UKIAH, Calif. – The Mendocino College Financial Aid Office has surpassed another milestone with the disbursement of financial aid checks last week.

The total dollar amount of enrollment fees waived, grants, loans, scholarships and work study checks disbursed to Mendocino College students in Ukiah, Lakeport and Willits has exceeded $9 million for this academic year.

“Financial aid is its own federal stimulus package,” said Assistant Dean Jacque Bradley.

She added, “It is a win-win. Students get assistance with their education, and the community gets a more educated work force.”

This money is spent in the communities where the students live. They pay rent, buy gas and groceries, go to an occasional movie, eat out, buy clothes and pay for car repairs. The whole community benefits from the College’s efforts to provide financial assistance in support of education.

Bradley indicated that one of the misconceptions about the nine million dollars is that it is all loans.

She is quick to point out that her staff discourages students from taking a loan while at a community college.

There are a few exceptions. Studies have shown that if a student attempts to attend college full time while working full time, their GPA suffers.

Nursing students find it difficult to work and meet the rigorous requirements of practicums and study. Students with a bachelor’s degree who are returning to college for a career change cannot receive Pell Grants, and they rely heavily on loans.  

Even with these exceptions, less than 3 percent of Mendocino College students request a loan.

As a reentry student herself – Bradley received her BA at the age of 50 – she understands the difference financial aid can make in providing additional support for students. “My staff works hard to get as much aid as possible to our students.”

Financial aid students must do their part as well. They must enroll in classes that support their educational goal, and they must maintain a “C” average or better.

Mendocino College is an excellent place for a high school graduate to start their education. Whether they want to pursue a bachelor’s, master’s or PhD, they can start at Mendocino College and get a great undergraduate education without the high price tag. Then students can transfer to a four-year college such as Cal, UC Davis or Sonoma State to complete their degree.

Students who wish to pursue a certificate in business, sustainable technology, culinary arts, nursing, automotive technology, drug and alcohol studies, or human services worker can find excellent programs and additional opportunities at Mendocino College.

Starting at a community college allows students to develop study skills and explore careers in classrooms that are taught by highly educated, experienced and caring faculty. Receiving financial aid is an appealing added bonus.

For more information about Financial Aid at Mendocino College, contact Jacque Bradley at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 707-468-3110.