Perhaps it’s because it’s “that time of the year” for our household, with a son attaining our local community college, or perhaps my intuition is telling me that many people would appreciate either 1) the information (seen fresh) or 2) a reminder, but during these particularly trying times for many economically, going back to school should be on your radar.

While Nevada’s educational system is nothing to brag about – being 50th in the country is downright shameful from our viewpoint – the fact remains that they do offer Associate programs (and one Bachelors) degrees and certifications. The beauty is many of these courses can be taken directly and completely online.

The benefit to the online course is not only flexibility, but, should money be tight in your family, economical. No gas, no bus tickets, no “extra spending” involved. Just the pursuit of learning.

Which brings me to my purpose for posting today. It’s FAFSA time, and assuming your state has reasonable tuition for its residents, the Pell Grant (in our case) is covering 100% of our son’s pursuit to his (first) Associate’s degree. This means all his credits plus his books (at least here in Nevada) are paid for – and he has the opportunity to advance his learning while not accumulating loans.

If you find yourself and/or family members in a position where pursuing higher education would be most beneficial, be sure to head to FAFSA.ed.gov and get the ball rolling. Cutoff dates for Fall enrollment vary from State to State. Don’t get caught without the potential for assistance with yours or your children’s education.

Okay after getting that last post off my chest it’s time to share something worthwhile and perhaps life changing for those currently unemployed or looking for a better paying job.

Not that long ago Yahoo! Finance ran an article I believe will help many in these desperate times. It’s title is 10 Jobs With High Pay and Minimal Schooling Required.

I’m just going to list the careers they mention, and refer you (above) to fluff out the facts for yourself.

These jobs include:

1. Air Traffic Controllers ($117,200)
2. Industrial Product Managers ($77.670)
3. Police and Detective (First Line) Supervisors ($69,300)
4. Funeral Directors ($49,620)
5. Sheriff/Police Patrol Officers ($47,460)
6. Advertising Agents (Sales) ($42,750)
7. Real Estate Brokers & Sales Agents ($39,760)
8. Occupational Therapist Assistants ($42,060)
9. Occupational Therapist Aids ($25,000)
10. Physical Therapist Assistants ($41,360)

Keep in mind the title of this post includes the words “Minimal Schooling.” It’s not that education is not involved, but it doesn’t take a doctorate to pull down some decent money. Many of these listed above can be found through your local community college program.

Also keep in mind that Financial Aid (FAFSA) is available, and in some cases, if you enroll early enough the Pell Grant just may pay for your entire education… for free!

Strangely enough, six weeks ago everyone was excited around here. Our son graduated high school this past June, and after what we thought was even debate, enrolled into ITT’s Computer Network program.

Unfortunately, after the first six week’s he’s also unenrolled and here are several reasons why:

1.  No one properly explained the funding sources nor the repayment schedule – now granted we should have been more up on this ourselves, but with only one “child” (now an 18 year old “adult”) and no prior experience with FAFSA or any student grants and loans, we did rely heavily on ITT being upfront and honest about all aspects of it. (more…)