair of huge wooden doors that looked important to Eleanor. “One question: how did you find me in my little podunk part of Phoenix?”
“Paradise Valley is only thirty minutes away,,” Michael reminded her, chuckling at her description. “At the end of every year, the school board will appoint a search committee tasked with finding students that exceed the expectations of their surroundings. Normally, I wouldn’t boast, but I was the one who found your records at Thunderbird High School.”
She didn’t know what to say. “T-thank you.”
“Nonsense, Miss Shellstrop. It is my pleasure to provide you with the opportunities you deserve. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to find you until your senior, but you’re here now.” Michael pushed the door open to reveal a grand hall, filled with students in matching uniforms, all buzzing with excitement for the new school year. “It’s time for orientation.”
It took all her strength and willpower not to roll her eyes or comment about how ridiculous it was for students in uniforms to be as cheery as they seemed to be. Michael vanished from beside her, suddenly appearing near the steps of the stage. She was on her own now, but Eleanor was used to that.
She walked towards the back of the hall, hoping to avoid the peppiest of her new pep-filled classmates. There was an empty seat next to a boy who’d already thrown his jacket off, onto the back of his chair, slouching over in a light slumber. Anyone who couldn’t even fake caring about the rules was the type of person she wanted to be a little associated with.
“Is this seat taken?”
The boy, who looked somewhere between Chinese and Filipino, opened his eyes and nodded, going back to sleep once more.  
“Cool.” Eleanor sat back into her new seat, eyeing her new peers. She smoothed her skirt over her knees, noticing that all the other girls’ skirts were pressed and wrinkle-free. Is this really my new normal?
“Good morning, everyone. I hope you are all as thrilled as I am to be here today!” Michael cheered, kicking his leg up from his excitement. “As most of you recall, I was a teacher last year, but am pleased to announced that I am now Headmaster here at Iverson Academy for the Gifted.”
The hall burst into applause, most students whooping and hollering. “Thank you, thank you. To all the returning students, welcome back! I am certainly looking forward to what the new school year will teach you. This morning you have the choice to head over to your homeroom or stay here to help your new classmates acquainted to Iverson after their own orientation.”
Majority of the room stood and started to walk out, their mindless chatter acting as white noise for Eleanor as she felt herself drawn to sleep. Michael added, “Oh, there’s tea and breakfast pastries in the cafeteria as well! Help yourselves.”
A few of the teachers ushered the remaining students to move closer to the front. Eleanor wanted to push back, but decided it was in her best interest to make a decent first impression. The sleeping boy followed her with his jacket crumpled in his hands.
“You’re awake.”
He nodded.
“You don’t talk,” she stated.  
“Not much,” he replied. The boy didn’t bother to continue or go back to sleep, instead sitting straight up, ready to listen to Michael’s welcome spiel.
She whispered, “I’m Eleanor Shellstrop, senior.”
“Jason Mendoza, junior.”
Eleanor tugged on her blonde hair, scratching her neck in the process, and sighed. She knew she needed to make allies soon, people to study with to help keep her grades up. The fact the walls were probably made of really expensive wood, like mahogany, was proof enough this school meant business.
“Only the brightest and most diligent,” Michael was saying, “are granted an invitation to come here. You are all here because you are the best, the true cream of the crop.  So welcome to the most challenging and rewarding experience you could ever dream of. We are not just the ‘Good School’ as our neighborhood reputation claims, we are the best. Welcome to Iverson Academy.”
“Is there anyone that I would have heard of that graduated from here?” Eleanor asked as she followed Michael to her new dorm room. She quickly added, “I’ve known about Iverson’s spectacular status by just being in Phoenix, but I’ll admit, I’m not well-versed in its alumni.”
“Of course, Miss Shellstrop. As you saw in our Hall of Headmasters, this school was originally dedicated to the education of privileged, but incredibly intelligent sons. Mostly the sons of politicians and foreign diplomats. And in all honesty, that’s still true for today. Majority of our students, boys and girls, come from political backgrounds all over the world.”
“Wow,” she replied, doing her best to sound impressed. She doubted it really was the best and brightest here -- just the ones who came from the brightest families who could afford it.
“Ah yes, this is your dorm.” He handed her a small envelope, heavy in her palm, and she slipped a bronze key from it. “Yours is a single, as you were a last minute addition to the roster, and this is a co-ed floor. I hope you don’t mind that.”
She exhaled, and her shoulders relaxed. I don’t know how I would’ve made it living with a bunch of girly girls. “That’s perfectly fine.”
“Wonderful, Miss Shellstrop!”
“Why do you call students by their last names but encourage us to call you Michael?”
“I’m from a very traditional family, it’s quite the habit to break,” he replied, ushering her into her room. He hovered at the doorway and explained, “Faculty are not allowed to step into a student’s room in any circumstance except for emergencies.”
“Faculty...of the opposite gender?” The walls were a faint blue-grey with a floral pattern, and more wood paneling that matched the rest of the school. There was a large window with an exquisite view of a well-kept courtyard with a working fountain.
“Of any gender. It’s a relatively new policy.”
Eleanor dropped her two duffle bags on the floor next to her full-sized bed. They really don’t cheap out here. “That the traditionally conservative school board approved?”
“We haven’t experienced any dangerous situations without the policy; however, we felt it was better to ensure our students’ safety with a preventative policy instead of waiting for an issue to occur.”
“Excellent.”
“As this is an old building, its original use was not to house students for extended periods of time. So there are no closets or attached bathrooms. All rooms do come with wardrobes, a chest of drawers, and a bookcase for your things. As you can see, there is a desk already stocked with notebooks, binders, and every other office supply you can think of.”
“That’s impressive and generous, thank you. I didn’t bring any other than the school uniforms.” Since that was all I could afford.
“You are welcome, Miss Shellstrop.” Michael looked at his wristwatch. “Your floor advisor should be coming to greet you and take you to your first class. Here is your schedule.”
She walked over to him, uneasy about allowing him full entry to her room, and took the slip of paper to read through. Modern American Literature, British Literature, Advanced Calculus, Advanced Government, Economics 1, BioChemistry, The Philosophy of Ethics, and Woodworking. “Woodworking?”
“It was the last elective with open seats, my apologies.”
“It’s fine,” she waved him off.
“Do you find the rest of the schedule suitable? We didn’t want to overload your first semester with us.”
“This is just for one semester?” Eleanor snapped her jaw shut.
“Yes, you will be able to pick your own classes for the spring semester.”
Eleanor groaned internally, but stuck a smile on her face, hoping Michael wouldn’t notice the dead look in her eyes.
“Hello, Michael, and you must be Eleanor. I’m Tahani Al-Jamil. Oh, look at you, you are so sweet and teensy,” a leggy brunette with caramel-colored skin said, gliding into her room. The girl poked Eleanor’s nose and smiled. “Boop.”
“Oh, you booped me.” Eleanor kept the scowl off her face.
Tahani gave a clipped laugh. “Yes, I did.”
“That’s fun.”
“You two look like you are going to get along swimmingly. Any questions you have, Miss Shellstrop, should be directed to Miss Al-Jamil here. She’ll be happy to entertain you, isn’t that right?”
She reached up to clutch her necklace and gave a long sigh, like she was wishing for something else. “I simply adore entertaining.”
Michael said his goodbyes and strutted away, Eleanor listening to his footsteps grow faint. “Can I ask where that accent is from?”
“High society London. Go on and grab your things, I ought to take you for your first class.”
“Why would you leave London for bumfu-fork Arizona?” Eleanor picked up her backpack, emptying its contents, which were mostly snacks she had doubted would be available here. In this prison. She grabbed a notebook and a couple pencils from the desk - her desk - before stuffing them into her bag.
“Well, I was born in Pakistan,” Tahani replied, flipping her hair gently over her shoulder, “had some schooling in London and then Paris, before my father decided it was time to do business in the States and brought me along, leaving my mother and sister Kamilah in Paris.”
The pair of girls walked down the halls, with Eleanor struggling to keep up with Tahani’s long stride. “I noticed Eleanor that you almost swore when describing Arizona. While the description was rather precise, I do have to warn you that the teachers here do observe a more conservative outlook on language.”
“You don’t say,” she said, rolling her eyes. She couldn’t stop herself this time. Of course, she could tell that swearing wasn’t exactly welcome here, it’s why she said bumfork. Bumfork. Who was this girl?
“Now, you’ll attend 4 classes per day, excluding homeroom, and the schedule alternates. Somehow by the end of the term, it’ll all even out so you needn’t worry about that.”
“I wasn’t, but thank you.”
“My pleasure,” Tahani said, placing her hand on Eleanor’s shoulder, and ignored the blonde’s obvious recoil. “Due to orientation this morning, we’ll be skipping homeroom and here’s your first class at Iverson Academy. The Philosophy of Ethics.”
Eleanor hovered at the door, hesitant to enter, until the small Asian woman sitting at her desk looked up and called her in. The teacher had short black hair, and thin, wire-framed glasses, and smiled, “You must be Miss Eleanor Shellstrop. I’m your Ethics teacher, Jessica Yeh.”
“Ethics,” she repeated, breaking the word up into long syllables.
“It’s a senior requirement,” Jessica replied, before turning to the rest of the class. “This is one of the new transfer students, Eleanor Shellstrop. Where are you from?”
“Just down the street in Phoenix.”
“Nevertheless, welcome to Iverson. Please have a seat next to Chidi.”
A lean, athletic boy raised his hand and she did as she was instructed, dropping into the seat next to him. He had deep brown eyes, with light flecks of gold she noticed when the streaming light from the windows hit him just right, black framed glasses,  and dark skin that looked soft and inviting. Eleanor shook her head and introduced herself, “Hi Cheeto, you can call me Eleanor.”
“I-it’s Chidi,” he corrected her. “Chidi Anagonye. Nice to meet you. Do you like clowns?”
She had pulled out her notebook and placed it on the desk, not even noticing the giant clown on its cover. “Oh my fu-forking god. Is everyone’s notebooks like this?”
“No, our school supplies are actually customized by the school,” he whispered. “Mine has Plato and Socrates making the Spy Vs. Spy pose. I love it.”
“Right, nerd,” she said under her breath.
“I’m sorry?”
“Nothing, I didn’t say anything. What’s the rest of your schedule look like?”
He rattled off his list of classes, his excitement growing with each one, before ending with, “I have BioChemistry today too.”
“Perfect!” She exclaimed just a touch too loudly, drawing the attention of her peers once again. Ignoring Chidi’s side-ey, Eleanor quickly lied, “Iverson is perfect! The revelation is just happening right now. Sorry, Miss-- Jessica.”
“That’s fine, Miss Shellstrop. Please continue to focus though.” Their teacher smiled and continued going over the semester syllabus and what she expected each of them to learn by the time finals rolled around.
In a hushed voice, Eleanor asked, “Can we meet after this class? I want to make sure I’m all caught up in Biology and Chemistry. Because that’s what BioChemistry is, right?”
“Y-yes. BioChemistry is the study of chemistry within living biological organisms.”
“Right, exactly, so what do you say? Partner up?”
“Sure? Sure, I guess.”
Eleanor beamed at him and turned her attention back to Jessica,who was now giving a brief rundown on the most famous philosophers.
Five minutes into their short break between classes, Eleanor had finally stopped dragging Chidi and freed his hand from her deathgrip. He cupped his own hand, massaging lightly, and flinched at the pain. “Eleanor, what’s wrong? Is everything okay? Also, you’re really strong.”
She noticed he spoke with a faint accent. “Where are you from, Chidi?”
“I was born in Nigeria, completely accidental, apparently I couldn’t wait to get out of my mom before she got home from her business trip. So I grew up in Senegal,” he explained, sitting down on the window bench in the empty hallway. “But my dad was an esteemed ethics professor, and was asked to do speaking engagements all the time, so he took me along. I spent some time in Hong Kong and Paris, picking up a little bit of both languages, before he died.”
She sat beside him and reached for his hand. “I’m so sorry.”
“It happened when I was 12, and since then, my mom and I have lived in the States. She helped out on the Obama campaign, but not publicly. Wouldn’t have helped the American part of his angle.” Their hands were still intertwined and he immediately pulled away. “How about you?”
“From Phoenix, Arizona. Dad died when I was 15, but I hadn’t seen him in 3 years since he left my mom and me. Then I got emancipated from my mom because she was an alcoholic who forgot she had a daughter still.”
“And despite all that, you got into Iverson Academy on an academic scholarship. Is it true that you worked on the Paradise Valley’s mayor’s office?”
She didn’t say anything, instead letting an awkward smile rest on her lips. Chidi smiled back and admitted, “I don’t make friends every easily, Eleanor, but I feel like I can trust you. Is that stupid?”
“No, that’s great!” She took her headband off and ran her fingers through her hair, feeling weightless. “In fact, I need you to promise me that you would never betray me. Like a friendship vow.”
“I promise you that I will never say or do anything to cause you harm.”
“Good, because I’m not whoever Michael thinks I am. I didn’t have a 3.9 unweighted GPA, I barely had a GPA. I didn’t volunteer in the mayor’s office and I’m afraid of clowns. Like I don’t even eat those delicious Mexican clown candies you see on the street for 50 cents.” She finished with jazz hands. “There’s been a big mistake. I’m not supposed to be here.”
“Paleta Payaso,” he replied, before whipping his gaze back up to her. “Wait, what?”
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lboogie1906 · 2 years
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UNCF, the United Negro College Fund, known as the United Fund, is a philanthropic organization that funds scholarships for black students and general scholarship funds for 37 private HBCUs. UNCF was incorporated on April 25, 1944, by Frederick D. Patterson, Mary McLeod Bethune, and others. UNCF is headquartered in DC. In 2005, UNCF supported approximately 65,000 students at over 900 colleges and universities with approximately $113 million in grants and scholarships. About 60% of these students are the first in their families to attend college, and 62% have annual family incomes of less than $25,000. UNCF administers over 450 named scholarships. UNCF's president and chief executive officer is Michael Lomax. Past presidents of the UNCF included William H. Gray and Vernon Jordan. Though founded to address funding inequities in education resources for African Americans, UNCF-administered scholarships are open to all ethnicities; the great majority of recipients are still African-American. It provides scholarships to students attending its member colleges as well as to those going elsewhere. Graduates of UNCF member institutions and scholarships have included many Black people in the fields of business, politics, health care, and the arts. Some prominent UNCF alumni include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.; Alexis Herman; Spike Lee; Samuel L. Jackson; General Chappie James; and Dr. David Satcher. UNCF adopted as its motto the maxim "A mind is a terrible thing to waste." This maxim has become one of the most widely recognized slogans in advertising history. The motto was notably mangled in an address to the organization by VPOTUS Dan Quayle, who stated: "And you take the UNCF model that what a waste it is to lose one's mind or not to have a mind is being very wasteful. How true that is." The motto, which has been used in numerous award-winning UNCF ad campaigns, was created by Forest Long, of the advertising agency Young & Rubicam, in partnership with the Ad Council. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence @uncf https://www.instagram.com/p/CcxeIgOL-WKRrRbV8IH6JP9goa0jTPkN-ykAfQ0/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=
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faithfulnews · 4 years
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New podcast: Faith-based colleges face coronavirus crisis (and hard identity questions, too)
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What is going to happen on college and university campuses this fall?
That’s a huge question, right now, and nobody knows the answer yet. Parents and students want to know. Football fans want to know. Trustees want to know since, in the end, they’re the people who will end up trying to handle the financial fallout of the coronavirus crisis (including predictions of a second wave hitting with the flu-season in November).
But there is more to this story than COVID-19, if you have been paying close attention to higher-education trends in recent years. Leaders in higher-ed were already bracing for the year 2025 — when the enrollment surge linked to the massive millennial generation would be coming to an end.
Now, look past all of those state-funded schools — big and small. How will these trends hit private schools, including faith-based private schools. Many have been facing rising tides of red ink, and that was before the arrival of the coronavirus.
“Crossroads” host Todd Wilken and I talked about all of these issues, and more, during this week’s podcast (click here to tune that in). The hook for this discussion was my “On Religion” column for this week, which included this crucial passage:
… The coronavirus crisis is forcing students and parents to face troubling realities. A study by McKinsey & Company researchers noted: "Hunkering down at home with a laptop … is a world away from the rich on-campus life that existed in February."
What happens next? The study noted: "In the virus-recurrence and pandemic-escalation scenarios, higher-education institutions could see much less predictable yield rates (the percentage of those admitted who attend) if would-be first-year students decide to take a gap year or attend somewhere closer to home (and less costly) because of the expectation of longer-term financial challenges for their families."
This could crush some schools. In a report entitled "Dawn of the Dead," Forbes found 675 private colleges it labeled "so-called tuition-dependent schools -- meaning they squeak by year-after-year, often losing money or eating into their dwindling endowments." While it's hard to probe private-school finances, Forbes said a "significant number" of weaker schools are "nearly insolvent."
How many of America’s truly faith-defined private colleges are in that “Dawn of the Dead” list? It’s hard to know, but you know that there are a few.
That means there are news stories to cover linked to this trends — local stories in multiple zip codes from coast to coast.
Like I said, faculty and administrators on these faith-defined private campuses already knew that there was pain ahead, linked to demographic trends and the rising number of legal and academic challenges coming from their critics (think LGBTQ strategists involved in sports, accreditation boards and internship supervisors in public-school systems).
It’s hard to make strategic plans and (#GULP) budget cuts when — in many cases — faculty and trustees differ on key issues of theology, morality and other forms of academic politics.
The good news, for schools with strong denominational ties, is that they have loyal churches, alumni and parents who are committed to helping them. The bad news? Well, some of those churches are in decline. Some of those parents have budget problems and are looking for less-expensive options for their children. And key players in some of those churches believe that their colleges are getting a bit too uppity and/or progressive on matters of doctrine.
There are story hooks all over the place in these dramas.
But sometimes reporters simply need to follow the money. Here is a rather remarkable example, which arrived in my email box this week. The headline: “Franciscan University to Cover 100% of Tuition Costs for Fall 2020 for New Students.”
That’s bold. And this is a conservative — but not “traditionalist” — Catholic school that has, in recent decades, made a name for itself by producing flocks of new priests and nuns. I have spoken there several times and the atmosphere on campus is kind of like an evangelical school, only with monks. Here is a chunk of that press release:
STEUBENVILLE, OHIO — In response to the unprecedented economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, Franciscan University of Steubenville will cover the remainder of tuition costs, after scholarships and grants have been applied, for the fall 2020 semester for all incoming full-time undergraduate students enrolled in its on-campus programs. The president and Board of Trustees unanimously approved Step in Faith, a COVID-19 response plan, at their April 18 meeting.
President Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, said, “As a University, we feel called by God to ease the burden for students, so they can experience the irreplaceable value of a Franciscan University education. We’ve heard from many students whose concerns over the pandemic are making the decision to leave home for college more difficult. Also, many families and students have seen their ability to pay for college evaporate due to the economic impact of the coronavirus. We hope this unique response will help them to overcome these obstacles and uncertainties and step out in faith with us.”
The idea of using some of the University’s reserves to cover tuition costs came forward after Father Pivonka asked faculty and staff to join him in prayer for “fresh, creative, Holy Spirit-inspired ideas” for addressing the challenges Franciscan University and its students were facing due to the pandemic.
Tapping into the university’s “reserves”?
Yes, that’s what he said. There are some private-college leaders who can’t use that word, these days.
Meanwhile, here is another angle on these stories, care of an interview — published by Rod “Benedict Option” Dreher — with theologian David Whidden of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University, or FranU, in Baton Rouge, La.
This is a small, no-frills commuter school — annual tuition is about $10,000 — that combines the basics in Catholic thought with programs for pre-med and nursing students. The key is that the school is small and has low costs. Here is a chunk of that interview:
All the things that used to be disadvantages for us are suddenly advantages. We have no dorms, no Greek life, no sports, and not even a cafeteria, so we haven’t had to return any money to students. And let me add that while the lack of those things might have seemed like a disadvantage before the pandemic, I never considered them to be a disadvantage, because when I walked into a classroom I knew my students had only one reason to be there, which was for an education (for instance, the day after the national [LSU football] championship game I had my first class of the semester at 7:45 am and only had two out of 29 students absent).  Most of our budget is spent on what is supposed to be the main mission of higher education, which is to teach and support students, not on things that are secondary to the university.  … Our other secret weapon is that we have a niche in healthcare degrees, so most of our students are enrolled in undergraduate programs like nursing, respiratory therapy, radiologic technology, physical therapy assisting, biology (pre-med or pre-physicians assistant), and the like.  As the pandemic has made clear, there is an ongoing need for students with those degrees.  But their education all takes place in a Catholic and Franciscan context that forms them to be not just technically proficient, but also deeply human in their approach to their vocations. Next year we are launching a program that will allow us to make sure that all our students are also properly formed with regard to healthcare ethics, which is something that we have also seen a need for in the pandemic.  I like to say that we have majors that matter, and that has never been more clear than in the last month. …
 Also, our classes are small, usually capped for undergraduates at around 32, so we know our students by name. And we are a Catholic college that actually treats the Catholic intellectual tradition with respect, not as a burden to be avoided, but as a gift to be shared.
Clearly, this is not the normal business model for a Christian private school. But it appears that smaller may be better, and it helps to have a clear focus on service to the local community.
Will others follow that path? The battles on many campuses are going to be sad and brutal, at the same time.
Enjoy the podcast.
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liveyviviendo · 7 years
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el primer día
Hello folks! Welcome to my study abroad travel blog, a weekly (or so) update about my shenanigans and learnings from Nicaragua and Cuba. If you speak a little bit of Spanglish, I’m sure you’ve noticed that the title of this blog is probably the worst pseudo-pun I could have made: Livey Living. I hope you won’t hold it against me.
I’m making this blog for my friends and family at home, but also as a souvenir for myself, and a manifesto for those wanting to stretch their comfort zone. Today, on my 22nd birthday, I left the United States for the first time in my life, and will now be spending four months traveling around a country where I am only mildly proficient in the language. For many, this is no feat at all, but even two years ago, I wouldn’t have thought that I could or would ever be writing to you from Managua, Nicaragua. I fully anticipate this semester to be one of challenge and growth and want to document it all.
However, I didn’t get here alone, and, I would like to take this time to thank my wonder-woman mom, my grandparents, the professors at USC Dornsife and Annenberg, my best friends (y’all know who you are), the Warren Bennis Scholars Program, as well as my scholarship benefactors at the Society for Trojan Women, the USC Alumni Club of Seattle, and Philip and Colleen Kirst Scholarship fund. Can confirm it takes a village to get a girl from tiny Spanaway, Washington to Central America, and the amount of gratitude I have for each of you is almost ineffable.
Today I arrived in Managua, and will be staying in Casa San Juan for the next four days with my nine classmates. Casa San Juan is a beautiful little hotel with a couple friendly lizards and my last breaths of air-conditioned air prior to spending the rest of my days here cuddled in 84% humidity.  It’s rainy season here, and so far, the three downpours and consistent thunders have put Seattle to shame. 
We’ve spent the day hanging out and eating pupusas, taking a travel rest-day before beginning orientation tomorrow. We’ll then meet our host families on Sunday, and start classes Monday. Our program through the School of International Training is called “Media, Youth Culture, and Literacy”, where we will be studying the history of Nicaraguan government and social programs.
Little did I know, my learnings already started today when the lovely program coordinator, Adela, drove me through downtown Managua from Sandino International Airport to Casa San Juan. She dropped a few “surprise history lessons” as she calls them, and with her help (plus a few of my own research finds), here are ten interesting (and judgement-free, so far) things you might like to know about Nicaragua and its capital, Managua.
1. Nicaragua is the second poorest country in the Americas after Haiti. 2. If you like House of Cards, you might find it pretty interesting to know that Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega is married to his Vice President Rosario Murillo. There are billboards with their faces all over Managua. I’m not going to lie, the thought of Trump’s face on billboards is overly bizarre. 3. The public transit system in Managua uses buses donated by the United States and Russia. Russia donated metro buses, the U.S. donated old school buses, and some of the school district names have never been removed. 4. Before 1852, the capital of Nicaragua alternated between León and Granada (depending on who held political power), but to end the disagreement, they chose to build a city geographically in the middle of the two cities. 5. Fun fact #4 turned out to be an unfortunate decision, because there are four major fault lines running through Managua (sounds a bit like some other cities my Angelinos might be familiar with?). The city has dealt with several major earthquakes, including the infamous 1972 shake which destroyed a large part of the city. 6. There are almost no street names in Managua; everything is labelled by quadrants, general areas, and direction of travel. The only exception being one of Managua’s main thoroughfares, “avenida Simón Bolívar”, named after El Libertador himself. 7. Nicaragua’s number one export is covfefe…I mean, coffee. 8. Thirty minutes outside of Managua, there is an active caldera volcano known as Masaya. It last erupted in 2008. Bonus fun fact: During the Sandinistan revolution, the dictator Somoza would order his political enemies dropped into Masaya’s open magma. 9. There is a giant yellow picture of Hugo Chávez in the largest roundabout in Managua. Chávez donated it to the Nicaraguan government himself. 10. Throughout Managua, there are 200 árboles de vida, or “Trees of Life”. Inspired by the work of Gustav Klimt, these giant, Seussian, metal trees became a symbol for the current administration after they began building them to replace Christmas trees which had been left standing throughout the 2011 calendar year. Expect a “livey living under the life tree” photo sometime in the near future.
If you’ve made it this far, thanks for reading, here’s some pics of Casa San Juan! 
With love, Livey
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