2 minute read
Financing Your Future
❺ What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses?
❻ What would you say is your greatest accomplishment so far?
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❼ What are your goals? Where do you see yourself in five years?
❽ Tell me about your last job (or school).
❾ What skills have you gained in high school? If you’ve had a job, what skills have you gained on the job?
You can save on future college costs while you’re still in high school.
If you score well on advanced placement tests, you may qualify for college credit before you even start. Advance placement tests allow students to get a jump start toward a college degree.
Research can save you a lot of money.
Find several schools with strong academic programs in your interest areas. Then compare their tuition costs. The less expensive schools may have just as much to offer.
Aggressively look for scholarships.
Ask your counselors, teachers, family, friends and professionals in your community for suggestions. Many students never realize the great amount of money available. You may find a scholarship through a minority program, a local alumni chapter, a corporation or even a non-profit group. The time you spend researching can really pay off.
Save your money.
Start putting away money whenever you can. Save any money you make from after school jobs or working during the summer to help pay some of your college costs. Remember, your education will help you for the rest of your life. You are investing in your future.
Speak with your family about money.
In addition to your immediate family, many students have grandparents, siblings, aunts and uncles that help them pay for some of their college expenses.
Plan a college strategy.
You could take your initial college courses at a community college or state university, and later transfer to another school. One note of precaution: not all colleges and universities accept credits from other schools.
Most students receive some form of financial aid.
Work closely with the financial aid office at the college of your choice. Don’t reject a college if you think the tuition cost is too high. You may be able to afford even the most expensive school with financial aid. But remember you will have to pay back any and all loans you obtain after you graduate.
Get a job while attending school.
Many students work their way through college. Most colleges offer employment to students on campus. If your finances are really tight, consider going to school part-time while you are working.
