MnSCU schools search for ways to serve an increasing need: Students in poverty

WHITE BEAR LAKE, Minn. -- At age 30, with a family of five to support but unable to continue working construction after an injury, Jacob Bernier enrolled at Century College in 2012.

His wife, An Garagiola, enrolled, too, after having been on bed rest for four years.

The couple has struggled with minimal income, relying at times on donated food. But unlike so many college students in poverty, they’re still working toward their degrees.

Both credit mentors at the White Bear Lake college, counselors and instructors who’ve made them feel welcome and set them up with meaningful work-study jobs.

http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/news/education/3939794-mnscu-schools-search-ways-serve-increasing-need-students-poverty