2.  In the shadow of budget problems in the State of Illinois, a concern for all students is increasing tuition costs and the availability of money.  Hiring freezes result in larger class sizes and less individual attention  Lack of budget funding is the driver for tuition increases up to 20% and the State MAP grant may be reduced as well.

3.  Illinois owes the University a half billion dollars  The State of Illinois is defaulting on budget agreements to the University of Illinois simply because it doesn’t have the cash flow.  Drastic measures to cut spending and control routine costs have negatively impacted students financially and has harmed the quality of education offered.

4. Benefits:  Finishing an education at UIC one year early will save $12,056 in tuition and fees alone (CollegeBoard).  Addition Federal funding is offered to those taking summer courses.  Enables early entry to job market and produce income.

5. How?  Take maximum credit hours (18) › Speak with your Dean about an override to take more than 18 credits.  Take funding from summer school to maximize federal funding (you get more federal funds if you take summer classes).

6.  Take 15 credit hours and maintain a part- time job during semesters to pay interest on students.  Work full-time during all breaks to maximize income.  Gain experience and build your resume by searching for internships.

7. Under the four-year program:  Students will be able to focus on education.  Secure funding for school.  Gain work experience and develop valuable social relationships.

8. Consider a part-time academic schedule to pursue the following alternatives:  Seek full-time employment with companies offering tuition assistance programs.  Search for co-ops to gain income, work experience, and the potential to graduate employed.

9. Working Full-Time Schedule:  Provides insight to potential career paths of interest  Helps determine your choice of major.  allows you to build a savings to fund future educationsal costs.  Online classes on non-traditional hours.

10.  In light of all the economic uncertainty it’s important to consider all the pathways that exist to reach your academic goals.  When planning finances a student should consider their current and anticipated financial needs along with their personal circumstances.  Reevaluating newly available funding periodically

11. Therefore:  We recommend Alternative II › newly admitted students balance their academic work while gaining entry level experience though internships and part-time employment.

12. The Best way to predict your future is to create it. From Professor Corte