January 31, 2024
Two quick stories might help you understand how the FAFSA delays and how you deal with them are not just mechanical or operational: They’re cultural.
Many years ago, back when we used to get our reimbursements as physical checks instead of direct deposits, I grabbed mine and walked to the Student Accounts Office on campus over the lunch hour to get mine cashed. I walked in, and was gratified to see that there was literally no one in line, so I walked right up to the window, and told the person behind the glass why I was there. She gave me a look I didn’t understand, and pointed to a sign on the wall that said, “Expense checks cashed 2-4 p.m. only.” It was clear to me the reason the policy existed: To better serve students by reserving time for them. But I pointed out that there was no one else there; despite this, she was unmoved. I returned about 2:30, and got in line behind four other people and proceeded to wait about 15 minutes to get my cash.
Another time, I went to get my driver’s license renewed just before the lunch hour. I walked in, saw four clerks…