Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Local program aids in reaching career goals

For those who did not plan an education after high school (or didnt attain a GED) but want one now, its not too late  and money should not pose a problem, either.

The Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) - Henderson State University in Arkadelphia has been finding a way to educate adults and give a boost for their career goals for six years now, and their assistance is free and confidential.

EOC acts as a Clearing House for educational information and assistance, Project Director Lou May said about the program.

The EOC in Arkadelphia serves 22 counties in Southern Arkansas counties and helps at least 1,000 participants per year.

EOC is a federal program funded through the U.S. Department of Education. The employees of EOC serve as guidance counselors for adults, providing financial and academic information, as well as providing assistance in applying for admission to post-secondary schools.

To be eligible for the assistance, participants must have a desire to go back to school and be:

 A U.S. citizen or meet citizen requirements

 At least 19 years old

 Live in Southern Arkansas

The program prefers individuals who have a low income or neither parent completed a four-year college degree.

We provide information to participants to make educated decisions on what path to take to fulfill their educational goals, May said.

Other services provided by EOC include career counseling, personal counseling and admissions and financial aid applications for those who dont know where to begin their post-secondary education on their own.

May said, Since it is spring time, interested participants should be applying for financial aid soon because the deadlines are approaching quickly.

For individuals who feel education would take too much time out of their week, participation in EOC does not require full-time enrollment in a school.

EOC HSU is not just a recruiter for Henderson State University, but is a recruiter for post-secondary institutions.

Jada Powell, a recent EOC participant from Arkadelphia, wrote about the program: It has been a joyful ride and I am finally here at Henderson State University. Without the help from Mrs. May and the staff at the EOC, I would be lost in figuring out all the actualities of getting into a university.

Participants do not have to go to campus to receive assistance; the program works with partners in each county to serve them locally. The program also has a toll free number that participants can call, 866-856-8104.