Net 'Campus' Provides Coeds Advice On $$$

The Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) has launched its redesigned 'Consumer Campus' website retooled to focus on consumer issues New York City's undergraduate and graduate students often face, such as identity theft and purchasing a used car.

As lead partner, the City University of New York (CUNY) added Consumer Campus to its website, thus connecting to nearly 500,000 students.

The DCA described Consumer Campus as an online resource of financial education and consumer protection information targeted to address the financial opportunities and hazards faced by the city's postsecondary student population. The "curriculum" addresses the consumer challenges students face each day, from credit card applications and student loans to online shopping and electronics purchases.

Students can log on to DCA's Consumer Campus site at www.nyc.gov/consumercampus.

"It's no secret that college students are a rich market for financial products and services, bombarded often daily with confusing, inappropriate or even predatory promotions. An early mistake, particularly one involving credit, can saddle students with mountains of debt and longterm damage to their credit scores," said Consumer Affairs Commissioner Jonathan Mintz. "Thanks to CUNY, DCA now has an even greater opportunity to directly link students to the right information and resources so they can graduate on sound financial footing."

"We are encouraging CUNY students from all 23 campuses in New York City to use the Consumer Campus website. Especially in this difficult and unforgiving economy, students must have access to valuable information to help them make cost-efficient choices as they pursue higher education. We are enormously pleased to partner with DCA on this vitally needed initiative," said Jay Hershenson, Senior Vice Chancellor for University Relations and Secretary of the CUNY Board of Trustees.

Consumer Campus outlines the following:

• Credit cards—Understanding the fine print of credit card terms and how to use your credit card wisely;

• Student loan basics—Tips on student loans;

• Cell phones—Tips on choosing a cell phone service provider;

• Online shopping—Protect yourself from 'scam artists' posing as online retailers; and,

• Identity theft—Detect whether you've been the victim of identity theft

It was noted that for many students, tuition expenses alone can put a strain on their budget. This year, they can receive financial help through the city's new Financial Education Network Directory, launched earlier this year by DCA's Office of Financial Empowerment.

As noted, the database is accessible and searchable online at www.nyc.gov/ofe. It lists free and low-cost financial education classes, workshops, hotlines, and oneon one counseling services available throughout the city. The directory is searchable by borough and lists languages in which financial counseling is offered.

Hard copies of the directory are available by calling 311.