Workshop Session 2: The Funding Formula: A Strategic Guide to Financing Graduate Education

The Funding Formula: A Strategic Guide to Financing Graduate Education

Investing in graduate education is a transformative step for your research career, but navigating the financial realities requires careful, proactive planning. This workshop is specifically designed for undergraduate researchers to deconstruct the complexities of graduate school funding. This workshop guides students through understanding the true cost of attendance and evaluating funding sources. Participants will also explore recent federal loan policy changes and engage in an open Q&A session to better understand the importance of proactively developing a personalized financial plan.

Presented by:   

Jennifer Forney

Assistant Dean of Graduate Enrollment
American University

Jennifer Forney is an entrepreneurial higher education professional with twenty years of experience building and leading graduate enrollment and student service operations. She currently serves as the Assistant Dean of Graduate Enrollment at American University’s School of Public Affairs. Her comprehensive expertise spans graduate enrollment management; including recruitment, admissions operations, merit aid allocation, and yield strategy. Throughout her career, Jennifer remains deeply committed to educating and advocating for students as they navigate the path to graduate school, helping them unlock the immense personal and professional potential that advanced education promises in achieving their lifelong career aspirations.