Friend needs help with loan and school?

Hi I have a very close friend who is living in the San Francisco area. He wants to go to a culinary school, loves cooking and is great at it, but he has only PT job, has no parental support, and the loans for these schools are quite expensive.
He also has about $8000 in debt. Is there any hope for him? Can he get a loan, and finish the course? (year long)? Any advice? Recommdations? Opinions.
He is down and out and I really feel bad for him.
Thanks

I happen to know about a place it is called "loantech".com i think it is the right name...also if this person is short in time he or she can try this school (Sclafani cooking school) in New Orleans LA the course is one month long and very tight it provides you with all the certifications you need to work,they have a web site.good luck

[Greg]

Hello and welcome to cheftalk, keano! First, I would suggest posting your question in the "culinary students" forum; you might get a better response there. Secondly, and I mean no disrespect to Mauricio,I would be very cautious about spending money on a culinary program that is only one month long. I've done a lot of training in the industry, and I don't believe that it's possible to give anyone a good foundation in the basics of cookery techniques in just four weeks. Also, for the record, in the USA, you don't need any kind of certification to work in the restaurant industry; either experience or desire to learn is all you need. Good luck to your friend and if you have any other questions, just post away!

[Bufano]

Hello,
I live in the Bay area and know all about the schools here. I also have learned alot about loans and financial aid resoures. If your friend can e-mail me or send a message through ChefTalk...I can help!!!!

Ciao,

Chef to be
Bufano

[Isa]

Welcome Keano! Hope you'll find the answers you are seeking.