by George Smith, Student Reporter
Northwestern Oklahoma State University offers more scholarships than any other college in the region, meaning some students have money left over after their educational expenses have been paid for.
On Sept. 26, the NWOSU Financial Aid office sent out refund checks to students who have more scholarships and/or grants than they need to pay for tuition, books, fees, and housing. Financial aid employees deposited the leftover funds into the students’ bank accounts via direct deposit. Some students may have received a paper check.
The transactions were completed Sept. 26.
This year, the process of receiving financial aid changed thanks to a new software program NWOSU is using. Called the “Self-Service” system, the program allows students to accept scholarships, grants, and loans without physically having to sign for them. Software manufacturer Ellucian created the program.
According to University Bursar Paige Fischer, the new software program will make accepting financial aid awards easier for students. Financial aid workers are available to help students navigate the system.
“We look forward to streamlining many of our business processes that impact student accounts as we progress through this academic year,” Fischer said. “Our number one goal in the Business Office is student satisfaction.
“We feel confident in the new Ellucian system and have received positive feedback on the Self-Service accounts that students are able to view and control. If any students have questions about their accounts, setting up a refund method or payment plan, or utilizing Self-Service, we encourage them to drop by the Business Office, and we will be happy to assist them.”
What will students do with their checks?
Now that they’ve got cash in the bank, what will NWOSU students who received refund checks do with their money? The Northwestern News sat down with three students to find out.
Health and sports science major Easton Maxwell said will use his refund check to make some repairs to his vehicle, though he said he might use it to help pay for his rent.
Dawson Manning, a senior at Alva High School who is taking concurrent classes at Northwestern, said he is saving the money for college.
“It’s not like I have to pay for much right now,” Manning said.
Business student Brooklynn Hesson said that getting a refund check is a good “bonus” income for her. She said she will use the money to boost her “aggressive” stock portfolio.