Career

Giving Students the Tools To Succeed

Did you know that many college students do not continue their education due to the cost of living? In 2020 nearly 3 in 5 college students experienced basic needs insecurity, and this meant needing to choose between getting their degree or taking a break in order to support themselves. Giving students access to resources to support their basic needs will make it so more people are able to complete their degree without having to worry about their next meal. 

Many students are unaware that they may qualify for additional financial support from their university or state. Those who are aware often do not utilize these resources because they believe others are in greater need than themselves or they do not know how to apply. Removing financial barriers and helping students apply for financial aid benefits on campus will spread awareness for these resources and help more students graduate.

Students who apply for emergency financial aid from their college most often use the funds to buy materials for classes, finish paying their tuition, or pay for their basic needs. This means that students are able to reduce their financial stress and don’t have to drop classes or unenroll from their university.
To learn more about the benefits to investing in student basic needs, take a look at the infographic below:

Supporting Student Basic Needs
Source: Kentucky Student Success Collaborative