FROM THE DESK OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR:

First I’d like to congratulate all of our 2008 graduates on obtaining their degree from The College of New Jersey!  Graduation is always a bittersweet occasion as we reflect on the past and look forward to the excitement of the future.  While I recognize that this is also an incredibly busy time for all students, I would like to make the following suggestions as you close out the academic year:

All graduating seniors who have had student loans should make sure that they complete all exit loan counseling requirements and understand the rules and regulations governing repayment of these loans.

Before commencement, check your student account on TESS to ensure that there are no outstanding charges that could generate late fines or cause holds to be placed on the account.  Remember that an outstanding balance and hold will interfere with our ability to respond positively to your request for an official transcript from TCNJ.

Returning students who are applying for aid for the 2008-2009 academic year should check on TESS at http://tess.tcnj.edu  to ensure that they have satisfied the requirements that will allow the office to prepare their award.

Returning students should also report any outside scholarships that they know they will receive for the next academic year.  To report private aid / scholarships, log onto www.tcnj.edu/~sfs/aid/private.html and complete the Private Scholarship Information Form for the 2008 / 2009 Academic Year.

Returning students should frequently check TESS over the summer for important information regarding  charges, financial aid awards and critical billing due dates.  Please particularly note that non-payment of bills by the required date will result in late fines and de-registration from classes.

Remember that the staff of Student Financial Services is available year round to assist you with your questions and concerns regarding your financial aid and student account.  Please do not hesitate to call us should the need arise.  I also welcome your feedback on the quality of our services as well as suggestions regarding any of our electronic processes.

On behalf of the office of Student Financial Services, we wish you all the best for a great summer.  To all of our graduates we again offer our congratulations and best wishes as you embark on your next venture.

Sincerely,

Jamie C. Hightower

Executive Director of Student Financial Services