Texas Border Business
By Joey Gomez
McALLEN, Texas – For the first time, students at South Texas College’s Technology and Health Science Professions (HSP) campuses no longer have to travel to Pecan Campus to access Student Financial Services.
Through its new Enrollment Center at Tech Campus, as well as facilities at HSP, formerly known as Nursing and Allied Health (NAH), leadership with STC Student Financial Services say they are bringing resources and one-on-one assistance directly to students applying to technical and workforce, as well as health care programs.
Students at the campuses will now have access to full-time Student Financial Services staff every Tuesday and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The new enrollment center at Technology Campus expands STC’s efforts to remove barriers for students by placing financial aid staff where they are most needed. Services include help with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), receiving guidance on scholarships, applying to state and private loans, and receiving assistance with submitting documentation and appeals.
“We are excited to announce that financial aid services will be available throughout the semester at both our HSP Campus as well as the Technology Campus,” said Juan Miguel Galvan, STC director of Student Financial Services. “Students can receive assistance with completing the FAFSA, making corrections, submitting appeals and handling all required documents to ensure they receive their financial aid.”
For students, that means less time commuting between campuses and quicker access to staff who can answer complex questions about paying for college.
Student Financial Services Specialist Elizabeth Lopez, who assists at both campuses, said she knows first-hand how overwhelming the process can be. A former STC work-study, who is now in her third year as full-time staff, Lopez said her background as both a student and employee helps her connect with others who may be navigating the system for the first time.
“Customer service is the No. 1 thing,” Lopez said. “It feels good when a student comes in and at the end of me explaining about their situation, they say, ‘Thank you for your service, you’ve been very helpful.’ It gives us motivation to know we did good and helped the students navigate the process.”
Lopez emphasized that staff are ready to guide students through every step, whether in-person, through online chat or email.
The new facility at the Technology Campus creates an all-in-one experience, streamlining what was once a scattered process, she said.
“It’s good to know that when you’re here, once you complete your financial aid, you can still double-check transcripts or other documents all under roof at the new enrollment center,” she said. “Everything is connected now to help our students succeed.”
Kristina Lopez, who joined STC as a financial aid specialist earlier this year, said helping students at the Technology Campus is a rewarding part of her role.
Learning the intricacies of financial services can be like learning a new language that can impact students’ lives.
“It makes me feel good,” Kristina said. “We are all very friendly, so students can come in, ask any questions and we will take care of them as soon as possible. Because there are always deadlines, we want them to take advantage of the services here.”
The specialists rotate between the HSP Campus and Technology campuses, ensuring that students in specialized programs, from automotive technology to welding and everything in between, receive tailored support.
Both Lopezes agree the new enrollment center at the Technology Campus is a welcomed change for students who may have struggled to access services in the past.
“My advice is for students to always stop by, especially if they have questions,” Lopez said. “It’s never too late to apply for financial aid.”
For more information on Student Financial Services at STC, visit studentservices.southtexascollege.edu/finaid/.
Information source: STC
