Profiles in Financial Aid: Shawn Beckom from Huntington Junior College

Shawn Beckom, Default Prevention Specialist, Huntington Junior College

Alan Ishida:  You are a member of one of Nelnet’s regional advisory councils.  What are some of the things that you hope to accomplish through your participation?

Shawn Beckom:  To assist in any way that I can with Nsight issues, suggestions, and improvements; network with other advisory council members to share ideas, and continue to work toward improved default prevention techniques with other Nelnet council members.

Alan:  What is the most enjoyable part of your job?

Shawn:   Assisting borrowers by averting delinquency and default, and helping borrowers understand the repayment process.

Alan:  Is there anything that your office is doing from a financial literacy or default prevention perspective that you believe other schools could benefit from?

Shawn:  We provide a financial literacy program that is a requirement for all first-time borrowers.  This program includes sections on needs vs. wants, budgeting, repayment plans, discussion and explanation of servicers, implications of default, etc.  Homework assignments are required to further help them understand the responsibilities of being a student borrower.

Alan:  What is your passion outside of work?

Shawn:  Scuba Diving

Alan:  Where was the last place you went on vacation?

Shawn:  Myrtle Beach.  I went with a friend, and we had a great time.  I love seafood and enjoyed it every chance I got.  We had a relaxing time reading and hanging out in the restaurants and at the beach.

Alan:  Do you have a favorite food and/or restaurant?

Shawn:  I love many different types of food; sushi is one of my favorites!

Alan Ishida – Regional Director, Nelnet Partner Solutions