Problem Solving Paper

The majority of my mindmap consists mostly of financial and health related issues. I think this is reflective of my age (41), as opposed to the status quo college student. However, the pattern of my mindmap seems to indicate most of my problems and inability to implement known solutions for other problems keep coming back to a financial root. Therefore, the problem I have chosen to focus on in this paper is; how am I going to be able to pay for college until I complete my educational goals? When I think of this problem I become fearful, frustrated, and angry to degree because I don't have any apparent alternatives at this point. I have committed all my resources and energy completely to my current educational endeavor. I must come up with a solution at this point is my frame of mind.

My mindmapped solutions to this problem varied from the practical, self-sacrificial approach to criminal behavior based on the degree of need I feel this problem has. The solution I am looking for is a supplementary/complementary one for the primary financial resource of grants and direct loans I am currently getting. I have been able to manage my expenses to this point; however that is based on A-B Tech's cost, this fall I will be attending UNC-Asheville. The expenses I will incur there will roughly be quadrupled from my current educational costs-this is where the panic comes in. The most feasible solution to me was starting my own business/get a job and committing to a ramen-noodle-lifestyle to stretch funds. Other solutions that are being considered are enrolling my girlfriend in school at A-B Tech (she currently has a degree in early childhood education from A-B Tech) this summer. She wants to pursue art and her financial aid funds could supplement my costs at UNCA. This would be a mutually beneficial solution or partial solution for me at least. I've also considered radical means such as growing pot, hoping a relative dies and leaves me money, or winning the lottery. My mindmap indicates to me that whatever solution I may find, it will be entirely up to me to create it. I do not have anyone who will assist me; I know this that is why my solutions vary from prudent to criminal to wishful.

My Plan A solution, to my financial problem of paying for my education, is to start my own business or get a job that would supplement my educational costs. This would be the ideal solution, but it remains dependent on a successful presentation and acceptance of my proposed business venture or offer of employment from another individual or firm. Enrolling my girlfriend in college and helping her get receiving financial aid resources not only helps her pursue another interest in her life, but also helps me with my higher costs at UNCA. Therefore, this would have to be my backup solution since it is mutually beneficial; however, this partial solution is dependent on my girlfriend's success and continued interest in her educational