About Trish Smith Expertise I can answer a variety of questions on college financial aid, student bank accounts, student budgets, student credit cards, student loans, and scholarships.
Experience I currently write for a website that offers information to students about how to pay for college and how to manage their money wisely.
Education/Credentials I received my Bachelor of Arts in English in 2002 and my Master's of Liberal Studies in 2007.
Question QUESTION: Hello, I'm a 47 y/o African American, single mom of a 4 y/o and a disabled adult child. I lost my job of 18+yrs, my only source of income has been savings and unemployment. I would like to pursue a degree in nursing. However, I do not have a high school diploma. I'm presently attending free SUNY,GED/College Prep classes (full-time) I applied for 599 unemployment benefit extension, it was denied. GED/college prep is "not considered training" and doesn't qualify for extension. I received my last UE check and have $2500 a MO. living expenses. I will have exhausted all financial resources the by end of March. But, still need aprox 4-MOS time before obtaining my GED, and enter college to begin nursing pre-recs. Is there any grants, scholarship funds, etc. available to me now, so that I can remain in school?
ANSWER: Hi Katherine,
There are many sources of financial aid that you can receive to help you pay for school.
Grants and scholarships are great ways to pay for school because they're free and you don't have to pay them back.
QUESTION: I don't think my question was answered. Your response for for financial assistance for college. I need financial help "now" in order to continue school. Is there any grants/aid available for a 47 y/o black woman, single parent (GED student @ SUNY) preparing for college?
I will be pursuing career/degree in nursing late 2008?
Thank you!
Answer Hi Katherine,
You have to search the grant sites I listed above for any grants that may apply to you. These types of grants are usually not listed separately.
You can also use the single mother resource pages I listed above to find specific grants.
