Chyrl Ayers

Sterling, I really like the way you indicated that auditors are your partners. They are an important part of the financial aid process and are able to assist us in strengthening our procedures and methods of processing. Also, auditing throughout the year is a great way to be prepared for your annual audit. If every time you work with a student file you take time to insure that the correct process is followed you should have a good audit every year. Sincerely, Chyrl Ayers

Tina, Great point - an audit does not start when the auditors arrive but it is a process that builds with the creation of the each student's file. If you approach the audit process at the earliest point you will be more successful. You have to maintain accurate files and reports so the auditor are able to see the accuracy of your process. Good policies and procedures are important to insure that all are focused on handling the process in a consistent manner. Sincerely, Chyrl Ayers

Sterling, Good point that many miss - reporting is a good way to measure, identify and strengthen your internal processes. Any opportunity to improve the process should benefit your students. There are many types of reports that are necessary to monitor and insur the success of your students in other areas than Financial Aid. Being open to these opportunities is the key to increasing your success with students and other departments within the college. Sincerely, Chyrl Ayers

Sterling, Information that is automated and stored for easy access is best when dealing with students and questions. Also, it makes it easier for the entire college team to access when needed; however, it is possible to maintain information in other storage methods successfully. It is possible that other methods will require you and your colleagues to be very focused in storage and maintenance of these records but it is doable. There are numerous software packages in the education sector that may be able to assist in meeting your automation needs. Sincerely, Chyrl Ayers

Alisha, Great attitude toward a process that makes most uncomfortable. I agree audits are a good way to measure your success in Financial Aid from compliance to procedures. If you have a finding it is an opportunity to correct and improve the process. It is important to insure your files and Policy and Procedures are organized and clearly document the action you take to service your students. Sincerely, Chyrl Ayers

Sterling, Your points are excellent. These three aspects go hand-in-hand to providing a successful Financial Aid Office and applies to all departments within the college. If all staff focuses on the success of the student at the beginning the student has a great opportunity to succeed in his/her education pursuits. Sincerely, Chyrl Ayers

Melissa, Good point. If all is working the way the systems are designed requirements are met and students recieve their FSA funding. It is good to monitor your reporting to insure that your campus remains in compliance with all requirements. Sincerely, Chyrl Ayers

Tina, The questions from students on reporting is rare; however, it is important that your reporting requirements are timely to insure that you are in compliance with state, federal and accrediting standards. Sincerely, Chyrl Ayers

Melissa, Agree. All three characteristics are critical to a successful FA Office. If one is providing excellent service you would expect them to be providing timely and accurate responses to teh inquire of students. It is important to balance all three and not overlook any of the these characteristics. Sincerely, Chyrl Ayers

Scott, I agreee that excellent service would include timely and accurate processing for your students. It is not possible to provide excellent service without insuring the student's information is accurate and timely processing. Your thoughts are right on track related to the most important characteristics of the Financial Aid Department. All departments in the college should approach students in this same method. Sincerely, Chyrl Ayers