U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL14) released the following statement and helpful list of resources available to help former ITT students following its abrupt closure earlier this week:

“I continue to be concerned for students who fall prey to unscrupulous online and for-profit colleges that use deceptive practices.  I am working to ensure our local neighbors are protected from the harm of these fraudulent, for-profit schools and receive relief from crushing student loan debt in addition to their crushed dreams.

“ITT Technical Institutes, a for-profit college chain, closed abruptly and left thousands of students in the lurch including hundreds in Tampa Bay. While the ITT closings are national in scope, I have requested that the U.S. Department of Education provide direct assistance to Tampa Bay area students and particularly our veterans who now find themselves facing a new challenge. In a move consistent with the generous spirit of our community, I commend Hillsborough Community College for being at the forefront of offering assistance to students affected by the closures."

RESOURCES:

•  U.S. Department of Education has set up a website to help ITT students, including several upcoming national webinars to share information and address students’ questions and concerns: www.studentaid.gov\itt

•  Veterans:

Call Student Veterans of America to get expert guidance specific to the student's circumstances: 202-223-4710, www.studentveterans.org. 

•  Hillsborough Community College:

According to HCC, a team is in place to help with everything from advising, financial aid, transcript evaluation, counseling and other support services.

The team will be available Monday – Tuesday, 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., and Wednesday – Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. For more information call (813) 253-7295.

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