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SMMC News & Events Blog
This blog highlights news, events, and informative articles on personal finance from University of Illinois System's Student Money Management Center. Feel free to navigate to different categories with the list of topics on the right or search for a specific topic next to the view all link below.

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  • Podcast: Cost of Living

    by Andrea PellegriniSep 24, 2024 12:00 pm

    In episode 94 of Making Cents of Money, Andrea and Kimber discuss the cost of living and why it matters when comparing costs and how far your dollars will go if you relocate.

  • Podcast: On Ramp to Repayment Ends 9/30 for Federal Loan Borrowers

    by Andrea PellegriniSep 16, 2024 12:00 pm

    In episode 93 of Making Cents of Money, Brad Fletcher joins us yet again to talk about the On Ramp to Repayment ending on September 30, 2024, and what that means for borrowers currently in repayment.

  • Podcast: PSLF Seekers in SAVE: Costs of Administrative Forbearance

    by Andrea PellegriniSep 10, 2024 12:00 pm

    In episode 92 of Making Cents of Money, Brad Fletcher joins us again to talk about the current state of student loans on the SAVE repayment plan and the PSLF Buyback program for borrowers nearing completion of their PSLF requirements.

  • Understand Your Refund - Fall 2024

    by SMMC StaffAug 29, 2024 7:00 am

    Many students end up unable to register every semester because they owe money back to the university, even after receiving a refund. Learn answers to frequently asked questions about refunds and get entered to win one of five $50 gift cards.

  • Podcast: Retirement Savings in Illinois

    by Andrea PellegriniAug 26, 2024 12:00 pm

    In episode 91 of Making Cents of Money, Retirement Savings in Illinois, Christine Cheng from the Illinois Treasurer's office discusses how Illinois is addressing barriers to planning for retirement and helping small businesses provide retirement benefits to their employees.

  • Webinar Recording: Demystifying the Financial Aid Process

    by SMMC StaffAug 22, 2024 1:00 pm

    Unlock the secrets of financial aid. Learn how to maximize your financial aid package and ease the burden of tuition. Join us to navigate the complex world of financial aid with confidence. 

  • Podcast: Back to School - College & Credit

    by Andrea PellegriniAug 12, 2024 12:00 pm

    In episode 90 of Making Cents of Money, Back to School: College & Credit, Kimber & Andrea discuss credit cards and financing options for students and families, including the different tools and their short and long-term impacts.

  • Podcast: Goodbye Nikki, Hello Kimber!

    by Andrea PellegriniAug 12, 2024 10:00 am

    In episode 89 of Making Cents of Money, Goodbye Nikki, Hello Kimber!, we have a bitter sweet send-off to long-time host, Nikki Giancola-Shanks but welcome a new voice, Kimber Beckler, to the show.

  • Podcast: Financial Wellness Concepts

    by Andrea PellegriniJul 29, 2024 12:00 pm

    In episode 88 of Making Cents of Money, Financial Wellness Concepts, Nikki and Andrea discuss several terms that are often used interchangeably related to financial wellness and their definitions.

  • Get Savvy: Grow Your Green Stuff webinar series for 2024-2025

    by Andrea PellegriniJul 29, 2024 9:15 am

    The 2024-2025 'Get Savvy - Grow Your Green Stuff' webinar schedule is now live! Topics include financial aid, budgeting, entrepreneurship, credit and more. Register today!