College Bound Fall 2015

COLLEGE BOUNd 2015 fall

APPLyING FOR

ThINGS TO ASk ON yOUR

campus tour

STANdING OUT ON yOUR

college application

TOP TEN ThINGS STUdENTS

8 p 10 p 12 p 21 p

financial aid

waste their money on

TOP STORIES more inside

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF PIONEER NEWS GROUP

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PLANNING A COLLEGE

ADVENTURE?

How about Alaska? While it may seem out of reach, a world-class college experience in the heart of the last frontier is closer than you think! If you’re looking for a once-ina-lifetime experience, look no further. Kenai Peninsula College, part of the University of Alaska, Anchorage is located on the Kenai Peninsula, Alaska’s playground. Live, learn, and enjoy Alaska all at the same time.

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No out-of-state tuition Small class sizes

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Affordable housing

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Kenai Peninsula College University of AlAskA AnchorAge

World-class location

Highly-qualified faculty

Photos kindly provided by students, faculty, staff, and friends of KPC. The University of Alaska is an AA/EEO employer and educational institution

Kenai Peninsula College

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www.kpc.alaska.edu

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1 (877) 262-0330

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Located in Soldotna, Homer, Anchorage, Seward, & online

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College bound 2015

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SPRING

editor & writer Stevie Croisant

writer Katy Peterson

layout & design Brooke C. Benson

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what to consider when choosing a college written by

stevie croisant

C

hoosing 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 the same friends, but now, students from across the nation will be attending the same school you attend next fall. Here are some things to take into consideration 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.

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college bound

Cost

Size

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.

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.

Public or Private The most obvious difference between these types of schools is cost. Private school are almost always 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.

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.

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 number 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.

Proximity 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. If you want to put some distance between yourself and your family, but don't want to be too far away, a good compromise is to look for a school that is 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.

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 number of restaurants, shopping centers and entertainment options? 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 small town girl didn't belong in the big city, at least you can say you tried it, and you'll appreciate home even more.

A placement rate will tell you the number 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.

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degrees

training

anywhere

transfer

in-class

online

Education at the Speed of Life! klamathcc.edu | 541.880.2212

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college bound

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The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

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Compare financial aid packages

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Types of financial aid

applying for financial aid:

A Step-by-step guide by stevie croisant

ou've finished your college applications, and you think the stress is over. Actually, it's only just begun.

Figuring out your financial aid doesn't need to be 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.

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 your 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. Ask your high school guidance counselor for help in finding scholarships. You can also ask local clubs and organizations if they offer scholarships.

Try collegeboard.org, fastweb.com and collegenet.com for online information on scholarship opportunities.

Loans will have interest and need to be paid back regardless if you finish college or think you received an unsatisfactory education. Only borrow the minimum amount needed to meet your educational expenses.

It is extremely important that you fill this out as soon as possible after January 1 of your senior year of high school. You can fill the FAFSA out online at fafsa.ed.gov. To receive federal aid of any kind, you must file this form. Make sure to meet your school's priority filing date each year to be considered for the best financial aid package available. Schools will put together financial aid packages for you based on the information provided from your FAFSA. Do not wait until taxes have been filed.

The FAFSA will ask you questions about your family's income from the previous year. If your family hasn't completed their tax information by January, you can estimate numbers and still submit the form and correct it later. If your family has an unusual financial circumstance occur after you file the FAFSA or if your financial situation changes, inform the financial aid office at your school.

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

Tuition, room and board, meal plans and additional fees (studio fees, parking permits, etc) are included in this price.

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

Check out your college's website for their “net price calculator� to estimate your first year cost of attendance.

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 options for financial aid. 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, with a maximum award of $4,000 per year, according to Onink. The interest rate is five percent.

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.

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 loan is insured against the borrower's death or disability.

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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 they 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 to 12 percent.

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 their way through 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.

Montana Tech possesses an internationally esteemed, century-old tradition of excellence in higher education. Specializing in the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) disciplines, any field of study you choose at Montana Tech will lead you toward success.

Our students learn in state-of-the-art facilities performing hands-on work relevant to today’s industries.

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NURSING STUDENTS CONTINUE TO HAVE A 100% PASS RATE ON THE NCLEX RN EXAM

90-PERCENT PLACEMENT IN HEALTH FIELDS

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

Over the past 10 years greater than 90% of students who have applied to medical school, dental school, pharmacy programs, etc., have been accepted.

BE THE SOLUTION

#1 IN THE NATION FOR SOCIAL MOBILITY FOR HIGHER EDUCATION CollegeNET & PayScale

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Things

to ask on your

campus tour

by KATY peterson

I

f you're a junior or a senior in high school, campus visits are one of the most important steps in your college application process. A visit can determine which college will be a good fit for you. Ask the right questions to ensure your visit will be productive and informative. Consider these question topics when taking your next campus tour.

Graduation rates Graduation rates can determine the success students have had, and the amount of time it takes to graduate. Be sure to ask questions about both the four and five year graduation rates. Ask what it takes to graduate in four years. If going to college for five years isn’t for you, make sure you fully understand what it will take to graduate in four. Also, be sure to ask the rate of freshman returning for their sophomore year (this is called a retention rate). That number can be a good indicator of the quality of the school.

Academic support Ask questions about tutors, writing centers and advice the college offers their students. If you struggle in a particular subject or area, make sure you find out what help and advice the college can offer you.

Fields of study If you know what degree you want to pursue, the first step is to make sure the college you are visiting offers that field of study. Ask about the classes and professors you will have to go through in order to earn your degree and find out what present students are saying about these classes.

Student Services In addition to classes, schools offer many different types of ser-

vices in order to help their students be successful both in school and after graduation. Make sure to ask about these services.

Financial aid College is expensive and figuring out how to pay for it can be overwhelming. Ask about what financial aid packages the school has to offer and how many students receive grants and loans. Find out what work-study opportunities there are to help students make extra money throughout school.

Outside opportunities Most schools help provide students with research, study abroad and internship opportunities. Find about what opportunities current students have received.

Job placement Ask about the job placement rate of students who have graduated from the school and ask how many students have jobs within their field of study. Find out what career services the school offers.

Student Life Throughout the campus visit, it is very useful to not only talk to the person giving the tour but also other students, faculty and staff.

Other students will be able to give the best insight into the life of a student attending the school and also the culture of the school.

Activities Clubs and activities are great ways to meet new and interesting people. Be sure to ask about the activities and clubs the school has to offer. Find out how many students participate in these activities Dorms Most colleges encourage students to live on campus throughout their freshman year. Ask about what dorm options the campus has to offer. Find out how many students live on campus. Ask to view a dorm room if possible.

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• Class of 2015 • International Student

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• Cross Country Runner • Future Physical Therapist

T

reasure Valley Community College offers more than 40 areas of study, including majors, minors, and certificate programs.

With so many choices, you can tailor your studies to your interests and earn the credentials you need in a competitive job market. With experienced faculty as mentors, learning goes beyond the classroom. TVCC combines instruction with real-world experiences to help you get wherever you want to go.

ONTARIO, OREGON 541-881-TVCC

CALDWELL, IDAHO 208-454-9911

Small Classes, Low-Cost Tuition and Big Opportunities.

TRE ASURE VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EDUCATOR AND EMPLOYER .

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Oregon Tech’s accessible and supportive faculty set me up for success in being selected for NASA’s premier student leadership program*. This summer, I was exposed to the inner workings of the aerospace industry, immersed in cutting edge technology, world-class research, and stimulating dialogue. *Multidisciplinary Aeronautics Research Team Initiative

S TUD ENT S PO TLI GHT

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Society of Women Engineers, Regional Collegiate Rep. Student Government President, Wilsonville Campus

C LAS S O F 2 016 Renewable Energy Engineering; Systems Engineering and Technology Management (dual major)

Classes are never boring at Oregon Tech, the Pacific Northwest’s premier public institute of technology. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, fully accredited engineering degrees and cutting-edge healthcare programs, our approach gets you learning “on-thejob” in labs and internships so you’re ready to succeed at graduation. an equal-opportunity institution.

-Alyssa Deardorff

Locations: • Klamath Falls • Wilsonville • Online

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Hands-on education for real-world achievement.

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Take an online, virtual tour of our campuses or explore our online course options by visiting our website and apply today! Call (541) 885-1150 or visit us online.

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standing out on your

college application

by Stevie Croisant

C

ollege applications have many components. There are essays, questionnaires, letters of recom-

mendation 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 help take away the stress.

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NARROW IT DOWN 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 seal the deal or be a total deal breaker.

Pay Any Necessary Fees A majority of schools have an application fee, but by speaking to an admissions representative, you may be able to waive it. Students with financial need, students who fill out an online application or students applying to their parents' alma matter can often apply free if they ask.

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The

Questionnaire 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 outof-school activities is just as important. Put 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.

These hobbies tell an admissions representative that you show initiative. If you spend your after-school time working, then explain why.

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. This will help you stand out above everyone else who only lists the activities they participate in for school.

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3 Recommendation Letters

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If your prospective college doesn't require a recommendation letter, still include one with your application. This shows that someone is willing to take time to convince a stranger just how important you are. When asking someone for a recommendation letter, don't just ask the teacher you see every day in study hall. Pick someone who understands your abilities and knows your goals. A teacher who has pushed you in high school and can attest to your communication skills and critical thinking abilities is a perfect choice. You don't have to pick a teacher though. 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. Be sure to provide them with a resume, talk to them about your college aspirations and give 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 your number one choice. Be honest. Why did you get those bad grades? Take responsibility and offer an explanation. 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 say so. Show how you learned from those mistakes and say 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 the regular admission time frame to apply.

Design by: Brooke C. Benson

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alternatives to four year universities

by Katy Peterson

D

eciding what to do after graduating high school can be overwhelming and intimidating. With many of your peers choosing to attend a four year university you may be wondering if this is the right choice for you, too. There are many good alternatives to the traditional four year degree. Keep these options in mind when choosing your path after high school.

Community College Two year community colleges are a great cost effective way to get a head start on your education. Community colleges are often cheaper and can provide an opportunity to take a wide variety of classes. If you are unsure in what direction you want to further your education, a community college can point you in the right direction.

Trade School Receiving vocational training from a trade school is a good alternative to a traditional four year degree. Trade schools provide training for many different skilled careers. Examples of these careers include construction, welding, electrical, masonry, cosmetology and many others. These programs often take only two years to complete. Employees in these

fields are often in high demand and compensation can be very competitive.

Start a Business Many successful men and women took a little initiative and started a business instead of pursuing secondary education. With the help of the internet, starting your own business is now a very realistic dream. With some hard work, creativity and a quality product, you could start your own successful business without a four year college education.

Get a Job If you are unsure about which college degree is right for you, entering the workforce after high school is a great alternative to a four year university. Not only will you be earning money instead of spending it on

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$2000 ScholarShip available

school, you now have the opportunity to explore different career paths.

There is always the option to go back to school once you figure out exactly what you want to do.

Volunteer Volunteer organizations such as the Peace Corps and Americorps provide great opportunities to give back, travel to new places and fulfill your sense of adventure. Volunteering with an organization will help you meet new people and could open doors for other amazing opportunities.

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'Alternatives' continued on next page Financial Aid Available through Evans Hairstyling College

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'Alternatives' continued from page 15 Join the Military By providing so many jobs, careers, training and educational opportunities and good benefits, joining the military is a viable alternative to pursuing a four year degree. Choosing to serve your country is a respectable decision.

Should you later decide to pursue a degree, the military can pay for your education. They also provide online classes, training, and other ways to further your career.

Gap year If you have absolutely no idea what the future holds for you, consider taking a gap year. Taking a gap year between high school and college can help prevent burnout. College can be expensive so making every second count is important.

During your gap year, focus on trying new things and figuring out what interests you. Volunteer, start a new job or internship or travel. Pursue your passions. Figuring out what you want to do now can save you a great deal of time and money in the future.

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Should you later decide to pursue a degree, the military can pay for your education.

They also provide online classes, training, and other ways to further your career.

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Welcome

Welcome to a university where your professor knows your name.

CWU is a teaching university.

That means students’ academic experience comes first.

Small classes and faculty passionate about teaching are our formula for student success.

AA/EEO/Title IX Institution for accommodation: DS@cwu.edu

cwu.edu

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LOVE WHO YOU’LL BECOME Northwest Nazarene University helps students pursue their passions and prepare for their futures.

“I am Miss Rodeo Idaho 2016, a NASA Space Grant Scholar, NNU Forensics Team member, 4-H leader, and a part of the engineering class of 2016. As I enter the industry I am confident my NNU education has prepared me.”

—HEATHER SKOVGARD, KUNA, IDAHO

LOVE.NNU.EDU

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ROCKY.EDU

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Apply online at ROCKY.EDU and the application fee is waived.

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

To succeed in a changing world

Go beyond the ordinary

“Evergreen gave me the tools to create my own path, design an interdisciplinary career, and become a leader within my profession. It has inspired me to question, learn, challenge, and grow throughout my life.”

— Carol J. Ellick, Evergreen alumna, archaeologist and educator

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• One of America’s best colleges (US News, Princeton Review, Fiske Guide) • Uniquely interdisciplinary, student-centered liberal arts and sciences

evergreen.edu/beyond

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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

People. Programs. Place. It’s what makes Southern Oregon University home to generations of brilliant students that come here every year to earn their degrees.

Pursue your goals and passions in our stunningly beautiful, supportive environment. With over 40 majors, exceptional faculty with the highest degrees in their fields, and our dazzling campus setting—as a student, associate, or alumni, once you’re a Southern Oregon University Raider: you’re home.

Where you can be you.

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800-482-7672

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

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$ 10 THINGS TOP

by stevie croisant

10 9

Laundry Taking your clothes to a wash and fold may be a nice luxury, but those prices stack up fast. Instead, save up your quarters and head to your campus laundromat.

8

Dorm Decor

7

Car

6

STUDENTS WASTE THEIR MONEY ON $ 5

Text Books Shop around for your text books.

Often, the book store will let you rent books. You can also try purchasing them online or seeing if a friend who has taken the class already is willing to sell theirs at a cheap price. Many schools sell used textbooks that are worth doing a price comparison on as well.

Being in your first home away from home, it's tempting to purchase dorm decor: canvas art for for boring dorm walls or new furniture. Instead, bring posters and pictures from home and see if any relatives have an old futon to donate.

Cars may be necessary if you attend a school in a small town where there isn't public transportation, but if you're spending money on a parking permit, insurance and gas, those bills are much pricier than a student pass for the bus.

School Supplies No, you don't need new notebooks at the start of every semester. Try buying subject divided notebooks that can get you through the whole year. A big pack of pens and pencils can get you through all four years. If you're an art major and know you'll constantly be buying art supplies, treat the ones you have with respect so you don't need a new set of acrylic brushes at the start of every school year.

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Credit Cards It's all too easy to spend money when there's no limit. As soon as that pesky credit card bill comes though, it's not fun learning you've been spending hundreds on things you really didn't need. Credit cards can be good, because they give you a chance to raise your credit score while in school.

Many credit card companies even have student credit cards with terms that are much more lenient if you miss a payment.

Housing Rent or campus housing prices can really chip away at your savings account. If you're forced to live in freshman dorms, different buildings may have a cheaper housing cost than others.

Food Ordering late night pizzas or making Taco Bell runs are tempting and so rewarding after a night camped in the library, but nothing adds up faster than fast food. Use your meal plans and then try to cook your other meals. Twenty dollars at the grocery store gets you much farther than $20 at your favorite restaurant.

Online Shopping Yes, your roommate may have just bought the newest season of "Criminal Minds" on Amazon for really cheap or you may have noticed the perfect costume for the Halloween party online. While online shopping deals are enticing, most of that stuff isn't necessary.

Socializing Going to the weekday pint specials at the bar down the block or purchasing a new dress and a ticket for Kappa's formal next week are just another part of college social life, but those activities add up fast. Make sure you prioritize the activities you're spending money on.

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FALL 2015

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?

NO

YES

photoalbum or journal?

are you a bit of a diva?

NO

YES

NO

YES

DO YOU ENJOY WORKING ON

J. Law OR T. Swift?

GROUP PROJECTS or BY YOURSELF? 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 Written by: Stevie Croisant Design by: Brooke C. Benson

FALL 2015

college bound 23

Prepping for College Checklist 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 transfer 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 packages to plan your college budget Talk with college admissions counselors who visit your high school

December - Febuary Schedule college interviews Apply for scholarships Complete your FAFSA

Half the COST Easy Credit TRANSFER VARIETY of Programs – from A to Z

TAKE A Campus Tour & APPLY FOR FREE!

March - May

Make a final decision on which college you will attend Verify your financial aid Send your final high school transcripts to your college Prepare for your AP exams and complete your AP tests before summer

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

LINE BOISE » NAMPA » ON

24 college bound

FALL 2015

EXCELLENCE 125 Years of academic quality 4 Idaho Professors of the Year #1 College in Idaho (Forbes Magazine)

SUCCESS 64 National Championships 7 Rhodes Scholars Countless leaders & innovators

PEAK

1 major, 3 minors, 4 years Design your own degree!

VALUE

Ranked among America’s best college values by Money Magazine and Kiplinger’s Personal Finance

www.collegeofidaho.edu