The board of directors of McLennan Community College has just approved the “Highlander Restart Program” which would allow students who have had to give up for financial reasons the opportunity to start over, with a certain loan forgiveness.
It is not easy to be a student. Juggling classes, work, and other responsibilities can be difficult, but many students also face lingering concerns about debt and how they will be able to afford classes.
“We get a lot of money for our courses. Well let’s say we don’t pass a class, it’s money wasted out of our pockets, or money out of the state’s pocket that we can’t pay back, ”said the current student. , Jody Michael.
“We’ve been thinking about it for a while now, and then when COVID-19 hit we thought that with the economic impact of the virus, it might be the perfect time to do something that might help some of our former students.” said MCC Vice President of Finance and Administration, Dr Stephen Benson.
The Highlander Restart Program was created to allow former MCC students who dropped out of college and still have an outstanding balance to return to school, but with $ 500 less in their student debt.
“When they return, they can pay off their debt at $ 500. They can complete their education and as soon as they finish we will remove the final balance of $ 500. For example, if a student owed $ 700, they could pay $ 200 and their balance would drop to $ 500. They could come back, take their classes, and that last $ 500 would be forfeited, ”Dr. Benson said.
To qualify, students will need to meet certain requirements, such as being enrolled for at least 6 credit hours per semester, maintaining a 2.0 GPA, and being supervised by Student Success staff.
“Regarding the pandemic, they are really observing, and in class, they are doing very well, so I really appreciate them for providing the financial help. It’s really amazing and I thank the administration, ”said student Adison Cheiuiyot.
“I really like it here. You meet all kinds of people. If you need help. There are people you can turn to and they will help make sure you can do what you want to be able to do. make a living, ”said student Deborah Bruner.
Dr Benson told 25 News that if a student wishes to apply, they can contact the administrative office to see if they are eligible.
