ST. LOUIS – On Saturday, October 21, Congressman Wm. Lacy Clay will present the “Paying For College Forum,” at the UM-St. Louis Millennium Student Center, Century Room A, at 8001 Natural Bridge Road, from 10:00am-1:00pm. 

“We want to help students and parents navigate through the maze of financial aid, student loans and scholarships,” said Congressman Clay.  “We also want to dispel the myths that keep qualified students from getting the help that they deserve.”

The public is invited to hear expert advice from and pose questions to an outstanding panel including Hal Deuser, the Commerce Bank Community Service Coordinator for College Awareness & Outreach Services; Kelli Reed, of the Missouri Department of Higher Education; Angie Davis, of the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority; and Wanda Garner, a high school college counselor in the St. Louis Public Schools. 

A recent survey of parents and high students conducted by Congressman Clay’s office reveals that many prospective college attendees are still confused about the best way to pay for a college education.  Many families still believe the myth that merit-based scholarships are the best way to get help with college costs.  

However, nationwide research shows that need-based financial aid and student loans are used by more than 50% of all college students.  Contrary to popular opinion, financial aid and student loans play a much bigger role than scholarships based on academic performance.  And not understanding that could make it difficult for many students to afford college.

For more information, or to RSVP, please call (314) 367-1970.