subject: Obama Grants: Will They Encourage Moms To Earn A Degree [print this page] Notwithstanding the fact that higher education is important, there are often a number of obstacles that can hinder potential students from enrolling in college. At the top of this list, especially for single mothers, are family obligations and financial concerns. In an attempt to alleviate concerns associated with going to college, Obama grants are intended to encourage mothers to return to college to earn a degree.
The purpose of federal grants, in many cases, is to help disadvantaged groups to attend college. A commonly given endowment for low-income students is the federal Pell grant. The benefits of Pell grants have been improved in order to be a greater help to potential students, since the Obama administration has stated that it places a high priority on education. Working moms, in particular, are encouraged to apply for the Scholarships for Moms program, which is just a title given to a portion of the standard Pell grant program. The administration believes that by equipping low-income mothers to earn a degree, this will provide a stimulus to the lagging economy, and be a great benefit to families of those mothers as it will in turn increase their earning power in the work force.
Although $5,000 from a Pell grant may not seem like a lot of money, when you consider the high cost of education these days, it should help defray the other expenses associated with going to college. As well as books and supplies, a student has additional expenses of housing and travel as well. For a single mom, other miscellaneous expenses may also include childcare. Another great characteristic of the Pell grant award is that the money awarded does not necessarily have to be applied to college tuition. As long as the expense is vital to obtaining an education, it can be covered by the grant money.
It must be remembered that this program doesnt cater specifically to traditional students; it provides opportunity for traditional and non-traditional students alike. Mothers wanting to return to college to earn a degree are just as welcome as a student who is fresh out of high school. Consideration is given equally to potential students who would prefer to go to a small community college as well as mothers who would like to stay home and take care of their children while taking online courses. The most important factor is that all willing students are able to earn a degree that will provide them with significant opportunity in the job market.
Obama grants are the current administration's way to show that education truly is the key to a bright future. By allocating a significant amount of money to pay for education, everyone from young adults to working mothers has a chance to go to college.
