
The latest on financial aid, bank promotions, and college

Here are some favorite personal finance reads from around the web this week.
Another financial aid program targets middle-class students
—Pacific Standard
Some private colleges are getting rid of student loans, which is great news for middle- and low-income families. A financial aid historian explains how the no-loan program works, plus its benefits (and pitfalls).
Advice to college students on bank promotions: read the fine print
—New York Times
Going to a bank with your college kid to open an account (if you haven’t already done so) is a good idea. Be wary, though, of targeted promotions at campus-affiliated banks. And be extra careful if the bank tries to pitch your student a credit card—AKA a “little plastic grenade.”
Parents of only boys are prioritizing college more than parents of only girls
—Forbes
Sadly, parent with boys only are more likely to dedicate time and resources to paying for college than are those with girls only. While the gender gap has closed when it comes to higher education (in fact, more women go to college than men), our attitudes as parents have some catching up to do.
‘Biggest-ever free college’ program reaches 6 percent of New York students
—NPR
New York’s ambitious free college program, Excelsior, had mixed results this year, with 6% of New York students receiving the scholarship. While it’s definitely a step in the right direction, some argue that we can do even better.
The new reality of old age in America
—Washington Post
“Polls show that most older people are more worried about running out of money than dying.” A troubling look at the state of retirement in America. We need better safety nets and financial resources for our elderly—and more open talk among family members.
Craving more fresh financial finds? Here are my latest blog posts!
Infographic: How to pay for college
It seems like you need a finance degree just to understand the jargon and paperwork of college financial aid. That’s why I put together this infographic with all the information you need to get started.
I asked some folks from different generations about how they paid for college in their day. One thing is clear: Compared to previous generations, millennials face higher student debt—even when adjusted for inflation.
It’s a difficult situation parents often face: you invested too much money in your oldest kid’s education, and you suddenly realize you don’t have enough to do the same for your younger ones. Here’s how to handle this Hard Case.
What I did wrong when i quit my job
If you’re thinking about quitting your job, you’re not alone. Here is one executive’s story about what she learned from leaving her employer, and what she does (and doesn’t) regret.
How do I tell my parents to ditch their outdated money habits?
Are your parents’ outdated views about money driving you up the wall? Here’s how to show them better ways to manage their finances—without starting a family feud.
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Read past Financial Finds here.