Why the Long Wait for Financial Aid?

Aggravated students weigh in By Jennifer De Leon The CCNY financial aid office should think about offering a complimentary pillow and blanket, with the student’s average wait ranging from two to four hours. According to the financial aid website, more than 70 percent of the student population receives some sort of assistance. So while annoying, the long wait isn't a complete surprise.At the office, some students are hunched over doing homework, while others are playing with their cell phones trying to pass the time. Administrators say they're trying to make things better.  “We have 16 employees,” says Katrina Spencer, a financial aid office assistant, “We do the best we can.”There is a system, and Spencer believes it's working. “We use a slip with a number on it to see whether or not the student needs to be here,” says Spencer. “It helps eliminate the long wait.”Most students do not see the benefits. “The shortest time I’ve spent there was 2 hours. When I was finally helped they told me I was missing a signature,” says Julissa Ortiz, an undergrad. “After I got it, I had to start the line again and wait 3 hours just to give them a form. It’s ridiculous”CCNY students have some ideas to shorten the wait. “The office should be overstaffed the beginning of the semester to make the wait shorter,” says Caitlin Saloka, 21. “I have missed classes waiting here.”