As we put on our jackets for the first time this season, my son asked me when it would snow. “Not for awhile,” I replied. Although I was quite confident in my response, I am always amazed as the length of daylight decreases, the number of hours in the day seem to do the same. The weeks seem to go by quicker and I have difficultly remembering which month it is. Perhaps this illusion is manifested by our hurried and hectic lifestyles, in which time seems to escape us.

As time flies by, it is amazing to reflect on the events and people that shape our lives. Each year brings new students who have experienced the world, thus far, through a different lens than most of us. During late August, I enjoy taking a brief moment to read the Beloit College Annual Mindset List. This list shows how the entering class of freshman views the world. It reminds me how different we all are and how much culture influences perspective. Some of my favorites for the Class of 2010:

Likewise, access to a higher education has always been an opportunity for these students. In financial aid, we get to help students achieve their dreams. Though our efforts may seem to go unnoticed at times, our work is crucial to student success.

And, while we continue to wait for Reauthorization to provide more funding to help these students, it’s bound to be another exciting year in financial aid. The Tri-State committees are hard at work planning activities and events for the upcoming year. Check out their plans and goals in this issue!

As always, there are some informative articles and member profile and calendar of events. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this issue, and the 2006-2007 Newsletter Committee members:

Be sure to take time to enjoy fall and take advantage of all of the wonderful events offered by the Association this season. Because, before we know, we will be in the heart of winter. (And, hopefully, for my son’s sake, it will bring a little snow.)