<p>You may be eligible for a fair amount of aid – but be aware that you may still have to master the system to get at it. Make sure you understand what you have to provide and when. And when you are mystified (“What’s an AGI?” sort of stuff), don’t be shy about asking. </p>
<p>Can you find someone a year ahead of you who has gone through the same process? You can ask the financial aid office if there is a student who would be a mentor. They may have specific advice that is helpful. A year from now, you should be in the situation that you could help the next kid in line. </p>
<p>A wise person here on CC once posted “Don’t judge someone’s insides by their outsides.” You will find yourself in class with kids who clearly do not have the hurdles you have. You’ll be thrashing about with yet another fin aid requirement while they are zooming off to have pizza. Hang in there. They’ll each have their own troubles to navigate. Master your own situation and be generous with what you learn. You’ll be pleased.</p>