By Michele Walsky | Observer Contributor
Photo by Tom Hill Jr.
Weighed down by classes and a heavy backpack, the last thing students need is to collapse under the cost of books too. However, the financial aid office offered several solutions to lighten the load, including decoding bookstore lingo, an electronic book program, book vouchers and scholarships.
According to Kelly Morrissey, Director of Financial Aid, the first option students take is usually Federal funds. But there’s a hidden gem of scholarships under the Award Spring icon. It is easy to apply on Mount Wachusett Community College’s iConnect page under Apps, a little known resource awaits. According to Morrissey, rewards are based on grade point averages, degree fields and other merits, not income, and the money can be used for books. Applications are open from January through May to accommodate the following school year.