COLLEGE GUIDE 2019 by STUDIO Gannett

ADMISSIONS CHECKLIST:

College Guide HANDY GUIDE TO IMPORTANT DEADLINES

2019

PAYING FOR

COLLEGE

KNOW YOUR OPTIONS

FAFSA FILE FINANCIAL AID FORMS EARLY FOR A BETTER CHANCE OF GETTING MORE FUNDS

ESSAYS MATTER

WINNING TIPS ON WRITING THE BEST STORY ABOUT YOU! ALSO INSIDE: PROS & CONS OF ONLINE LEARNING

MOULTON TOWER ON THE CAMPUS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA

Legends have been made in our academic halls and on our athletic fields. They are Inventors. CEOs. Authors. Entrepreneurs. National Champions. They earn Pulitzer Prizes. Emmy Awards. Medals of Honor. Heisman Trophies. You can be a legend, too.

GOBAMA .UA .EDU

PEOPLE ROWING, RUNNING AND WALKING BY HARVARD UNIVERSITY IN THE SPRING

ON THE COVER

ABOUT THIS YEAR’S COLLEGE GUIDE

Moulton Tower on the campus of the University of South Alabama

Inside these covers you’ll find invaluable information about schools large and small, urban, rural and suburban, across the United States, plus important tips for making the most of your college experience.

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

CONTENTS PAYING FOR COLLEGE

FAFSA: File your financial aid forms early for a better chance of getting more funds. PAGE 14

6 Admissions Checklist 8 Entrance Exams

20 Liberal Arts and STEM 22 Online College

ESSAYS MATTER

10 Choosing a Major

Winning tips on writing the best story about you. PAGE 24

12 Shopping for Schools

28 Grad School

18 Secular v. Faith-Based College

40 Studying Abroad

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COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

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SALISBURY A Maryland University of National Distinction

The quality of a private campus with the affordability of a public university. Academic Excellence

Offering 60 distinct programs within four endowed schools, SU is one of those rare universities that celebrates individual talents and encourages big ideas.

National Recognition

SU consistently ranks among the nation’s best in U.S. News & World Report and The Princeton Review. On the field, the Sea Gulls have won 20 NCAA Division III team national championships.

Accomplished Alumni

Nearly 50,000 graduates are taking the lead in the boardroom, the lab, the legislature and even on Broadway. SU helps put students’ education to work, supporting job searches and graduate school applications.

To find out how Salisbury University is the right — and affordable — fit for you, visit www.salisbury.edu

Beautiful Campus

Home to 8,700 students from 32 states and 66 countries, the University, a national arboretum, is situated between the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay.

www.salisbury.edu

SU is an Equal Opportunity/AA/Title IX university and provides reasonable accommodation given sufficient notice to the University office or staff sponsoring the event or program.

ADMISSIONS CHECKLIST/IMPORTANT DEADLINES A Handy Guide to the Important Deadlines and Must-Do's for College Applicants BY USA TODAY NETWORK

here's quite a bit that needs to be done in planning for college. Following is a checklist of mustdo things and important deadlines as you make your way through the process of college selection, application and admission. Start by developing a list of colleges you’d like to apply to. You can begin well before senior year and should include visits to a number of schools to get a feel for various sizes, locations, etc. Most offer tours year-round. “It’s really important to visit colleges,” says Alan Goodwin, who retired last spring as principal of Walt Whitman High School in Bethesda, Maryland. “It’s the only way to get

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

a sense if you are comfortable or uncomfortable on campus.” Counselors at the high-performing public high school share a lot of good advice and suggest first taking a look at any of the commercially produced college handbooks that offer valuable information: Comparative Guide to American Colleges; The College Finder; Fiske Guide to Colleges; College Handbook and The Insider’s Guide to the Colleges. After perusing the options, check in with your high school college counselor(s) early in the fall of senior year. Many students find the computerized college search Naviance Student (naviance.com/content/naviance-student) helpful. Your participating school can

give you a login to start the application process. Things to consider as you draw up your list:

LOCATION:

City, rural, New England, mid-Atlantic, Midwest, South, West, foreign? Or you don’t care? Remember to consider travel costs and distance from home. (See CHOOSING A COLLEGE on page 12.)

PROGRAMS THAT INTEREST YOU:

There are many resources, including handbooks, college bulletins and computer programs, for discovering college majors and specialties (see CHOOSING A MAJOR on page 10). Many, perhaps most,

entering students are not decided on a major and plan to begin with a general liberal arts program.

SIZE:

Small, medium, large? Doesn’t matter?

COMFORT LEVEL:

For some students, the amount of personal and academic freedom and structure may be a consideration. Some want to attend a school with others who share their religious or other values (see SECULAR VS. FAITH-BASED SCHOOLS on page 18). Some prefer a school with students from varied cultures and traditions.

COST:

College tuition costs continue to escalate at a much faster rate than the rest of the economy. Financial aid is key for many families. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form must be submitted if you hope to become eligible for any federally subsidized financial aid. (See PAYING FOR COLLEGE on page 14.) The 2019-2020 FAFSA became available on Oct. 1, 2018. Federal aid is need-based, and almost all colleges dispense these funds. Some colleges also require the College Board’s CSS Profile™ and/or a form of their own to determine eligibility for need-based aid from the college. Some aid that is not based on need, usually scholarships, is offered by many colleges and public and private organizations. The amounts of the awards and who is eligible for them vary widely, and deadlines are important. A lot of scholarship information is available online at finaid.org and fastweb.com. Your chances of admission to a particular college will depend on many factors, most importantly your academic record, SAT or ACT scores, school and/ or community activities, and the essay question on your college application. (See HOW TO WRITE A KILLER COLLEGE APPLICATION ESSAY on page 24.) The Naviance Student website can help you figure out which schools might be realistic choices.

collegeboard.org or act.org. (See ENTRANCE EXAMS on page 8.)

HOW MANY COLLEGES TO APPLY TO:

Walt Whitman counselors urge students to cover a reasonable range of possibilities: “reach” schools: dearly desired, long-shot hopes; “targets”: solid, 50-50 bets; and “likelies,” i.e., comfortable choices. You should apply to some colleges you are quite certain to be admitted to and would be happy attending. If you have narrowed your choices in the fall, the final decision in the spring will be easier. The Common Application is used by over 750 colleges and universities to standardize the online application process.

EARLY APPLICATION:

Many colleges have early application programs. Most deadlines are in November, though they may be as early as October or as late as December. There are, in general, two types of such programs: Early Action application deadlines are usually between Nov. 1-15, and a college will inform an applicant of its decision before the end of December. If a student is accepted, he/she usually has until spring to commit. Early Decision means a student needs to be fully committed to attending a given college if he/she chooses to apply this way. You will want to make sure your transcripts and any required teacher or

counselor recommendations are sent in time for your schools’ deadlines. Talk to your teachers face-to-face well before the first deadline and bring them a list of your colleges and their deadlines. Allow plenty of time to have your SAT or ACT scores sent to colleges, at least one month before the application deadline.

CHECK

IT OFF YOUR LIST

FOLLOW-UP: MIDYEAR TRANSCRIPTS/ RECORDS

Make sure your midyear transcript is sent to all schools that require it. All Common App schools do. You likely will need to have a final graduation transcript sent to the school you will be attending.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Start early! • Read all directions and be aware of deadlines. Keep a calendar. • Check your application thoroughly. Check again. • Keep a copy of your application. • Ask any questions you have.

SAT OR ACT TAKEN?

SAT Subject Tests where necessary? Test applications and materials are available online at: COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

Entrance Exams How to Create a Better Game Plan for the ACT, SAT BY JOE LECCESI, SPECIAL TO USA TODAY

coring high on the SAT or ACT can put you on the radar of schools you might not otherwise be qualified for and get you more scholarship money. But when is the right time to take these tests? What score do you need? How do you study? We’ll answer these questions and more.

SAT VS. ACT: WHICH ONE? OR BOTH?

Most colleges and universities accept both the SAT and ACT, but you should check the schools on your target list to see if they have a preference. The tests are fairly similar in the types of questions, although the SAT is slightly longer and doesn’t include a science section. Other differences between the tests include: The SAT focuses more on vocabulary and general reasoning. The math section of the ACT is more advanced than the SAT. A good way to determine which test you should choose is to take the

PSAT and the PreACT, the respective practice tests for the SAT and ACT. If you do much better on the PSAT than the PreACT, for example, you should consider the SAT over the ACT.

INSIDER TIP: The best time to take these practice tests is the summer before junior year. You will discover what sections you are lacking in and can prepare for those sections before taking the actual test for the first time.

A timeline for when to take the SAT and/or ACT: Take the SAT or ACT at the beginning of your junior year, as many colleges have application deadlines of early November of senior year that don’t leave much time to get test scores up as a senior. Take the test again during your junior year if you’re looking to improve your score.

SAT AND ACT TEST DATES FOR 2019 SAT 2019 SAT TEST DATE

REGISTRATION DATE

SCORES BACK DATE

Saturday, March 9, 2019

Feb. 8, 2019

March 22, 2019

Saturday, May 4, 2019

April 5, 2019

May 17, 2019

Saturday, June 1, 2019

May 3, 2019

July 10, 2019

ACT ACT TEST DATE Saturday, Feb. 9, 2019

Jan. 11, 2019

Saturday, April 13, 2019

March 8, 2019

Saturday, June 8, 2019

May 3, 2019

Saturday, July 13, 2019

NORMAL DEADLINE

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

June 14, 2019

LATE REGISTRATION Jan. 12-18, 2019 March 9-25, 2019 May 4-20, 2019 June 15-24, 2019

By summer, if you’re still dissatisfied with your test scores, this is your chance to do final study prep for the beginning of your senior year. The last ACT for early action/decision is in October; for the SAT, it’s in October or November (depending on the college’s deadline). For regular-decision applicants, December of your senior year is the last time you can take the SAT or ACT.

INSIDER TIP: You can take the SAT as many times as you want and the ACT up to 12 times. However, taking either test more than three times is not likely to help you. According to the College Board, which administers the SAT, more than half of students take the SAT more than once and see an increase in their score. The ACT reports similar findings.

1. Get help with studying. Many high schools offer in-school or after-school classes and guidance on SAT or ACT testing. At least 40 total hours studying for either test is recommended. If you can afford a tutor, it could be worth it. The Princeton Review (princetonreview.com) offers free SAT and ACT practice tests.

2. Choose your test date wisely. Students have busy schedules, but try to pick test dates that don’t fall in the busiest periods of your life. The more stress you have on your plate, the less focus you’ll have on testing.

3. Get proper rest. Staying up too late the night before you take the SAT or ACT can affect your outcome.

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GCU.EDU/USATODAY 877-210-2553 * Average tuition after scholarships is approximately $8,700. Scholarships may be awarded based on 6th semester transcripts. At the time in which final, official transcripts are received, GCU reserves the right to rescind or modify the scholarship if it is determined that eligibility was not achieved. GCU reserves the right to decline scholarship awards for any reason. If a student does not meet the minimum renewal criteria, their scholarship will be forfeited. GCU reserves the right to change scholarship awards at any time without notice. If a student does not meet the minimum renewal criteria, their scholarship will be forfeited. Prices based on 2017-18 rate and are subject to change. ** Housing and meal plan rate includes triple occupancy, suite-style residence hall and $1,350 Dining Dollars, plus applicable sales tax as required by state law. Prices reflect 2019-20 proposed rate and are subject to change. For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program and other important information, please visit our website at gcu.edu/disclosures. Please note, not all GCU programs are available in all states and in all learning modalities. Program availability is contingent on student enrollment. Grand Canyon University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. (800-621-7440; http://hlcommission.org/) Important policy information is available in the University Policy Handbook at https://www.gcu.edu/academics/academic-policies.php GCU, while reserving its lawful rights in light of its Christian mission, is committed to maintaining an academic environment that is free from unlawful discrimination. Further detail on GCU’s Non-Discrimination policies can be found at gcu.edu/titleIX The information printed in this material is accurate as of JULY 2018. For the most up-to-date 18GCU0074 information about admission requirements, tuition, scholarships and more, visit gcu.edu ©2018 Grand Canyon University

while making the decision, it is unlikely you will be later. • What type of career can this major lead to? While most jobs don’t require a specific major, it can be a factor during the application process. If you have a specific career in mind but are unsure of what to study, contact your school’s career center or visit job websites and see what the preferred major is on job postings. Also consider earning potential. College is an expensive investment. Make it worth it. • Do I want to pursue a career that requires certain prerequisites (e.g., medicine, engineering)? While you do not have to major in science to become a doctor, you will still have to take the prerequisites, adding extra coursework on top of your major. • What are some career aspirations? List a few careers you have always been interested in and discover what majors could lead you to that career.

Major Decision Don’t Panic When Choosing a College Major BY LUKE LUKERT, SPECIAL TO USA TODAY

igh school seniors spend countless hours researching which college to attend and how to pay for it. The hard decisions should be over. But another big question looms: what major to choose? This decision could have huge implications for the future. For students with a clear career path, choosing a major is easier. For incoming undergraduates with less direction, the task can seem daunting. Luckily, first-year students have both time and resources to help make an educated decision. Students who enter college unsure of a major and future career shouldn't worry. Most are in the same situation, and few have it planned out. Every institution has options to choose from, with some larger universities offering hundreds of majors. Additionally, most 10 COLLEGE COLLEGE GUIDE GUIDE 2019 2019

colleges provide many resources to help students make these tough decisions, including career services, college exploratory programs and academic advisers. Before meeting with advisers, look at each individual focus the school offers and choose majors that sound interesting. Then research those fields; most schools offer online resources with information about available majors.

BEFORE MEETING WITH COLLEGE ADVISERS ASK THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS: • What subject would interest me for many years of study? Students will usually complete 60-plus hours of coursework related to their major, including lectures, homework, group projects and studying for exams. If you are not excited by the subject

• What am I passionate about? This is a question with an ever-changing answer. Ask it throughout the first two years of college and let the answers guide you to a meaningful major that will make you happy enough to wake up and go to class every morning. Choosing a major is intimidating for anyone, but you don’t have to do it alone. Academic advisers are the best resource for students struggling with the decision. "Advisers provide support, encouragement, information and guidance to help students make the most of their college experience," says Diane Miller, the head of academic advising at the University of Georgia's Franklin College. Such counselors will help students make a plan and find classes that will explore their interests. They can also connect undergraduates with major-specific professors who will be able to offer a more in-depth look into that field. Undecided undergraduates can use the first year of classes to gauge their interest in different subjects. Often incoming students intrigued by science courses quickly learn after Chemistry I that they do not want to pursue that route. In the first year, take a variety

of classes that are both interesting but still fill core requirements. Students should keep an open mind about academic experiences and allow themselves to be flexible. Students can also double major if multiple subjects interest them. Double majors will often be in two completely different subjects and will require a punishing work load, but this may be a great decision for undergrads who love learning. Other options are academic minors and certificates. These allow students to pursue multiple academic endeavors but do not require nearly as large a course load.

WHAT 'S

The good news for prospective students is that there is time to figure out college majors. Advisers say undergraduates should lock in a major by the time they complete their core coursework. For the average student, this will be during the final semester of their second year or the first semester of their third year. The majority of classes taken from that point forward will be major specific. Take time during the first year to explore interests and learn about the opportunities different majors can provide. Choosing a major is an important decision, but a majority of students

change majors at least once. Students who go to college with an open mind and follow some of the above tips should be able to pick a major with relative ease. Remember, many graduates find jobs that have nothing to do with their specific major. Plus, careers are not final. In fact, the average person changes careers two to three times. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t panic. Luke Lukert studied finance and banking at the University of Georgia. He now works as a reporter for an Atlanta area radio station.

MYOR?

M AJ

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

to think about. Harsh Northeast winters may be fun for weekends on the ski slope but can last a long time. Too much sun, on the other hand, can make it tough to spend time in the library.

CULTURE

This consideration can be easily overlooked yet is important to many prospective students. An institution’s reputation can say a lot about factors that may or may not appeal to you. Are academics the primary focus, or is a good balance between work and social life? Is Greek life the major social scene, or is it all about athletics? It’s good to find out if many students leave campus on weekends. The right atmosphere and priorities will greatly impact your next four years.

COST

Shopping for Schools Factors to Consider When Choosing a College BY MELANIE SCHWED, SPECIAL TO USA TODAY

here is a lot of pressure on high school seniors to know themselves well. Well enough to decide where in the world or country they want to live, what career path they want to pursue and what kind of environment they want. It’s important that students set benchmarks and stick to them, ignoring pressure from parents or friends. “Define your criteria, what’s important to you,” says Dennis Reynolds, a counselor at Walter Johnson High School in Montgomery County, Maryland. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a college.

SIZE

Do you want to be one in a sea of many, or is it important for you to be recognized as an individual on campus? Size affects what your daily life is like, 1212 COLLEGE COLLEGEGUIDE GUIDE2019 2019

and how the school treats its students. A larger university may have more difficulty tracking and meeting all needs, and this can mean longer waits to meet with counselors or teachers — and even lines at the cafeteria and gym. You will also want to investigate opportunities for social interaction, including dormitories, fraternities and sororities, or other groups that can help you connect.

LOCATION

Where in the country are you interested in living? Is going abroad a possibility? And would you rather live in a smaller, more rural environment or a big city? Also consider how important it is to be near your family and how much cost and travel time moving away would entail. (You will miss them more than you think!) And there is weather

Cost is a critical question, if not the most critical consideration, in determining what school you attend. Many of your choices may fall outside the abilities of your family to pay, which will mean seeking financial assistance, including student loans and scholarships. It is important that you are aware of what you and your family can reasonably take on and consider other options as necessary, including which school may offer you the most attractive aid package, and whether starting your college career at a junior college might be a good option.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

Once you’ve considered what studies you might like to pursue, look for a school that offers a strong program in your desired field and then speak with students who have gone through it. If you don’t yet know what you want to study, how will the school help you explore your options? When do you need to declare a major? Alan Goodwin, the recently retired principal at Walt Whitman High School in Bethesda, Maryland, wisely says to remember there is a college suited for every student. “There are thousands of schools out there,” says Goodwin, and students don't only have to strive for the big names. “Students and families should take a long look at schools that they may never have considered,” Goodwin says.

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When Is the FAFSA Deadline?

You have until June 30, 2020, to submit the 2019-20 FAFSA. Those who file earliest have the best chance of getting more financial aid. BY TEDDY NYKIEL AND ANNA HELHOSKI, NERDWALLET

ou have to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, for each school year to qualify for grants, scholarships, federal work-study and federal student loans. But deadlines vary for federal, state and institutional aid. Each year, the FAFSA opens on Oct. 1. File your FAFSA as close to Oct. 1 as possible to improve your chances of qualifying for the most grant, scholarship and work-study aid. For the 2019-20 school year, the start date was Oct. 1, 2018. Certain aid is awarded to students who apply the earliest, such as federal work-study dollars and many state and institutional grants and scholarships. The federal government gives students a deadline of June 30 after

the school year in which they need aid — for instance, June 30, 2020, for the 2019-20 school year — to file the FAFSA. But you have to submit the

FA F S A

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

form much earlier to meet financial aid deadlines for your state and college and to get your aid dollars in time for the start of the school year.

FAFSA OPEN DATES AND DEADLINES ACADEMIC YEAR

FAFSA OPEN DATE

FEDERAL FAFSA DEADLINE

2018-19

Oct. 1, 2017

June 30, 2019

2019-20

Oct. 1, 2018

June 30, 2020

You only have to file the FAFSA once to be eligible for all three types of aid. Here’s what you need to know about each:

STATE AND INSTITUTIONAL FAFSA DEADLINES

States and individual colleges set their own FAFSA deadlines that are typically much earlier than the federal deadline. You have to file your application by these deadlines to qualify for state and institutional grants and scholarships. If you’re attending an out-of-state school, you may not qualify for state aid — check with the state. Find your state financial aid deadline on the Federal Student Aid website: https://fafsa.ed.gov/deadlines.htm.

FEDERAL FAFSA DEADLINE

The federal deadline is your last chance to submit the FAFSA each year. If you need financial aid for the 2019-20 school year, you can submit the form until June 30, 2020. Work-study dollars and most state and institutional aid will run out the fastest for 2019-20, but there will still be time to qualify for federal grants and student loans. Even

if you wait until June 30, 2020, you can receive these grants and loans retroactively to cover what you’ve already paid for the spring and fall semesters. Or, depending on your school, you may be able to apply the funds to 2020 summer school.

NEXT STEPS

TRACK COLLEGES’ FINANCIAL AID DEADLINES. Deadlines at individual schools often fall the earliest, so those deadlines are the most important to track. Look up the dates for all the schools you’re applying to and write them down in one place — try using your phone’s calendar, a spreadsheet or a notebook dedicated to your college search.

SUBMIT ANY OTHER FINANCIAL AID APPLICATIONS. Many schools require additional or alternative financial aid applications, such as the CSS Profile, to qualify for state or institutional aid. You’ll need to submit all the required

paperwork before the deadline to be considered for aid. ABOVE ALL, REMEMBER OCT. 1. It’s not a deadline, but if you submit your FAFSA soon after that day, you’ll cover all your bases.

WAIT FOR YOUR FINANCIAL AID AWARD LETTER, which details how much free aid you qualify for and how much in federal loans you can borrow. You may appeal your award if you didn’t get enough aid.

GET FAFSA HELP

Email the Federal Student Aid Information Center. https://studentaidhelp.ed.gov/app/as Call 800-433-3243 (334-523-2691 for international callers). Form Your Future helps organize FAFSA completion events nationwide. http://formyourfuture.org/

10/01

F STA AFSA RT D ATE

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

HOW SOME STUDENTS ARE LOWERING OR AVOIDING COLLEGE TUITION AND STUDENT LOANS BY NICOLE ZELNIKER, USA TODAY

s many Americans struggle with student debt, a growing number of college-bound teenagers have found a way to sidestep as much as $44,000 in tuition expense, on average — and the loans that often go along with it. Enrollment is growing in early college programs, which allow high school students to take college courses in 11th and 12th grade, potentially cutting the time and money spent at four-year institutions in half. All official early college programs are public. The early college high school initiative started in 2002 at Guilford College

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

in Greensboro, North Carolina, and began with fewer than 200 students. Today, the program serves hundreds of thousands of students at hundreds of early college high schools, according to Jobs for the Future, a nonprofit geared toward providing educational opportunities for underserved communities. “Early college education is growing more popular by the year,” says Maria Beggs, a teacher at Stockton Early College Academy in Stockton, California. “If students follow the required track, they may be able to graduate from high school with their (associate) degree or just transfer to a university as a freshman with junior standing.”

The schools are significantly cheaper than other pre-college high school programs, including dual enrollment programs and community college courses, which can cost thousands of dollars. “That makes a huge difference for low-income students and students underrepresented in higher education,” says Joel Vargas, vice president of school and learning designs at the nonprofit Jobs for the Future. “They don’t have to overcome the hurdles,” he says, referring to tuition costs. “They’ve been removed.” The stakes are high. Tuition at four-year public colleges and universities averaged $16,650 in 2017, while tuition at private colleges and universities averaged $32,410 a year. During the 2015-2016 school year, the average student graduated with $29,500 in student loan debt, up from $25,700 in 2014. The schools in the initiative were funded largely by the Gates Foundation through grants up until 2012. Between 2001 and 2004, the organization donated over $124 million. “Early college gave me the privilege of time and resources to figure out what makes me tick before being thrown into an institution filled with an overwhelming number of opportunities,” says Meghana Iragavarapu, a graduate of the Early College at Guilford program who is now at Duke University. The proven ability to handle college-level work and responsibilities is also attracting the notice of admissions officers at universities and colleges. Frank Thomas Rechichi, assistant director of admissions at the Rochester Institute of Technology, visits high schools in New York as part of his job, including the Bard early college high school programs in Queens and Manhattan. He says early college students stand out during the admissions process, often landing scholarships. Even those who don’t get credits transferred can use the time to figure out what they want to do. “It is less expensive, in time and money, to change your mind at the high school early college level than at RIT,” Rechichi says.

MONEY MATTER$ Helpful Facts About 529 College Savings Plans BY RUSS WILES, USA TODAY NETWORK

ection 529 of the Internal Revenue Code is a college savings plan that offers tax breaks and healthy investment options. Since its introduction 22 years ago, use of the plan has leveled, according to a 2017 Sallie Mae report. Many families just don’t have the disposable income to put toward the plans, but 529 misconceptions also may explain part of the slowdown. Here are eight things you might not realize about 529 plans:

1. YOU DON’T NEED TO MEET INCOME GUIDELINES. Unlike individual retirement accounts, no income caps apply. There’s no curtailment of the tax benefits, either, so investment earnings potentially grow free of federal taxes. You can’t deduct contributions to a 529 plan on your federal tax return, but more than 30 states allow full or partial deductions, according to www.savingforcollege.com. And most programs feature low investment minimums, often as little as $25.

2. YOU DON’T NEED ASSETS IN YOUR CHILD’S NAME. For children to receive

4. THE MONEY DOESN’T HAVE TO GO TO THE INTENDED RECIPIENT. If your kid decides not to attend college, you can transfer the account balance to another beneficiary, such as the child’s younger sibling. You also could transfer it to someone unrelated or use it for your own higher education expenses, should you return to school.

5. YOU AREN’T REQUIRED TO GIVE IT AWAY. It’s even possible for an investor to pull out proceeds for personal use. This can be handy if the donor runs into personal financial problems or if the intended recipient doesn’t attend college or wins a full scholarship. However, donors who transfer 529 assets for their own noncollege use face taxes on earnings and a 10 percent penalty.

6. YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE A PARENT TO USE THESE ACCOUNTS. Other family members and even friends

can set up and fund 529 accounts. The person who sets up the account retains considerable control over it, including deciding who to name as the beneficiary and where to invest.

7. YOU CAN USE ANOTHER STATE’S PLAN. Though the accounts are named after a section of the Internal Revenue Code and feature earnings that are tax-free on federal returns, the programs are run by the various states in partnership with investment companies.

8. THERE’S NO NEED TO FRET OVER INVESTMENT DECISIONS. Nearly all 529 plans utilize mutual funds and exchange-traded funds. Funds with stock market exposure usually are the way to go, especially for young children whose accounts could grow for 15 or 20 years. The accounts don’t need to be liquidated as soon as the beneficiary reaches adulthood. For example, funds may be used for graduate school.

“529” FA C T S

financial aid, it’s best not to have a lot of assets held in their names. When parents set up 529 plans, the assets are counted less heavily for financial aid eligibility than if the same assets were held by the child in, say, a custodial account.

3. YOU DON’T HAVE TO USE THE ACCOUNTS FOR TUITION. It’s recommended, but not required, to use proceeds for higher education, as distributions would then come out tax- and penalty-free. Permissible expenses also include housing, books, computers and more. The money can also be used to finance training in technical or vocational schools. And thanks to recent tax reform legislation, proceeds can be taken out tax-free and used to pay for up to $10,000 annually in tuition for kindergarten through 12th grade. COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

“It may seem counterintuitive to say that Christian colleges and universities feature great diversity of thought,” says Shirley Hoogstra, president of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, which has 180 members worldwide. “But our institutions place a high value on diverse views.” • RELIGIOUS CAMPUSES tend to have more do’s and don’ts for students — everything from required chapel attendance to single-gender dorms, dating restrictions and dress codes — than secular ones. But secular institutions have rules, too, including academic honor codes and personal conduct codes.

Secular vs. Faith-Based College Prospective college students have a choice to go to a religious school or a secular one. BY KIMBERLY WINSTON, SPECIAL TO USA TODAY

hen college acceptance letters fill the mailbox, prospective college students may face a choice — to say “yes” to a religious school or a secular one. Both have pluses and minuses not covered in high school math. Picking the right one requires a little discernment. “It is an individual decision,” says Paul F. Hassen of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, which includes secular and religious schools. “Students thrive in all sorts of environments, and it is really important to find one where they will have the opportunity to thrive and grow.” But how to find it? Here are some things to consider about both religious and secular schools:

1818 COLLEGE COLLEGEGUIDE GUIDE2019 2019

• COLLEGE IS WHERE many students encounter diversity for the first time, in ethnicity, thought, economic background and life experience. Secular schools tend to have a more mixed student body and faculty than religious schools, where commitment to a single religion or denomination may limit diversity. But that is changing. In 2014, 28% of students at Christian institutions and colleges were nonwhite — up from 19% in 2004 — with more than 20 schools reporting 40% students of color. More diverse Christian schools can be found in big cities like New York, Chicago, Seattle and Los Angeles.

“Some students will thrive in a place where there are guardrails and some won’t,” says NAICU’s Hassen. “Students have to ask themselves, ‘Can I picture myself on this campus?’ The answer goes a long way.” • AMONG THE BEST predictors of college success is a low student-to-faculty ratio. When classes are small, students show higher levels of learning and better graduation rates. Because they are generally smaller than secular institutions, religious colleges and universities tend to have lower student-to-faculty ratios across the academic years. “Studies show students who thrive upon graduation are more likely to attend schools where there is interaction with professors outside of the classroom and where they feel as if they matter,” says Lynn Pasquerella, president of the Association of American Colleges and Universities, which includes both religious and secular institutions. “Religious institutions often do a very good job engendering a sense of meaning and purpose that helps students develop agency while seeing themselves as members of a community.” • SECULAR OR RELIGIOUS, college is expensive. Private religious institutions generally cost more than public secular institutions, which can mean bigger loans and more debt for the religious-college graduate.

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STEAM Rising Blending Liberal Arts and STEM BY MARY HELEN BERG, SPECIAL TO USA TODAY

instein called the arts and sciences “branches of the same tree.” Steve Jobs said technology combined with the liberal arts and humanities “makes our hearts sing.” Astronaut Mae Jemison described the arts and sciences as “manifestations of the same thing … the avatars of human creativity.” But the arts and sciences became isolated from each other in the early 2000s, when a push for innovation and an increasingly high-tech job market emphasized the importance of science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM. Now more colleges are returning to the vision expressed by Einstein – that the arts and sciences are linked, interdependent, complementary. Many schools are adding programs, dorms, 20

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

clubs and classes that integrate the arts into STEM, adding the letter “A” to create STEAM. This educational approach recognizes the incomparable contribution that creativity makes in every discipline and honors its integral role in innovation, says Babette Allina, executive director of government relations and external affairs for the Rhode Island School of Design, one of the schools to pioneer STEAM. “Whatever kind of education you’re going to get, you should probably look at places that are going to embrace your own inherent creativity,” Allina says. There is no formal curriculum for STEAM, so students who want to pursue this type of education need to assess how individual schools integrate it on campus.

For example, Western Washington University in Bellingham offers a STEAM minor, while Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in Blacksburg, Virginia, provides an entire institute dedicated to creativity, arts and technology for undergraduate and graduate students. Ohio State University’s STEAM factory facilitates collaboration between faculty, researchers and staff of all disciplines and hosts programs and events for students and the public. In 2018, the National Science Foundation awarded a $1.2 million grant to fund research there. Binghamton University, State University of New York, opened a residential STEAM learning community in 2017 where students from different disciplines share living space in a building that features a lab stocked with computers, tools and other materials that encourage students to create, design and innovate. STEAM community members are required to take two seminars in science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Students may not even find the word STEAM in a school’s course catalog because professors incorporate the approach into traditional, existing courses. Koen Gieskes, assistant director of the engineering design division at Binghamton University, says he opens his introductory engineering course with a student competition that rewards innovation and ends the year with a lecture on the value and significance of creativity and design. Assignments sometimes offer vague instructions to force students to think outside the box. Student clubs are another way campuses embrace STEAM. Students at the Rhode Island School of Design, Yale, Brown, Rutgers, Harvard, Boston University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the New School formed a network of STEAM clubs to “ignite communications between disparate fields in academia, business and thought.” Sarah Pease founded the STEAM club at the Rhode Island School of Design in 2012 while studying furniture design. Now a product designer on Facebook’s civic engagement team, Pease says she uses her STEAM background every day. “I am most successful in my job when I harness my creativity and empathy

(the 'A' in STEAM) to drive products and experiences enabled by technology (STEM),” Pease, 27, wrote in an email. “Solving the most challenging problems requires working on interdisciplinary teams of designers, researchers, engineers and data scientists; it isn't necessarily about being able to fulfill all of these roles on my own but embracing what we're able to accomplish when we work together.” Students who are exposed to an education that includes the arts and liberal arts along with science, technology, engineering and math are more well-rounded and ultimately become more valuable workers, says Anthony P. Carnevale, director of the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce. “You’ll be a better engineer if you’ve had exposure to a wide variety of other kinds of courses – it makes you more flexible,” Carnevale says. But, he adds, in terms of employment, “the people who have the choices tend to be the people with technical employment, because they’re guaranteed that first job.”

How Art Enhances the STEM Field ANDREW DANE, FOR USA TODAY NETWORK-WISCONSIN

Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workers help drive U.S. competitiveness by generating new ideas and starting new companies. We hear a lot about the importance of STEM as it relates to preparing our kids to join the workforce. But what about the arts, and how should they fit into our educational system? A U.S. Department of Commerce study in 2015 identified 8.6 million STEM jobs comprising 6.2 percent of U.S. employment. Looking ahead, the study predicts most types of STEM jobs will expand faster than all other occupations until 2024, with 73 percent of STEM job growth occurring in computer occupations. While educators and policy makers are taking notice, reformulating curricula and directing resources, it should be noted that one of the four major classroom trends in 2018 is the continued growth of STEAM — the idea of incorporating art into STEM education. Stem to Steam is an organization that advocates for adding art and design to

the equation. Members argue that in a rapidly changing world, the tools and methods of design help people effectively communicate complex data and scientific information, while also promoting creative problem-solving. Ian Moore, from Appleton, Wisconsin, says the arts enhanced his work in the computer security field. Moore has a B.A. in modern literature and numerous technology certifications. “When we educate people to be able to read, comprehend and discourse, we teach them to succeed in not just the arts, but any field — technical or administrative,” Moore says. “Learning a musical instrument, as I did, instills both the knowledge of how difficult it is to achieve excellence and an appreciation of group collaboration, of working toward a higher goal. “I struggle to find the right words to express how lucky I was to have such a wealth of different influences and perspectives instilled in me from childhood,” Moore says. “Oh yeah, it’s called a liberal arts education.”

Andrew Dane is a community development specialist in Appleton, Wisconsin.

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

Is Online College for You? Answer 5 Questions to Find Out BY ANNA HELHOSKI, NERDWALLET

melia Roberts, a nurse in Washington, D.C., knew she needed to return to college for a bachelor's degree if she wanted to win a care coordinator position at her hospital. But attending college on a campus wasn't a practical option for her. "I was in the workforce, so traveling to a class in the evening wasn't going to work. Everything pointed to online university," Roberts says. She enrolled in a bachelor of science program in nursing online through Thomas Edison State University in New Jersey. She got the promotion. Roberts found the independent, self-paced style of online learning suited her well. Millions of college students enroll in online courses every year. Nearly a

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

third of all college students take at least one online course, and one in seven students take online courses exclusively, according to recent data from the Babson Survey Research Group. But it's not for everyone. If you're considering an online degree program, ask yourself these five questions.

1. AM I SELF-MOTIVATED? You need to be a self-starter to succeed in any classroom, but it's critical for online learning. Online degree seekers are often older than typical freshmen, and classes aren't always their top priority. "The majority of our students are working adults with full-time jobs, children and other commitments outside of the classroom," says

Joe Chapman, director of student services for Arizona State University Online. "Attending in class on campus is not an option for them, and it's been several years since they last attended school. ... It can be daunting and scary for some people." To thrive in an online setting, you'll need self-discipline. You'll also need a strategy to manage your time and energy to balance classwork with other responsibilities.

2. DO I HAVE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT? You can take a course online at any time and place â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that's the primary appeal. Yet that doesn't mean you should be using your smartphone to do it, experts say.

"You may have a phone, an iPhone or an iPad and you can access our classes that way, but to be effective, you really should have a reliable computer," says Lynne M. Lander Fleisher, director of Clarion University Online. You'll need a desktop or laptop and regular internet access to complete coursework online. You also may need to download software your school requires.

3. CAN I ADAPT TO LEARNING ONLINE? Learning in an online setting may not be the best way for you to absorb information. If you're not a reader, then you probably won't enjoy online courses, which tend to require a lot of reading. You're unlikely to interact as much with your professor or peers in an online course. A solo learning style may not be a fit if you rely on communicating with others. "Everyone learns differently, so the people who can learn better by reading or hearing have an advantage," says Megan Pederson, teaching specialist and online academic adviser for the University of Minnesota Crookston. "People who learn by doing tend not to enjoy the online experience."

4. IS THE SCHOOL I AM INTERESTED IN LEGITIMATE? An online degree program's quality will vary by institution. Programs

offered by established, nonprofit public or private schools are usually safe bets. You should research the credentials of schools without a brick-and-mortar counterpart. Start by finding top online colleges from "best of" lists by reputable publications. For an extra layer of quality control, ask the admissions department about accreditation, both institutional and program-specific.

5. HOW WILL I PAY? If you can't afford to pay for your degree with savings and income, the financial aid process is the same as if you were attending a traditional college campus. You'll need to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. Then you'll receive a Student Aid Report detailing aid you qualify for. The amount of aid you can get will depend on your enrollment status, dependency status and income. The rule of thumb is to accept any grants and scholarships, followed by workstudy, before taking out a loan. Schools that are accredited will offer financial aid. Be wary if your school does not offer federal financial aid or pushes its own loan programs.

This article originally appeared on the personal finance website NerdWallet.

ONLINE LEARNING ANYWHERE YOU ARE!

ONLINE GRADUATE PROGRAMS GROWING IN POPULARITY JESSICA LEVY, POST UNIVERSITY FOR USA TODAY NETWORK A combination of factors is spurring the popularity of online graduate courses at U.S. universities: technological advances, the normalization of online interactions and an increase in demand from international students. Mostly, though, universities are simply answering the call from their student population, which increasingly opts for the convenience and flexibility of getting a graduate degree online, some school officials say. “If you just look across the higher education landscape, more and more universities — even big-brand universities like Syracuse, Georgia Tech, Purdue and Penn State — are offering their graduate programs online,” says Jeremi Bauer, the dean of Post University’s Malcolm Baldrige School of Business. Increasingly, universities are breaking with tradition and going virtual. Founded in 1890, Post University still offers classes at its Waterbury, Connecticut, campus. But stepping foot onto that campus now is completely optional. Educators say the online option isn’t just for those who are trying to balance their careers with a degree program. It also makes sense for students who prefer the online teaching methodology, which tends to focus on practical applications that students can apply to their professional lives. “Through the use of computer simulations, case studies and scenarios, students can experience actual situations found in the workplace. They put theory into practice,” says Carolyn Shiffman, director of graduate programs at Post. And that high level of engagement means students don’t need to sacrifice quality to take classes online. Don’t think you aren’t going to have to work as hard as you would in a brick-and-mortar classroom. “Going this route requires significant discipline on the part of the student, but the reward is well worth the sacrifice,” says Bauer.

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

How to Write a Killer College Application Essay BY MELANIE SCHWED, SPECIAL TO USA TODAY

ost of the students I teach are in 11th or 12th grade. They are consumed with the process of gathering transcripts, taking standardized tests, whittling down their lists of schools to apply to, and dodging questions about their future. I hear unending college talk as I walk through the halls or quiet down a room to start class. They are consumed with the whole process, and who can blame them? Each year is labeled “the most competitive college application pool ever.” Students feel more pressure than ever to make themselves distinctive. The opportunity lies in the personal essay section of their applications. 24

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

Often the most daunting part due to its open-ended nature, this section is students’ chance to stand out from the crowd. Here are some tips on how to make the most of this 600-word golden opportunity.

1. THIS IS NOT MERELY A LONGER VERSION OF YOUR RÉSUMÉ! The whole purpose of the essay portion of any application is to let admissions counselors know who you are outside of your qualifications. “What makes you stand out?” says Gayle Evans, college/career information coordinator at Walter Johnson High School in Bethesda, Maryland. “Think about what makes

you interesting.” A mere list of accomplishments on paper is not telling of your personality, drive and character. Colleges want to get a feel for the person who could be joining their campus; there isn’t time to interview all applicants, so the essay will serve the same purpose. This is your opportunity to give your application a personal spin and to show who you are and what makes you a good fit for their school.

2. SHOW, DON’T TELL. Just like in a job interview, you don’t just want to tell someone what makes you great. You also want to be able to show them through

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some sort of anecdote or example. If you plan on telling colleges how responsible you are, don’t just write that; provide a story of a time you displayed the characteristic. Let them judge what your stories articulate about you. You have the power to craft a narrative that is an exemplar of your attributes.

3. DON’T BE BASIC! The admissions counselor who will read your essay has also read around 2,000 others this year alone. Do not just write what you think he or she wants to hear or what seems like the obvious choice. Anything that you care about or that makes you different is refreshing. Owen Knight, a senior admissions counselor at Tulane University, says: “Write what you want to write. A lot of students fall into the trap of thinking that I want to read a particular type of essay. I’d much rather they write about something they actually care about.” It is apparent when you are writing about something that interests you, so choose a topic you are passionate about. “This is your one chance to put your voice in your application,” Knight emphasizes. Use it to shine through in your writing and make you stand out from others.

26 26 COLLEGE COLLEGEGUIDE GUIDE2019 2019

4. WHAT’S IN IT FOR THEM? Be sure your essay mentions what you’ve done to help others or how you’ve contributed to the community. Not only does it speak to your character, but it shows the college you will contribute to their campus atmosphere if you’re accepted. Colleges want to admit students who will get involved and SHOW, make their school a better DON'T place. Bonus points if it TELL! relates to your area of interest/study! This shows you’re dedicated to your major and have a plan you are passionate about. The admissions counselors can then see that their school fits into your plans and ambitions, and that they are not just a bullet point on your list of applications.

5. EDIT WITH A FINE-TOOTH COMB!! Have others edit after you. And then one more person for good measure. Do not have any spelling, grammatical or punctuation errors or use abbreviations or slang. It sounds like obvious advice but remember, I teach high school students for a living. It needs to be said again and again.

6. EXPLAIN IF YOU NEED TO. Sometimes your résumé and transcripts do not accurately reflect

your potential. Sometimes students go through difficult times in high school and don’t perform to the best of their potential. Students often grow up a lot over the course of four years. If there is something you feel would help give the admissions counselors a better picture of who you are and how you got to the point you are at, use the essay to tell them. This doesn’t mean you write 400 words on how you got a C in that one class that one time. Only write about it if it shows how you have grown as a person. If you have gone through a hardship and it affected your performance, share it, but only to show that you are resilient and a better person because of it, not to make excuses.

So instead of being intimidated by the open-ended nature of the college essay, see it as an opportunity to help yourself stand out from a crowd that is increasingly remarkable on paper. Show who you are and why the school would be lucky to have you on campus. Melanie Schwed teaches AP Psychology, Honors Modern World History and Leadership at Walter Johnson High School in Bethesda, Maryland.

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Does Grad School Pay Off? Should you rack up more debt and spend years out of the workforce to pursue a master's degree? BY MARY HELEN BERG, SPECIAL TO USA TODAY

ongratulations! You conquered your bachelor’s degree. Now what? Graduate school is one option, but should you rack up more debt and spend years out of the workforce to pursue a master’s degree? Experts say: It depends. Although fewer students applied to graduate school in 2017, according to a new survey from the Council of Graduate Schools and the Graduate Record Examinations Program, certain fields still require a master’s degree for promotion. In some cases a graduate

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

degree is necessary to even get a foot tion will command a higher salary, in the door, says Anthony P. Carnevale, Carnevale says, but this isn’t always director of the Georgetown University true. Today, your chosen field is more Center on Education and the likely to influence your salary Workforce. than your degree. But the decision to attend “We used to live in a world graduate school is highly in which it was pretty much SCHOOL FOR personal, he adds, and india sure thing that a higher vidual passions, goals, values level of education would get and finances will determine you substantially more money whether you should take an than a lower level of education,” advanced degree. says Carnevale. “Now, we live in a One reason to pursue a graduate world where there’s much more of a degree is the hope that advanced educatie between field of study, your level of

IS GRAD

ME?

education, your access to training on the job and your access to technology on the job. When we run equations now, those four things determine earnings, and the education is just the beginning.” According to a new report from Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce, a bachelor’s degree will earn a median salary of $62,000, while a master’s degree will bump annual income to $80,000. However, a master’s degree in science, technology, engineering or math will earn above the median, $100,000, while the median salary for a master’s in the arts, education, humanities and social sciences will peak at about $78,000, according to the report. Higher earnings aren’t the only valuable aspect of an advanced degree, nor the only way to measure the return on your educational investment, says Suzanne Ortega, president of the Council of Graduate Schools, a nonprofit research and advocacy group. Research shows that people with an advanced education experience a higher level of work satisfaction and are happier overall. “If you’re studying in a field and you cannot imagine anything you’d rather do for the next two to seven years, because your heart and head tell you ‘This is what I want to spend my time doing,’” then you should pursue graduate school, she says. “Passion for a field is one excellent reason to go ahead.”

There’s no guarantee that a graduate degree will enrich your life or assure financial success, but a few basic guidelines will help you avoid “buyer’s remorse,” Carnevale says.

Before you commit to grad school:

KNOW THYSELF

“The people with regrets (about their graduate degree) are the people who thought they were going to get a set of benefits that didn’t materialize – and the principal one that they’re disappointed about is economic,” says Carnevale. Analyze your interests and values and determine whether they align with your chosen field before plunking down tens of thousands of dollars for a degree, he says.

KNOW THE COST

Full-time graduate students shell out an average of $24,812 per year for their education, according to a 2017 survey of students by the Sallie Mae Corporation and the market research company Ipsos. Costs vary by institution and by the type and length of program, but debt accumulates quickly, especially when added to existing debt from undergraduate school. And tuition prices keep climbing. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average

tuition and fees for master’s degrees jumped by about one-third between 2007 and 2017. In 2015-2016, 60% of graduate students who completed degrees had loan debt averaging $66,000. Students seeking professional degrees, such as medicine or law, had even higher debt. Seventy-five percent of these students carried loan balances averaging $186,600.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK

Know program completion rates for your school. Discuss career satisfaction with people in your industry. Research occupations in your field and compare earnings potential and job growth.

KNOW YOUR FINANCES

If your total student loan debt at graduation, including outstanding undergraduate loans, is less than your annual income, you should be able to pay off your loans in 10 years, says Mark Kantrowitz, a financial aid expert, publisher and vice president of research for Savingforcollege.com. Regardless of the degree you seek, don’t overborrow. “If you’re looking at six-figure debt, you should be extra cautious,” he says, “unless you happen to go into a field where a six-figure income is the norm.”

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

As Financial Burden Rises, College Students Question Value of Education ADAM SHELL, USA TODAY

At a time when the burden of financing a college education is getting more costly for students, a growing number of undergraduates don't think the value of the instruction they are getting is keeping up with the exorbitant price. That's the grim takeaway from a recent study from Ascent Student Loans, a private student loan provider. Roughly 60 percent of undergraduates 18 to 24 years old and enrolled in a four-year bachelor's degree program who have taken out student loans say they are responsible for covering more than half the total cost of their education, the survey found. However, 51.7 percent said they do not think the "value of a college education has kept up with the cost."

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

And the cost of tuition and room and board for both public and private colleges continued to rise in the 2017-2018 school year, according to the College Board. The average tab at a four-year, in-state public college rose 3.1 percent to $20,770, and the cost at private institutions jumped 3.5 percent to $46,950. Not only are students paying for a bigger part of the bill, 47.2 percent said they will need to cover more of their college costs than they originally thought, the Ascent survey found. The combination of higher costs and students who think they are getting less return on their college investment is a double whammy. "People now regularly view education as an expense, rather than

an investment," says Ken Ruggiero, chairman and CEO of Goal Structured Solutions, the administrator of Ascent Student Loans.

OTHER SURVEY FINDINGS: • More than one-third (33.9 percent) of students said $20,000 to $49,999 would be a "reasonable amount" of student loan debt to have upon graduation. • Only one out of five (21.1 percent) know that the average monthly payment for student loans is "more than $200 a month." • Just 32 percent know that interest begins accruing on the date the loan funds are disbursed.

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1 University Dr. | Aliso Viejo | CA 92656 | www.soka.edu

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FEATURED COLLEGES Salisbury, Maryland

Garden City, New York

Nashua, New Hampshire

K E Y S TAT I S T I C S

Salisbury University is known for excellence in public higher education.

Ranked a 2019 Best College by U.S. News & World Report for our personal approach.

The University is home to 8,700 students from across the U.S. and around the world.

94.9% of full-time incoming first-year students received some kind of financial aid.

Students may choose from 60 undergraduate majors, master’s degrees and doctoral programs.

Our main campus is less than an hour’s train ride from Manhattan.

The beautiful 200-acre campus is located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, near beaches and major cities.

94% of our students have jobs or continue their education within six months of graduation.

www.salisbury.edu

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Strengths-Based Well-Being Program Distinctive Journeys of Transformation Core Curriculum Global Scholars Honors Program

rivier.edu

Adelphi.edu/Info

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Innovative Employment Promise Program

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East Hartford, Connecticut

Geneva, New York

Newport News, Virginia

K E Y S TAT I S T I C S

Enrollment: 3,536 (Fall 2017)

45 majors, 68 minors and a 10:1 student to faculty ratio.

Student-to-faculty ratio: 11:1 (Fall 2017)

HWS students can choose to study in 50 locations across 6 continents through our #1 ranked study abroad program.

Program Focus Areas: Nursing, healthcare, business and management, manufacturing, safety and security, and social and educational Goodwin College is a private, nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

www.goodwin.edu

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One internship or research opportunity is guaranteed. Nationally recognized for our commitment to service, HWS is a “Top-producer” of Fulbright Scholars and Peace Corps Volunteers.

www.hws.edu

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Four-year public liberal arts and sciences university with 5,000 students. 90-plus areas of study | 200-plus clubs and student organizations. Small class sizes – nearly 60 percent of classes with 19 or fewer students. We believe real success is a life well lived, and we want our students to lead lives of significance.

cnu.edu

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FEATURED COLLEGES Norman, Oklahoma

Durham, North Carolina

Morgantown, West Virginia

K E Y S TAT I S T I C S

Degrees designed for working adults, nontraditional students. 20+ degrees and certificates available, including 100% online degrees. Ranked Top 10 in online bachelor’s programs, with a Criminal Justice program ranked No. 7 in the nation. 15+ scholarships available for OU Extended Campus students. Tuition waivers may be available for qualified military and law enforcement personnel.

pacs.ou.edu

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NCCU ranks as the number 10 HBCU in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

Founded in 1867, West Virginia University is an R1 research institution – one of only 115 in the U.S.

NCCU’s two research institutes are at the forefront of developing health disparities solutions.

Researchers are working in energy, physics and astronomy, neuroscience, forensic science and rural health.

NCCU Online is ranked as an affordable distance education option.

WVU offers 360+ majors and has the nation’s largest crime scene training complex.

NCCU is the first University of North Carolina System institution to offer a bachelor’s degree in Jazz Studies.

WVU has the world’s first institute devoted to studying human memory.

nccu.edu

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WVU.edu

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10/17/18 10:4

WOODBURN HALL AT WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY IN MORGANTOWN

Ranked #1 Best Value School among regional universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report

www.LMUnet.edu

Ranked #58 among regional universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report

Named a Best College and a top 10 institution in Tennessee by Money Magazine

FEATURED COLLEGES Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Lakeland, Florida

K E Y S TAT I S T I C S

UA was founded in 1831.

FSC was founded in 1883.

We currently offer 200+ majors in 12 different colleges and schools.

Offers 70+ programs of study including business administration, education, nursing, computer sciences and marine biology.

Our public relations program is consistently ranked in the Top 5 in the nation.

Four Fulbright Award recipients in 2018. FSC has been recognized as one of the nation’s best four-year colleges.

Our accountancy program is currently ranked No. 7 in the nation.

ua.edu

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flsouthern.edu

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Greenwood, South Carolina

Harrogate, Tennessee

K E Y S TAT I S T I C S

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Public, coeducational, four-year university founded in 1872.

Founded in 1897 as a living memorial to Abraham Lincoln

Approximately 3,000 students, with an average class size of 22.

Your career path is here: Professional degree programs in Osteopathic Medicine, Law, Veterinary Medicine, Education, Business and Nursing.

More than 60 areas of study offered, including high-demand, market-driven signature programs. Vibrant campus life with 60+ student clubs and organizations, 25+ intramurals and club sports, and 16 NCAA Div. II athletic programs.

www.lmunet.edu

lander.edu

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A U.S. News and World Report and Money Magazine Best College; LMU was named the No. 1 Best Value School among regional universities in the South by U.S. News.

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Fredericksburg, Virginia

Itta Bena, Mississippi

K E Y S TAT I S T I C S

Within an hour’s drive of both Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Virginia.

“One Fee @ The V”—MVSU has no out-of-state tuition fees. MVSU offers 35 unique programs, including 100% online options.

Offers unique internships, research excursions, and recreational opportunities 88 percent of faculty have earned a doctorate or other terminal degree in their field

With a faculty ratio of 13-to-1, MVSU provides the classes you need and the personal attention you deserve. MVSU has one of only seven accredited graduate environmental health programs in the nation.

No classes are taught by graduate teaching assistants ever

umw.edu

www.mvsu.edu

Madison Rickard Radford University ’18 Major: Nursing

“I’M PASSIONATE ABOUT MY CAREER.” THE REASON IS RADFORD Madison Rickard planned to be a cheerleader at a big state school. Instead, she fell in love with Radford University and its tight-knit community. She found her passion in Radford’s top-rated nursing program, learning from excellent, inspiring instructors and discovering her path in pediatric oncology. She also found all the opportunities she hoped for, with clubs, Greek Life and tutoring work – and a spot as a Highlander cheerleader.

Learn more at Radford.edu

Radford, VA

Benefits of Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is the perfect way to challenge yourself, learn about another country's culture and try new things. BY LESLIE SCHWED, SPECIAL TO USA TODAY

ot everything can be learned in a classroom or from a textbook. Time spent in college is all about learning from new experiences and personal development. Studying abroad is the perfect way to challenge yourself, learn about another country’s culture and try new things. With the proper research before applying to a program, you can even receive credit toward graduation from your hard work

abroad. Studying abroad can be a résumé boost as well, displaying your ability to try things outside your comfort zone and learn new languages. Choosing to immerse myself in a Spanish-speaking program in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was a life-changing opportunity for me. I learned to challenge myself, try my best and laugh when I make mistakes. The time spent in a homestay taught me about the real cultural values

STUDY ABROAD?

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

of Argentina. I bonded with my host mom, who introduced me to the culture of Argentina through political discussions over milanesa dinners, morning Buddhism meditations and long walks to get cafecitos (coffees) with her friends. All in Spanish. Learning what people eat, how they practice religions, where they work and what they do in their free time can be a very fun way to learn outside of lecture halls. Experiencing a new culture can

be a great way to learn about yourself and your field of study as well. Taking classes related to your major while abroad provides the opportunity to learn about how the rest of the world prepares students for the profession. Many programs involve more hands-on activities instead of lectures for students. Fieldwork, interviewing professionals, research projects, site visits and even some tourism are integral parts of study abroad schedules. I studied health care in Argentina, attending lectures taught in Spanish, interviewing nurses across the North and South, and researching the treatment of addictions. It provided a different per-

spective that students do not frequently experience from undergraduate curriculums. I majored in public health and international development at Tulane University, which led me to choose this program. I decided to pursue nursing after witnessing the impact nurses had at institutions regardless of the siteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wealth or patient population. To ease the application process and ensure you select the right program, contact your schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s study abroad office. Universities often have studyabroad fairs and information sessions. Studying abroad helps students learn and gain confidence in their careers and themselves. I felt a great sense

of accomplishment putting myself in a completely new environment and learning how to adapt and make the best of it. The day I took the wrong bus and found out how to get home and when my Spanish improved enough to impress the residents were small victories that I cherish. I am so grateful for discovering my future career and confidence through Argentina and encourage others to benefit from all the opportunities studying abroad offers. Leslie Schwed spent the fall semester of her junior year at Tulane University, AugustDecember 2015, in Buenos Aires.

Literary and Philosophical Society of Newcastle, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

What You Need to Know About Adelphi University

Big enough to give you choices, small enough to feel like home

94%

of our students have jobs or are in grad school within six months of graduation.

students average class size

10:1

Our main campus in Garden City is less than a one-hour train ride from Manhattan.

Division II teams

94.9%

Northeast-10 Conference championships

of full-time incoming first-year students received some kind of financial aid.

student-faculty ratio Let’s see what the experts say. We are ranked a Best College nationwide and among the Best Value Schools in the 2019 U.S. News & World Report rankings Ranked a Top U.S. College in the 2018 Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education college rankings Named one of America’s Top Colleges by Forbes magazine

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Top reasons why you should make Rivier University your university: • Innovative Employment Promise Program: Find out more at www.rivier.edu/employmentpromise

• Strengths-based Well-being Program: Connecting Learning and Life • Distinctive Journeys of Transformation Core Curriculum • Global Scholars Honors Program • Internship and study abroad options • Championship athletic teams • Competitive merit scholarships and grants 420 S. Main Street, Nashua, N.H. • www.rivier.edu • (603) 897-8507 • admissions@rivier.edu 42

COLLEGE GUIDE 2019

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ROSERITA ’18 B.S., Management; Peace, Justice, and Human Rights minor

It’s about

Your passion, your path.

“

YOU

My professors and classmates inspire me to act, innovate, and lead with confidence and heart. John Carroll has taught me how to be a person with passions, who cares about others, and who works to share this with the world.

”

The journey to fulfilling your purpose starts at go.JCU.edu/you