College Bound 2014

College bound 2014 p3 FALL

recent grad

q& a

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22 home life

dorm life vs

what to consider when

picking a college

8 and school financial aid p12 choosing p 21 a major standing out on page 18 p 16 p

balancing work

Step-by-step guide to

prepping for the act or sat exams

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE PIONEER NEWS GROUP

your college application

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FALL College bound 2014

editor

Stevie Croisant

design

Brooke Benson

contributing writers Stevie Croisant Anna Shimshak

I CHOSE MASS COMMUNICATIONS

I CHOSE ISU

Transferring to ISU was the best decision I could have ever made. I had the opportunity to learn from professors with real-world knowledge and experience in their fields, preparing me for success upon graduation.

MICHELLE, CLASS OF 2014 BOZEMAN, MONTANA

Discover your future at isu.edu Pocatello | Idaho Falls | Meridian | Twin Falls

fall 2014 // college bound

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what to consider when picking a college by stevie croisant

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icking a college can be one of the toughest decisions you’ve been faced with. For the past four years, you’ve been at the same high school making memories with friends who live in your neighborhood, but now, students from across the nation will be attending the same school you’re thinking about choosing. It’s important to consider these things when selecting a college, because while a cheap tuition or proximity to home may be your deciding factors, they shouldn’t be your only factors.

Proximity

Maybe you’re ready to be far from home or maybe you enjoy knowing your family and friends are only a few hours away from you. If being home is important to you, then choosing a college close to home is probably the right option for you. Being close to home gives you the option to commute to school, which will cut down your housing costs immensely even if mom and dad make you pay rent. A good motto for those wanting to be far from home, but not too far is to be close enough to home that you can visit when you need to but still far enough away that mom and dad can’t surprise visit every weekend.

Being far away allows you to get out of your comfort zone and helps you become more independent. Just don’t let a little homesickness make you regret your decision.

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Location

If you grew up in a big city, will you be comfortable leaving that fast-paced life for a college in a small town with a limited amount of restaurants, shopping centers and entertainment? Or if you grew up in the country, can you handle public transportation, large crowds and higher prices? Knowing the environment you’re comfortable in is important, but if you’ve always wanted a chance to explore an environment you didn’t have the chance to grow up in, this would be the perfect time to get out of your comfort zone. College isn’t forever, and if you learn that the city kid didn’t belong in a small town, at least you can say you tried it, and you’ll only appreciate home even more.

Public or Private

The most obvious difference between these types of schools is cost.

Private school are almost always much more expensive than public schools, but private schools tend to offer more financial aid to students. Still, the costs may be very extreme, so make sure you look at final costs before basing your decision on any awarded financial aid.

Programs and Majors

If you want to be a doctor and your dream college doesn’t have a preprofessional program, then don’t go there unless you’re willing to change your career goals. There are other colleges out there that you will fall in love with that offer a program for you. Don’t settle for a school if they don’t have the program you want. Education is your number one priority, and if they can’t offer the education you want to pay for, then it’s time to look elsewhere.

Placement Rate

While it might not seem so important at only 18 years old, it would be smart to ask your admissions representative what the placement rate is at that institution. A placement rate will tell you the amount of graduates who get jobs in their field. While your college can’t guarantee anything with this number, the higher this number is, the better chance you’ll have at landing a great first job after you graduate.

Size

Big schools can be intimidating for students attending small high schools, but maybe you’re ready to sit in a lecture hall of 200 other students. Maybe you are more comfortable going to a school where your farthest class is a ten minute walk from your dorm and your biggest class is 30 students. These are important factors to consider. Smaller schools give you the chance to interact with professors one-on-one, but larger schools typically have a more diverse program offering, more facilities and more resources.

Degrees Offered

Just because your best friend went away to a four-year university to get her bachelor’s degree doesn’t mean that you need to do the same thing.

Getting an associate’s degree or a certificate can be viable options as well as long as it is in line with the goals you have for yourself. For example, if you’re interested in becoming a makeup artist, perhaps a four-year business degree isn’t for you. Getting your cosmetology certificate may be a smarter option unless you’re interested in opening your own business as well. These things are crucial to figure out, because spending four years worth of time and money on a degree you don’t plan on using is foolish.

Cost

Make sure to talk with a financial aid director at the schools you’re interested in. They’ll be able to help you figure out your out-of-pocket costs.

Sometimes a few thousand dollars is enough to make you choose a cheaper college. Just remember, any loans you take out, no matter if you drop out, don’t find a job or if you’re unsatisfied with your education, must still be paid back.

fall 2014 // college bound

THIS IS WHERE YOUR FUTURE BEGINS

The world-class education at the University of Idaho goes way beyond the classroom.

Whether enjoying our vibrant community or exploring the outdoors, students are inspired by art, music, adventure and natural beauty. That's why Livability.com just named Moscow one of the Top 10 Best College Towns in the nation.

www.uidaho.edu | A LEGACY OF LEADING 1145583

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6 college bound // fall 2014

Recent Graduate

Q&A

by stevie croisant

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hile parents are great resources for high schoolers gearing up for college, asking someone who’s been around the block a little more recently can give you more up-todate answers. These seven recent graduates all come from different backgrounds and are more than happy to share the good, the bad and the ugly from their college years. Whether it’s community college, trade school, a public state school or a private liberal arts college, their answers will give you an insider view on what to expect once you get to college.

Jessica Baker Two years at her local community college Transfer student to a state university Forensic Chemistry Major Current Grad School Student Any regrets about college?

The only regret I have is not choosing a major sooner. Everyone tells you that you have time to choose. The more time you wait, the more time it will take you to finish school. Since I was undecided

in community college, I ended up taking classes that did not count toward my degree. If I would have decided sooner, I could have taken classes that counted toward my degree that would have saved me time and money.

What’s your advice on housing?

My first two years at college, I lived at home. I would highly recommend that if possible, because it saves money. My third and fourth years, I lived in an apartment with roommates. This year, my first year in pharmacy school, I am living in a dorm. Living in a dorm might have been better if this was my first time living away from home. Living in a dorm now is like a step down.

How stressful is debt after graduating?

I’ve come to the realization that the debt I am going to acquire is just an investment to gain a successful career.

What’s the hardest part about test-taking?

Learn how to study. I am struggling in professional school all because I never learned how to study.

Is it hard making friends when you transfer schools?

When I went away to college, I was worried about making friends.

It was easier than I ever expected, because everyone is in the same boat looking for friends.

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Did you have any internships?

I didn’t do any internships in college. I worked as a pharmacy technician parttime though. I feel like this experience definitely helped me with professional school.

What is the best part of your college experience?

I have made life-long friends in college. It is important to know that being successful in college isn’t just about academics but also about developing relationships with peers and professors.

nick Woods Four-years as an in-state student at a public university Art major with a focus on Graphic Design Minors in Advertising and Public Relations Current graphic designer What was the hardest part about your job search?

Finding a job that didn’t require more experience than I had as a fresh graduate.

Do you recommend living in an apartment?

I recommend moving off campus after a couple years of dorm life so that things like paying rent and utilities are not totally foreign once you graduate.

What’s the best financial aid strategy to have?

If you can get grants and scholarships, do everything in your power to keep them, because debt is bad.

What are your tips for paying off student loan debt?

If you graduate with debt, be as aggressive as you can with paying it off and get rid of it as soon as possible. After basic necessities are met, paying off your debt should be priority number one.

Is being undecided in my major okay?

If you’re not totally sure, don’t feel bad about being undeclared and testing out a few different fields.

How important is classwork in college?

Focus on getting it done. There will come a day when you realize you can skip classes and brush aside unimportant assignments, but realize if you make it a habit, that you’re wasting your time and money.

I’ve come to the realization that the debt i am going to acquire is just an investment to gain a successful career.

—Jessica Baker

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8 college bound // fall 2014 Were you able to have good relationships with your professors?

Mostly, I didn’t have much relationship at all aside from being in their classes.

Was the one internship you had in college enough?

I would have liked to have more internships during college as I feel that gives the practical experience that classes just can’t convey.

Katie foth Online Student Earned her Dental Assistant Certif icate Currently working as a cross-trained specialist in a dental off ice Was it hard motivating yourself to do online coursework?

Your classwork is not just going to happen. Make time for it and get it done. You may not feel like it, but you really have to know what your goals are and one of these includes studying and getting homework done. Having an online class requires a lot more discipline when there’s more opportunity to play and waste time at home. Diligence is really important.

mark edgcomb Nontraditional student Attended a small, private college Majored in Social Science with a Teaching Certif ication in History Did attending a small school allow you to have good relationships with your professors?

I wanted a small school so I would not be just a number like the large state universities. One needs to remember professors want you to learn. Professors post their office hours on the class syllabus, so go visit them. Show some initiative. Seek them out. It will increase the odds that you acquire a better understanding of the class.

What’s your advice on roommates?

Find a roommate to split the rent with. However, first impressions that you have of that person you are thinking of moving in with almost always turn out to be true. If you cannot afford the place you are thinking about with a roommate and you are not sure it will work out, it is best to pass.

What tips do you have regarding financial aid?

Keep track of how much you are borrowing and how big your monthly payment will be.

Where you able to connect with professors if you needed help?

I was connected with a TA (teaching assistant). She was friendly and helpful. It was good to know someone was there I could communicate with.

What’s the best thing about taking online courses?

The flexibility. I also got to live at home with my family and save money. My family was always there to support me.

What’s the worst thing about taking online courses?

It was lacking on the hands-on experience. It was sometimes very difficult to manage my time too.

Online classes are usually cheaper. Was financial aid a problem for you?

I saved my money. I did what I could to cut things out of my budget.

I could do without a fancy car. I really had to set a goal for what I wanted to do with my education and save accordingly.

What did you do in your free time since you didn’t have the chance to get involved in extracurricular activities?

I went outside and saw what there was to do to keep an active body.

What is your advice for taking advantage of your education?

Take courses that challenge you. Question your professors, seek answers and, above all, keep an open mind. When done with your college years, one should realize that there is still much to learn.

Should I pick a major because I enjoy it or because it will make me lots of money?

Pick something you are passionate about. I picked history, because I get excited to learn about the past and understand why things are the way they are.

What kind of clubs should I become involved in?

Become involved in things you are interested in and things that scare you. I discovered I enjoyed writing but was nervous about sharing my writings. I decided to join the college newspaper and ended up writing a piece called “HammerPoint.” I still remember that first time a student, who I did not know, came up and said, “Great article, Hammer.”

I’m not sure if college is for me. Should I still go?

College is fine if you know what you want to do and it requires a degree. If you are not sure, it is a very expensive experiment.

fall 2014 // college bound

sara corliss

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UNIVERSIT Y OF ALASKA SOUTHEAS T

Four years as an out-of-state student at a public university Majored in Family and Consumer Sciences Minored in Business Were classes better after your general education requirements were met?

After I got done with gen eds, classes got smaller and easier. I could connect with professors easier. Don’t be afraid or shy to make an effort to get to know your professors.

Did you university help you get a job after college?

Yes. We had an office for student success. They helped me formulate a resume, do mock interviews and write a cover letter. I also went to career fairs. All of these were super helpful.

Mountains, glaciers, forest and coastline

We offer dozens of programs you won’t find

anywhere else that make the most of Alaska. Plus a vibrant, close-knit campus community!

Are internships really necessary?

Four year degrees are super common. Most people have them now.

They aren’t quite as unique. I had two summer internships and those helped me stand out.

How is dorm life?

It’s wise to get involved with your floor. Get to know other people. It will make your experience all the better. And also, wear flip flops in the shower.

How did you manage to graduate debt-free?

You always hear those stories about the annoying student who is always in the financial aid office. Well, being an out-of-state student, asking the financial aid office for help was how I was able to stay at my college all four years. I always checked for grants and departmental scholarships. I worked part-time and also used a deferred payment plan for each semester.

You switched your major. Did you end up picking one you were

passionate about?

Definitely pick a passion over money for your major. If you’re going to school hoping to get a degree, it should be something you enjoy doing and learning about. It’s okay to start school and realize the major you picked isn’t the right one. Once you are sure, stick with it. A degree is a degree and there is some flexibility after you graduate.

WE ARE

YOUR CLASSROOM, YOUR LAB, YOUR PLAYGROUND

www.uas.alaska.edu

facebook.com/UASJUNEAU

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chase mowery Four years at a private liberal arts college Honors Program participant Majored in English Currently is an Americorps member serving the non-prof it City Year I have no idea what to expect. Will visits and campus tours help?

Even if you make a highly informed decision about where you want to go to college—you’ve made several campus visits, you’ve discussed your potential majors with professors and you have financial aid hangups cleared up—the college you think you’re going to is going to turn out quite differently than you expect.

What’s your advice on financial aid?

When I went to college, I was told I shouldn’t let finances scare me out of going to the school I felt was the best fit for me. That’s great advice, and I can’t advise against it. Simultaneously, be sure to budget and have a detailed account of your loans and how much money your school costs, because that money will reappear. If you can’t recount how much money you’ve taken out in loans or how much your school tuition is, you’re doing something wrong.

How much of my time should I dedicate to classwork?

The university/college motto is that you should spend two hours for every one hour you spend in class. In reality, that’s not going to happen.

My advice: if you’re caught up in class, find an intellectual stimulate that can take up the in between time. College is four years you’ve dedicated to gaining an intellect that you can take with you for the rest of your life. Do the class work and then some.

What was the hardest part about your job search?

For me, the hardest part of the job search was not knowing exactly what I wanted to do and having little experience to help me decide what I loved. It’s more important to take internships throughout your college summers—paid or not.

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Jeremy untz 1.5 years at community college Graduated with certif icates for automotive technologies Currently working as a diesel mechanic Did you experience any debt from trade school?

The only debt I had was my tool payment. In that regard, I would suggest buying the tools that are necessities first before you splurge on those tools that are just handy and make things easier. Also, don’t always go for the most expensive brand first. There is nothing wrong with starting off with less expensive tools.

How important is balancing school and friends?

Have fun in school and make lots of friends. Enjoy your time at college while you can, because it doesn’t last long. Don’t let that distract you from your studies. In any career, you need to pay attention and soak up as much knowledge and experience as you can while you’re there.

How should I go about picking a career path?

Pick something you have a passion for and really enjoy doing. Don’t pick something because people think you should or because it’s easy.

Is classwork important in trade school?

Stay focused and pay attention in class. I still use things my teachers said that was not in the textbooks. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand something. It’s only going to hurt you in the future.

Don’t take for granted how much classwork will help you out in your future job.

How were your relationships with your professors?

My professors were amazing. They were down to earth and treated us like adults. They were helpful whenever I had questions, and they were knowledgeable and experienced in their subjects. They become more like friends by the time I was done.

What was the best part of you college experience?

The friendships I made and the good times I spent with fellow students as well as the staff. The people around you can definitely make a difference in your college experience.

YOUR DEGREE.

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• Named a Military Friendly School by G.I. .I. Jobs magazine To find out more about online learning check us out at cwu.edu/online

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The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

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Compare financial aid packages

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applying for financial aid:

A Step-by-step guide by stevie croisant

fter you’ve finished your college applications and you think the stress is over, it’s actually only just begun.

Figuring out your financial aid, though, doesn’t need to be any more frustrating than necessary. Pay attention to specific instructions from your college and complete all paperwork, and dealing with the finances behind your college tuition will seem like a breeze. Brandi Payne, Director of Financial Aid Services at Montana State University shares her financial aid tips for families of high school seniors thinking about college.

Apply for financial aid

Financial aid is simply the term for any scholarship, grant, loan or work study assistance you are offered to help pay for you college tuition.

Financial aid is usually based on need, not academic achievement.

Apply for scholarships and grants first, as those are free and you won’t need to pay back anything from these awards. Asking your high school guidance counselor for help is one of the best ways to find scholarships, but you can also ask local clubs and organizations.

Payne recommends checking out collegeboard.org, fastweb.com and collegenet.com/mach25 for online scholarship opportunities.

Loans will have interest and need to be paid back regardless if you finish college or think you received an unsatisfactory education. Payne states that it is best to only borrow the minimum amount needed to meet your educational expenses.

Financial aid is simply the term for any scholarship, grant, loan or work study assistance you are offered to help pay for you college tuition.

Financial aid is usually based on need, not academic achievement. Apply for scholarships and grants first, as those are free and you won’t need to pay back anything from these awards. Asking your high school guidance counselor for help is one of the best ways to find scholarships, but you can also ask local clubs and organizations. Payne recommends checking out collegeboard.org, fastweb.com and collegenet.com/mach25 for online scholarship opportunities.

Loans will have interest and need to be paid back regardless if you finish college or think you received an unsatisfactory education. Payne states that it is best to only borrow the minimum amount needed to meet your educational expenses.

The cost of attendance refers to the entire cost for you to attend a specific college for one school year.

In this price, things like tuition, room and board, meal plans and additional fees (studio fees, parking permits, etc) are included.

The cost of attendance will differ from your actual out-ofpocket cost, which can include the cost of attendance plus costs like books, supplies and personal expenses minus any financial aid you’ve borrowed or been awarded.

You can always check out your college’s website for their “net price calculator” to estimate your first year cost of attendance.

Types of financial aid

In this section, each type of financial aid is outlined. Statistics and figures are from Troy Onink, the CEO of Stratagee.com, a college planning service for families.

Grants and scholarships These are the best types of financial aid, because you don’t need to pay anything back. It’s basically free money that is awarded to you based on financial need or your academic achievement. If you receive a grant or scholarship, be sure to reapply each year, maintain the minimum grade point average to keep the scholarship, complete all necessary paperwork, turn in all requests for information promptly and meet all guidelines pertaining to the award.

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Federal work-study This is money you can earn to put toward your tuition by working for a campus employer, as arranged by your college. You can only work certain hours and earn a specified amount of money. If you qualify and don’t feel comfortable working the amount of allotted hours or do not want a campus job, you are not obligated to accept the work-study.

Loans Before you sign any loan paperwork, make sure you have exhausted all other types of financial aid first. Never borrow any more than you need and borrow only what you can afford to repay.

Onink suggests that if a student anticipates a $40,000 per year starting salary after college to not borrow more than $40,000 over the course of their education.

Federal Perkins Loans This loan is given based on your need, by participating colleges, which a maximum award of $4,000 per year, according to Onink.

The interest rate is five percent.

Private/Alternative Loans These usually have the highest interest rates, different repayment terms and hidden fees. You usually have to meet a minimum credit standard and almost always require a cosigner. According to Onink, these should be called “No Alternative Loans, because they are a last resort. Interest rates vary from three-12 percent.

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Benefits of Borrowing

Studies have shown that students who are at least partially responsible for paying for their college education, tend to do better academically. Onink shares that students can help pay through the way of work-study, using their own funds or by taking out their own loans. Students can take out intra-family loans (from mom and dad, grandparents or other willing family members) or take out a student loan. According to Onink, the best loans to take out if a student absolutely must borrow money are Subsidized Stafford and Perkins Loans followed by the Unsubsidized Stafford Loan. If a private loan is necessary, be sure to ask the lenders about overall rates, origination fees and repayment terms.

Federal Stafford Loans These are the most common loans students use to pay for college, according to Onink. As a college freshmen, the most the government will loan you through direct loans is $5,500 and no more than $3,500 can be subsidized. For the current 2014-2015 academic year, the interest rate for Stafford Loans is 3.9 percent.

Subsidized loans: These loans are based on need and the government pays the interest for you while you are in school, during the six-month grace period after you are no longer a full time student and during deferment periods.

Unsubsidized loans These are not need-based loans. You must pay all interest.

Parent Loans Parents also have the option of taking out loans to help their students pay for college in a Direct PLUS Loan. Payments for these loans must be made while the student is in school. Parents with good credit can borrow the total cost of attendance minus received financial aid. The interest rate was 6.4 percent for the previous academic year and is a fixed rate. The loan is insured against the borrower’s death and disability.

Financial aid is usually based on need, not academic achievement.

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balancing work and school by stevie croisant

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elping your child decide if they should work a part-time job during college can be a tough decision.

With considerations like student loans and high tuition at the forefront of your mind, it’s easy to ask your student to pick up twenty hours to assist with spending and rent money. Finding a balance is important.

Education should be your child’s number one priority in school, so if they’re working out of necessity, talking to them about what you both feel is a comfortable work load is important.

For Brooke Benson, a May graduate of Montana State University in Bozeman, taking an after-school job was a necessity. She needed money to pay her living expenses even though her parents helped pay for her tuition.

Working 30 or sometimes 40 hours per week at a local hotel as a night auditor was part of Benson’s routine for nearly all four years in college.

“My parents are very hard-working people and have instilled a strong work ethic in me as well,” said Benson. “They were very supportive, and would have been willing to let me reduce my hours at work if it were impacting negatively on my schooling. I was stubborn and chose to try to work 30 plus hours while also attending college. In some ways, I think staying that busy helped me focus.”

Benson is right. Research has found that students who take on a parttime job while in school often are more confident and possess better time management skills than students who are not employed, according to the College Board.

However, Benson did notice that her job was starting to take a toll on her academics.

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if your student works, be sure there is still time to complete course work, participate in extracurricular activities and spend time with friends.

“During the school year, I definitely was running on low amounts of sleep and high amounts of caffeine, but I did manage to finish in good academic standing. I do think my GPA would have been higher if I chose a job with less hours.”

Once again research shows that students who are overworked suffer.

“Experts agree that students who work more than 15 to 20 hours per week often experience decreased school success, which can lead to dropping out entirely,” said an article published by College Board. “Working long hours can also limit opportunities to build friendships and explore interests that enhance intellectual and emotional development.”

While Benson often had to choose between work, sleep and a social life, she doesn’t regret her decision to hold a job during college.

“It did help me save money, and I think being able to show on my resume that I did work so hard during my schooling is a point in my favor. I can say with confidence that work has been important to me, and it still is.”

The bottom line is that balance and moderation are key. If your student works, be sure this is still time to complete course work, participate in extracurricular activities and spend quality time with friends.

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16 college bound // fall 2014

STANDING

OUT

ON YOUR COLLEGE APPLICATION

by stevie croisant

C

ollege applications can often be a multiple-step process. There are essays, questionnaires, letters of recommendation and transcripts to send. With thousand of other students filling out the same application, is there any way to stand out? This list will help you become a pro at filling out college applications and take away all the stress.

The Beginning

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by college applications, the problem could be that you have too many to complete. If your prospective college list includes over ten schools, then your first step is to cut that in half. Visit schools. You can visit their website and read the reviews, but you won’t get the real feel for a school until you’ve stepped on campus. Sometimes paying a visit to a school can help you seriously cross them off your list or bump them to the top.

Many schools have an application fee, but by speaking to an admissions representative, you may be able to waive the fee. Students with financial need, students who fill out an online application or students applying to their parents’ alma matter can easily apply for free if they ask. Not every college will drop the fee, but it doesn’t hurt to ask.

even if your school doesn’t require a recommendation letter, it’s smart to still include one with your application.

The Questionnaire

Colleges always want to learn more about you, but they don’t require every bit of information in an essay form. Sometimes schools want you to list your extracurricular activities. It’s great to put down that you were the secretary for the National Honor Society or that you were a member of student council, but listing your out-of-school activities is just as important. Go ahead and put down

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that you run an Etsy shop, you volunteer in your church’s nursery or that you play bass in a punk band with your friends on weekends. Even though these activities may seem like hobbies to you, they tell an admissions representative that you show initiative. If you spend your after-school time working, then explain why. If you have an after-school job in order to save for school or to help your family out, put that on your application.

It shows you have drive and commitment. Besides listing what you do, explain how your dream college can help you get where you want to go. If you sell your crafts on Etsy, explain how a business degree will motivate you to become the entrepreneur you know you can be. Share your dreams and your passions. This will help you stand out above everyone else who only lists the activities they participate in for school.

Recommendation Letters

Even if your school doesn’t require a recommendation letter, it’s smart to still include one with your application. This shows that someone is willing to take time to convince a stranger just how important you are.

If you are going to ask someone for a recommendation letter, don’t just ask the teacher you see everyday in study hall. You have to pick someone who understands your abilities and knows your goals. Pick a teacher who has pushed you in high school and can attest to your communication skills and critical thinking abilities. And, you don’t have to pick a teacher.

Picking a club advisor or an employer can be a great option as well. Just be sure to give whoever you pick an adequate amount of time. A two week notice should be plenty. When you ask someone to write you a recommendation letter, be sure to do them the favor of providing them with a resume, talking to them about your college aspirations and giving them a list of your application deadlines.

If you don’t have a 4.0 GPA

That D you received in pre-algebra will always be on your transcript but that shouldn’t deter you from applying to college. You can still make your college application look great and stand out among students who can boast of a perfect GPA. It’s important to be honest. Why did you get those bad grades? Take responsibility and offer an explanation. Offering an explanation doesn’t mean give a list of excuses. If you had a bad year because of a death in the family or because you simply couldn’t handle the teaching style of your English teacher, then be honest. Everyone makes mistakes, but show how you learned from those mistakes and show how you set out to do better.

Colleges also offer early admission, which is extremely competitive. If you don’t feel your grades or your application is strong enough to compete with the top students wanting to get into that college, then wait for regular admission to apply.

FIND A COLLEGE YOU TRULY LOVE “I’m absolutely convinced that NNU is doing something right.”

—ALEX KILDOW, GRAPHIC DESIGN MAJOR AND TRANSFER STUDENT

From a dynamic campus community to professors invested in her personal growth and academic success, Alex has found a university that exceeds her expectations. Read her story at nnu.edu/alex.

Apply today at love.nnu.edu.

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18 college bound // fall 2014

Choosing

a major

by stevie croisant

As a recent college graduate, I often wonder if I picked the right major. Making a life choice at eighteen can be pretty difficult.

I often joke that I knew what I wanted to be ever since elementary school. When I was in second grade, I received my first pair of glasses. By eighth grade, I was wearing contact lenses, and I always enjoyed my visits to the eye doctor. By my junior year of high school, I thought being an optometrist would be a great career. I looked into schools with good pre-professional programs and established my intended major as biochemistry. But as a high school senior filling out online college applications, something seemed off about checking the biochem box next to the “intended major” spot.

Colleges always gave two options for intended major, and I always put English as my second choice.

For some reason, I couldn’t shake my love for reading and writing and didn’t want to give that up in my studies.

My parents were both very

supportive of me during my college search. My dad was especially excited that I wanted to be an optometrist. I would be the first person in my family to earn a college degree, so having a doctor in the family seemed like a dream come true to my father. He always reminded me of the money I would make after college and how I could work my own office hours or the nice house I could afford, the fancy car I would be able to buy or the vacations I would one day take. It sounded great, but the only thing my parents brought up was the money. They never once mentioned how I would be helping people who needed visual assistance or how I could help a struggling child learn better in the classroom, because that is exactly what I was in second grade: a struggling student who couldn’t read the chalk board from the back of the room and felt dumb, because I couldn’t answer the question

correctly. I wanted my career choice to feel important. I didn’t want money to be my motivation.

In the spring of my senior year of high school, I qualified for early orientation at my college, which meant because of my good grades, I could be one of the first freshmen to pick out my class schedule. The night before my orientation, I emailed my admission representative on a whim after a long day of work and school and told her I wanted to switch my intended major to English. I hadn’t actually given the choice any thought, but the guilt about not pursuing a passion was bugging me every time I even thought about college. The next day at orientation, I was paired with an English professor, a goofy guy who wore vests and looked oddly similar to Count Olaf from Lemony Snicket’s “A Series of Unfortunate Events.”

His humor and love for the study of literature was enough to get me hooked, even though I still viewed myself as only a teenager. I knew then that I wanted nothing more than to study the works of Flannery O’Connor or Thomas Kyd or other influential writers. I was up for the challenge of writing essays and doing semester-long research. And

that feeling right there is how I knew I picked the right major. I was passionate not only about the subject, but I was excited to learn.

In my biochemistry classes, I might have been excited about my end goal of becoming an optometrist, but I wasn’t excited about the learning process that happened beforehand.

As much as I would have loved for someone to plan out my life for me, no one is going to come to you and tell you what college to attend, what major to pick or which extracurricular activities to join.

Realizing you have a passion for something and an appreciation for the work that it will take to succeed in that major is what will make you an excellent student in that discipline. No terrible professor or boring gen ed is going to distract you from that passion even when the assignments get tough and the studying keeps you up past sunrise.

And, hey, if you are passionate about biochemistry, then be sure to enjoy that big house, that fancy car and those vacations, because sometimes money is an added perk.

It just shouldn’t be the only thing you base your decision on.

fall 2014 // college bound 19

What Should You Major In? MONEY OR PASSION? DO YOU ENJOY PUBLIC SPEAKING?

DO YOU ENJOY

YES

BEING ALONE or BE WITH OTHERS?

IN YOUR FREE TIME, COULD WE FIND YOU IN THE

LIBRARY or COMPUTER LAB?

NO

There is a house fire and You can only save one item.

do you enjoy current events?

pirates OR zombies?

Which interests you more:

DO YOU WANT TO OWN YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

numbers or meetings?

are you a bit of a diva?

NO

YES DO YOU ENJOY WORKING ON

GROUP PROJECTS or BY YOURSELF?

NO

YES

photoalbum or journal?

NO

YES

J. Law OR Queen bey?

ARE YOU A

PEOPLE PERSON or AN ANIMAL LOVER?

NO

do you enjoy daily writing assignments?

do you want to change the world?

YES PreMed business

veterinary sciences

English math or physics

psychology or sociology accounting Theater

music

art

political science

YES

NO communication studies HISTORY journalism

20 college bound // fall 2014

group study sessions are a great way to prepare for exams

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fall 2014 // college bound 21

get prepared

by stevie croisant

TAKING THE SAT OR ACT EXAMS

T

aking the ACT or SAT can be one of the biggest sources of stress if you are a junior or senior in high school. Teachers spend countless hours prepping you, parents lecture you about its importance and your friends even start making a big deal about it when it gets closer. The truth is that these tests are important.

Colleges look at these scores. Luckily, there are smart things you can be doing that will help you prepare weeks in advance.

12 weeks out Take a full-length practice test Evaluate the results of your exam to create a study plan that focuses on your weaker areas Familiarize yourself with multiple choice questions, essay questions and fill-in-the-blanks 8 weeks out Approximate the time you should be spending on each question Work on pacing yourself and your ability to identify wrong answer choices Learn to answer every question. There is no penalty for a wrong answer.

Take another practice test Learn to understand what the question is asking of you Work on your weakest subjects Review ACT and SAT test-taking tips from: • http://sat.collegeboard.org/practice/writing-tips • http://sat.collegeboard.org/practice/math-tips • http://sat.collegeboard.org/practice/reading-tips • http://www.actstudent.org/testprep/tips/ • http://www.actstudent.org/testprep/tips/writing-test.html

4 weeks out Give yourself timed section exams that concentrate on weak areas Practice relaxation techniques On the day of the test Eat a good breakfast Get a good night sleep before Do not over think or second-guess yourself Be on time. You will not be allowed to take the test if you are late.

Bring a permitted calculator for the math portion If you finish early, check your answers

Prepping for College Checklist Calendar September - November • • • •

• • • • • • •

Finalize your prospective colleges list Visit your top colleges again Ask teachers for letters of recommendation Last chance to retake tests like the ACT or SAT if you didn’t like your score from the spring Consider taking courses at a local university or community college Start working on your college application essay Complete college applications. Early applications may be considered for early acceptance Make an appointment with your guidance counselor to send transcripts to prospective schools Find out if you qualify for scholarships at each college you have applied to Explore your prospective schools’ financial aid to plan your college budget Juniors and Seniors: Talk with admissions counselors who visit your high school

December - Febuary • • • •

Schedule college interviews Apply for scholarships Complete your FAFSA Juniors: Talk with your parents and high school counselor about colleges that interest you

March - May • • • • • •

Make a final decision Verify your financial aid Send your final transcripts to your college Prepare for your AP exams and complete your AP tests before summer Juniors: Start visiting colleges Juniors: Take the ACT and/or the SAT

June - August • • • • • •

Work a summer job to earn extra spending money Attend your college’s summer orientation Apply for student housing Apply for a campus job if you qualify for work study Verify your schedule Purchase text books online

22 college bound // fall 2014

dorm life

VS

by anna shimshak

DORM LIFE Room for the Roomie:

While your roommate might become your best friend, your future man or maid of honor or just a familiar face between classes, sharing confined living quarters with another is definitely an adjustment for most. Communication is key to any good roommate relationship. Decide up front what the rules will be regarding studying, visiting time for friends, the policy on romantic endeavors, quiet hours and sharing of food, products, supplies and appliances.

Prix Fixe:

home life HOME LIFE: A Room of One’s Own

Montana State University Office of Residential life reports that a solid 98% of incoming students had their own room at home and some had their own bathroom.

The Cable Man and the Electric Bill:

Utilities fluctuate with the seasons to accommodate winter heating bills and summer A.C. Living off-campus can mean dealing with extra bills, worrying about roommates paying rent and having to handle maintenance issues on your own.

The price of on-campus housing often includes utilities, wireless internet and cable TV. This helps to alleviate some of the budgeting strain, especially for students in their first year.

Curfew:

Cur-phew:

For many, the laundry room is just down the hall and smells of fresh linens and fabric softener. Most college dorms have communal laundry facilities with multiple machines that accept charge cards of some kind or quarters.

While college is by no means a “rule-free zone,” you are an adult and your time is your own. If you want to play Jenga or tango until 4 am, you can, barring any early morning class of course.

Laundry Day and 42 Pairs of Socks:

Sharing a laundry facility can mean waiting for a machine or finding the lulls in the popular washing times. Always check the lint collector in the dryer so you don’t have to run it twice and grab your clothes out of the washer so someone else who is waiting won’t have to move them. Separate your lights from darks and when in doubt- cold water is always a safe bet. Don’t let your laundry pile up into an Everest like mountain. However, having a large reserve of socks and clean undergarments can help sustain you in the laundry doldrums.

Decorate:

While your room at home was probably subject to your parent’s approval on décor, your dorm room is a space that belongs to you and your roommate.

Personalize it! Make it a place you want to be and that both reminds you of home and is your home away from home.

Open Season:

While you don’t expect strangers to wander down the halls of your parent’s home, a dorm is a great place to meet new people on a college campus and move outside of your comfort zone. Keep your door open and invite new people in.

Parties:

The college nightlife is an allure for many incoming students. While the party scene can encompass a variety of activities, it should be noted that the drinking age is 21 and the majority of freshmen are 18. Be aware of your school and dorm’s policies regarding underage drinking. Violation of rules can result in social or academic probation, fines and in some instances suspension.

That being said, dorm life can be incredibly fun. Make the most of this unique living experience and try new things (within the legal limits of course).

When you live under your parents’ roof, they make the rules.

Laundry: Just Down the Chute

Footwear Free:

While you probably only share your shower at home with your immediate family or even have your own bathroom, your dorm shower has a much higher volume of foot traffic. It is advisable to wear flip-flops to protect your toes from unwanted germs.

Wakeup Call:

Your parents were probably the fail safe when you forgot to set the alarm or had one too many snooze sessions. In college (unless you have an extremely kind roommate who shares your schedule) you will be responsible for your own wakeup call. Set the alarm clock (or several).

fall 2014 // college bound 23

most college dorms have communal laundry facilities with multiple machines that accept charge cards or quarters.

1176944 CollegeBound14 GP

R O C K Y. E D U

FRESHMEN MERITSCHOLARSHIPS Trustee........................................... $14,000 Presidential .....................................$11,000 Dean’s..............................................$8,000

TRANSFER MERITSCHOLARSHIPS Trustee............................................$11,000 Presidential .................................... $10,000 Dean’s.............................................. $7,000 RMC Grant......................................$5,000

Apply online and the application fee is waived.

OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS - 1511 Poly Dr - Billings, MT 59102 - 1.800.87.ROCKY

24 college bound // fall 2014