The ETHS Class of 2012 is busy preparing for the future, and many students are taking this time to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). ETHS’s College & Career Center adds a fun element to the process with "Get Your Bling On," a campaign that encourages students to complete the FAFSA early and receive incentives and rewards for doing so.

 

The ETHS College & Career Center has already helped dozens of families successfully complete the FAFSA and will work with students through the spring to assist with scholarship and financial aid forms for college applications. Each ETHS student who completes the FAFSA receives a "bling" t-shirt and beads. Every student who stops in the ETHS College & Career Center wearing a "Get Your Bling On" t-shirt on Fridays is entered into a weekly raffle. The campaign continues through the remainder of the school year.

 

"Getting the FAFSA completed early is important particularly for students who stay in Illinois or are counting on institutional aid," stated Beth Arey, ETHS College & Career Coordinator. She promotes "Get Your Bling On" to seniors during school hours and at various ETHS events. The ETHS College & Career Center also hosts presentations throughout the school year to assist students at all grade levels with their post-secondary plans.

 

To complete the financial aid process, the ETHS College & Career Center will host "Understanding Your Financial Aid Award Letter" on March 28 and April 17, enabling families to work with staff to understand details like actual out-of-pocket costs of college. Appointments will be taken online and over the phone.

 

ETHS seniors are encouraged to complete the FAFSA online at www.FAFSA.gov. More information is available on the ETHS website (www.eths.k12.il.us/ccc) or by contacting Beth Arey at 847-424-7161 or areyb@eths.k12.il.us.

 

 

ETHS seniors Khadijah Shand and Diamond Seivright wear t-shirts and beads that encourage classmates to "Get Your Bling On."