Bechtel didn’t let financial anxiety slow him down
Hunter Bechtel attends ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Regionals tuition free thanks to grants, public funding
Affording a college education was something Hunter Bechtel knew wouldn’t come easily for him. He was one of the first in his family to consider college, and he realized his family finances wouldn’t cover any of his expenses. He could have given up and accepted fate. Instead, he investigated his options and quickly realized ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Regionals would make his education goals not only possible, but affordable.
Anxiety around the cost of a college education has risen in recent years, according to a poll last year by Pew Research. Stories circulating in the media about college graduates with burdensome debt have fueled these worries.
But the loud voices have drummed out the fact that college can be very affordable. Grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance can make a big dent in expenses, or even cover them completely.
Bechtel said he understands the stress that can surround paying for college. He felt it, too. But after investigating the potential resources available, he was surprised by the multitude of opportunities, and by the army of people who were ready to go to bat for him.
“I was adamant about not taking out loans,” said Bechtel, who will graduate in the fall of 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration. “I used the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to figure out my options, and I received a generous Pell Grant. Local resources were also helpful. I’ve received several grants through the . I will graduate completely debt-free.”
ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Regionals factored into his decision from the start, he said, because its proximity and reputation for quality and affordability made it a natural choice. Once on campus, he realized the unwavering support he received from faculty and advisors was pivotal in helping him succeed as a first-generation student.
“I utilized every resource that was available to me,” Bechtel said, noting that tutoring or help with signing up for classes were easy to find. “The advisors at the Regionals are the best advisors ever. I could always get an appointment to see them. They looked for ways to support me and help me succeed. I don’t think people realize that there are whole teams at the Regionals whose job it is to help you succeed.”
While he didn’t have a specific degree pathway in mind when he enrolled, his advisors helped steer him toward classes that fit his interests in political science and public policy so he could stay focused on his goals.
He ultimately selected a major in with a minor in Geography, and today he is studying on the Oxford campus to complete his degree. The switch between campuses was seamless, he said, and his advisors were there to help him with every step.
“I highly recommend starting at the Regionals,” he said. “You can always find something that interests you and the possibilities for your future are endless.”
