Classification: Two-year public college or university.
Modules Used: Module 1: Get a Grip on Your Finances:
Smart Spending for Students.
How Used: Orientation class.
Program Description: The director of financial
aid has been committed to implementing a financial-literacy program at Laramie
County Community College since USA Funds® Life Skills® was
first introduced. He worked with the vice president of student services and the
coordinator of an orientation class to get Module 1: Get a Grip on Your
Finances: Smart Spending for Students integrated into the orientation class
that targets all students receiving an institutional scholarship at Laramie
County Community College. The coordinator recruits campus volunteers to
facilitate the classes, and financial-aid-staff members offer their services as
guest presenters. The one-credit class meets twice each week for six weeks and
focuses on a wide range of topics, including money management and financial
literacy. The sessions are offered at various times during the day to
accommodate student schedules.
Budgeting is one of the topics of greatest interest to the students. They
find the budget software fascinating and enjoy receiving the CD and student
skills books for future reference. Even though the class is optional at this
point, the director of financial aid is encouraged that 75 percent of the
scholarship students elect to enroll.
Staffing Requirements: The director and assistant director
of financial aid deliver Module 1 in the orientation classes.
Recommendations: The director of financial aid suggests
finding a venue with a captive audience for implementing USA Funds Life Skills.
Every effort should be made to encourage students to enroll. Publicity and
advertising may be necessary. For example, the student government and other
student groups can be helpful in promoting the program among their peers.
Personalizing the materials is very important to keep students engaged.
Facilitators learn various methods for effective delivery of the materials
during the train-the-trainer sessions offered by USA Funds.
Campus Contact:
Dennis Schroeder, Director of Financial
Aid
Phone: (307) 778-1218
E-mail: dschroed@lccc.wy.edu