With the beginning of October upon us, that can only mean one thing, it is FAFSA season. Seniors and early graduates, I am here to tell you how you can get money for college. Last year alone there was almost $2.9 billion unclaimed in scholarship and grant money by the federal government. High school students need to know that there are options. Scholarships are available now and on November 14, 2019 from 5:30-7:30 pm students can get help completing their FAFSA as they also learn all about financial aid, plus it’s free.

Besides FAFSA and scholarships, students can get money for college other ways. One way is through a program at Delta College ran by Leticia Hurtado that focuses on people who are falling behind. The program is called the Mini- Corps of California. The program is designed to have studets become tutors / mentors to other students that are struggling. The contact info you need is (209) 954 5279 or you can find it located on Delta’s campus in Budd 316. The California Mini-corps program was initiated in 1964, patterned after the peace corps program. The California Mini-corps at Delta College recruits bilingual, full-time students pursuing a career in education to provide educational services to migrant students in school around San Joaquin County.

I also recommend downloading the Fast-Web app, which will allow you to search scholarships from your mobile device.

Another event will be the College and Career Fair on October 22 5:30-7:30 pm in the multipurpose room here at Cesar Chavez High. Students and their families will be able to explore college and career opportunities and get their questions answered.

Another good place to find money for college is the San Joaquin County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 17th annual Student Financial Aid and College Awareness workshop. Students grades 6-12 are invited, for more info and to register call the University of Pacific at (209) 946.7705 or log on to www.icangotocollege.org. The workshop registration begins Sunday, October 20 at 8:00 am located at the University of the Pacific A.G Spanos Center on 1178 Larry Heller Drive in Stockton. Representatives from the undocumented service center from San Joaquin delta college will provide info on admissions and Financial Aid.

List of events and information:

1. College Workshop for Undocumented Students – September 25, 2019 at Chavez High School 3:30 – 5:00 pm in the career center.

2. San Joaquin County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 17th Annual Student Financial Aid & College Awareness Workshop –  Sunday October 20, 2019 registration begins at 8:00 am at the University of Pacific A.G. Spanos Center at 1178 Larry Heller Drive Stockton, Ca will have a college prep workshops for 6-12; services available in multiple languages.

3. College and Career Fair – October 22nd 5:30 – 7 pm in the multipurpose room explore college and career opportunities and get your questions answered.

4. Cash for College Workshop – Cesar Chavez High School November 14, 2019 5:30 – 7:30 pm get help completing your FAFSA! Learn all about Financial aid!