My Dad started working second shift about a month ago. He was working graveyard shift for quite awhile, about 10 years. He works at the post office sorting mail. Basically, I'm worried about my families financial security. My Mom doesn't work, she just takes care of the house. Since my Dad started working second shift, he took on less pay, too. Yesterday he received a call from my Grandfather, I think, offering my Dad some money. He turned it down, though, saying that the bills get paid even though he doesn't know how, he just said that it always worked out in the end. God has provided for my family, but I'm just worried with me going to college that my family might have to suffer financially. I know the loans I'm applying for will be paid for after graduation, but I'm still just worried about everything. That, and my older brother went to Purdue for a year, and messed up. He got into alcohol and nearly screwed up his life. He had lots of bills, and even a court date after that. That's over with now, but all of that costed money. So, my parents have always provided for us, even if we messed up, and I'm just afraid that we might end up in debt, or something. Maybe I'm just a worry wort, but any prayers will be most appreciated. Thanks. And also, I'm college bound in less then two weeks, so I might not be around for awhile, like I've been already. More prayers for that would be most appreciated. Thanks all, you guys rock.
With love,
FORIAMSPAM!
Don't let this worry you going in to college. My family was heavily in debt when I went to college too. I nearly gave myself an ulcer worrying about it all. But fact is if you know what you're doing will help you and your folks in the future then keep it up.
When I graduated from college I was so broke I applied for welfare....it was tough for a few months but it all worked out and things are turning around. I've got a good job now and enough income to pay my debts and give a little to my mom. My struggles inspired my sister and a few cousins to pursue their college education.
Prayers out to you to make the right moves.
Spam you know I got your back and you got my prayers. PM me if you need anything.
Though it does you credit to think about and worry about the family finances, you are doing the right thing going to college. It should increase your earning power (though that shouldn't be the only reason to go), which in the medium to long term will help you and your family.
And in the short term I would guess that your family would not trade you doing something worthwhile with your life now for some small short term increase in money.
Enjoy your education, make yourself and your family proud in whatever ways you can, educational or otherwise.
I feel your pain.
While I won't speak for you parents, as a parent myself, the most important thing to me is that my children have an opportunity to make a life for themselves. The last thing I would want is for my children to alter/change their plans (and potentially risk their future) because of immediate financial need. I'm not saying you shouldn't worry, I'm just saying try to stay focused and understand that your education is as important (probably more important) to them as it is to you.
In terms of assistance, if you are in the U.S., the first thing I would do is get on the phone to your financial aid office and schedule an appointment to meet with a counselor as soon as possible. There a lot of funding out there, particularly need-based, but you have to actively seek it out and it will take some time and heartache. Some things to consider when applying for financial aid:
1) How are your grades? Merit based scholarships and grants don't have to be paid back!
2) Your father is a civil servant? Anybody serve in the military? Regent University in VA offers a 25% fee reduction to military, government employees and their families. Your school may have something similar.
3) Ask about work-study. When I went to University of California (Berkeley), they had a number of very well paying jobs available to people receiving financial aid. These were part-time jobs which paid anywhere from $8 - $12/hr (good money in 1989!), but you had to register with the financial aid office to qualify. I also worked as an Intramural Sports referee, which was a fun way to earn some extra money for day-to-day living.
The most important thing is to keep your eyes on the prize and understand that, by making the sacrifice now, you will place yourself in a position to help (and even support) your family in the future.
Good luck, and our thoughts and prayers are with you.
B92
Hey Spam, I know exactly how you feel man! I really worried about how my family was going to pay for my education, and I did everything in my power to pinch pennies. In the end, God provided and I had a really fantastic education. Be frugal, but don't make yourself sick worrying about it. These other guys are right, your family knows what they are doing, and so does God. My prayers will definitely be with you! :)
More positive vibes your way Spam. Things should work out for the best, just hang in there.
Positive vibes headed your way
There's plenty of good advice in this thread which I can't really add to so more good vibes your way Spammy.
Hey, thanks for all the advice everybody. Haven't checked here since I made this thread. Just a little bit of an update, I moved in to my dorm here at Indiana State, already having a good time, meeting all sorts of cool people. Just saw a comedian tonight as part of freshman orientation. Really funny stuff. Classes here don't start 'til Wednesday, so it's mainly just orientation things going on. Can't wait for stuff to start so I can see all what I'll be doing.
Seriously, thanks for all your guys' support. It makes me happy to know that I can tell you guys stuff, and that you guys will care. Thanks so much.
With love,
FORIAMSPAM!
Hey man, any time. :thumbup: