I have learned that it is important to take the time to explain the importance of student loans and to reinforce. Also, have a calm setting in the office so that the student feels comfortable

It is important to let the student know that they have many options once they leave the institution and understanding their loan.

It's important to make sure the students understanding their Financial Aid responsibility before borrowing, during and after.

Maintain an updated reference list for student. Do not prompt the student to provide any specific people.

Although we are not the loan servicer, we can still guide our students with the information that is presented to them so that they are not limited to only 1 option.

Identify ways to make student loan borrowers accountable. Develop with them strategies to build positive relationships with borrowers. 

Making sure that students receive disbursement notifications is a big part of the process. Exit Counseling and Entrance Counseling is an opportunity for students to retain major financial aid information but t should be done in 5-10 minutes.

Keeping updated and maintaining contact information with a student is an integral part of the process.

When you repeat certain statements throughout the financial aid process, it may seem repetitive but student retention is important. Those same student may thank you for helping them understand a certain part of the process later down the line.

Separation of duties and functions between Admissions and F/A is crucial.  Sometimes, employees try to be helpful and answer questions without having the proper knowledge of how other departments work.  At our school, we emphasize the importance of guiding students with questions relating to other departments to the proper department.  This avoids giving incorrect information and creating confusion.