Chyrl Ayers

Judith, The changes made by your servicer seem to have been of a benefit to your institution allowing more detailed visibility into your students. It is great when you have a servicer that takes the time to create reports or enhancements to the software that makes your responsibilities easier to manage. Sincerely, Chyrl

Judith, Your comments are very true - if you ensure consistency and accuracy your institution should not have an issue with the audit. Based on your response you and your auditors have a system and process to ensure success during the audit cycle. Sincerely, Chyrl

Judith, There are many Student Management Systems out on the market that provide this type of support; however, I really do not have one that I can recommend that would meet your specific needs. Maybe someone else on the message board will be a provide you some recommendations. Sincerely, Chyrl

Marie, Your thoughts are very valuable when evaluating the student experience. Most students appreciate efficiency in processing of their financial aid, especially when it is handled with accuracy. The addition of courteous and problem solving on behalf of the student adds to the student experience through strong customer service. All aspects are addressed in your response. Best wishes in your continued online education process. Sincerely, Chyrl

James, I had hoped the questions would give each student the need to pause and consider what aspect is most important in their daily process. This type of questions has not wrong or right answer but is designed for each student to really think about where they place importance and the overal affect of that characteristic in the handling of the their peers and students. Your thoughts on service were very good and would lead to a great expereince for students. Best wishes as you continue learning and growing in financial aid. Sincerely, Chyrl

James, I agree that audits and reviews can make one nervous; however, I always encourage FA staff to "inspect what they expect." When I was at a campus level I always had my team review each other's work to ensure that we were all processing in the same manner - collecting the same document, packaging our files according to a standard format and handling the financial aid requirements accurately. The more you standardize the process the more successful and confident you should feel about your process. Your ability to continue to strive for imporoved processing will be beneficial. Sincerely, Chyrl

James, The ability to have reports that are accurate and timely are critical to the handling of students in an appropriate manner. Reporting related to the student's status is extremely important when monitoring their attendance and whether or not that could potential be an issue. The utilization of these reports will benefit the student and institution as the student progresses through to graduation. Best wishes in your continued online education process. Sincerely, Chyrl

Ruth, I really appreciate your thorough and thoughtful response to this Forum. It is extremely important that one continues to develop their P&P Manual. I recommend that you evaluate it at least once a year and be mindful of some changes that cannot wait. Also, I encourage the P&P development process to be handle by a team that reviews at least once a year. Sincerely, Chyrl

Ruth, Your comments reflect a well-rounded approach to financial aid and dealing with students and parents. It is important to balance all aspects when handling the students in the FA Office so the students will feel confident in your ability to address any and all concerns. Best wishes in your continued online education process. Sincerely, Chyrl

Virginia, I agree the more organized you are the more beneficial the experience is for your students. Organization will allow your student files to be more easily reviewed and address any missing items. Sincerely, Chyrl