LOSFA’s Student Network Groups Create Supportive Environment for Students
Baton Rouge, La., — The Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance (LOSFA) kicked off its Spring 2025 Student Network Groups (SNG) with two amazing speakers who gave students helpful insight into their respective passions.
Myra Richardson spoke about professional networking and how to help your community, while Lisa Joshua taught students about budgeting and the importance of financial stability.
“It was truly rewarding to participate in the Student Network Group and witness the holistic investment in students—not just as scholars, but as the next generation of leaders in our community,” said Richardson, Baton Rouge Business and Community Leader.
The purpose of Student Network Groups is to equip students with real-world skills that go beyond the classroom, helping them build confidence in areas like networking, financial literacy, and personal development. They encompass a diverse range of students, from high schoolers to college students and returning adults. Various academic and professional disciplines are covered including Nursing, Engineering, IT/CIS, Accounting & Finance, Education, Behavioral Health, and other multi-disciplinary fields. In addition, LOSFA also offers a specific SNG for M.J. Foster Promise Program recipients. The SNGs create a supportive environment where students can engage with peers, mentors, and industry professionals to grow their skills and connections.
“It was a joy to teach the LOSFA students about how to create a budget,” said Joshua, Financial Outreach Manager at Pelican State Credit Union. “I genuinely believe as they master their budgets monthly, they will achieve their long-term goals of homeownership and saving for the future.”
The Student Network Group kickoff meeting set a strong foundation for what SNGs will offer this year. Students were engaged, asked great questions, and seemed eager to apply what they learned during the meeting.
“Our goal is for students to leave each session with actionable takeaways—whether it’s a new budgeting habit, a stronger networking approach, or a professional contact they can follow up with,” said Charnell Tademy, Comprehensive Advising Officer. “The SNGs are designed to help students transition successfully into their careers by providing them with practical knowledge and resources.”
Students who participated in the SNGs also shared positive feedback about the groups. Patricia Anne Mowell, a nursing major at Delgado Charity Nursing School in New Orleans, expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “Thank you so much. I am going to start some of these tactics to prepare for my career now. The session on networking and budgeting gave me valuable tools I can use right away.” Jayda Boyd, a nursing major at Southern University of Baton Rouge, stated, “I loved everything! So helpful and informative! Can’t wait till the next meeting!”
Students who are interested in the Student Network Groups can register to attend sessions and engage in discussions with their peers. Partners and professionals can contribute by serving as guest speakers, providing mentorship opportunities, or offering resources like internships and financial literacy tools. Inquiries can be emailed to LOSFA.StudentSupport@la.gov.
Visit https://mylosfa.la.gov/students-parents/student-engagement-unit/activities/ to learn more about Student Network Groups.