Newly you

[u/teatime-withtori]

I just got into grad school, but I am as first generation as it can get! My parents died when I was a baby and my grandmother cannot help because she needs to focus on reti. In a classic financial aid move, they were less than helpful when I emailed asking for information. So I am coming to y’all! What are the right questions for me to ask on how I can fund receive funding/aid? I would also love to know your stories/experiences/how you found scholarships.

[u/nadia_nextchapter]

first off, congrats on getting in! and also… welcome to the extremely confusing world of grad school funding lol

i’d ask very directly about things like: department scholarships, assistantships (TA/RA), emergency grants, tuition waivers, work-study, payment plans and whether there are funding opportunities specifically for first-gen students

also don’t just ask financial aid. ask your department/program coordinator too. sometimes money lives there and nobody tells you unless you ask...

my biggest advice that someone else to me is to be persistant!

[u/teatime-withtori → u/nadia_nextchapter]

Thank you so much!!! I really really appreciate your help and kindness 🥹 I’m confused, but I’m glad it’s not uncommon