SEARK College is launching a new campaign aimed at helping current students complete their degrees while encouraging former students who paused their education for personal reasons to return and finish their programs.
Aptly named the “Finish What You Started” campaign, the initiative is designed to help students overcome barriers that may have prevented them from earning their degree.
Jennifer Lipp sat down with Registrar and Director of Admissions Keaundra James and Director of Financial Aid Connie Riley to discuss the program and the resources available to students. Ms. James begins by explaining the purpose of the campaign.
Lipp then highlighted some of the challenges that can interrupt a student’s education. Ms. James agreed, explaining that SEARK hopes to bridge the gap between students and degree completion by helping them navigate those obstacles.
Ms. Riley said financial concerns are among the most common reasons students leave college before graduating.
She discussed resources available to help students, including completing the FAFSA and applying for the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship.
Ms. Riley emphasized the importance of meeting with advisors, who can help students identify financial assistance opportunities and connect them with available resources, even if they believe they may not qualify.
For students whose biggest challenges involve time constraints and family or work responsibilities, SEARK is hosting extended registration events every Tuesday in June from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Student Services Building.
Ms. James noted that night and online classes are also available to provide additional flexibility. During the extended registration events, students can apply for admission, meet with financial aid staff, register for classes and establish payment plans in one central location.
The college hopes these efforts will make higher education more accessible for non-traditional students.
