State Senator Jack Martins met with college students attending St. Johns University from Franklin Square, Manhasset, Elmont, Great Neck, Mineola, Floral Park and Port Washington this past week at the State Capitol. The college students met with Martins to discuss college loan programs and education issues. The discussion centered around how tuition assitance, college loan programs and higher education access can be improved. Senator Martins hosted the group in his office and took questions about the proposed State budget and its impact on TAP, HEOP, and other assorted college aids. "It was an honor to meet with college students from throughout the 7th Senate district. I'm glad I was able to meet with them and have a discussion on the challenges we face as a state and community. Higher education access and college loan programs are critical to working families and young people going to college in the 7th Senate district. An educated workforce, ready to meet the challenges of a global economy, must be our goal," Martins said.