Plan for College Without Going Crazy or Broke

January is an important and often stressful time for high school seniors who plan on attending college - and their parents. Students should be completing and submitting applications to colleges of their choice as well as filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon after Jan. 1 as possible for the best financial aid chances.

Students have been reminded since as early as middle school to consider career interests and the areas of study that they would like to pursue after high school, but parents should also start planning for the college prep process early on in their child's life.

On Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 6:30 p.m., East Smithfield Public Library (50 Esmond St.) will host a college planning seminar to assuage some of the anxiety that families may experience in regards to higher education preparation.

The seminar is recommended for parents with children ages 4-15 and will be presented by Bill Geasey, a parent and financial services professional by trade. He will answer questions and explain how parents can make a college game plan and position their family for future financial aid.

Geasey practices and benefits from the lessons he shares with others. Through various financial aid programs, last year he sent his two daughters to private New England colleges for less than half the cost of sending one without the aid.

Registration for the seminar is suggested and can be done by calling the library at (401) 231-5150.