***Am I wrong for thinking this? Student Financial Aid?***?

Question

So I need about $8,500.00 a year for my last two years of college. I've done running start which is basically free, so I just need the $17,000.00 (8,500 per year) to complete my bachelors degree.

The job I have right now I get paid about $14,000 a year which is good considering it is only a seasonal job (about 5 months). 

My dad does not mind me living with him while I'm in college, because I planning on moving out as soon as I finish my degree when I am 20, but he is extremely adamant that I take money from Financial Aid to help pay for college.

As you can see I have plenty of money for college this year and I don't want to take money from the government that simply isn't there. I feel like I might as well be getting welfare checks, and that I can't do anything on my own. My dad doesn't understand my pride of not wanting help from the government by receiving money that I really did nothing for. I don't think that is a bad pride, surely not something I will boast about, but something that I can do to feel better about myself.

It is difficult to explain to my dad, but I just don't feel right about taking financial aid when I can afford to pay for college, especially considering the fact that I have gotten a few $1,000.00 dollar scholarships for this year.

Should I hang on to my pride or take financial aid and spend it wisely?

Ann · Accepted Answer

You will do well in this world.  Don't take it if you don't need.  The money is not free. It is being borrowed and your generation is going to be the ones paying it back.  

What price is your pride?  Is t for sale for $ 5000...the approximate amount if a Pell Grant?  If it is, take the "free" money.  Only you know what you can be bought for.

Anonymous · Answer

I agree with Dad.  It's up to you if you want to take it, but it's nothing like being on "welfare" and it is illogical (in my opinion) to pass up money to help you pay for schooling. If the money "wasn't there" they would not be offering it. Having said that, loans are one thing and grants are another. I would take any grant I could get because those don't need to be paid back, but be very conservative on any amount of loan you take out, if any, as being in debt sucks and the current economy is not great and unpredictable. 

Also look into the Earned Income Tax Credit too and theAmerican Opportunity Tax Credit. These are also available to those in your income range and/or who are in school. Look into them. Be wise and you could get out of school with a Bachelors and little or no debt, and that is the smartest thing you could do!

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Am I wrong for thinking this? Student Financial Aid??

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