This semester is exceptionally hard for many students. Not only because they probably have to work longer hours, but also because their financial resources are decreasing.

“The book voucher decrease is a really big deal for me because this semester I had to put $200 out of my own pocket,” said Danielle Everheart, EOPS student.

Just like Everheart, many students are being affected by the country’s economic status. Some might even be forced to reduce the amount of classes they would normally be enrolled in.

Everheart had difficulty paying for her books this semester, because in the past, the book voucher she received from EOPS would normally take care of all her book expenses.

Unfortunately, this semester the book voucher decreased from $400 to $300. This means that many students had to pay their books out of their own pockets.

“Some books are very expensive, and it can be discouraging for students that meet all the program’s requirements and still not get full benefit from it,” said Terz Shelby, an EOPS student.

According to the EOPS program coordinator, Pablo Gonzalez, the reason for the decreased amount of the book voucher is not due to a budget cut.

“Luckily, EOPS has not been cut as much as it was projected, but again, we have no assurance that it won’t be in the future,” said Gonzalez.

He mentioned that the reason why the amount changed was because there are many more students that are enrolling in the program, while the program’s budget remains the same.

“More and more students are becoming eligible for the program, but with our budget remaining the same, it does not mean that they will all be served,” said Gonzalez.

Unlike any other semester, the EOPS office has announced that they will no longer be accepting applications for the current semester.

Maria Escobar, the director of financial aid, mentioned that there are more students being forced to apply for EOPS because of their economic status.

“The demand for financial aid services have exceeded from last years and cannot accept any more students because then it becomes an issue of quality service,” said Escobar.

Those students that are left without any EOPS help still have more options like scholarships, grants, and financial aid.

“I don’t know what I would do; I am thankful that we have so many resources that can help us pay for our school expenses,” said Everheart.

Many students might feel like all doors are closing on them, but faculty at Skyline college want to help and support students as much as possible.

“I encourage students to apply for scholarships and grants. There are many services available to help students move on to higher education,” said Gonzalez.