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05.16.12 Co-Opting Out of Student Loan Debt
Posted under: Loans, School Posted by:

Anyone who has watched television late at night is aware of the plethora of “Get out of Credit Debt” companies with their sappily sentimental infomercials and catchy 1-800 phone numbers.  But credit card debt isn’t even America’s leading form of financial crisis.  Student loan debt has not only surpassed credit card debt for the first time in history, it has also eclipsed the trillion-dollar mark. Yet there don’t seem to be scads of non-profit organizations offering “x” number of “easy” steps to get out from under tens of thousands of dollars in outstanding student loans.  Luckily, i[x] is here to help keep you from getting into that position in the first place.
 
In addition to grants and scholarships, a great way to help pay for the ever-rising cost of higher education is through Cooperative Education Programs (co-ops).  Co-ops incorporate internships into the academic curriculum.  Whether it is full-time work for one or two semesters, or part-time work over the course of several semesters, a co-op program can leave a student with over $10,000 for just six months’ work.  Not only can these earnings immediately be applied to paying off loans, but connections made during these work experiences often lead directly to employment opportunities, helping graduates avoid the dreaded “underemployed” status that leads to loan deferments and much more money to make up in the long run.
 
Co-op programs exist at Georgia Tech, Georgia State, Georgia Southern, as well as scores of other schools throughout the nation.  While they are primarily offered in engineering and mathematical fields of study, co-op programs are expanding to a wider range of studies regularly.  Contact your school’s (or schools’ of interest) academic office for information about what co-op opportunities they offer, and take another step toward a debt-free college graduate existence.        

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05.15.12 Take a Hike!
Posted under: Feature Post 2, Travel Posted by:

Spring is a great time to get outside, and Georgia has a lot to offer if you’re looking to experience the great outdoors. Spending time in the woods is a great way to recharge, get some exercise and see the state – all at the same time. Plus, most state parks only cost $5.00 for a whole day so you can have fun on a budget. So, are you ready to go? Good. Here is a list we’ve put together to help you find your way to the best trails. Enjoy!

1. Dukes Creek Falls - Blairsville, Georgia
Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, Dukes Creek Falls is a popular destination for hikers. You can walk a one mile trail (two miles round trip) down to the falls. People have been visiting the falls for a long time. As far back as 1540, Hernando DeSoto visited the area and miners have been panning for gold in the streams ever since. 

2. Amicalola Falls - Dahlonega, Georgia
If you’re looking for a great day hike then a visit to Amicalola Falls is in order. You will want to park at the base and make the trek up a seemingly endless series of stairs until reaching the top. Once you arrive you’ll be able to take in quite a view of the falls. You can also see the start of the Appalachian Trail and say hello to hikers returning from their journey.

3. Tallulah Gorge State Park - Tallulah Falls, Georgia
Established in 1993 by Governor Zell Miller, Tallulah Gorge State Park offers an amazing view of the canyon which is two miles long and over 1,000 feet deep. There are many trails around the rim and you can also get a permit to hike all the way to the gorge floor. Make sure to stop by The Dillard House for breakfast or lunch.

4. Cloudland Canyon State Park - Fawn Rising, Georgia
Located in the Northwest corner of the state, Cloudland Canyon offers panoramic views and excellent hiking trials. It’s one of the largest and most scenic parks in Georgia. You can hike down to the bottom of the gorge on a series of trails and staircases. At the base you’ll find two waterfalls that run into pools.

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05.01.12 Mother’s Day on the Cheap
Posted under: Lifestyle Posted by:

Are you looking for a great idea for the moms in your life for this upcoming Mother’s Day? With Mother’s Day nearing, we have some tips for how you can show Mom you appreciate her without breaking the bank.

1. Cook a Meal
She always cooks for you, so why not show her you can cook for her. Even if it turns out a little on the bland or burnt side, she will appreciate the thoughtfulness and effort in trying. Here are some simple, cheap recipes to “Wow” your mom.

2. Plant Flowers
Even though buying cut flowers is great, they don’t last very long. Buy a packet of seeds or potted flowers and schedule a time to help her plant them. Check here for a list of the best flowers to plant in Georgia.

3. A Day or Night Outing
Give Mom a break from her day-to-day life by taking her on a special outing. Research free events around you (concerts, day at the museum) and pick something that she will enjoy. To find free things to do in Georgia, check here.

4. Free e-card
Moms love getting cards, so why not send a free e-card this year? Georgia’s Own is once again offering to help you send an e-card to those special moms. Visit georgiasownmom.com to get started on your card.

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03.27.12 FREE Checking with Georgia’s Own
Posted under: Checking Posted by:

I’m sure by now, you have all seen or heard about fees that many banks are beginning to charge for checking accounts. What you may not know however, is that Georgia’s Own Credit Union offers a FREE All Access Checking Account for all members. A recent article by Nerd Wallet even listed Georgia’s Own All Access Checking as a top alternative to banks that are charging for a checking account. Here are just a few benefits of an All Access Checking Account from Georgia’s Own:
-Checking (with no monthly service fee) that pays dividends on every dollar
-FREE first order of checks
-FREE Check Card
-FREE Access to your money at 4,400 affiliated branches worldwide
-FREE Unlimited ATM transactions at 71,000+ “surcharge-free” ATMs (Publix, Target, Walgreens, CVS, Sam’s Club, Costco, etc.., more ATMs than the largest national banks)
-FREE e-Services (Bill Pay, e-Statements, and Home Banking services)

To get started with your All Access Checking today, visit georgiasown.org.

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03.19.12 Spring Broke!
Posted under: Lifestyle, Money Management, Travel Posted by:

March is known for many things – midterms, daylight savings time, and, of course, spring break vacation. Spring break trips, by their very nature, vanquish hard-earned surplus funds and eliminate any and all leftover holiday checks from generous distant relatives. But while you might try to concoct a MasterCard-esque rationalization that a week’s worth of zany adventures with your best palls is “priceless,” bear in mind these few simple tips to save yourself some unnecessary expenses.

Firt, if you’re the owner of the vehicle tasked with transporting you and your buds down to whatever destination, use AAA’s online fuel cost calculator to determine (almost exactly) the cost of gas for the trip before you leave. While everyone tossing you twenty bucks on their way out the door is a nice gesture, it rarely amounts to the true proportional amount owed for the drive.

Secong, pack thoroughly. Things like car snacks, sunscreen, coolers, etc. are all significantly cheaper at your local grocery store than at a convenience store in a touristy town. Third, while on the road start looking for exits with multiple gas stations while you still have at least a quarter of a tank. Gas stations isolated off freeways in rural areas can have significantly higher gas prices than another station just thirty minutes away. Don’t wait until that foreboding red glow is emitting from your dash to pull off the road and subject yourself to the overblown prices of a two-pump shack in the sticks.

Upon arriving, your first stop should be to the largest local grocery store. Preparing food and cleaning up while on vacation may seem like a downer, but eating in at least twice a day can make the difference between having surplus cash for weeks after spring break and being too broke to eat anything but salty noodle soup until April. Also, you’ll likely find making food and cleaning dishes to be surprisingly fun if you can get just a handful of your group on board.

Finally, beware of package deals regarding clubs, restaurants, or other tourist attractions. While these “coupons” might seem like great deals at first, consider the following; purchasing one of these passes financially obligates you to organize all of your plans around those places; places that may be hard to get to (so add some money for cab/shuttle); places who’s appeal may be significantly compromised in adverse weather (no patio, pool, or beach bar); and if this deal is available for you and your group, you can be almost certain it’s available for anyone and any group, meaning these places can be swarmed with other breakers making it nearly impossible to truly take advantage of whatever “deal” you were offered (free cover form 6-7, free appetizers, frees t-shirts while supplies last, etc.).

Whether or not you choose to follow any of the aforementioned advice, take this suggestion above all others: have a safe, memorable, and, most of all, fun spring break vacation!

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02.27.12 $15,000 Scholarship from Georgia’s Own
Posted under: Feature Post 3, Scholarship Posted by:

Georgia’s Own Credit Union’s $15,000 Scholarship Giveaway!

It’s that time of year again! That’s right, we’re giving away $15,000 in scholarships to EIGHT lucky winners in 2012. At Georgia’s Own Credit Union, we believe in helping our members achieve their goals, and we are especially proud to help you, our young adult members, who are just starting out financially. That’s why Georgia’s Own is honored to award eight scholarships to students who epitomize the Credit Union’s “People Helping People” philosophy.

The top recipient will receive a $5000 scholarship for the 2012-2013 academic year. We will also be awarding a $3000 and $2000 scholarship to second and third-place recipients, respectively. Additionally, we will award five deserving runner-ups $1000 each. Georgia’s Own Credit Union scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate good financial habits, a commitment to their community and a commendable academic record.

Guidelines for Scholarship Consideration:

  1. The applicant must be a Georgia’s Own Credit Union i[x]member, 25 years of age or younger
  2. The applicant must be enrolled or anticipate enrollment in 2012/2013, in an accredited institution.
  3. The applicant must write a 500-word essay, outlining goals, aspirations, college and career plans. The essay should also include ways in which the applicant manages his or her finances effectively.
  4. The applicant must be attending or have graduated from an accredited high school and provide transcripts for current and previous years.
  5. Written recommendations from two present or former instructors and/or employers, dated within the last three months, are required.
  6. An outline of community and/or extracurricular involvement, including dates of involvement, must be included with the essay.
  7. Applicants that meet all of the above requirements will be eligible for scholarship entry.

(1st Place Recipient: $5000 College Scholarship; 2nd Place Recipient: $3000 College Scholarship; 3rd Place Recipient: $2000 College Scholarship, Five (5) Runners-up: $1000 each)

All applications should be postmarked by July 13th and sent to:
Georgia’s Own Scholarship Fund
Attn: Marketing
P.O. Box 105205
Atlanta, GA 30348

Officers, Directors, Supervisory Committee Members, Employees, Vendors, Agents, Successors and Assignments of Georgia’s Own Credit Union and immediate family members (defined as spouse, mother, father, in-laws, grandmother, grandfather, brother, sister, children, and grandchildren) are not eligible to win above-mentioned scholarships. Entries will be judged by a third-party panel of experts.

Download the application here!

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01.26.12 Having Street Cred with Credit Cards
Posted under: Feature Post 4, Money Management Posted by:

Are Credit Cards Good Or Bad?  Well, that all depends on how or why you use them. Credit cards can be good for building your credit score, but only if you use them wisely and pay them off on-time.  With a few rules and regulations, along with some self restraint and responsibility, you can make credit cards work for you. HOW YOU ASK? First decide if you are making a wise purchase, then decide which payment method makes the most sense for you: cash, credit, debit, check, etc. Avoid opening several credit cards at one time because this can cause your credit score to fall. Also make sure to review your statement every month to avoid fraudulent charges. By following a few simple guidelines outlined here, you can decide when and how to use a credit card. With a little finesse and careful attention you will be on your way to responsible credit card use.

  

Good Cred

  • Building your credit score
  • Online purchases
  • Purchases over the phone
  • To pay deposits 
  • Reserve hotel, rentals, etc.
  • Protection in case card is lost or stollen
  • Ease in returning items

 

Bad Cred

  • Impulse buys
  • Items you can’t afford
  • Allowing friends to use
  • When you have no income
  • On major purchases

 

 

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01.25.12 The Alternative Route to a Memorable Valentine’s
Posted under: Feature Post 3, Lifestyle Posted by:

Valentine’s can be one of the most expensive date nights of the year. It can also be one of the most unromantic times for daters who are hoping for a special evening but instead end up seated in a back corner of an overpacked restaurant next to a couple with a crying baby. Here are some tips to ease the planning stress and end up with a memorable evening that doesn’t have to break your wallet.

Dining for the ironic: WAFFLE HOUSE 
Yes, it’s hard to believe but it’s true – many Waffle House locations offer a Valentine’s Day program. Bring your camera so you can brag to all your friends. HA! Its a great place to sit and talk and laugh and enjoy an all American meal, scattered, smothered and covered. Don’t forget to get reservations though. They do fill up. At Select Locations: www.wafflehouse.com

Just do dessert at CAFE INTERMEZZO
The largest beverage menu you’ve probably ever seen with over 100 coffees, teas and more. They also have the most mouth watering delectable desserts you’ve tasted. Very romantic, candlelit, classical music, hip atmosphere. You will feel you’ve been transported to a quaint cafe in Europe. Locations In Brookwood, Dunwoody, & Downtown. Vist the site: www.cafeintermezzo.com

Be early: DINE A DAY BEFORE
You can expect better service and a quieter evening if you pick another night to dine out. You can tell your sweetheart you are so excited about Valentine’s that you want to celebrate early.  Also if you are a seasoned baby-sitter you know Valentine’s is a great time to make a little dough while helping out couples with kids.

Keep it simple: STAY HOME
Cook them their favorite meal or order in and light some candles. Or you could watch a romantic flick while eating chocolate fondue.

Plan ahead: TREASURE HUNT
Give your sweetheart a map with clues that only the two of you would get. The map can include some of your favorite locations or items that you can reminisce over. Hide clues along the way, limit clues to 4 or 5 making the hunt around 30 minutes. Make sure to hide a treasure ahead of time in a safe place. Treasure could be a box of chocolates and handmade card, or tickets to special event etc.

Enjoy nature: STARGAZING
This can be fun if you bundle up and drive a few miles out, away from the city lights. Don’t forget to bring a thermos of hot chocolate, flashlight, binoculars, constellation map/star chart and a blanket.

Bonus points: FLOWERS
Whole Foods and Harry’s have beautiful roses and other flowers that are very reasonably priced. Locations Around Atlanta: wholefoodsmarket.com/stores

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01.10.12 Bowl Pick’em Winners
Posted under: Contests Posted by:

We now have our winners in the i[x] Bowl Pick’em Contest as the college football season came to a close with Alabama dominating LSU in the BCS National Championship game, 21-0. Congratulations to our first place winner and champion Nathaniel Anthony! Nathaniel will receive a $50 gift card for winning. Our second place winner was Devon Peet, who will receive a $25 gift card and third place goes to Lisa Dingy who wins a $15 iTunes card. Congrats to Nathaniel, Devon and Lisa and thanks for everyone who participated! Stay tuned to i[x]ga for upcoming contests and happenings.

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01.05.12 Great News for Graduate Students
Posted under: Loans, School Posted by:

Hola guys and gals! I wanted to let you all know about some exciting news regarding student loans from Georgia’s Own. GOCU is pleased to announce it has extended it’s partnership with Credit Union Student Choice with the introduction of a Graduate Line of Credit. So if you are looking help for financing graduate school, look no further than Georgia’s Own! If you want to learn more about our Graduate Business Line of Credit, click here.

Don’t forget we also have options for undergraduate students!

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