Work Study Shortage

Federal Work-Study, a cornerstone of many financial aid packages, provides students with on-campus opportunities to help offset the ever-mounting costs of higher education. For many, it’s a lifeline that ensures access to quality education while developing essential job skills. However, the recent uproar suggests that not all students are reaping the full benefits of the program.
In an exclusive interview with the Work Study Coordinator, Michiko Gremillion, she explained the process involved in allocating work-study funds. “As FAFSA applications come into our system students are automatically awarded work-study. During August, they can find their placements or see what placements I know are available. Out of the students automatically awarded, if some don’t show up or have no interest in work-study, that is how we receive more funding for other students.”
Jaiden Foster, a sophomore majoring in Nursing and a dedicated work-study participant, expressed her concerns. “I currently work as a math tutor in John B. Cade Library. I did not get paid until the 27th of this month and I had begun 2 months prior. We were told that it was because of budget issues.”
Jaiden Foster’s concerns mirror those of several other students who believe they are not receiving the full amount of funding they were initially promised. Some students are frustrated and feel that they are working hard, but the compensation doesn’t match the effort they put in.
Coordinator Michiko Gremillions provided insight into the potential issues that are causing these discrepancies. “The main thing is work study is first come first come first serve. We will have students who were already rewarded, but departments only want their specific people who sometimes have not been awarded yet. The conflict comes in, finding award money for students who departments specifically want and finding placements for students who are already rewarded and are not familiar with any departments on campus.”
Foster also expresses her opinion on the issue occurring, “At first I felt as if Southern was against me because it was so much happening at once. But, I realized I just had to let it take its course because I knew eventually I was going to get my money. I feel like the administration should just make sure everything is up-to-date and make sure they have the correct budget to fund students properly.
In response to these concerns, Coordinator Michiko Gremillion stated, “No changes yet, but I’m excited about the changes to come! I am the sole Work-Study Coordinator, so it’s a lot of work on one person. Southern University has a program we are working on implementing. Everything will be online so it will be easier for applications, and training for students, and supervisors. Everything will become more automated and accessible for everyone.
Southern University administration is now encouraging students to report any issues or concerns related to work-study funding. The college aims to provide resources to navigate through this issue effectively.
As students concerns rise for fair funding, Southern University is evaluating their work-study program, with hopes that present and future students will benefit from a more transparent and equitable system. Student’s voices are being heard, and positive changes may be on the horizon, ensuring that the Federal Work-Study program remains a valuable resource for all eligible students at Southern University A&M College.