TSTC to host financial aid night at area public library

(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Texas State Technical College will host a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) event at the Harlingen Public Library Wednesday, May 25, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

The event can help current and prospective TSTC students apply for financial aid to help with tuition and other costs related to their education.

Roxanne Garza, of San Benito, is pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree in Cybersecurity at TSTC. She plans to attend the event.

“I am a single mother of two boys, and the financial assistance definitely helps me,” she said.

“The services that will be offered motivate me to continue my education.”

Garza chose to pursue TSTC’s Cybersecurity program because she wanted to resolve her own computer issues.

“I was paying an individual to remove the viruses from my computers,” she said. “I decided to stop paying money and take courses on my own. That is what led me to pursue the program.”

Angel Perez, of Harlingen, is pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree in HVAC Technology. He also plans to participate in the event at the local library.

“I would not have an education without the assistance from financial aid.”

Perez chose to pursue the HVAC Technology program because his friend’s father is an HVAC technician.

“I accompanied my friend and his father during their fishing trips,” he said. “I observed how his father would repair various units and other components. It piqued my interest from that point forward.”

Anna Cortez, assistant director of Enrollment Management for TSTC’s Harlingen campus, said TSTC and the Harlingen Public Library have a long-lasting partnership.

“Both of our organizations will provide a service to our student population, but this is also a great way to connect with the community members that are seeking to pursue a college education,” she said.

Molly Walter, assistant director for the Harlingen Public Library, said their organization is thrilled to co-host the program.

“TSTC plays a tremendous role in promoting higher education in the Rio Grande Valley,” she said. “We at the library know TSTC welcomes learners of all ages and backgrounds. As more people locally have access to education, the children of our community are more likely to go to college and be successful. TSTC provides a critical access point to education that our community needs.”

TSTC’s enrollment coaches and the Harlingen Public Library staff will be available to assist those in attendance.

“We will be providing guidance on how to complete the FAFSA,” Cortez said. “We will also answer questions such as how to set up a federal student aid identification and what the school code is for TSTC.”

Attendees will need to bring their personal 2020 tax returns or their parents’ tax documents. A personal email is also required.

There will be two additional financial aid events from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on June 29 and July 27 at the Harlingen Public Library, which is located at 410 76th Drive in Harlingen.

Registration for TSTC’s fall semester is underway. For more information, visit tstc.edu.