New Nampshire Next 2020-2021

NEW HAMPSHIRE

2020-21 COMPLIMENTARY

Your guide to life after high school

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contents

community 10 Choose college

The X factor in college admissions

Affordable, high quality and close to home

Financial Aid Q+A

What makes you stand out?

NHHEAF answers your questions

Elevating career opportunities Colby-Sawyer College and DartmouthHitchcock team up

Paying for a college education Set yourself up for success

5 secrets of successful students It starts with staying motivated NH NEXT 2020-2021

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NH Next is published by McLean Communications 150 Dow Street, Manchester, NH 03101 (603) 624-1442, fax (603) 624-1310 nhnext.com Please forward any inquiries or correspondence to 150 Dow St., Manchester, NH 03101. For editorial information, please call (603) 624-1442, x5157. To find out how to advertise in the 2021-2022 edition of NH Next, or on the NH Next website, nhnext.com, call (603) 624-1442, x5154. ©2020 MCLEAN COMMUNICATIONS, LLC All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is not allowed. Articles and advertisements in NH Next do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by NH Next does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

Anything you want to do, you can do it in the healthcare industry

our job right after high school is to learn how to learn … and you can do that anywhere!

The cool thing about building a career is that there is no special formula or plan on how to get started. A career is a lifelong journey, and there are very few limitations on which path, which veer or which ramp to take along the way. There is a lot of pressure when you are in school to answer “what do you want to do or be?” or “what are you going to study?” Some people know exactly how to answer these questions and have found a specific career that they want to pursue, and an educational path to start pursuing it. But many high-schoolers, and even college students, do not know. And/or the answer changes, sometimes significantly, over time. One of the most important things that you can do after high school, regardless of whether you choose to continue your academic education or whether you choose to begin working, or whether you take advantage of an opportunity to do both, is to learn how to learn. Seek to understand why something is the way it is, how something works, and why someone is saying something. Look for opportunities to practice skills like building relationships in order to work effectively with others, communicating in order to establish trust and confidence, taking initiative in order to demonstrate your reliability. These are the most critical differentiators, no matter what you do in the future. At Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health we are committed to helping our regional youth learn about the many career pathways available in the healthcare field, from patient care to business, from tech to engineering, from arts to science. Through the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Workforce Readiness Institute we offer paid and college-credit bearing training opportunities in which you can get started, learn how to learn, start to work towards a college degree, and gain more information to help you answer the questions “what do you want to do or be?” and “what are you going to study?” —JENNY MACAULAY, MBA Jenny is part of the Workforce Strategy team at Dartmouth-Hitchcock in Lebanon. For information about college and work opportunities at D-H, please visit DHWRI.org

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Go confidently in the direction of your dreams

Pursue a post-secondary education merican essayist Henry David Thoreau notably suggested, “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.” One way to seize Thoreaus’s advice as you consider life after high school is to pursue a post-secondary education.

College offers an excellent opportunity for personal, academic and professional growth. Research from The College Board tells us attending college helps students to become more independent and responsible. In college you explore subjects in greater depth than you are able to in high school, choose your own courses and class schedule, and decide which extracurricular activities you will focus on. In today’s local, national and global economies, a post-secondary education is more important than it has ever been before. A college degree offers you more choices and better opportunities for advancement. I am the first in my family to graduate from

college. Earning my degree has made a meaningful difference in my life, opening doors and creating experiences, which have shaped who I am personally and professionally. And as the parent of two young children, I am eager to help students across the state of New Hampshire realize their college dreams. The NHHEAF Network’s Center for College Planning (CCP) is the state’s largest source of free college planning resources in New Hampshire. Our team of expert college counselors are ready to help you realize your college dreams. Call us today at 888.747.2382. extension 119 and let us help you “go confidently” as you plan for “the life you have imagined.”

—CHRISTIANA THORNTON Christiana Thorton is the President and CEO of the NHHEAF Network, a nonprofit organization helping New Hampshire families plan and pay for college since 1962.

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Take the next step NH community colleges span a wide range of interests and career pathways

ollege is about exploring interests, creating opportunities and taking that next step toward your future. At New Hampshire community colleges, students can find a wealth of opportunities and experiences at a fraction of the cost of other college options.

They’re also a great place to learn. Small class sizes mean your instructor will know who you are, understand your strengths and support your efforts. Even before COVID-19 changed education for schools across the country, online education was our fastest-growing type of course offering. NH Community Colleges provide a high-quality education that will take you places. The programs offered at NH community colleges are designed to appeal to a wide range of interests and career pathways. The programs will prepare you for your next step,

whether that’s directly into the workforce or transferring to a four-year college or university. Our grads are in demand! Many NH high school students are also earning college credit through programs like “Running Start,” Early College and eStart, where students can take college-level courses and save time and money. Ask your school counselor about dual credit courses at your high school. When you’re ready to look at colleges, begin at www.ccsnh.edu to link to the seven NH community colleges. We’ll help you take the next step on your path.

—THE TEAM AT NEW HAMPSHIRE COMMUNITY COLLEGES CCSNH.EDU

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Higher education dreams can come true

t Members First Credit Union, we understand that applying to colleges and funding your education can be confusing and stressful for you and your family. Whether you’ve been preparing for years or are starting from scratch, I hope you’ll find these tips useful. The first step in the financial aid process is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) during your senior year of high school. This is the gateway to financial aid funds and it opens each year on Oct. 1 for the coming academic year. Many high schools and communities offer resources to help you complete the FAFSA. You’ll also find helpful webinars about the FAFSA and financial aid process at MembersFirstNH.StudentChoice.org. Once your FAFSA is completed, you will receive award letters from the colleges to which you applied. These letters will outline the types of financial aid for which you are eligible and you have the option to accept or decline any part of the awards. There are three main types of financial aid:

1. Start with accepting free money (scholarships and grants) first. Scholarships and grants are called “free money” because they do not have to be paid back. Grants are typically awarded based on financial need. Scholarships are usually available from your college or community organizations, and may be based on merit, extracurricular activities, community service, or community affiliations. Members First offers scholarships to our members and posts applications at MembersFirstNH.org in January each year. 2. The next place you should turn for college funding is the federal student loan program. These loans come with lower interest rates and benefits such as graduated repayment terms, but keep in mind

they will need to be paid back once you graduate (with a few exceptions for loan forgiveness in certain circumstances). 3. Finally, if scholarships, grants, and federal loans aren’t enough to cover all your costs, you can seek out private student loans. Your financial aid office may provide a list of lenders for you to explore, but selecting a lender is ultimately up to you. You can start with their list or turn to your own financial institution or a local credit union, such as Members First. Be sure to compare rates and terms carefully to find the best option for you. One final piece of advice: did you know you can appeal your financial aid award with your college of choice? If your family’s circumstances change, or there’s a reason you feel you should be receiving more aid, contact the financial aid office to see what your options may be. The process and timeline vary by school. An appeal isn’t guaranteed to net more financial aid, but it doesn’t hurt to ask! Members First Credit Union is ready to help you through all of life’s major events – from paying for college to purchasing a car to buying your first home. Let us know if we can help make your higher education dreams come true!

—BRUCE B. LEIGHTON PRESIDENT/CEO

MEMBERSFIRSTNH.STUDENTCHOICE.ORG

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The X factor

in college admissions

s you begin the college admissions

the X factor in college admissions.

attributes. Do you have a special talent such as being a stand-up comedian or pastry chef? Do you have any personal achievements such as establishing a community service club at your high school? Do your extracurricular activities involve playing a unique instrument (e.g., daxophone, harp) or sport (e.g., kayaking, underwater hockey)? Finally, to find your hook, think about which area you have devoted the most time and energy to. Schools respond to passion and focus. Are you passionate about photography and do you spend much of your free time taking photos? Are you dedicated to being the best athlete that you can be? Demonstrating how passionate you are about your area of interest can give you that X factor as well.

THE HOOK

SELLING YOUR HOOK

The hook refers to that unique talent or achievement that makes you stick out from other applicants. Student body presidents and yearbook editors are a dime a dozen. Your hook needs to be something more distinctive (especially if you are applying to an Ivy League school).

Once you know what your hook is, it’s time to market it. You should promote your hook to college admissions officers via the following avenues: • College application: When completing the activities portion of college applications, be sure to showcase your hook by citing it first on the list. • Application essay: Depending on specific essay rules, questions, topics, etc., you may be able to devote your entire application essays to your hook. • Resume: The high school resume gives you a more in-depth way to highlight your hook than by just naming it on the application activities list. • Letters of recommendation: Ask your mentors to emphasize your chosen hook in their letters of recommendation. Make sure you give your mentors all the information about your hook that they will need to complete their letters. • Admissions interview: If you choose to participate in a college admissions interview, be sure to discuss and promote your hook during the interview. For more information regarding the X factor in college admissions, talk to your high school counselor. They may be able to help you dig into your background and experiences to find a hook that may just get you into your top choice college. Good luck!

process, what is going to make an

admissions officer take notice of you? Sure, good grades and an impressive SAT/ACT score are definite factors for securing a spot at your top college, but do you have that special something that makes you stand out from the crowd? Check out this guide to understanding

WHAT’S YOUR HOOK?

To find out what your hook is, you should first think about what you have to offer your school of choice. What does the college need that other academically talented students can’t give? Are you the star quarterback who also excels in academics? If the school is in need of a good quarterback, then that may be your hook for that school. Do you play an obscure instrument? Maybe the school orchestra is looking to add a new sound to their mix. Do a little research on what the college may be looking for, but don’t try to sell yourself in a category in which you don’t fit. Admissions officers can tell when you aren’t being genuine. Another way to find your hook is to think about your unusual

Reprinted with permission from eCampusTours.com — a college planning website featuring 360-degree virtual tours of over 1300 campuses nationwide. Sponsored by Edsouth. Copyright 2020. All rights reserved.

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Choose Community:

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NH Community Colleges offer affordable, quality higher education close to home

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uring the past year, the world has been challenged by COVID-19, and NH Community Colleges have risen to the challenge by offering a mix of remote learning and in-person instruction conducted with social distancing. Safety protocols at all CCSNH facilities included measures like pre-arrival screening, the use of designated entrances and exits, sanitizing and deep cleaning practices, and reconfiguring space to support social distancing. In many cases, adhering to safety guidelines not only addressed health and safety on campus, but also helped prepare students for public health procedures they may need to follow when working in their chosen fields. FLEXIBILITY IN COURSE FORMAT

New Hampshire community colleges are experienced at blending online and in-person learning, to maximize your educational experience. The colleges offer a close-to-home community option for students in these uncertain times. You can enroll and matriculate in certificate or degree programs, or simply register for a few classes to get general education credits that can transfer to four-year colleges and universities. NH community colleges offer programs that produce graduates who are in high demand, even in today’s hard-hit economy. BEGIN YOUR COLLEGE JOURNEY OR PREPARE FOR A CAREER

Community colleges are a smart choice for today’s students. This is true if you want to begin a four-year degree pathway at a more affordable cost, as well as if you want to learn the skills for a profession. Community college graduates who earn a two-year associate degree typically enjoy some of the highest employment rates in the state and nation, because CCSNH programs are aligned with opportunities in today’s economy. Community colleges are also among the most affordable options for students — in-state tuition for a full-time New Hampshire student is about $6,500 per year, well under what most colleges charge, plus financial aid can offset that cost. How would you like to graduate with a great educational experience, exciting opportunities for your future, and a fraction of the student loan debt others will have? With seven colleges throughout the state, NH community college degree and certificate programs range from the Liberal Arts to STEM – to prepare you to transfer to a four-year college or go straight into the workforce!

Begin Your College Education in High School High School students enrolled in NH Community College Running Start classes earn both high school AND college credit. Taught at local high schools by teachers who have college-level teaching credentials, the courses use a college syllabus and course materials and are taken as part of the daily class schedule. Running Start tuition is only $150 per course and the credits transfer to two-year and four-year colleges and universities throughout the US. Contact your high school’s Running Start coordinator or guidance counselor for more information. High school students may also earn both high school AND college credit through eStart. Courses are 100% online and like Running Start, tuition is just $150 per course. More information is available at www. ccsnh.edu (Look under “Programs for High School students”.) Early College options are also available for high school students who can take courses directly from their community college at half of the regular tuition cost. NH NEXT 2020-2021

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here are seven community colleges throughout the Granite State, offering courses on-campus and online to meet the needs of high school grads. ARTS, HUMANITIES, COMMUNICATION AND DESIGN Berlin

Gain focused skills and a strong foundation for transfer

Rte. 16

BUSINESS

Attain real-world experience, professional and leadership skills

Littleton

NEW H A M PS H I R E North Conway

HEALTH SCIENCES AND SERVICES

Study for careers in nursing, an array of direct care roles or healthcare administration HOSPITALITY AND CULINARY

Lebanon I-93 I-89 Claremont

Laconia

Learn about the restaurant, resort, recreation and event management professions

Concord Manchester

INDUSTRY AND TRANSPORTATION

Train for in-demand, hands-on and highly skilled professions SOCIAL, EDUCATIONAL AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES

Prepare for careers with huge impact and personal meaning STEM AND ADVANCED MANUFACTURING

Study for high-tech, in-demand jobs across an array of industries from aerospace to life sciences

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Keene Rte. 101 Nashua

Rochester I-95 Portsmouth

The Top 10 Reasons to Choose Community! #1

QUALITY EDUCATION

NH community colleges offer courses comparable in academic rigor to those taught at four-year colleges and universities. In fact, at community colleges the emphasis is placed on classroom instruction and student support, which leads to an outstanding learning experience for students. 40% of all traditional-age college students start out at a community college. 28% of all bachelor degree holders start at a community college. 47% of all bachelor degree holders take at least one course at a community college. (www.collegeatlas.org/communitycollege-benefits.html)

FLEXIBILITY

Daytime, evening and online classes provide flexible scheduling opportunities. According to the American Association of Community Colleges, 62% of all full-time community college students also work and 72% of part-time students work while in school, so flexibility is important!

SMALLER CLASS SIZES

At NH community colleges, 89% of the classes have fewer than 19 students. Smaller class size offers greater opportunity for student participation, more individual attention and improved instruction.

COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAMS

Today’s community colleges offer traditional liberal arts curriculum, as well as the career/technical programs that have historically been the cornerstone of community colleges. Traditional liberal arts-inspired associate degrees parallel the first two years of general education at a four-year college, making it easy to transfer.

CAREER-READY GRADS

A community college degree can lead to a university degree (at a significant cost savings), or straight into a high-demand career. Nationally, community colleges educate 62% of allied health professionals. More than 80% of law enforcement officers and firefighters studied at community college.

ACCREDITATION

New Hampshire’s community colleges are accredited by the same agency that accredits UNH, SNHU, Dartmouth, Boston University and all other accredited New England colleges. The New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) accredits all New England colleges, which means that the education meets shared standards of educational quality.

TRANSFERABILITY

Working with advisors from both colleges, students can successfully transfer all or most of their community college credits.

NH community colleges have articulation agreements with four-year colleges both in-state and out-of-state.

GREAT PLACE TO START

Nationally, and in New Hampshire, community colleges are a great place for students to start either a four-year college pathway or a high-demand career. Whatever your goal is, you can reach it starting at a community college.

FINANCIAL AID

Even though tuition at community colleges is lower than at other colleges and universities, financial aid is still available. The Federal Pell Grant, for example, is open to students attending any accredited post-secondary school, whether they attend full- or part-time. Many scholarships don’t differentiate between two- and four-year colleges, and some are designed specifically for community college students.

#10

AFFORDABILITY

Community college tuition is very affordable. New Hampshire students can earn a full associate degree for about $15,000, and be half-way to a bachelor’s degree. Making this choice saves thousands of tuition dollars for the millions of students who choose it every year. Learn more at www.CCSNH.edu NH NEXT 2020-2021

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Fina

Q+A

Financial Aid

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ollege is one of the biggest investments you will make in your life, so as a family you will want to consider the impact of your choices. In 2019, a survey conducted by Ipsos revealed families spent an average of $26,226 to pay for one year of college and 55% of that amount came from financial aid. Two things are clear from this data — college is expensive, and paying for it generally requires financial aid. Paying for college can be one of the toughest parts of earning your degree, but it doesn’t have to be.

Q: WHAT IS A NET PRICE CALCULATOR AND HOW CAN IT HELP ME?

A: Net price calculators are a tool available on each college or university’s website which allow you to enter information about you and your family to get a personalized estimate of your net cost (the actual price you will pay after subtracting any scholarships or grants) to attend the institution. Each college’s estimate is specific to you because it is based on your personal circumstances and the college’s financial aid policies. Net price calculators offer a more informed method of deciding which colleges may be the most affordable for you. Remember that these are estimates – the actual price you pay may be higher or lower than the college’s net price calculator indicates.

Q: WHY SHOULD I APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID? A: If you don’t fill out the FAFSA form, you could be missing out on a lot of financial aid. The good news is – everyone qualifies for something! Even if you don’t receive free money, the only way to borrow through the Federal Direct Loan program is to file a FAFSA. Also, some colleges and private scholarships require students to complete the FAFSA before applying. Don’t miss out on aid for which you qualify – take the time to file your FAFSA. Before filing, you may be curious about how colleges will assess your financial need. Go to www.bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-forcollege/paying-your-share/expected-family-contribution-calculator to get an early calculation of your Expected Family Contribution. The EFC represents the amount of money the federal government has estimated you and your family can contribute toward college costs for that year. Colleges subtract this number from their total cost to determine eligibility for financial aid and put together a financial aid award for the student based on this eligibility.

Q: HOW DO I APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID? A: To be considered for financial aid, students and their families must fill out the FAFSA. Colleges and universities use this application to determine how much aid students are eligible to receive. The FAFSA can be completed starting October 1 of the year before you intend to enroll in school and must include your parents’ federal tax-return information from two years prior (for 2021 graduates, use 2019 taxes). If you have concerns about getting parental support through the process,

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get started.

contact The NHHEAF Network’s Center for College Planning (CCP) at 1.888.747.2382, ext. 119. Our college counselors have experience working with unaccompanied youth, foster youth, and youth-in-care. Some colleges also require supplemental forms, such as the CSS PROFILE® form. Check with each school’s financial aid office for details. To continue to qualify for aid, you must submit a FAFSA form each year prior to the school’s deadline. The FAFSA can be filled out and submitted electronically at www.fafsa.gov or on a mobile device via Federal Student Aid’s FAFSA app.

Q: WHEN DO I APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID? A: Each college on your list may have a different deadline for completing financial aid applications. Most deadlines for regular admission candidates range from January 15 to March 15. However, some early admission or early decision deadlines could be as early as November 1. Check with each school for their specific deadline and stay organized with a college calendar or spreadsheet. Missing a posted deadline could mean a significant reduction in the amount of aid received.

Q: WHAT TYPES OF FINANCIAL AID ARE AVAILABLE? A: There are two types of financial aid: gift aid and self-help aid. Gift aid is money that does not need to be paid back and is comprised of grants and scholarships. Grants are usually need-based, which means eligibility is based on your family’s ability to pay for college (as determined by the federal government and the college). Scholarships are usually merit-based, which means eligibility is based on your talent (academic, artistic or athletic) or, less often, community service or leadership skills. Some scholarships are also offered through local organizations. Check with your school counseling office at your high school for more information. Self-help aid includes student loans and work-study. The Federal Direct or Stafford Loans have low fixed-interest rates and excellent repayment terms. Most students do not need to pay back their loans until they graduate. Students eligible for work-study are able to earn money at an on-campus job. Students receive a paycheck and most will use this money to cover personal expenses. Eligibility is based on the student’s financial need and the resources the college has available in their work-study program. NH NEXT 2020-2021

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Maximize your search 1. START LOOKING EARLY. While searching for additional scholarships takes time and energy, it is well worth it if it helps reduce tuition costs. The more time you dedicate to your scholarship searches, the more options you will have. 2. ORGANIZE SCHOLARSHIP MATERIALS. Each scholarship may have a separate application deadline and specific criteria. Many scholarships require one or more of the following: • Parent and student financial information • Personal statement or essay • Letters of recommendation • Proof of eligibility (credentials) • High school transcript • Standardized test scores 3. FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS AND PROOFREAD. Complete the application accurately and fully. Include all required materials. Make sure your applications and essays are legible and free of grammatical or spelling errors. Be certain your essay responds to the question asked. Do not forget to sign and date the application. 4. MAKE COPIES OF EVERYTHING. If your application is lost, this will make it much easier to resend your application. 5. APPLY EARLY. Keep a calendar of application deadlines. Consider using certified mail or return receipt. While the majority of the deadlines may not be until spring of senior year, many of the national scholarship deadlines are earlier.

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Q: WHAT IS A FINANCIAL AID AWARD? A: A financial aid award is the official notification from a college or university’s financial aid office that outlines the aid offered to an individual student. An award may include federal grants, college grants, scholarships, student loans, work-study, and parent loans. It is important to understand that the awards will differ from school to school based on the school’s available resources and your family’s level of need at each campus. A family’s level of need at a local community college may be different than at a four-year private college. However, don’t assume a higher cost institution is out of reach for you. Often, private institutions have large endowments to support scholarships and grants. In some cases, a private college may actually cost less than a public college.

Q: WHERE CAN I FIND OUTSIDE SCHOLARSHIPS TO HELP PAY FOR COLLEGE?

A: There are plenty of opportunities to earn outside scholarships to help you pay for college. In fact, students have a greater chance of being awarded scholarships offered at the local level. Start at your school counseling of-

fice: browse the bulletin boards, check the scholarship file cabinets, listen to the daily announcements, and visit the school website for the local opportunities. Utilize scholarship search engines that highlight grants and scholarships for New Hampshire students, such as the Center for College Planning’s database at www.nhheaf.org/scholarshipsearch.asp. Visit www.nhcf.org (NH Charitable Foundation) for New Hampshire-based scholarships. After exhausting all of the local avenues, broaden your search to the national level at websites such as www.fastweb.com or www.scholarship.com. And lastly, inquire at your parent’s place of employment, local library, and your college’s financial aid office for other opportunities.

Q: WHERE CAN I RECEIVE FREE ASSISTANCE WITH THE FINANCIAL AID PROCESS?

A: Contact the Center for College Planning (CCP) at The NHHEAF Network to schedule an appointment with one of our expert college counselors at 1-888-747-2382, ext. 119, or collegeplanning@ nhheaf.org. Free workshops are offered remotely this year with local high schools around the state. To find a date or time we will be presenting virtually to your community, check out our events calendar at www.nhheaf.org/index.asp#calendar.

Scholarship THERE ARE MANY RESOURCES AND WEBSITES AVAILABLE TO HELP YOU FIND LOCAL SCHOLARSHIP MONEY; 90% OF ALL OUTSIDE SCHOLARSHIPS COME FROM LOCAL AND COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS. HERE ARE SOME OF THE MORE POPULAR RESOURCES TO HELP YOU FIND FREE MONEY:

THE NEW HAMPSHIRE CHARITABLE FOUNDATION (www.nhcf.org) annually distributes more than $6 million in scholarship money to New Hampshire students, making it the largest source of independent student aid in New Hampshire. Nearly 400 individuals, families, organizations and businesses provide money to support NH students as they pursue higher education. While most of the money is awarded to students entering college, already in college, or pursuing a graduate degree, the Foundation continuously looks for new ways to deliver scholarship services to adult students returning to school or students exploring training and career opportunities. DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS (www.scholarshipamerica. org) is a national network of 1,000 community-based, volunteer-driven scholarship foundations in cities, towns and neighborhoods throughout the United States. Founded in 1958, Dollars for Scholars is the largest-standing Scholarship America Program. Dol-

opportunities in your own backyard

lars for Scholars chapters award millions of dollars in scholarships each year to thousands of students. LAKES REGION SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION (www.lrscholarship.org) has awarded more than $6 million in scholarships to more than 5,200 recipients since 1956. CONSIDER A PARENT’S (OR RELATIVE’S) WORKPLACE. Look at local awards from civic organizations. Search for awards from private trusts. Many local organizations provide scholarships to local high schools and libraries. THE SCHOOL COUNSELING OFFICE at your high school will post many local scholarship opportunities. Check with your school counselor for more information. Also consider using the Center for College Planning’s scholarship database, which can be found at www. nhheaf.org/scholarship-search.asp. NATIONAL WEBSITES also offer some local opportunities. Check with national search databases such as www.fastweb.com and www.collegeboard.org. Courtesy of the Center for College Planning at The NHHEAF Network.

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2-YEAR COLLEGE

STUDENT LOANS WORK STUDY JOB

FINANCIAL GIFTS EARLY COLLEGE CREDITS SCHOLARSHIPS

GOVERNMENT GRANTS

PERSONAL SAVINGS

TEXTBOOK DEALS TAX INCENTIVES Borrowing from retirement plans While many parents consider borrowing from retirement as an option for managing college costs, it is important to remember that while your education is very important to your future, your parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; retirement plan is their future. They can borrow for college, but they canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t borrow for retirement. The pros and cons must be carefully weighed to balance future financial well-being with current obligations.

TIPS FOR YOUR PARENTS

Home equity loans or lines of credit For homeowners, home equity loans or

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lines of credit may be a viable option for managing college costs. With lower mortgage rates, families may have the ability to utilize a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit to their advantage. These rates may be fixed for the life of the loan or they may be variable. A line of credit is available to help when needed in years two, three and four as well. With a line of credit, families only pay interest on the portion they use. A line of credit acts as a checking account, as borrowers have the ability to write checks when they need it to pay bills. There may also be tax advantages with this option. Typically, the interest paid on the loan is tax-deductible. Keep in mind, however, this option poses the home as collateral. Work with the holder of the existing mortgage to discuss the benefits. For more information about alternative funding options for education, go to www.nhheaf.org.

Creative options to reduce

the cost of college I s it too late to start saving for college? Not really! The truth is, even if you are in high school and haven’t started saving, there are still things you can do to make college more affordable.

GET COLLEGE CREDIT EARLY

Many high schools offer advanced placement (AP) courses that allow students who test at a certain level to earn college credit. In addition, check to see if colleges in your area offer concurrent enrollment – where you can earn both high school and college credit for the courses in which you are enrolled – for much less than the standard price of college coursework. Ask your school counselor about Running Start courses offered through the Community College System of NH (www.ccsnh. edu) – and how you can even take two of these courses for free! GO FOR 2 FIRST

Begin your college career at a local two-year community college, a less expensive alternative that will offer you many of the same experiences of a four-year university. After taking core courses, you can transfer to a four-year school and save a lot of cash while still moving toward your undergraduate degree. Check out the Community College System of NH (www.ccsnh.edu) for information on the Dual Admissions and NHTransfer programs that make transferring easier. STAY LOCAL, GO PUBLIC

Attending a public college or university in New Hampshire is a smart financial choice for many students and families. The average cost of tuition and fees at a four-year public university in New England is $25,060 per year, while a private university will cost you $48,510 per year (tuition and fees, and room and board, according to College Board Trends in College Pricing 2018). This means you can attend roughly four semesters at a public university for the same cost of one year at a private school. UTILIZE YOUR SAVINGS

As your high school career winds down, make a concerted effort to save as much as possible from your part-time or summer employment. These savings can be used to purchase

books, supplies and class materials. You may also need money during your first week of school to pay for parking passes, phone and cable setup. If you are able to save a considerable amount of money, you can either use this for spending money throughout the semester, or use it to help pay a portion of the tuition costs. LOOK FOR DEALS ON TEXTBOOKS

You have options when it comes to purchasing your textbooks. Check out your college bookstore’s selection of used textbooks. Usually they are in very good condition and sold at a partial discount. You can also try using the Internet to find bargain books. Check out these sites for great deals: www.eFollett. com, www.bigwords.com, www.amazon.com. You can also rent, yes rent, your textbooks for a huge savings. Take a look on www.chegg.com, www.amazon.com, or www.textbooks.com for more information. HIGHER EDUCATION INCENTIVES

Borrowing to pay tuition can be a little nerve wracking for families, but you should know there are some benefits associated with paying college costs. Families and students can go to www.irs.gov to find out about the American Opportunity and Lifetime Learning Credit, Tuition and Fees Deduction, and Student Loan Interest Deduction. OUTSIDE SCHOLARSHIPS

Local scholarships provide thousands of dollars of scholarship aid to area high school students. Talk with your school counselor or visit the school website for information about scholarships particular to your high school. Contact the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation at 1-800-464-6641 or go to www.nhcf.org for additional scholarship opportunities for qualified New Hampshire residents. For national searches, consider www.fastweb.com or www.collegeboard.com/pay. LOAN FORGIVENESS OPPORTUNITIES

There are opportunities for those who qualify to have their federal student loans canceled or forgiven. Loan forgiveness programs exist for a number of professionals including teachers, those who serve in the U.S. Armed Forces, medical professionals, and individuals working in the non-profit sector. Take a look at the financial aid section at nhheaf.org for more information. Courtesy of the Center for College Planning at The NHHEAF Network Organizations NH NEXT 2020-2021

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Dartmouth-Hitchcock:

Elevating career o Colby-Sawyer College relationship creates unique affordable path to healthcare careers

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iana Beaulac knew she wanted to pursue her dream of working in healthcare â&#x20AC;&#x201D; it was just a matter of figuring out how to reach that goal.

opportunities Thanks to a recently enhanced, decades-long relationship between Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health, the institution’s Workforce Readiness Institute, and ColbySawyer College, the pathway to a career in healthcare has become significantly more direct – a benefit for students like Beaulac. “I wanted to take the next step, but I didn’t know how,” Beaulac says. “I was thinking of how I could continue my education to become a nurse, and then I heard about the arrangement between DartmouthHitchcock and Colby-Sawyer. The arrangement seemed perfect.” That arrangement works like this: Students can launch their career at Dartmouth-Hitchcock’s Work-

force Readiness Institute (D-H WRI), a career school licensed with the New Hampshire Department of Education, by enrolling and completing a paid training program. Graduates are hired within the DartmouthHitchcock Health system and have the opportunity to complete their degree at Colby-Sawyer, thanks to an innovative relationship between the two institutions. Beaulac, 23, of Bow, N.H., did just that. She completed the medical assistant D-H WRI training program in which she earned 45 college credits at almost no cost and is now enrolled in Colby-Sawyer’s health science degree program. She works in D-H’s dermatology clinic during the day – a job she secured through the WRI – and completes her studies during

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“

We’ve specifically designed a number of new programs to make sure the curriculum is aligned in a way that is flexible and affordable for the working individual.

”

— KEVIN E. FINN, DEAN AND DIRECTOR OF

CLINICAL PARTNERSHIPS FOR THE SCHOOL OF

NURSING & HEALTH SCIENCES AT COLBY-SAWYER

off-hours. She is using the D-H tuition reimbursement benefit to support her college costs and is on track to complete her associate’s degree in health science from Colby-Sawyer at almost no personal cost – all while having earned a salary with full benefits. It all comes at a time when the demand for skilled healthcare workers is high. Students can embark on a post-secondary academic career, get paid to learn, earn college credit and complete a degree. It’s an opportunity that allows Beaulac to fulfill her dream. “I really like helping people and caring for them when they need support,” she says. Similarly, when Kelsy S. A. Jenkins was looking for a career change from her work as a veterinary technician, the WRI-to-Colby-Sawyer pathway became an ideal way to accelerate that move. “I am choosing this path of course study due to not being able to afford school on my own,” Jenkins, of Enfield, N.H., says. “But also because it was a great opportunity for me to get into the surgical field that I was excited about when I was a veterinary technician. I was excited to learn that I was able to get into such a great program.” Jenkins is currently enrolled in the D-H WRI surgi22 |

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cal technologist training program, motivated by the substantial financial savings, the career opportunities and the convenience. “The WRI/CSC relationship works best for me because they are giving me the opportunity to have a great education and a career path I’m interested in pursuing,” she says. “They also make it convenient by creating a flexible work schedule to compensate for the classes. I’m able to juggle working 40-50 hours a week and keep my classes up to date with high grades.” It’s part of a growing relationship between D-H and Colby-Sawyer that spans more than four decades. Recently, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health committed to a multi-year, strategic investment of up to $3.25 million, providing the college with the financial resources to implement a variety of new health science programs. “The partnership and educational opportunities we offer at Colby-Sawyer are a pathway, no matter where an individual is in their career,” says Kevin E. Finn, dean and director of clinical partnerships for the School of Nursing & Health Sciences at Colby-Sawyer. “We’ve specifically designed a number of new

programs to make sure the curriculum is aligned in a way that is flexible and affordable for the working individual.” The result: students have already begun to benefit from enhanced programs, additional degree options and a direct line to a career designed to fill the more than 1,000 current job vacancies at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health, the state’s largest and only academic health system. Thanks to D-H’s investment in Colby-Sawyer, the college began offering bachelor’s degree programs in five new disciplines this fall: • Addiction Studies • Healthcare Administration • Health Science • Medical Laboratory Science • Social Work Two new tracks have also been added as part of the college’s Master of Science in Nursing program –Nursing Education and Nursing Management & Executive Leadership – which complement the existing Clinical Nurse Leader track. The new programs, with input from D-H, were designed to ensure the curricu-

lum is aligned in a way that is flexible and affordable for working participants. The agreement will also help grow the enrollment in the college’s undergraduate nursing program. “It’s a great opportunity,” Beaulac says. “Entering this program, you don’t have to have any experience. That’s the beauty of it. They’ll teach you what you need to know, and you can enter into your department of study and the program will have you ready for your career.” Jenkins is currently in the first year of ColbySawyer’s associate program and has completed the medical terminology and anatomy and physiology prerequisites. “The most rewarding part of this whole process is being able to advance my career and help people,” Jenkins says. “I love learning. I’m a fast learner and I’m excited to see what else this partnership has to offer for other DHMC employees. It’s a wonderful opportunity to help employees that are not able to afford the education on their own. Colby-Sawyer is a wonderful college with some great professors. I’m excited to see what my future with them will be like.” NH NEXT 2020-2021

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New Hampshire American Academy of Health and Beauty www.myaahb.com Highest degree obtainable: Certificate

Empire Beauty School www.empirebeautyschools.com Highest degree obtainable: Certificate

Franklin Pierce University American School of Nursing and Medical Careers

www.franklinpierce.edu Highest degree obtainable: DPT

www.americannursinged.com Highest degree obtainable: Certificate

Granite State College

Antioch University of New England www.antioch.edu Highest degree obtainable: Ph. D, Psy. D

Colby-Sawyer College www.colby-sawyer.edu Highest degree obtainable: Master’s Continental Academie of Hair Design www.continentalacademie.com Highest degree obtainable: Certificate

Dartmouth College www.dartmouth.edu Highest degree obtainable: Ph. D and M.D.

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Lakes Region Community College www.lrcc.edu Highest degree obtainable: Associate’s

Magdalen College of the Liberal Arts

www.granite.edu Highest degree obtainable: Master’s

https://magdalen.edu Highest degree obtainable: Bachelor’s

Great Bay Community College

Manchester Community College

www.greatbay.edu Highest degree obtainable: Associate’s

www.mccnh.edu Highest degree obtainable: Associate’s

Institute of Art and Design at New England College

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

https://iad.nec.edu/ Highest degree obtainable: Master’s

Keene Beauty Academy

www.mcphs.edu/mcphs-life/manchester/ Highest degree obtainable: Master’s, DPT and PharmD

www.keenebeautyacademy.edu Highest degree obtainable: Certificate

Michael’s School of Hair Design

Keene State College www.keene.edu Highest degree obtainable: Master’s

www.paulmitchell.edu/bedford/ Highest degree obtainable: Certificate

Courtesy Photo / UNH

Postsecondary education options in

Nashua Community College www.nashuacc.edu Highest degree obtainable: Associate’s

New England College www.nec.edu Highest degree obtainable: Ed. D

New England School of Hair Design www.neschoolofhairdesign.com Highest degree obtainable: Certificate

NHTI — Concord’s Community College www.nhti.edu Highest degree obtainable: Associate’s

NH Institute for Therapeutic Arts www.nhita.com Highest degree obtainable: Certificate

Paul Mitchell, The School — Portsmouth

Saint Anselm College www.anselm.edu Highest degree obtainable: Bachelor’s

Southern New Hampshire University

Thomas More College of Liberal Arts www.thomasmorecollege.edu Highest degree obtainable: Bachelor’s

University of New Hampshire www.unh.edu Highest degree obtainable: Ph. D, DNP

University of New Hampshire Manchester www.manchester.unh.edu Highest degree obtainable: Master’s

University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law

Plymouth State University

www.law.unh.edu Highest degree obtainable: J.D.

www.plymouth.edu Highest degree obtainable: Ed.D, DPT

Upper Valley Graduate School of Education

River Valley Community College

https://uvgse.org/ Highest degree obtainable: Master’s

www.rivervalley.edu Highest degree obtainable: Associate’s

Upper Valley Educators Institute

www.rivier.edu Highest degree obtainable: Ed.D, Psy.D, DNP

St. Joseph School of Nursing www.sjson.edu Highest degree obtainable: Associate’s

for NEW HAMPSHIRE residents

www.snhu.edu Highest degree obtainable: Ph.D, Ed.D

www.paulmitchell.edu/portsmouth Highest degree obtainable: Certificate

Rivier University

NEW ENGLAND BOARD OF HIGHER EDUCATION’S

1,000+ degree programs at state colleges and universities in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Vermont with significant savings on out-of-state tuition $12.3 million total savings in 2019-20 $8,000 average annual full-time savings

Visit nebhe.org/tuitionbreak tuitionbreak@nebhe.org

857-284-4879

https://uvei.edu/ Highest degree obtainable: Certificate

White Mountains Community College www.wmcc.edu Highest degree obtainable: Associate’s

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Small classes with low faculty to student ratios Clinical experiences within weeks of enrollment Early clinical experiences at major medical centers, local hospitals and community sites

Highly integrated academic, laboratory and clinical curriculum

Comprehensive Financial Aid On campus, state-of-the-art radiology laboratories

For Nursing, flexible scheduling, day or evening weekend division schedules

Bachelor of Science (BS) completion programs available for students and graduates Certificate programs in the following areas: • Computed Tomography (CT) (Graduates of an accredited imaging program only)

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (Graduates of an accredited imaging program only)

Programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, (JRCERT), Chicago, IL, respectively.

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Paying for a college

education Set yourself up for long-term success and reduce your debt

hether attending college on campus or online, dealing with the cost of education can be overwhelming. Students and families continue to struggle to answer the question, â&#x20AC;&#x153;What can I do to get the most out of my financial aid?â&#x20AC;?

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Once you add food, books, and basic accommodations to tuition, the costs can grow quickly and seem daunting. But there is some good news: financial aid offices have taken these things into account when calculating their cost of attendance. If you choose, you can leverage your financial aid to cover collegerelated costs. Choosing to do so means responsibly taking advantage of all your options, like scholarships, grants, work study, on-campus jobs, and — if needed — student loans to pay for remaining expenses. When funding your college education, follow these basic principles to set yourself up for long-term success and reduce the total amount of debt you owe at graduation.

FREE MONEY FIRST: SCHOLARSHIPS, GRANTS AND WORK STUDY The best solution is to get the most “free money” first — money you don’t have to pay back is always a good idea. Here are some quick tips for getting more free money like scholarships, grants and work study options. • Apply early, apply often – Check with your school counselor for a list of available scholarships. Apply for every scholarship and grant you can find, even if it may not seem like a perfect fit. Everyone won’t be a winner, but if you don’t apply, you definitely won’t get it! Keep a list of application deadlines so you can be sure you don’t miss any. • Search local – Many companies are looking for talented, local students for scholarship opportunities. It gives the company a good connection to the community and gives students the financial support they need. Ask family members if they know of opportunities with their employers, or call reputable local companies and ask them if they have a scholarship program. • Look for work study programs – These programs 28 |

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can be hard to come by since most of them are need-based, but apply early and get your name in the running for these positions. Even if you don’t get work study through your financial aid office, you can still work on campus and apply your earnings to your college costs to reduce your long-term debt.

USE FINANCIAL AID WISELY

Think about college as a full-time job. Colleges figure in the additional costs of living, including things like books, technology and transportation, into their cost of attendance. That means your financial aid, including loans, can cover some of these costs. Never borrow more than you need and always try to get as much free and cheap money from grants, scholarships, and federal aid as possible. Once you’ve exhausted these options, student loans can help you get by while you’re in school. Here are some tips for using them wisely: • Seek free money first – It’s worth saying again – always look for money you don’t have to pay back. A little work up front pays off in the long run. Some great places to start are your college financial aid office, your local library, or using an online search tool to explore options. Filling out your FAFSA is also a must, as many scholarships and grants will also require it. • Look for alternative resources – Check out the campus and community library for books. Online resources often sell books at a discount. Consider buying used, or even renting books. Shop at thrift stores or discount grocery stores and clip coupons to reduce your costs. There are lots of creative ways to reduce your overall costs so you don’t have to use student loans to get by. • Look for work – Working at least part time is a great way to offset the costs of college. Many employers are looking

for talented college students and they like the flexible hours that students can work. Check into part-time jobs that work around your schedule to help with the costs of college. • Use your financial aid wisely – Never borrow too much or use your student loans for purchases that aren’t for college. Don’t use student loans to fund that new TV or gaming system for your dorm room; be smart with your purchases and remember that any refund from the school is still part of your loan, and you will be required to pay it back with interest. • If you don’t need it, pay it back – It’s as simple as that. If you must borrow using a student loan to fund college expenses, you can still offset your loans by working or finding other funds as outlined above. Remember, you may receive a refund from your college to cover additional expenses (such as room and board or books), but if you don’t need the additional money for college expenses, pay it back immediately and save yourself long-term interest costs. Any money you don’t have to borrow will save you in the long run! Of course, everyone’s situation is different. If you still find yourself having trouble making ends meet, you’re not alone and you’re not the first student to feel this way. Your financial aid office has specially trained counselors that can help you figure out the best way to pay for college and relieve some of that stress so you can focus on what’s important – your studies! Contact your financial aid office and they can help you plan the best approach to get ahead. If you need help finding the private student loan solution that’s right for you, contact Members First Credit Union at 1-800-860-3832 or learn more about our financing options at www.MembersFirstNH.StudentChoice.org. NH NEXT 2020-2021

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Five secrets of the most successful students

hen you think of ways to achieve academic success, what comes to mind? Studying your notes? Staying organized? Completing assignments? All of these are critical to maintaining academic achievement, but what sets the most successful students apart from the others? To flourish inside the classroom and beyond, the most successful students make a point to do the following: STAY MOTIVATED

ASK QUESTIONS

Successful students know that staying motivated is a key element to achieving aspirations during school and during their future careers. Staying inspired to study, complete homework, attend classes, etc. comes easy for some students, while others may need to practice certain methods to stay academically driven. If you are apathetic toward school and your studies, use these techniques to increase your academic motivation.

The most successful students in school – and in life – are the ones who ask questions. These students are always learning, growing, and pushing for more information. Don’t be afraid to ask questions when you need clarification. The fear of looking ignorant will only prevent you from becoming the knowledgeable student that you want to be. Remember that there is never a foolish question, only foolish silence.

PURSUE PASSION

THINK CRITICALLY

Confucius said, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” Good advice, but amid all the general education requirements and prerequisites that are mandatory during high school and college, you can easily forget where your intellectual interests and passions lie. The most successful students make a point to pursue their passions inside the classroom whenever possible. Each semester, if feasible, try to take a course that is somehow related to your interests, and hopefully, your future career.

Critical thinking is a skill that successful students have mastered. When you are thinking critically, you are not just thinking passively and accepting everything you see and hear. Instead, you are thinking actively by investigating, analyzing, and evaluating information. Hone your critical thinking skills inside and outside of the classroom by asking questions, debating with knowledgeable people, engaging with those who see the world differently, etc. Above all else, keep in mind that success is a choice. It’s up to you whether you want to thrive in the classroom and beyond.

DO ALL THE EXTRAS

Successful students understand the importance of going the extra mile. Going that extra mile will make you a better student in the classroom and, in the future, a more valuable employee 30 |

in the workplace. Treat any extra-credit assignments as mandatory. Think outside the box when you are assigned papers and projects. What can you do to make your work stand out?

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