Financial Aid + FGLI
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Welcome to UChicago - your new home for the next four years. It's a remarkable achievement. Unfortunately for you, UChicago also holds the title of being the world's most expensive university, with an in-state total cost of $81,726 a year. If you happen to be among the X percent of students - First-Genexration, Low-Income ( FGLI) - this number can be more than just a figure; it's a looming financial nightmare. As most college students quickly discover, higher education comes with a hefty price tag. When you're enrolled full-time, you're faced with a barrage of expenses - monthly bills, food, textbooks, and more. It becomes evident that the amount you invest in living on campus significantly outweighs what you can earn while in college.
Background:
Amidst its many flaws, UChicago stands out as one of the institutions that have been dedicated to relieving the burden of college tuition for First-Generation, Low-Income students. Through initiatives like the UChicago Empower Initiative and No Barrier Program, the university has shown its commitment to bridging the financial gap and providing FGLI students with the resources they need to pursue a higher education. These programs aren't just figures on paper; they also extend to on-campus support. One of the most recognized financial aid support on campus is the Odyssey Scholarship Program.
Odyssey Scholarship Program:
The Odyssey Scholarship program, made possible through the generosity of anonymous donors has been supporting students from lower-income backgrounds and first-generation college attendees for over 15 years. Selected based on financial need and family circumstances, Odyssey Scholars receive funding for expenses like study abroad and health insurance. Importantly, Odyssey Scholars do not need to borrow student loans as part of their financial aid package; instead, they receive University grant funding.
Additionally, the program offers opportunities such as funded summer internships- (Metcalf) and research, networking events, study abroad support, financial literacy seminars, and assistance with health insurance costs.
As an Odyssey scholar, you have guaranteed funding for your internships the summer after your first year ( and some internships during the school year as well!). Whether it's a university internship or one that you found off campus, you are eligible to receive 4,000 or 5000 for international students. This is to cover the cost of summer living expenses in the span of 10 weeks.
Financial Support at UChicago:
Metcalf Internship Program: As an Odyssey scholar, you have guaranteed funding for your internships the summer after your first year ( and some internships during the school year as well!). Whether it's a university internship or one that you found off campus, you are eligible to receive 4,000 or 5000 for international students. This is to cover the cost of summer living expenses in the span of 10 weeks.
Center CSS: Located on the fourth floor of the west tower of Harper Library, CCSS is dedicated to serving FGLI (First-Generation, Low-Income) and undocumented students. It plays a pivotal role as a support system on campus by offering valuable resources. For instance, CCSS provides free textbooks for most core classes through their lending library. During the school year, students can also borrow laptops in case of need or emergencies. Moreover, CCSS offers free printing services throughout the academic year.
CCSS No Interest Loan: An especially noteworthy feature of CCSS is its No Interest Loan program, which can provide up to $500. In situations such as a broken computer, family emergencies, or unexpected last-minute expenses, this program serves as a reliable financial resource. When applying, you have the flexibility to determine the amount needed and the purpose. Importantly, if circumstances prevent you from repaying the loan by the agreed-upon date, there are no penalties! The CCSS staff are all nice people who are willing to work with you!
Finding Your Community:
As an FGLI student, navigating life on campus can be a daunting experience. Finding a community of like-minded individuals who can relate to your experiences is crucial, especially as a first-generation student. Fortunately, UChicago offers several avenues to connect with such communities… if you know where to look!
CCSS: Again, don’t overlook CCSS. Despite its small physical space, the staff actively organizes events and gatherings for FGLI students. Even when there are no formal events, they encourage students to drop by, providing board games for study breaks, snacks, and a comfortable space ( with AC), for students to relax and connect.
QuestBridge & Quest+: If you entered the University through the QuestBridge match program, Quest+ is a valuable resource for building connections. The Quest+ chapter at UChicago is dedicated to creating a supportive environment where students admitted through the QuestBridge National College Match program can interact. While it primarily caters to these students, Quest+ also welcomes participation from other FGLI students, making it an inclusive space for fostering community.
Areas For Improvement:
Break: While the university does offer students the option to request dormitory accommodation during breaks, not all students receive approval. It's evident that the university prioritizes international students in this regard, a fair decision justified by the substantial distance from their homes. However, there is no noticeable reason as to why other students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds ( who can not afford a plane home), cannot receive similar consideration.
Books and website: As you continue your educational journey at UChicago, you'll encounter instances where professors require expensive textbooks or subscriptions to online resources for coursework, sometimes exceeding $200. This can pose a significant financial burden on students throughout the school year.
The Metcalf Internship Program: While the University's Metcalf Internship Program is commendable, there's room for improvement. Many students have expressed concerns that the minimum $4,000 stipend may not be sufficient to cover their expenses during the full summer, especially when their internships are located in high-cost areas like California and New York. In such cases, it becomes evident that an increase in the stipend amount is warranted to better support students' financial needs.
