My name is David Diaz. I am a Freshman at Concordia University and this is my story.
As a senior in high school I didn't think I was going to be able to afford
to go to a private university. However, by applying early for financial aid I got that privilege. I received enough financial aid that it was possible for my parents to handle paying the rest. I would not be here at Concordia if it were not for the assistance of financial aid.
At first I was looking into Biola University because my sister was attending there and I didn't know much about Concordia University. I applied to both Biola and Concordia and began to find out more information about both universities. I was very impressed with the activities available at CUI; especially the Intramural program since I am a runner and wanted to remain active in sports while I was recovering from a recent injury. My admissions counselor, Minerva, here at CUI was especially helpful in
showing me how I could afford to go to Concordia and encouraging me in
the process. She really took an active role in making sure I got all of the aid I could.
For other students like me who are concerned about how they are going to afford college, I offer this advice: Start early with the financial aid process, pay attention to the deadlines, get to know your admissions and financial aid counselors...and don't give up!
My family and I attended "CU Soon", where I found out how much aid I would be getting. It was less than I needed. I talked to Minerva and she helped me to find other ways of getting financial aid. By taking advantage of grants, loans, and the work-study program, I found that I was able to afford to come to Concordia after all. When I received the phone call with the last details of my financial aid package that would allow me to attend CUI I was volunteering at the Salvation Army Youth Center. I was very happy and told everyone I was working with the exciting news. They were all happy for me because they knew how much this opportunity meant to me. My parents are very proud of me and we had a small party to celebrate. I still remember that day very clearly.
I was accepted at both Biola and Concordia but after reviewing the award
package and activities that Concordia was able to offer me, I knew
CUI was the place I wanted to be. Now that I am here at Concordia I am very happy with my choice of colleges. I am very involved with many activities on campus from being a Screaming Eagle and playing Intramural sports to attending chapel and working with my professors in the Exercise Science Department. The First Year Program was great in helping me to make connections with other students and form study groups. I take advantage of every opportunity I get to be involved and encourage other students to do the same.
It is quite an accomplishment for me to be here. My sister and I are the first members of our family to attend college and I am grateful for the opportunities I have here at Concordia. For other students like me who are concerned about how they are going to afford college, I offer this advice: Start early with the financial aid process, pay attention to the deadlines, get to know your admissions and financial aid counselors--they are great resources, and don't give up!
Counselor's Perspective
It is very common for a student to be concerned and have questions about financial aid. You are not alone! As an admissions counselor, part of my job is to provide financial aid guidance in helping families understand what their options are whether it be through merit, institution, state or federal aid. My goal is to help each student visualize the “big picture” of the financial aid process from beginning to end. This will give families greater awareness of what Concordia has to offer. We understand that this can be an overwhelming process. Remember to always keep in touch with your admissions counselor. We will do the best we can to guide you through the next chapter in of your life.