Written by Hollie Conger

 

For Corvallis middle schoolers, planning for college is something that starts early. In order to best plan for higher education, it means that families must consider all components of the college process, including finances. During OSU Juntos weekly sessions, families gain understanding about what goes into financial planning.

 

Families learn about the different types of scholarships available as well as financial assistance, the difference in tuition rates, and how to best approach the FAFSA process. Many times, Juntos facilitators will share their personal experiences and make sure parents know that even though the process can be daunting, it is well worth the effort.

 

Juntos facilitators emphasize that college finances involve everyone. It should be approached as a team, and it requires preparation and research in order to produce a feasible plan.

 

The financial discussion is not just intended for parents. Defining students' roles in the process, and allowing them to brainstorm ways to save for college, teaches students that the actions they make today will affect their future.