Suggestions for financial aid?

[Celly09]

Hi everyone,

I was wondering if I could get some suggestions on scholarships/grants/ loan programs/ *any resources* for living expenses while I am in nursing school. I am in an ADN program in southern CA, while working full time during my first semester. In the future semesters, I will be going part time at work, working 10-20 hours a week (my job is flexible with school). My issue is that although I am considered in financial need by FAFSA, I already have bachelor's degree, so it disqualifies me from federal grants. I am not sure if I can get any federal loans but I know probably not much if I do qualify. I don't have family or a significant to rely on for free housing. I really need to find a way to pay for my rent while I'm in school. I can take out private loans but I know the interest rates are terrible. Does anyone have any suggestions? Or even suggestions about private loans?

P.S.

I pretty much get tuition for free at the community college I go to, so I'm not worried about that. Just worried about paying rent when I'm focusing on school and can't work as much. 

thanks in advance!

[Mergirlc, MSN, APRN, NP]

Not from personal experience, but I knew a lot of people who took out Discover Loans for Healthcare Professionals. Same company as the credit card.  Not sure why they chose that particular one, but I think they throw in some perks for good grades and no fees or something of that nature. 

If you have great credit, you probably won't get too awful of a loan.

Also, just apply like crazy to scholarships!  Sure it takes time to write essays and such, but every little bit counts.  Check with your school's financial aid department as they usually have great tips and insight into these types of things.

Good luck!