December 5, 2003  NR22-03

Alaska high school students are about to see the first ever Alaska-produced financial aid video. The University of Alaska recently mailed public service financial aid videos to high school counselors across the state. This is part of the University’s outreach efforts to make college planning tools more accessible for Alaskans.

“Alaska students and families at all income levels need to know about their financial aid opportunities,” said Mike Sfraga, associate vice president for student services and enrollment management for the university.

“Targeted outcomes of these efforts include improving Alaska’s college-going rate, as the state currently ranks last in sending recent high school graduates on to college.”

The 37-minute video is similar to a “Financial Aid Night” presentation that many high schools offer, and delivers definitions and explanations of scholarships, grants, loans, and federal work study opportunities. It also provides helpful instructions on completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), college financial planning websites, and answers to frequently asked questions. It was filmed onsite at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and the information is delivered by university staff and students.

This video will also be broadcast on UATV across the state on Monday, December 8th, at 10:00 am and 6:00 pm. Please see http://uatv.alaska.edu for the channel in your area.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Mary Gower
Student Services Manager
907.474.1516
mary.gower@alaska.edu