鈥淣麻豆原创鈥檚 annual NOEL concert has become a beloved tradition that ushers in the Christmas season for our community,鈥� said John Dally, chair of N麻豆原创鈥檚 music department and director of NOEL. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a joyful reminder of the hope and wonder we celebrate in the birth of our Savior.鈥�

NOEL will offer traditional Christmas classics as well as new inspirational music. In its twelfth year, the concert features performances from over 200 musicians in N麻豆原创鈥檚 top ensembles, including Northwesterners, Orchestra, Bella Voce, Wind Ensemble, University Choir and University Children鈥檚 Choir.

Tickets are available in advance at or by calling the Music Department at 208.467.8413.

The post N麻豆原创 PRESENTS ITS AN麻豆原创AL NOEL CHRISTMAS CONCERT appeared first on Northwest Nazarene University.

Joining a club or team isn鈥檛 just about filling your free time, it鈥檚 about finding your people and shaping your story. Here鈥檚 what you need to know about making the most of student involvement in college.

Why Student Involvement Matters

College isn鈥檛 only about academics; it鈥檚 also about community. Getting involved in clubs and organizations helps you feel connected, supported and inspired. It鈥檚 a chance to explore new interests, gain leadership experience and meet friends who make campus feel like home.

Participating in an academic club can help you sharpen your skills. Joining a service organization provides opportunities for you to make a difference. Whatever your choice, student engagement helps you grow in ways that go far beyond the classroom.

The Best Clubs to Join in College

There鈥檚 truly something for everyone on a college campus; the trick is finding what fits you. Here are some of the best clubs to join in college, depending on your goals and interests:

• Academic clubs 鈥� Connect with classmates in your major or explore a new area of interest
• Creative and performance groups 鈥� Join a band, theatre production, art club or running club
• Leadership and service clubs 鈥� Whether it is student government or a volunteer group, these help you build confidence and make an impact
• Special interest clubs 鈥� Anime, robotics, hiking, sustainability 鈥� there鈥檚 a group for just about every hobby

And if you can鈥檛 find what you鈥檙e looking for, most colleges make it easy to start your own club!

College Intramural Sports Options

If you love staying active but don鈥檛 want the pressure of varsity competition, college intramural sports are the perfect middle ground. These are low-stakes, high-fun leagues that give everyone a chance to play.

You鈥檒l find everything from basketball and volleyball to ultimate frisbee, soccer and flag football; sometimes even unique options like dodgeball, kickball or pickleball. Intramurals are a great way to relieve stress, meet new people and keep your body (and brain) moving.

How to Get Involved in College Activities

So, how do you actually get started? Don鈥檛 worry鈥攃olleges make it easy to dive in. Here鈥檚 how:

• Go to the student involvement fair. It鈥檚 usually held at the start of the semester and showcases every club and organization on campus.
• Follow student engagement offices on social media. They post events, volunteer opportunities and leadership openings.
• Talk to your RA, advisor or peer mentor. They can point you toward groups that match your interests.
• Show up and try something new. Most clubs are welcoming to beginners, and the first step is just showing up.

Getting involved might feel intimidating at first, but everyone else is in the same boat鈥攍ooking for connection and belonging.

Choosing a College That Encourages Involvement

When you鈥檙e visiting campuses and making your final decision, pay attention to the vibe. Are students active and involved? Are there plenty of opportunities to connect outside the classroom? A strong culture of student involvement means you鈥檒l have the freedom to explore your interests, grow as a leader and make lifelong friendships.

A Closing Thought

At Northwest Nazarene University (N麻豆原创), we do college different. N麻豆原创 offers countless ways to get involved, connect and live out your faith on campus. From dozens of student-led clubs and service organizations to intramural sports and ministry teams,

So as you look toward your future, remember: college is where you discover who you are and who you鈥檙e becoming. Make it count; and maybe make it at N麻豆原创.

Explore student life at nnu.edu/student-life to see all the ways you can get involved.

The post FINDING YOUR PLACE: HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN COLLEGE CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS appeared first on Northwest Nazarene University.

Let鈥檚 walk through a few practical tips so you can make a smart, confident choice that fits your life and your future.

1. Start with your 鈥渨hy鈥�

Before diving into rankings or applications, pause and ask yourself why you want to go to grad school. Are you aiming for career advancement, like qualifying for promotions or moving into leadership? Or are you hoping for a career change, like shifting from marketing to counseling, or from nursing into administration?

Your 鈥渨hy鈥� shapes everything: the kind of program you鈥檒l need, the degree format that fits your schedule and the amount of time and money you鈥檙e willing to invest.

2. Match the degree to your destination

Once you鈥檝e nailed down your goals, look for programs that give you the skills and credentials to actually get there. For example:

• If you鈥檙e aiming for leadership or business growth, an MBA or master鈥檚 in Organizational Leadership might make sense.
• Educators might explore graduate degrees in curriculum design or educational administration.
• If you鈥檙e ready for a career pivot, look for graduate programs for working professionals that welcome students from diverse professional backgrounds.

Many universities, like Northwest Nazarene University (N麻豆原创), design their graduate programs around real-world outcomes, so you鈥檙e not just earning a diploma, you鈥檙e gaining practical skills that translate directly into your next role.

3. Prioritize flexibility and format

Working adults have a lot on their plates, so flexibility matters. When comparing the best graduate programs, think about how each one fits into your current life.

• Online or hybrid options can make it easier to balance work, school and family.
• Accelerated programs can help you graduate faster and get back to focusing on your career goals.
• Evening or weekend classes may be ideal if you prefer face-to-face learning but can鈥檛 commit to a traditional schedule.

At N麻豆原创, for example, many graduate degrees are built specifically for working adults鈥攚ith flexible online formats, personal faculty connections and a supportive learning environment that recognizes you鈥檙e not a 鈥渢raditional鈥� student.

4. Look at the support systems

Support can make or break your grad school experience. Look for universities that offer personalized advising, networking opportunities and strong alumni connections. That support can make all the difference when you鈥檙e juggling work, school and life.

Programs that go beyond coursework鈥攍ike N麻豆原创鈥檚 faith-informed approach to education鈥攃an also help you grow not only professionally but personally. It鈥檚 about more than a credential; it鈥檚 about developing as a whole person.

5. Compare value鈥攏ot just cost

Yes, tuition matters. But when you鈥檙e choosing among the best graduate programs, think in terms of value, not just price. A degree that helps you grow your career, confidence and purpose is worth far more than the cheapest option.

Reach out to admissions counselors or alumni to hear how their degree has impacted their professional journey. Real stories from real graduates often reveal what鈥檚 truly worth your investment.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right graduate program isn鈥檛 about finding the 鈥減erfect鈥� one鈥攊t鈥檚 about finding the one that鈥檚 perfect for you. Start with your career goals, look for programs designed for working adults, and prioritize flexibility, value and support.

If you鈥檙e ready to take the next step, explore Northwest Nazarene University鈥檚 graduate programs for working professionals. With flexible formats, career-focused degrees and a supportive community that invests in your success, N麻豆原创 might just be the perfect fit for where you鈥檙e headed next.

The post HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT GRADUATE PROGRAM FOR YOUR CAREER GOALS appeared first on Northwest Nazarene University.

Duane and Lori鈥檚 story is one marked by grit, perseverance and compassion. A graduate of Northwest Nazarene University, Duane first met Lori while teaching school in Idaho. Together, they built an extraordinary legacy as entrepreneurs whose success has always been coupled with a deep desire to give back to their community.

Rooted in the legacy of Volga German immigrant heritage, Duane鈥檚 life has been shaped by family and community鈥攙alues that have inspired both him and Lori to live with intention, serve boldly and invest in others. With the heart of a servant and the mind of a philanthropist, the Stueckles have united community partners, connected organizations and rallied support around causes that expand opportunity and enrich lives.

A powerful example of their impact can be seen in N麻豆原创鈥檚 Thomas Family Health & Science Center, a dream realized in part because of Duane鈥檚 leadership in sharing that vision and inspiring others to give. Their generosity continues to transform N麻豆原创鈥檚 campus and will create new opportunities that will benefit students far into the future.

鈥淏y investing in the lives of young people, Duane and Lori have opened doors for many N麻豆原创 students and laid the foundation for generations to come,鈥� said Kelli Lindley, Vice President for External Relations. 鈥淭ime and again, Duane & Lori have stepped forward with six-figure gifts, providing solutions for lasting change. This includes the creation of an inspirational learning space within the Johnson Sports Center, funding of scholarships, supporting multiple athletic operating budgets and a significant investment in the future of N麻豆原创 Nursing. Their efforts to build bridges between N麻豆原创 and other community organizations have played a significant role in helping N麻豆原创 provide a transformative education to those called to make a difference in the world.鈥�

Established in 1985, the Eugene Emerson Award acknowledges the spirit of cooperation between N麻豆原创 and the surrounding community. It honors individuals and organizations whose partnership has strengthened the bond between the University and the Boise Valley through visionary leadership, service and generosity.

Through their faithful support, Duane and Lori Stueckle have embodied this spirit of unity鈥攍eaving an indelible mark on N麻豆原创鈥檚 campus, throughout the Boise Valley and in the lives they continue to touch.

The post NORTHWEST NAZARENE UNIVERSITY HONORS DUANE AND LORI STUECKLE WITH THE 2025 EUGENE EMERSON AWARD鈥� appeared first on Northwest Nazarene University.

Lindsay Kuhl, Director of Graduate 麻豆原创听

Lindsay is no stranger to N麻豆原创. In fact, her roots run deep, having been a student here herself. A fun fact about Lindsay is that she started two long-standing campus traditions during her time as a student: “The Woman Is Required to Pay” (TWIRP) and the Brick, a frozen coffee drink that remains a favorite at student events. Lindsay finds joy in seeing these traditions still alive and well, knowing she played a part in their beginnings.听听

When asked about her favorite thing about working at N麻豆原创, Lindsay鈥檚 answer is simple yet profound: 鈥淚 love being part of a community that values relationships and supports one another. It鈥檚 truly special to be back here, contributing to the place that shaped so much of who I am.鈥�听

Cheryl Clark, 麻豆原创 Specialist听

Cheryl brings a grounded yet adventurous spirit to the team, shaped by her upbringing on a dairy farm in Jerome, ID. Whether she鈥檚 paddling her kayak on the weekends or contributing her steady dedication at N麻豆原创, Cheryl鈥檚 deep-rooted commitment to hard work and community is evident in everything she does.听

Cheryl鈥檚 favorite thing about working at N麻豆原创? 鈥淚 love my job and the people I work with.鈥� It鈥檚 her genuine appreciation for her colleagues that makes Cheryl such a cherished part of the team.听

Chloe Widener, 麻豆原创 Counselor 听

Chloe is all about balance, whether it鈥檚 watching Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune with her family or enjoying a cozy weekend at a local coffee shop, her hobbies reflect her love for both family and community.听

Chloe loves helping educators achieve their career goals. 鈥淚 love being able to help teachers or aspiring teachers become licensed, whether it鈥檚 as a classroom teacher, principal or in special education. It鈥檚 incredibly fulfilling to play a role in their professional journeys.鈥�听

Whether you鈥檙e a prospective student or a current member of the N麻豆原创 family, the GPS 麻豆原创 Team is here to support you every step of the way! Connect with them by emailing gps@nnu.edu or by visiting the graduate admissions webpage where individual counselor contact information is available.听听

The post MEET THE TEAM: GET TO KNOW THE GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDIES ADMISSIONS OFFICE STAFF appeared first on Northwest Nazarene University.

When Grad School is About a Career Change听

Let鈥檚 be honest鈥攕ometimes the career you鈥檝e been in over the years just isn鈥檛 what you want anymore. Maybe you鈥檝e been in business but feel drawn to teaching, counseling or even healthcare. That鈥檚 where a graduate degree for career change should be explored.听

These programs give you the foundation to expand into something new. For example, a Master of Social Work, Master鈥檚 in Counseling or MBA can open doors to new fields that were out of reach before because you didn鈥檛 have the background. These are some of the best master鈥檚 degrees for changing careers because they don鈥檛 just add skills鈥攖hey give you credibility in a whole new space.听

Of course, making a career shift by going to grad school may feel like 鈥渟tarting over,鈥� but the payoff is stepping into something that actually excites you. That shift can be worth every bit of effort.听

When Grad School is About Career Advancement听

On the other hand, maybe you actually like your career鈥攜ou just want to advance. That鈥檚 where a career advancement master鈥檚 degree comes in.听

Say you鈥檙e a teacher ready to move into leadership. A Master鈥檚 in Educational Leadership could set you up for a principal or superintendent role. Or maybe you鈥檙e already in management and want to move into upper management. An MBA might be the perfect move. In these cases, you鈥檙e not reinventing yourself鈥攜ou鈥檙e building momentum.听

The big advantage here? You already know the field, the jargon and the culture. You鈥檙e not starting from scratch; you鈥檙e leveling up.听

How to Decide听

So which goal sounds more like you? Here are some questions to ask yourself:听

1. Do I want to keep building on what I know, or am I ready for a clean slate?听
2. Which excites me more鈥攎astering my craft or trying something brand new?听
3. What will make me look back in ten years and feel proud I took the leap?听

Your gut reaction to those questions will help point you in the right direction.听

A School That Gets It听

Wherever you land鈥攃areer change or career advancement鈥攖he right graduate program makes all the difference. Schools like Northwest Nazarene University (N麻豆原创) are built with working adults in mind. They offer flexible programs that serve both people looking to expand into something new and those who want to move further in their current field. If you鈥檙e trying to decide which path fits, N麻豆原创鈥檚 grad programs are worth a serious look.听

At the end of the day, grad school isn鈥檛 just about the degree. It鈥檚 about reshaping your future鈥攚hether that means climbing higher in the career you鈥檝e already built or stepping boldly into a related field or something completely new. Whatever your motivation, the investment in yourself will pay off in way more ways than just a job title.听

The post GRADUATE SCHOOL FOR CAREER CHANGE VS. CAREER ADVANCEMENT: WHAT鈥橲 RIGHT FOR YOU? appeared first on Northwest Nazarene University.

Community Comes First听

If you choose a Christian school, one of the biggest differences you鈥檒l notice from a secular university is the sense of community. Professors will know your name (and yes, they鈥檒l notice if you鈥檙e absent). You鈥檙e not just a face in a classroom鈥攜ou鈥檙e part of a close-knit community of people who genuinely care about you. And at a place like N麻豆原创, faith and learning are woven together. The conversations you鈥檒l have with classmates often go deeper than just, 鈥淲hat鈥檚 on the test?鈥� They will likely focus on, 鈥淲ho are you 鈥� really?鈥�听

A Typical Day听

So, what does a typical day look like for a college student? Picture this: you roll out of bed in your dorm, grab a latte at the campus coffee shop and head to your morning class. Between classes, you might attend chapel, meet friends for lunch, head to the gym or sneak in some study time at the library. Afternoons are usually a mix of more classes, gathering for group projects, maybe a rehearsal if you鈥檙e involved in music or theatre or a practice if you鈥檙e a student athlete. Evenings? They could be filled with intramural sports, a worship night, small group Bible study or just hanging out in the dorm watching movies. Oh, and maybe a late-night pizza run.听听

Your days will be busy, but in a good way. You鈥檒l never run out of things to do鈥攁nd you鈥檒l also learn how to balance work, fun and rest.听

Learning Inside and Outside the Classroom听

One of the best parts of the college experience is that learning doesn鈥檛 stop once you leave the classroom. Discussions often spill over into lunch or late-night conversations. At N麻豆原创 and schools like it, your education connects with real-world questions: Who do you want to be? How does your career path line up with your values? How can your faith guide your decisions?听

College isn鈥檛 just about getting a degree鈥攊t鈥檚 about discovering who you are spiritually, intellectually and personally. This is what people mean when they talk about the transformation of the whole person. And at N麻豆原创, those are more than words鈥攊t鈥檚 who we are!听

Friendships That Feel Like Family听

Let鈥檚 be honest: college friends become your people. Whether it鈥檚 late-night taco runs, cramming for finals or spontaneous road trips, these are the folks who鈥檒l be in your corner for years to come. Some of them for the rest of your life. At smaller Christian universities, friendships often feel even stronger because you鈥檙e doing all of life together鈥攊n the classroom, in chapel and during the weekends.听

Campus Activities Keep Life Interesting听

Worried you鈥檒l get bored? Not likely. Campus life is packed with options: student clubs, service projects, concerts, sports, worship nights and leadership retreats. At N麻豆原创, for example, students get involved in everything from mission trips to music ensembles to outdoor adventures in our home state of Idaho. College is a time to try new things, discover what you love and meet people while you鈥檙e doing it.听

The Big Picture听

So, what is campus life like at a Christian university? It鈥檚 a mix of faith, friendship, late-night study sessions and plenty of opportunities to grow. You鈥檒l be stretched, encouraged and supported in ways that shape you long after graduation.听

If you鈥檙e looking for a school where your college experience is about more than just earning a degree鈥攚here the focus is on the transformation of the whole person through Christ-centered community and learning鈥攁 university like N麻豆原创 should definitely be on your list.听

Want to Know More?听

Part of your decision-making process should include a campus visit. There鈥檚 no better way to get a feel for the vibe, and some schools, including N麻豆原创, offer a visit scholarship. While you鈥檙e on campus, notice how students interact, check out the dorms, visit a class, meet a professor and ask yourself, 鈥淐an I see myself here?鈥� Pro tip: talk with students you bump into on your visit. They鈥檒l give you the honest version of what campus life is really like. And if you鈥檙e considering N麻豆原创, you鈥檒l quickly see how community-focused the place is.听

The post WHAT TO EXPECT FROM CAMPUS LIFE appeared first on Northwest Nazarene University.

The N麻豆原创 payload featured an ejector and robotic arm designed to track and capture objects in space. The experiment, developed over months of design, testing and assembly, provided students with the rare opportunity to apply classroom learning to a real-world aerospace challenge in partnership with NASA engineers.听

鈥淥pportunities like this are transformational for our students,鈥� said Dan Lawrence, Professor of Physics and Engineering and ABET Program Director. 鈥淭hey鈥檙e not just studying engineering鈥攖hey鈥檙e practicing it at the highest level. From concept to launch, our students worked through the same rigorous process that professional aerospace engineers use, and they did it with excellence.鈥�听

Through RockSat-X, students were involved in every stage of the mission: designing the experiment, preparing it for spaceflight, integrating it into the rocket and analyzing post-flight data. The launch reached an altitude of approximately 90 miles, providing valuable microgravity time for testing the payload.听

鈥淭his is exactly the kind of experience that prepares our graduates to innovate in their careers from day one,鈥� Lawrence added. 鈥淚t鈥檚 also a reminder that big ideas can come from a small university in Idaho鈥攁nd make an impact on a national stage.鈥�听

The RockSat-X program is a collaboration between NASA鈥檚 Wallops Flight Facility and universities across the nation, designed to give students a comprehensive, hands-on spaceflight experience.听

The post N麻豆原创 ENGINEERING STUDENTS LAUNCH EXPERIMENT WITH NASA appeared first on Northwest Nazarene University.

College of Arts & Humanities听

Alison Graham Larson, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice听

Alison Graham Larson earned her BA in Political Science from Northwest Nazarene University and her J.D. from the University of Utah. She has extensive experience in law, public service and advocacy, with her career spanning legal practice and teaching. Alison鈥檚 inspiration for higher education began during her undergraduate years at N麻豆原创, where the seeds of her interest in justice and civil rights were planted. Two years ago, she returned to N麻豆原创 as a faculty member, teaching Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, which further confirmed her desire to contribute to the field of criminal justice education. She is excited to continue shaping the criminal justice program at N麻豆原创, offering students both legal expertise and a passion for justice. Outside of work, Alison enjoys spending time with her nieces and nephews and traveling with her husband, Mike.听

Adam Petersen, Assistant Professor of History听

Adam Petersen earned his Ph.D. in History from Marquette University, where his research and teaching focused on American history, cultural identity and historical memory. His academic journey also includes graduate and undergraduate study in history, equipping him with both depth and breadth in the field. Adam has presented at conferences and published work exploring how history shapes contemporary society. He was inspired to pursue higher education because of his belief that history provides critical context for understanding the present and cultivating thoughtful citizens. At N麻豆原创, Adam is most excited to guide students in engaging with history not only as an academic discipline but also as a way of shaping their own perspectives and calling. Outside of the classroom, he enjoys reading, outdoor adventures and spending time with family.听

College of Behavioral & Social Sciences听

Rebekah Ponsford-Hall, Associate Professor of Psychology听

Rebekah Ponsford-Hall earned her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology and has spent many years teaching as an adjunct professor, including time at N麻豆原创. She and her husband Jeff also run a private practice, where they work with individuals and families in counseling and therapy. Her love for students and teaching has fueled her career in higher education, and she values the opportunity to combine flexibility in her professional life with meaningful classroom engagement. Rebekah is especially excited to help launch and grow N麻豆原创鈥檚 psychology program, preparing students for impactful careers in mental health. She brings both academic knowledge and real-world experience that deeply enriches her teaching. Outside of the classroom, Rebekah enjoys art, dance, reading and writing.听

Roxanne Printz, Program Director of Social Work, Associate Professor听

Roxanne Printz earned her MSW and brings extensive experience in both micro and macro-level social work, spanning public and private settings. She has worked with individuals, families and organizations to address a wide range of social issues, with a focus on empowering people and building strong communities. Roxanne was inspired to pursue higher education because of her belief in the transformative power of education to launch solid professionals who can make a difference in the world. Drawn to N麻豆原创鈥檚 Christian environment, she is excited to direct and grow the social work program while mentoring students to integrate faith, service and professional practice. Outside of her academic work, Roxanne enjoys working on house projects and spending time with her husband.听

College of Natural & Applied Sciences听

JJ Bowerman, Assistant Professor of Mathematics听

JJ Bowerman earned her BS in Secondary Education with a Math Emphasis and has spent the last several years teaching at both the high school and college level. Her experience includes four years teaching high school mathematics and one year as an adjunct faculty member at N麻豆原创, where she discovered a deep passion for working with college students. JJ was inspired to pursue higher education because of the unique way mathematics blends logic and creativity, offering students both challenge and discovery. Drawn to N麻豆原创鈥檚 welcoming community, she is excited to help students grow in confidence and ability while fostering a love for problem-solving. Outside the classroom, JJ enjoys playing board games and volleyball.听

College of Nursing听

Phyllis Morris, Associate Professor of Nursing听

Phyllis Morris earned her MSN and BSN, in addition to her RN, and has extensive professional experience in clinical nursing and nursing education. Her work has spanned multiple areas of healthcare, equipping her with both breadth of practice and a passion for patient-centered care. Phyllis was inspired to pursue higher education because of her desire to invest in the next generation of nurses, ensuring they enter the profession with both skill and compassion. At N麻豆原创, she is most excited to join a Christ-centered community where she can mentor and support students in becoming not only excellent practitioners but also leaders of integrity. In her spare time, Phyllis enjoys reading, walking, gardening and spending time outdoors.听

Samantha Phillips, Assistant Professor of Nursing听

Samantha Phillips earned her MSN, BSN and RN, and brings significant experience as a nurse and educator. She has worked in a variety of healthcare settings, providing direct patient care while also equipping students in classroom and clinical environments. Samantha鈥檚 inspiration to pursue higher education stems from her love of teaching and her desire to prepare students to serve others with both knowledge and compassion. Drawn to N麻豆原创鈥檚 mission and values, she is excited to encourage and mentor nursing students as they grow academically, professionally and spiritually. Beyond her work, Samantha enjoys outdoor recreation, creative projects and time spent with friends and family.听

Bryana Smith, Program Director of FNP and Associate Professor of Nursing听

Bryana Smith earned her DNP, MSN, FNP-C, BSN and RN credentials, bringing a strong foundation in nursing practice and leadership. She has extensive experience in hands-on primary care, particularly in pediatrics and family health, where she has worked closely with patients and families to provide holistic care. Her decision to pursue higher education stems from her belief that education opens doors and transforms lives, especially in the nursing profession where the impact extends far beyond the classroom. Bryana was drawn to N麻豆原创 because of its alignment with her deepest passions鈥攆aith, education and service. She is most excited about equipping future nurse practitioners with the knowledge, skills and values to provide compassionate, effective care. In her free time, Bryana enjoys reading, traveling, and exploring new places through books and adventures alike.听

N麻豆原创 is excited to welcome each of these individuals as they join a committed group of faculty and staff members dedicated to investing in the academic, spiritual and social growth of N麻豆原创 students.听

The post N麻豆原创 INTRODUCES NEW FACULTY FOR THE 2025-2026 ACADEMIC YEAR appeared first on Northwest Nazarene University.

1. Apply for FAFSA Early

Step one: fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form opens the door to federal grants, loans and work-study programs. It鈥檚 free and super important鈥攑lus, the earlier you apply, the better your chances of getting more aid. You can do it online at .听

2. Search and Apply for Scholarships

Free money? Yes, please! Scholarships come in all shapes and sizes鈥攆rom being awarded for academic achievements in high school to hobbies or even your future major. Don鈥檛 just look at national ones; local scholarships and those your college offers can be easier to land. Check out or to get started.听

3. Explore Federal and State Grant Options

Grants = free money you don鈥檛 have to pay back. The Pell Grant is a big one for students with financial need. Many states also have their own grant programs, so make sure to look into what鈥檚 available where you live. You鈥檒l need to complete the FAFSA to qualify for most of them.听

4. Consider Federal Student Loans

If you absolutely need to borrow, go federal. Federal student loans usually come with lower interest rates and better repayment terms than private ones. And if you qualify for subsidized loans, the government pays the interest while you鈥檙e in school. That鈥檚 a win!听

5. Don’t Forget Work-Study Programs

Work-study jobs let you earn money to help cover expenses while keeping your studies a priority. These part-time gigs are often on-campus and built around your class schedule, so they鈥檙e a great way to get work experience without the extra stress of commuting and schedule coordination.听

6. Live on Campus and Get Involved

Living on campus can actually help you save money in the long run. You鈥檒l cut down on commuting costs, have easier access to campus jobs and dining options and be more plugged into the community, which is a huge part of your college experience. Plus, it鈥檚 a great way to make lifelong friends and take advantage of resources right outside your dorm.听

7. Stick With One School for Your Degree

Transferring between schools might seem like a way to save money, but it can sometimes cost you in lost credits or extra semesters. Sticking with one college for your whole degree can help you stay on track, build strong connections and take full advantage of long-term scholarships and programs specific to your school.听

8. Save on Living Costs

You鈥檇 be surprised how much you can save by being mindful of day-to-day expenses. Share a dorm room, select and use your meal plan wisely and buy used or digital textbooks. Some schools may have a textbook rental program that can also cut costs. Don鈥檛 forget to tap into all the student discounts out there鈥攁nd keep tabs on your spending with apps like Mint or YNAB.听

9. Look into Employer Tuition Assistance or Military Benefits

If you鈥檙e working, check if your employer offers tuition assistance. Some companies will help pay for your education, especially if your major aligns with your job. And if you鈥檙e in the military or a veteran, benefits like the GI Bill can cover a huge chunk of your costs. Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) is also a favorable option for some students.听

10. Budget Smart and Avoid Unnecessary Debt

Creating a budget might sound boring, but it鈥檚 a game-changer. Work with a parent or mentor to better understand finance and budgeting. Keep track of what鈥檚 coming in and going out so you don鈥檛 end up overspending. Only borrow what you truly need and avoid credit card debt when you can. Your future self will thank you!听

Conclusion听

Paying for college doesn鈥檛 have to feel impossible. With a little planning, some smart decisions and a few helpful resources, you can totally make it work. The key is to start early and explore every option available to you. Ready to take control of your college costs? To see what your estimated cost might be, use our .听

The post HOW TO PAY FOR COLLEGE: 10 SMART STRATEGIES FOR STUDENTS ON A BUDGET appeared first on Northwest Nazarene University.