Rocio Cortez
San Bernardino
Summary
Detail-oriented Financial Aid and Student Services professional with extensive experience in administering student programs, processing aid applications, verifying eligibility, and maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations. Skilled in financial aid outreach, program reporting, and providing guidance to diverse and underserved student populations. Committed to equity, access, and student success.
Professional with strong background in financial aid administration, adept at analyzing financial data and guiding students through complex processes. Skilled in compliance, documentation, and providing clear communication. Known for collaboration and achieving results in team settings, while adapting to changing needs. Reliable and resourceful, with focus on delivering impactful solutions.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Financial Aid Specialist
San Bernardino Valley College
11.2024 - Current
- Processed and managed federal financial aid applications efficiently. Identified and corrected errors in applications. Exported finalized applications to federal systems accurately.
- Conducted verification of student eligibility and information utilizing FAA NSLDS COD and Selective Service databases.
- Review and process verification-selected student files, including tax transcripts and grade transcripts; ensure Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) compliance.
- Oversaw assessment and approval of financial aid appeals and probationary eligibility. Managed comprehensive student records to facilitate disbursement approvals.
- Guided students, parents, and staff in navigating financial aid options. Developed comprehensive understanding of eligibility criteria and available resources. Fostered informed decision-making regarding financial assistance.
- Achieved high levels of accuracy in the award process by meticulously organizing and maintaining student documentation. Enhanced overall documentation practices to support student success.
- Determine student eligibility and financial need; assist with awards, adjustments, and loan fund distribution.
- Achieved timely processing of loans and financial aid awards, enhancing student access to resources. Delivered consistent communication to students regarding application statuses, fostering transparency. Streamlined follow-up on missing documentation and optimized award adjustments for scholarships and external assistance.
- Prepare periodic financial reports on expenditures and balances for fund disbursement.
- Maintain and update student financial aid records; stay current on legislative and regulatory changes.
- Executed additional responsibilities aligned with primary job functions.
- Evaluated financial aid applications to determine eligibility and compliance with federal guidelines.
Substitute Senior Student Services Technician – EOPS & CARE
San Bernardino Valley College
04.2023 - 11.2023
- Administer student services programs, process applications, and verify eligibility in compliance with state, federal, and District regulations.
- Interpret and explain program policies, requirements, deadlines, and academic progress standards to students.
- Maintain confidential student records; compile data and prepare internal, state, and federally mandated reports.
- Assist in coordinating workshops, orientations, and outreach presentations.
Program Assistant – CalWORKs & Workability III
San Bernardino Valley College
01.2021 - 04.2023
- Assist students with FAFSA, scholarship applications, and financial aid documentation.
- Review student files, verify documentation, and request additional records as needed.
- Monitor student progress and eligibility compliance.
- Enter and maintain data in SARS, Canvas, Datatel, WebAdvisor, and departmental spreadsheets.
- Prepare monthly and program reports on funding, participation, and compliance.
- Conduct outreach, workshops, and presentations for students and community partners.
Education
Associate of Science - Business Administration
San Bernardino Valley College
San Bernardino, CA05-2021
Skills
- Financial Aid Administration
- Data Analysis & Reporting
- Customer Service & Student Support
- Regulatory Compliance
- Technical Proficiency
- Communication & Writing
- Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
- Attention to Detail & Accuracy
- Teamwork & Collaboration
- Adaptability & Innovation
- Bilingual
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Financial Aid Specialist
San Bernardino Valley College
11.2024 - Current
Substitute Senior Student Services Technician – EOPS & CARE
San Bernardino Valley College
04.2023 - 11.2023
Program Assistant – CalWORKs & Workability III
San Bernardino Valley College
01.2021 - 04.2023
Associate of Science - Business Administration
San Bernardino Valley College