Dr. Meers,

I got started in the financial aid field through informal learning. However, I quickly realized that I needed formal training to make sure I have the accurate information in the compliance arena. It is good to learn from our experienced trainers. Further, I was able to share what I have learned to the newer members in our association.

Merilyn

I agree with your 80/20 rule. When I first started in financial aid back in 1994, I had a combination of formal/informal training right in my office. However, it wasn't until I started attending state and regional financial aid conferences that I felt like my world opened up to me through the magic of networking.

I learned more about financial aid from a "holistic" approach merely by listening to conversations over dinner or in the hallways during breaks. Usually, there was a mix of seasoned professionals and newbies who had the same questions as I did. In this way, I got a variety of viewpoints and "this is how we do it" discussions. Very valuable to my career advancement.

 

I felt that the modules we just completed were an excellent learning tool and a good check on what we should already know.  I printed all the module information so that I can put it in a binder and refer back to it.

All of this did get me thinking, though...

We need something like this specifically related to federal aid compliance, coupled with Concorde financial aid processes...one for all departments and then a more detailed one for the actual financial aid departments. 

The financial aid world is changing all the time so we would probably need an updated version periodically...maybe annually, depending on the number of changes for the award year...? :o)

This course was great for me to hone in on my skills.  I have had some formal training and this was a great test for what I have learned.