The GPCC’s Graduate Aid Symposium, held on December 11, 2008 at BU School of Management was a great success! The guest speakers were not only informative and entertaining, but their presentations were extremely timely and relevant given the current trends in the aid industry. Professor Michael Greenberger from University of Maryland presented on the current state of the economy, and he broke down in layman’s terms how the country has ended up in the financial situation it is now in. A very sobering and eye-opening explanation, he outlined the rise and fall of the mortgage industry in the early and late 1990s, and its critical impact on today’s lending crises.

Our second guest, Patrick Campbell of the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, had provided a wealth of information on the original Montgomery GI Bill, as well as the new Post 9/11 GI Bill. His website, www.GIBill2008.com has access to frequently asked questions regarding veterans benefits under both plans, as well as a calculator to help individuals determine the total benefits for which a student is eligible. It is extremely useful for VA Reps at individual schools, as well as for our own personal knowledge as aid administrators.

Finally, Brad Finger from American Student Assistance presented on financial literacy and debt wellness program options, and how best to educate and serve graduate and professional student populations. His motivating presentation is available for viewing on the GPCC website, and may spark an interest in many individuals on how to implement our own school-based literacy programs.

Thank you to everyone who attended and participated!