The Career Coaches of the EDA of Jones County took an important step in supporting students and families by hosting a FAFSA Application Assistance Program on Thursday, December 5th. This county-wide initiative aimed to educate students and parents on the significance of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and to provide hands-on assistance with completing financial aid applications.
Why FAFSA is Crucial for Students and Parents
FAFSA is a critical gateway for accessing financial aid, including grants, loans, and scholarships. Most colleges and universities require FAFSA submissions for students to qualify for institutional scholarships and federal or state financial aid programs. In Mississippi, colleges and universities maximize opportunities by stacking scholarships and financial aid up to the total cost of attendance. For families navigating the complexities of financial aid for the first time, events like these are invaluable.
An Event Designed for Success
Held across several schools in Jones County, the program brought together students, parents, and financial aid experts to simplify the application process and address common concerns. By demystifying FAFSA, the Career Coaches provided tools and resources to help families take their first steps toward college readiness.
The event featured insights and guidance from notable guests, including:
•Barbara Odom (Jones County School District)
•Christina Bracey (Get2College)
•Emma Brownlee (University of Mississippi – Ole Miss)
•Erin Cox (University of Southern Mississippi – USM)
•Shaterri Thompson (University of Southern Mississippi – USM)
•Valerie Gunnell (Northeast Jones High School)
These professionals played a pivotal role in making the event successful by answering questions and offering actionable advice on completing the FAFSA and State of Mississippi Financial Aid applications.
Empowering Families Through Education
The Career Coaches of the EDA of Jones County are committed to preparing local students for academic and career success. By hosting this program, they demonstrated the importance of financial literacy in the college application process. Equipping families with this knowledge removes financial barriers and opens the door to higher education for many.
The EDA of Jones County continues to support educational initiatives that empower students and strengthen the community. Through collaborative programs like this, the organization ensures families have the tools to make informed decisions about their children’s futures.
For more resources or to learn about future events hosted by the Career Coaches of Jones County, contact the EDA and follow the Jones County Chamber of Commerce social media channels.