KTKA

A down economy has some taking a second look at higher education. Two Topeka high schools hosted events tonight to help students find the money they need to fund their college plans.

"I'm here for scholarship applications, find out more about colleges. I've thought about it some but not too deeply," said Topeka West student Nina Crespo.

Crespo came to the Topeka West scholarship night with her father, hoping to find out where to find the funds to pay for school. It's a popular question.

"They have the need, but right now the need is becoming very blunt. Right there, people can feel it," said family school coordinator Ingrid Perez.

Perez said even if you weren't able to attend, you can go to sites like Fastweb. There you'll find lots of information about scholarship money that's available.

Here's a few more ideas. Student Inventors Scholarships offers up to $25,000. Student video scholarships has awards up to $3,000. Coca-Cola two year scholars can get a $2,000 stipend.

Beyond scholarships, Highland Park hosted a financial aid workshop. Gail Palmer from Washburn Univerisity told parents and students how to apply for financial aid. The first step, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

As these parents learned, it's never too late, or too early, to start thinking about how to fund your child's education.

These are the links provided at the Topeka West Scholarship Night:

Fastweb

Student Inventors Scholarships

Coca-Cola 2 year scholarships

Student Video Scholarships

Holocaust Remembrance Scholarships

Ayn Rand Essay Scholarships

Brand Essay Competition

Gates Millennium Scholars

Xerox Scholarship

National Association of Black Journalists Scholarships

Saul T Wilson Scholarships (veterinary)

Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund

Presidential Freedom Scholarship