Canadian Healthcare from a Canadian...

[skinsguy]

Originally Posted by jsarno

Alright, I did find the info (finally) about the free college.

They no longer do it through the department of labor, they now do it through New Mexico Works. The program is called W.I.A. Workforce Investment Act.

The guy I spoke with wasn't positive it was available in all states, but thinks it's a federally funded program, so I would suggest that anyone that is interested, call your department of labor, or whatever state you're from "works" program and see if you are eligible.

My friend's wife went through the program, and not only did they pay for the college 100%, they gave her $150 a month until she was done with the program, now she's making about $30 an hour as a nurse.

I know about that program quite well. Southside Virginia has used the Workforce Investment Act quite a few times. They have also used Trade Act as well. Now, I know this because my father worked for a company that closed its doors due to the "free trade" stuff. I actually worked for this company as well, but since I was already in school and working towards my bachlelor degree, it really wouldn't have helped me.

Here is the skinny on those programs. They will pay for your college as long as you go full time and maintain a certain average. I believe as long as you maintain a "C" average, you should be good. You also have to go full time during the summer months as well. Once you have chosen a particular field of study, you cannot change it once you start it. You either have to finish it out, quit, or fail out. The biggest thing with the program is that it WILL NOT pay tuition for a four year degree. I know this, because I checked into it to see if it would pay for my bachelor degree. The representatives stated that the programs were mainly designed for associate degrees or vocational degrees. Basically, anything a community college would offer you. There is also a cap limit on how much they will pay, and if they cannot pay for your entire tuition, books and all, then it will not pay for any of it.

As I've stated, I know about this program and related programs quite well. They are good programs for those who have lost their job due to trade reasons, (i.e. factory and textile jobs) and are looking for a fresh start. They will not help with bachelor degree or master degree programs from universities.