Robeson Community College FAFSA Frenzy helps high school seniors secure college funding

Robeson Community College (RCC) hosted the Finish FAFSA Frenzy Finale on May 1 at the RCC Main Campus Student Center. The event welcomed high school seniors from across the county, providing them with the opportunity to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms while also enjoying fun and engaging activities.

The purpose of the event was to help students take a critical step toward paying for their college education. FAFSA is the gateway to federal financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and student loans — resources that can significantly ease the financial burden of college.

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Chanzey Lowry, a Lumberton High School senior who plans to study business administration at RCC, gave some insight into the event. He said the event was a great way to come together as a community.

“It’s really important to get this type of help as a high school student,” Lowry said.

Attendees enjoyed rock climbing, games, and participated in exciting raffles for laptops and other door prizes. One of the highlights of the day was a freestyle competition, where students showed off their talents for a chance to win gift cards worth up to $300. Prizes were awarded to the top three performers, adding a fun and competitive element to the event.

Samantha Oxendine, director of counseling and career services, climbs to the top as Sophie Oxendine follows. Rakyah Jacobs/EducationNC

Zilma Lopes, the director of financial aid and veteran services at RCC, emphasized the importance of submitting the FAFSA early.

“There are so many opportunities out there to get free money and funding for whatever you want to do,” she said.

Lopes encouraged students not to assume they won’t qualify.

“Attend FAFSA events and don’t wait too late. Many funding opportunities are given on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s crucial to file early,” she said.

The Finish FAFSA Frenzy Finale was a crucial reminder of how important financial aid is in helping students achieve their educational goals. At the event, RCC was able to help over 50 high school seniors complete the FAFSA. These students are now one step closer to realizing their college dreams can become a reality after completing the FAFSA.

Rakyah Jacobs

Rakyah Jacobs is a John M. Belk Endowment Fellow for EdNC.

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