Navigating Student Loan Repayment with Panthers Forward and Savi
Pittsburgh, PA – A new program at the University of Pittsburgh is helping graduating seniors manage their student loan debt while also providing valuable financial education and career opportunities. Panthers Forward, a program that offers resources such as financial wellness guidance, budgeting tools, and up to $5,000 in federal student loan relief, has partnered with technology startup Savi to further assist students in navigating the complex world of student loan repayment.
One success story from the program is Morgan Weaver, a recent graduate who now works as the coordinator for Panthers Forward. Weaver shared her experience of taking out federal student loans to fund her education and how Panthers Forward helped alleviate some of the stress of managing loan payments after graduation.
Through the partnership with Savi, students accepted into the Panthers Forward program can access tools to determine the best repayment plan for their loans, explore loan forgiveness options, and simplify the overall loan repayment process. This collaboration marks the first of its kind for Savi, which typically works with employers to provide student loan benefits.
Director of Panthers Forward, Sarah Cullen, emphasized Pitt’s commitment to addressing the affordability of higher education and empowering students to be financially prepared for life after graduation. Graduates from Pitt’s Oakland campus who have taken out federal student loans are encouraged to explore the Panthers Forward program to see if they are eligible for assistance.
Weaver, who now helps other graduates navigate the student loan repayment process, expressed her gratitude for the program and the new partnership with Savi. She believes that future Panthers Forward recipients will benefit greatly from using Savi’s resources, just as she did.
The partnership between Panthers Forward and Savi is a significant step towards helping students make informed financial decisions and achieve greater financial stability post-graduation. As the program continues to grow and evolve, more students will have access to the tools and resources they need to successfully manage their student loan debt and build a strong financial foundation for the future.