The "Displaced Earner Program" will provide financial assistance – which could include additional grant money, extended payment plans and student employment opportunities – to students affected by a deteriorating financial situation at home. The program will also allow University staff to work with families to develop a creative and affordable college financing plan, and provide free career development services to students’ parents who have lost their jobs.

The program is designed to help those students who have exhausted all avenues of funding to continue their education. If a student is eligible for any type of loan, he or she must pursue those avenues before further consideration of awarding additional financial assistance.

Traditional undergraduate students who are facing economic hardship will be able to meet with University personnel one-on-one to explore alternative financing options. If their situation was the result of a parent or guardian becoming unemployed, free career development services – such as resume writing, interviewing and job search workshops – will be made available.

Additional career services available to parents of students who have applied for assistance through the Displaced Earner Program include resume review, cover letter review, job search strategies and interviewing tips.

Adult undergraduate and graduate students who are currently unemployed or find themselves unemployed while enrolled at Benedictine University for the Winter and Spring 2009 terms will also be able to meet with financial aid counselors one-on-one to discuss financing options.

To apply:

1. Print and complete the Student DEP Application.
2. Fax the form to Marco Masini at (630) 960-1126 (faxes are available at your local public library, Kinkos/Fed Ex) OR bring the form to Luba Baranivsky in the Krasa Center.

E-mail: mmasini@ben.edu