Fall serves as the perfect transition between summer and winter while playing host to Halloween, the start of the NFL season, and of course the start of a new school year. Growing up in New England I also enjoyed the foliage and smell of warm apple pie wafting down from the dorms as I walked to class. But I wouldn’t have enjoyed those sweet sights and smells on campus had I not done my homework over the summer.
I was a first generation college student, and had little help with the enrollment process from Mom and Dad when I went to school back in the early 90’s. My parents were very supportive in my pursuit of Higher Education, they were just a bit naive to the whole process. As crazy as this sounds I actually found getting my enrollment credentials in order more challenging than my micro and macroeconomics classes. It was truly awful, and I don’t want anyone to feel as overwhelmed and confused as me. So lets make sure you’re using your time leading up to the fall judiciously. Time, as well all know, can either be your foe or ally depending how you use it.
Here are 5 smart tips to make sure you stay on course.
Free Money: These summer months are a great time to surf the net for scholarship opportunities, which of course would decrease the amount of funds you need to borrow. There are many scholarships to be had ranging from merit based opportunities to free scholarships with minimal requirements.
Class Availability/Schedule: When you’re the new kid on the block you often get the shaft when it comes to your schedule. Check for updates on class enrollment numbers. You should be able to access those details online. I used to check the Red Sox website daily which is how I would score great seats for face value as they would release some from time to time. The same principle applies for your classes. Your diligence over the summer may make for a better fall.
Loan Order: Your awards letter from the school will highlight your loan options. The most common loan type, which students secure first, is a Stafford loan. The Stafford loan is listed in the students name with modest maximum allotments. The second most common loan type is a Parent Plus loan, which is in a parents name and listed on behalf of the student. Third is a private student loan which lists the students name first with the parent listed as the co-signer. The Plus loan and private option are sometimes switched around pending the circumstance and the market. Right now favorable rates in the marketplace have made private loans more enticing for some than Parent Plus loans.
Waiting List Update: If you didn’t get into your dream school and were relegated to the much maligned waiting list - check back with them. Write a letter to the regional admissions officer concerning what that school means to you and keep them apprised of anything new going on in your life that may showcase you in a different light.
Smell the Roses: You made it happen. You scored the marks in High School, fared well on the entrance exam(s), and are ready for this next exciting chapter in your life. It’s ok to allow yourself some indulgences from time to time. After all, all work an no play makes Jack a dull boy.
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