U.S. Rep. Esty holds workshop for high schoolers at CCSU

NEW BRITAIN — In front of a sparse crowd inside Central Connecticut State University’s Copernicus Hall, U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Esty held a workshop aimed at helping high school students and their parents learn about the resources available to help pay for college.

The importance of holding these type or workshops, Esty said, is to make sure students understand their financial aid options and ultimately make smart, informed choices.

With student loan debt at an all-time high, that’s more important than ever, she added.

“It’s certainly been very much on people’s minds,” the congresswoman said. “College affordability has really become one of the most important issues facing us today. It’s obviously important to students, graduates and parents, but beyond that I would say it is critically important because of the role it plays in making the American Dream possible.” Student loan debt nationwide has surpassed credit card debt. Two-thirds of Connecticut’s college graduates, Esty said, have $30,000 in student loans, if not more.