January 14, 2009

Who's Who at OGSLP?

Jennifer Smith

Department: Communications
Title: Multimedia Coordinator
Years with OGSLP: 1

How do your daily duties directly impact OGSLP's customers?
My job largely involves maintaining OGSLP's Web site network and coordinating our electronic communications and multimedia projects. My work helps keep our customers up-to-date on developments in the student loan industry. Our informative Web sites educate prospective students about student loans and help current borrowers navigate their repayment options. OGSLP offers a wide variety of online resources and tools to serve students, parents and school and lender partners.


What advice would you give to someone in our industry who's new to working with student loans?
As I found out in my first year at OGSLP, there’s a lot to learn about the FFELP community. My first task was to familiarize myself with OGSLP’s print and online content, which helped me learn a great deal about not only OGSLP, but our industry, as well. I would encourage someone new to the industry to investigate the wide selection of available resources, including those offered at www.ogslp.org, where we outline a myriad of student loan topics and provide direct links to information from our industry partners and the U.S. Department of Education.

What do you find most challenging about working with student loans?
The most challenging issue I’ve experienced is the pace at which things change!  In the last year, I’ve seen the FFELP withstand the tumultuous credit market while processing the numerous provisions of complex new legislation, such as HEOA, ECASLA and CCRAA. And through it all, the FFELP community has maintained loan availability and excellent services for students and families!


What are some of the unique services your department provides our customers?
As a member of OGSLP’s Communications team, I’m fortunate to work with all of our front-line staff to help develop the resources our customers need to do their jobs more efficiently and effectively. From our innovative, customizable products – such as SimpleTuition lender list tools, personal finance education Web text from OKMM and the Default Prevention Best Practices site – to our print and Web-based publications and newsletters, I’m happy to be part of a department that supports creative development and solutions. We have the unique opportunity to build new products, tools and services that help other OGSLP staff meet our customers’ needs.


What are your hobbies or interests?
I absolutely love to travel. My husband is a musician and I’m extremely fortunate to get to travel with him from time to time. We also like to ski, hike, enjoy live music, hang out with our friends and take care of our dog. I also have a crafty side and enjoy knitting, cross-stitch, cooking and making things. In addition, we’re expecting our first child in July, so we’re preparing (as much as possible) for the changes our new family member will bring.