Although the transition to adulthood after graduation can be difficult for any student, additional challenges remain for independent students. The authors define independent students as undergraduates between the ages of 18 and 24 who have no dependency on a parent or guardian, such as foster care alumni. It is important that higher education…

With two children already in college and three more in the wings, the Nwanguma family knows about sacrifice. The annual tuition bill for Prince George's Community College typically comes to between $3,500 and $4,000 for the oldest son, Chuka. To afford it, Chuma Nwanguma, a Nigerian immigrant, often works overtime in addition to his regular night…

Consent for treatment and confidentiality are legal issues in adolescent health care. Discussed in conjunction with consent is the concept of emancipation, the legally defined age at which the adolescent is considered to have reached majority. Also discussed are the adolescent's right to confidentiality, the role of the school nurse, and the…

Discusses the advantages of a two-phase educational plan for students who must support themselves through a lengthy professional education program. Phase I involves obtaining vocational training in a high demand, reasonably paid, related field. In Phase II, the student begins his professional education while supporting himself in the…

Reports on the organization and results of a state-funded program that provides the opportunity for adolescents in foster homes or institutions to make the transition to self-sufficient living arrangements. (SS)

Increasingly, state officials are dealing with the financial needs of the fastest-growing segment of the higher education market by expanding their financial aid programs to working people, parents, and students with disabilities who must attend college part time. (MLW)

College students are complaining that Congress has made it too difficult to demonstrate financial independence to qualify for federal financial aid. Legislation in 1992 tightened the policy on financial independence to prevent affluent students from cheating the system. Colleges are reluctant to step in for fear of state-conducted audits of…