Bakersfield College had its Financial Aid Fest on Wednesday, Feb. 7, where many booths had games, prizes, and more importantly, information on what resources they supply. Many students came to enjoy everything that was provided.
These booths varied from campus resources to city-wide services. Students were made unaware of the resources that were provided.
While speaking to David Moncayo, the event coordinator, he said the main reason he planned this event was for the community. His goal was for students to know how many resources were out there for them. Although the event was usually held on the CCS lawn, he was happy with the turnout. He knows how hard it has been for students to socialize after COVID.
TRIO program advisor, David Tirado-Lozano, expressed how beneficial these events are because they helped bring attention to programs like theirs that might not be known to students. This event was beneficial to both students and programs. Students can understand how much help there is for them.
Student Achrista Jones wanted to know what events were going on at school when she received a text reminding her of the event. She showed up with some friends and enjoyed everything they had to offer. Jones is just one student of many who enjoyed the Financial Fest.
“This event was super helpful and had great resources” Melody Flores, another BC student said. Flores also got a text and decided to come check it out. While Flores and other students might not need all the resources the city provided, she still found it helpful to know what programs are out there when she might need it. She also got all her financial questions answered, which she found useful.
Laura Cruz, a financial aid advisor, was helpful with any questions students had. Cruz said that the main goal was to “help students fill out their financial aid form and any questions they might have regarding it.” Cruz went on to say how these events have an impact on students who attend.
The Financial Fest event allowed many BC students the opportunity to have their questions answered and to learn more about all the resources they have available whether through the school or city.