For many college students, navigating financial aid can feel overwhelming. At MiraCosta College, the Financial Aid Office is working to change that by making information more accessible, building personal connections, and helping students feel confident seeking support.
On October 8, more than 200 students attended MiraCosta's fourth annual Financial Aid Fair at the Oceanside Campus. The event brought together financial aid representatives, campus partners, and four-year universities in a welcoming atmosphere filled with music, lumpia, specialty coffee, and matcha from local business Dayon Coffee.
"Financial aid can feel very overwhelming and intimidating," said Sugeily Cervantes, student services coordinator for financial aid outreach at MiraCosta College. "Our desire is to create a dynamic between our team, our students, and the broader college community where students feel safe and comfortable asking questions."
This year's fair coincided with the start of the 2027–2028 financial aid application season, giving students an opportunity to learn about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), California Dream Act Application (CADAA), and the importance of applying early to maximize available assistance.
Students received informational packets, met directly with financial aid staff, and explored resources that extend beyond traditional financial assistance. The Career Center shared Federal Work Study opportunities, Study Abroad highlighted scholarships and funding resources, and Service Learning introduced volunteer opportunities connected to the Dream Act Service Incentive Grant.
Representatives from four-year universities also attended, helping students who are preparing to transfer build connections with financial aid offices at their future institutions.
"There's an entire community of people working together to help students access opportunities, gain experience, and move toward their goals," Cervantes said.
For the Financial Aid team, some of the most meaningful moments came from students who believed they had already missed the opportunity to apply for financial aid for the current semester. Their surprise and relief upon learning they could still apply reinforced the importance of reaching students where they are.
"We often have students discover resources or information at the fair that they did not realize were available to them," Cervantes said. "Those moments are such an important reminder of why this event matters."
Now in its fourth year, the Financial Aid Fair continues to strengthen connections between students and the people dedicated to their success. Beyond helping students understand the assistance available to them, the event reflects MiraCosta's commitment to creating a supportive college community where students feel comfortable asking questions, exploring opportunities, and taking their next steps.
