Students filled out forms at the University of Michigan-Flint taking their first step to higher learning.
Roman Peabody, who attends Mott Middle College attended the event. He says "I'm flat broke right now, so anything I can get is a great help."
Financial aid officials say of U of M Flint's 8,000 students, around 70% receive assistance.
U of M-Flint financial aid director Lori Vedder says, "We want to support the goals of the State of Michigan and President Obama and make sure we can help as many families attain their higher education goals whether it be a two-year degree or four-year degree."
For one family, filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA form means a historical achievement.
Mozell Bogan of Flint says her great-nephew will make family history when he completes college. "We have not had a male (college) graduate in our family since 1978," says Bogan.
Her great-nephew, Ronzeld Watkins, is an honors student at Grand Blanc High School. He's still debating whether to stay in Michigan or study outside the state. When it comes to college, Watkins says, "It feels good. I'm just trying to do something good with my life, go somewhere."
He likes cars, so he's considering majoring in engineering.
Governor Rick Snyder says having not only a skilled workforce, but also an educated workforce will draw businesses and jobs to our state.
Locally, Flint continues to expand housing for college students hoping to aid in that goal.
"The revitalization has been so exciting and if we can add to that in help more students obtain their degrees, the better of we're all going to be," says Vedder.
There were also events in Alma, Owosso, and Saginaw County.
The U.S. Census says on average, college graduates make nearly twice as much as those with only a high school diploma.
