March 18, 2018
GUIDE TO GETTING
INTO COLLEGE
2 | Sunday, March 18, 2018
GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
7 skills you need before going away to college SHANNON REED
Special to the Washington Post
In my job teaching college English and creative writing, I hold individual conferences with my freshmen every semester, and this year’s were a doozy: One young woman wanted me to help her with a criminal complaint; one young man sought advice on finding a neurologist; and another student asked me how debit cards are different from credit cards. I tried my best to help, but wondered, not for the first time, why young adults were coming to college with so little knowledge about how being a grown-up works? In my experience, even students who go to outstanding high schools are often at a loss for how to function in the mature world they’ve joined. They may be academically prepared, but often they are woefully lacking in real-life skills and knowledge. After thinking through the questions that most often come up with my students, I’ve compiled a list of things parents of older teenagers can discuss with their kids to help them get ready for higher education, and life in general.
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HOW TO NAVIGATE DIFFERENCES.
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HOW TO MANAGE HOMESICKNESS.
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HOW TO DEAL WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT ON CAMPUS.
For every student I’ve met who has a job, there are three more who don’t really understand how much money they’ve borrowed to attend college, and how long it will take to pay it back. They should understand this, as well as how credit works, how much money they have to spend per semester, and why having a budget is a good idea.
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HOW TO USE THEIR MANNERS.
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My freshmen often don’t know how to work with a professor who’s differently abled, from another country, or lacking the friendly demeanor of many high school teachers. Their classmates may include people who are different from what they’re used to as well, whether in nationality, gender identity, sexual identity, religion or race. This is a good thing, of course, since most of us want our children to learn to respect, befriend and work well with people who are not just like them. But too often, freshmen are flummoxed by these differences, instead of intrigued by them. Talking with them about what modern colleges and universities will be like can help, as can helping them learn about current events.
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HOW MONEY WORKS.
HOW TO DEAL WITH ILLNESSES.
I’m always amazed by how quickly students get sick in college (all those germs, and none of that sleep, is my guess) and how often their first response is to turn to the nearest “real” adult for help. But while I and many of my colleagues will do our best, we’re not really on campus to evaluate fevers or suggest over-the-counter medicines. Students need to learn how to care for themselves when they are ill, and where to get help from a medical professional when they need it.
So many parents send their children off to college with their hearts in their throats, hoping that they’ll be happy in their new school. But the truth is, many students are not happy, at least not at first. Few make good friends on the first day, or even in the first month, and managing the stress that comes with college/adult life is hard. Instead of wishing that your kids will be happy, teach them that they will face sad and lonely times, far away from home and the familiar, and that they have the inner resources to cope with their homesickness. Too many of my students think that “everyone else” loves college and that they alone are having a hard time. It’s just not true.
All kids need to be equipped with information about what to do if they see it happening, or if it happens to them. It is a horrific and terrible part of being at college, but if you tell yourself that your kid knows what to do and won’t do that even though you’ve never discussed it, you’re fooling yourself. Teenagers usually know what the right thing is, but they need help to think through how to do it.
I’m not talking about elaborate Edwardian Era silverware rules, but make sure they know the basics: How to send a polite email to a professor. To hold the door to the library open for the person behind them. To say “thank you” to the cafeteria workers. Most campuses are villages, and word gets around pretty quickly about who’s pleasant and who’s not.
HOW COLLEGE LIFE IS DEPICTED ON TELEVISION AND FILM, AND HOW THAT COMPARES WITH REAL LIFE, INCLUDING PARENTS’ EXPERIENCES.
My students are actually quite interested in old folks’ college stories. And it’s been shocking to realize how often students expect college to be like the movies they’ve seen. “Pitch Perfect” is a fun film, but it never actually shows a student sitting in the library, reading and writing until 2 a.m. I like “Legally Blonde” too, but again, it’s not what college is really like. Of course, the point is not to overload them, but to help them get ready for the next complicated, exciting, and challenging stage in their education. By the way, I also teach upperclassmen, and they all tell me that while they wished they had known more about college before leaving home, the support and love of their families has given them the strength to figure things out as they go along. That’s ultimately what’s most important.
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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
Get organized to avoid hectic college search H
ere’s a step-by-step approach —and less hectic approach — to searching colleges.
Ask yourself: What do I want? Once you have a rough idea in mind about where you want to go and what you want to achieve, start looking at schools that can deliver. You may already have a few schools in mind to start. Your list may grow longer, but begin narrowing down choices in your junior year. By the time your senior year rolls around, the list should be narrowed to your top two to five or six schools. The application process can take time and create stress, so relieve the pressure by NOT overapplying.
Attend a college fair.
Nowhere else will you find so much information available in one location. It’s like a shopping mall for college candidates. Students and their parents can
pizza and beer with friends. 2. Make new friends. Join a club, pitch in on a project, participate in an intramural sport to grow your circle of friends. 3. Explore the campus and community. Read the local newspaper and area/regional magazines. Put aside memories of high school and make some fresh ones! 4. Manage your money. You’re on your own now, and parents may not be around to bail you out if you get overextended. And even if they are, start budgeting and tracking SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO your expenses.
visit briefly with college admissions representatives from participating colleges and universities, community and technical schools, military service branches. Gather up materials on the college and get a “feel” for what each college offers. Go with a list of questions specific to your interests to ask at each booth. Introduce yourself to the admissions officers and get on their email and regular mail lists.
Look at the cost
College costs money. Sometimes a lot of it, but don’t let that be a roadblock in your desire to attend college. Financial aid is available for many students, but you have to fill out the FAFSA form to find out if you qualify, and for how much. And you’ll have to fill out those forms and reapply each year you enroll in an institution of higher learning. Grant aid from federal and state governments, institutional funds and private sources, as
well as scholarships can lower filled and give them the attention Keep track the net price for a majority of they deserve. Don’t sign up for List your chosen schools on college students. lots of extracurricular activities your financial aid applications, just to pad your application. ACT or SAT registrations, and Making the grade. other forms. Grades can measure suc- Be responsible Apply to more than one cess and focus, but taking col1. Learn to manage your school. Visit the schools’ weblege-level advance placement time. Academic obligations sites to find out about how and courses and completing chal- should take precedence over when to apply. lenging classes improves your social activities, but that doesn’t Check to see if your school acpotential. Find activities or mean you can’t schedule some cepts the Common Application. sports that make you feel ful- “me” time to hang out and have Visit www.commonapp.org.
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Tips for mastering the essay THE WASHINGTON POST
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he Common Application is wellknown to most high school seniors. It’s a convenient clearinghouse that lets them apply to over 600 schools via a single online file of essays, recommendations and records. It is also an elephant of a meal, impossible to complete in a single sitting. Applicants should visit early and often to assemble their materials over time, and tailor bids to selected schools. A foundational part of the package, of course, is the personal essay. Bottom line: A kid doesn’t have to spend big bucks or write like Shakespeare to get into college. They just have to tell a good story. 1. Don’t write an essay bragging about your accomplishments. Write a good story — just make sure it isn’t fiction. 2. Draft an outline. Arrange your
ideas in logical order. It’s important to develop a theme or major idea to make your point. 3. Write a rough draft. Remember to show, don’t tell. Include examples and little stories and add your own character to the words. 4. Review and edit the draft. Then set aside the essay for a few days. 5. Make any revisions or changes you need to make. Then give the essay to two or three adults to review and edit. Make corrections. 6. Don’t rely on Spell-Check for corrections and spelling errors. Double-check grammar, spelling, sentence structure, etc. 7. Have someone proofread your essay. 8. Make changes or corrections, and prepare a finished essay. 9. And don’t forget to put your name on the essay!
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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
Be realistic and do your homework on financial aid
Acceptance letters will pose even more questions
JOANNA NESBIT
ou’ve received your acceptance letter. It looks like you’re going to be a college freshman in just a few months. Now what? First, celebrate. Take a second to realize you were accepted — perhaps to more than one school — which means you have the opportunity to go to college. While you’re celebrating your achievements, don’t forget to show gratitude — even if you haven’t settled on a college just yet. Email your “thank you” to your admissions counselor from the college. Simply say that you are pleased to be accepted and that you are still considering your other colleges and will make your decision later. If you’re still trying to decide where to go next year, take a step back and look at the bigger picture. Choosing where to land as a freshman is more about the people and how the college fits you. Many colleges will offer an admitted student day … take advantage of it if you can because that will help to formulate a decision with the kinds of things you will consider for the next four years. Be realistic about school options — especially when it comes to money. Make a good, educated decision with your family about what you can afford. You’ve Instagrammed and framed your acceptance letters, but now it’s time to keep an eye out for financial aid information. A lot of award letters (arrive) during March and April, typically with your acceptance letter, and it includes scholarships, grants and student loans. Read these letters carefully and figure out how much you’d need to pay for each school. Really take time to decipher how much you’re going to pay out of pocket to attend the school. Ask your school counselor to help with these award letters. Whether you’ve committed to a school or you’re still trying to decide, it’s also important to look at the available housing options. Once students are admitted, they’ll start receiving housing information from those schools. At the same time, they’ll also get correspondence from the admissions office trying to encourage them to enroll. Do your homework. A housing deposit does not mean an enrollment deposit, and different colleges have different restrictions. Communicate with the housing offices and find out if it is guaranteed for freshmen and how are housing assignments considered.
Special to the Washington Post
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e can moan and groan about college costs, but it’s up to us to do our homework, because hope isn’t a strategy. Deciding at the last minute to take on burdensome debt isn’t in our young people’s best interest. Or our families’. The hard part, of course, is when no college is affordable. The sad truth is that college costs have increased so much, so quickly that many middle-income folks can’t keep up, even if we plan carefully. Because, you know, cost of living. But it’s regular-income folks, especially, who need to research cost. For most, that means not getting caught up in a brand-name school. Sure, if your kid is an amazing scholar who’s found a cure for cancer, there’s room for aiming high, but make sure their college list includes a few nonbrand-name schools too. Don’t make kids crazy with stress thinking that those colleges that fully meet need are the only answer. Those are tough schools to get accepted to, so make sure they have an affordable backup plan. In short, go where the money is. It won’t be at the highly selective colleges. It might mean a regional state school. It might mean commuting. That doesn’t mean kids should rule out selective colleges entirely. Information on college costs abounds; families just have to take the time to learn about it. Yes, families are busy, but this is one big enchilada you and/or your kid are paying for. And you can’t start teaching yourself about college costs in the spring of your child’s senior year. That’s way too late. Colleges are under no obligation to offer our kids a hugely discounted ride just because we didn’t do our research. You can argue what you will about the insanity of rising college costs, and I’m right there with you, but we still have to do our homework. If you have a high school junior, learn your EFC. Knowing what the feds expect you to pay is a huge head
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Favorite resources: “Right College, Right Price,” by Frank Palmasani “The College Solution” by Lynn O’Shaughnessy “Princeton Review’s Paying for College Without Going Broke” “Colleges that Change Lives” “College Navigator” “College Data” “Edvisors “(college planning information) start to preparing, if only mentally. This calculator helps you predict both your federal EFC and your institutional EFC (for private colleges). Most people want to vomit when they see the number. But at least you’ll know it. After that, tell your kid what you can afford, and give him parameters for his college search. Prestigious public or out-of-state universities likely won’t be your friend. Expensive private colleges might do a good
job of meeting your financial need, but not if they’re reach schools for your child. Your child will do better applying to schools that want them. Look at schools where grades and SAT/ACT scores fall in the top third or quarter. Use net-price calculators on the college websites to see what they predict (be aware, some are not great; the more they ask, the better they are). Play with grades and scores to see what kind of merit aid spits out. If it doesn’t ask for grades or scores, your child might be aiming too high. It depends on the school. Be sure to learn about “gapping” (colleges offering admission without enough financial aid) and “front-loading” (a package that offers more for freshman year than later years) because college is a four-year (or more) plan. The biggest challenge is figuring out how to start the search. It’s overwhelming, and your student probably has their own ideas of where to go. Start talking to friends with older kids, especially friends in the same income bracket. Learn what their favorite resources are. I’ve included a list of mine here.
COURIER WIRE SERVICES
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Sunday, March 18, 2018 | 5
GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
Find success at North Iowa Area Community College
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eading-edge learning spaces and affordable education. At NIACC, your success is our top priority.
Opening Fall 2018: State-of-the-art Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) wing. This fall you will have the opportunity to learn in almost 30,000 square feet of new spacious, flexible classrooms and innovative labs. Everything about this space has been built to provide collaborative areas for students to hang out, study, and work with peers and instructors. A maker-space classroom creates an environment for flexible learning with tables and chairs that fold up and tables that function as a whiteboards. The well-lit rooms and hallways benefit from abundant natural light and the numerous energy conservation practices in place create a healthy and earth-friendly learning environment.
Center to provide students with innovative, real-world learning opportunities and experiences. It’s an exciting time on the NIACC campus! Affordable: We believe that your education should be affordable. Beginning a four-year college degree at NIACC will save your family over $8,000 in the first two years. Additionally, NIACC and the NIACC Foundation award over $1,000,000 in scholarships each year!
Home away from home: If you are hoping to stay close to home — but still have the complete college experience — our new Campus View Student Housing Complex fits the bill beautifully. The housing complex features floor lounges with large screen TVs, gorgeous lake views, a convenience store, computer lab, and access to a Success Coach. Individual rooms have a loft feel with wireless internet, cable TV, quartz countertops, wood Innovative: Within the past 3 years laminate floors and tile showers. we have also opened a new Health Care Whether you have already mapped Simulation Center and Diesel Technology out a plan for your life or are considering
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many possibilities, an education at NIACC will provide you with the opportunities and support to learn more, do more, and become more. Small class sizes and supportive faculty ensure that you will never feel lost in the crowd. See what our students have to say:
State-of-the-art STEM wing opening in Fall 2018. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM careers and wages continue to grow faster than the average. NIACC’s new STEM facility will feature spacious, flexible classrooms, innovative laboratories, and emphasize connectivity between spaces – a great place for you to learn, collaborate, and prepare for your future.
http://niacc.college-tour.com. Then, schedule your campus visit — we would love to show you around! Whatever your educational goals are and wherever you are in your journey, we will help you get there. Make NIACC your first choice!
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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
Experience Ellsworth Community College
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OWA FALLS — What does it mean to experience Ellsworth? This close-knit “family” atmosphere makes Ellsworth students feel right at home. Located in Iowa’s “scenic city,” the beautiful 40-acre campus is located near the Iowa River, just a short walk away from downtown. ECC has more than 55 degree programs to choose from, ranging from nursing to criminal justice and athletic training to agriculture. You can keep busy with an array of student clubs, activities and sporting events to attend. With more than 70 percent of ECC students transferring to a four-year institution to complete a bachelor’s degree, ECC has one of the highest student success rates of any community college in Iowa. Another reason so many students choose to start their college experience at Ellsworth and then transfer credits for a bachelor’s degree is because ECC has dual enrollment agreements with the University of Iowa, University of Northern Iowa and Iowa State University. That means when you enroll at ECC,
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you can also be enrolled at one of the Regent universities at the same time. Dual enrollment gives ECC students access to academic advising, library resources, athletic events and all the other amenities of the state universities. Many ECC students majoring in engineering, marketing or veterinary medicine choose dual enrollment because it also allows them to save money by earning credits before transferring to a
big university. Other ECC degree programs such as nursing, mobile service technology or equine management lead directly to a career after graduation. Many other programs are transferrable, so you can earn valuable (and transferrable) credits while you decide on a career path. Want more? Ellsworth’s equestrian program is currently ranked second in the nation by HorseSchool.com; ECC’s is the only Iowa equestrian program listed in the Top 15. ECC’s program scored 96.8 percent out of 100, based on teacher/student radios, tuition, number of instructed rides per week, horse/student ratio, and a variety of other factors. And ECC’s agriculture program was recently named as one of six outstanding agriculture education programs nationwide by the National Association of Agricultural Educators. Here’s even more good news about Ellsworth : Over $688,000 is awarded in ECC scholarships each year. More than 70 per-
cent of our students receive some type of scholarship or financial aid. ECC isn’t the biggest…just the best! Our smaller class size allows you a more hands-on approach to learning and our instructors are outstanding. Our faculty and staff are known (and appreciated) for their support of and commitment to their students. Our intercollegiate athletic programs are among the best – football, volleyball, wrestling, basketball, baseball and softball. There are a lot of activities, events, clubs and organizations for students. You can be highly involved, meet lots of people, and build a great college portfolio at Ellsworth. ECC offers Panther Preview Days for prospective students. For Panther Preview dates/times or to reserve a space for yourself and a parent or friend, contact the ECC Admissions Office at 641-6484611 or 800-322-9235 or e-mail eccinfo@ iavalley.edu. There’s more information online at www.EllsworthCollege.com.
Ellsworth Community College An amazing experience!
ECC has more than 55 degree program options, from Agriculture and Criminal Justice to Equine Science, Graphic Design and Nursing. ECC students graduate with $10,200 to $15,920 less debt than students at Iowa’s public universities or private colleges. And ECC’s partnerships with UNI, Iowa State and Iowa make it easy to transfer your Ellsworth credits.
Ellsworth’s not the biggest... just the BEST! Call or visit the ECC Admissions Office to apply for scholarships and EXPERIENCE ELLSWORTH! 1100 College Avenue, Iowa Falls, IA l 1-800-322-9235 l
ELLSWORTH
Community College iowa valley community college district
eccinfo@iavalley.edu l
ecc.iavalley.edu
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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
Planning to borrow for college? Then it’s time to clean up your credit JOANNA NESBIT
Special to the Washington Post
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e all know college is expensive, but most families don’t understand true costs until senior year. This is when parents realize their college savings plan, if they have one, won’t be enough. However, if you haven’t watched your financial footprint over the years, you might not be well-positioned for optimal borrowing. Assessing your financial house before senior year helps you create a plan and may uncover cash to put aside. According to finance experts, many families don’t look hard enough at ways to free up current cash flow for college. But if you anticipate borrowing due to income constraints, here’s what finance experts say you need to know. 1. Students should always borrow first. Before you borrow, your student should take available federal direct student loans (a.k.a. Stafford). These loans impose a limit of $31,000 over five years to protect undergraduate students from exorbitant debt burden. Student borrowing also protects parents. Your teen needn’t borrow the whole amount, and later, you can even help pay off loans if retirement goals are on track. 2. Parents shouldn’t overborrow. If student loans don’t go far enough — they often don’t — parents can borrow, too. Typical parent borrowing includes taking a federal Parent PLUS loan, co-signing a private student loan, or tapping home equity. Top credit scores (usually 750 or higher) qualify borrowers for low interest rates, says Tim Hewitt, Pennsylvania-based senior financial adviser with Wiley Group. “That means thousands of dollars saved simply because you manage your credit well,” he says. Families can also tap retirement accounts. But overborrowing or drawing down retirement funds can be dangerous. Nannette Kamien, a college-focused financial adviser and owner of Inspiration Financial Planning, says loans are best used as a short-term solution for chunky bills if, for example, the college doesn’t offer a payment plan.
“Loans aren’t meant to be the primary way to finance college, and parents should consider whether a loan payment is realistic if they’re not able to free up income for college bills,” she says. Many advisers prefer families avoid borrowing beyond student loans, and look at more affordable colleges instead. Borrowing is a personal decision that requires thinking about current debt, job stability, your age, and number of kids. Assessing the whole picture is critical before taking loans for that first child, Hewitt says. No matter what college path, polishing your credit score will give you flexibility as you move deeper into college bills and second or third children. 3. Steps to repair credit. For a good credit score and access to low interest rates, paying bills on time is key — and paying the required minimum is imperative, though paying more or in full is best, says Leah Ingram, author of a new book, The Complete Guide to Paying for College. Your “credit utilization” ratio also affects credit score. Poorly managed credit cards can do real damage. To monitor credit history, finance experts advise ordering credit reports from all three credit reporting agencies —Experian, Equifax and TransUnion — to scour for late or unpaid bills and mistakes, which take time to fix or dispute. Initially, getting all three at once to compare them is best, says Rod Griffin, Experian’s director of public education. You’re entitled to a free report from each agency once a year (order at annualcreditreport.com). After that, reports cost $12.50, but free options exist. For Experian, the Experian app provides free credit reports and FICO scores and monitors credit. For TransUnion and Equifax, Credit Karma offers the same. Credit reports include anything debt-related, though not every account is reported to all three agencies. These include mortgage loans, auto loans, credit cards, retail services’ installment loans, and collection accounts (unpaid bills that go to collections). Rent payments may be reported. Utility, cellphone, and cable bills usually aren’t. Late payments remain on reports for seven years from the original delinquency date but may not be a big factor. “The further in the past a delinquency occurred, the less effect it has on your credit score,”
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Griffin says. “But catching up on late payments helps your score recover more quickly even though the late payment stays on your report.” Credit reports don’t include credit scores, but purchasing one score report (approximately $15) is a good idea, Griffin says. The report includes your credit score, “risk factors,” and actionable steps to repair credit. Scores typically vary across the three agencies, but risk factors tend to be consistent, so ordering one score report is adequate, Griffin says. Then, for ongoing tracking, many credit cards offer free FICO scores. Ingram recommends tackling credit cleanup starting in middle school to allow time for black marks to fall off by college. Repairing credit anytime benefits you. Paying down consumer debt before college also helps, Kamien says, translating into available cash for college. Eliminating debt may also reduce available savings and could improve your financial aid picture. But don’t drain savings accounts to qualify for aid. Even if your student qualifies, you’ll likely have hefty college bills. 4. Several ways to borrow. Federal Parent PLUS loans are quite accessible. They can sink you for the same reason. With a fixed interest rate of 7 percent, they help people with mediocre credit scores, and they offer protections, including graduated or extended repayment
and dischargement if the parent or student dies. They also include a hefty 4.264 percent origination fee. Parents with top FICO scores can get better interest rates with private student loans. Ingram’s family qualified for 4 percent due to their 801 score. Keep in mind, although technically a student loan, parents typically must co-sign because students don’t have qualifying credit history. That means parent credit is on the hook. It’s hard to hang onto low interest rates. As Ingram’s girls moved through college and she and her husband co-signed additional loans, their interest rates increased. Taking a low-interest home equity line of credit (HELOC) might make more sense. A HELOC functions like a credit card in that you borrow only the amount you need as you go. Tying up too much money in college bills means it’s not available for home emergencies. Financial advisers also get nervous about adverse events like a job loss. However, if used wisely, Hewitt says, borrowing against equity can be a good choice. The key is to assess finances early, long before that first tuition bill. College is a huge expense, so consider consulting a fee-based financial adviser who understands college. Also, Ingram recommends, begin amassing money a year ahead of the bills, however you intend to pay. Borrowing desperately in August can set you up for financial heartache down the road.
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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
Attain an ‘Education Built for Life’ at Upper Iowa University
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UIU SUBMITTED PHOTO
AYETTE — Since its inception in 1857, Upper Iowa University’s unwavering commitment to accessible higher education and lifelong learning ensures that current and future UIU students are provided with the skills they need to be successful in the classroom, career and life. A private, not-for-profit university, UIU provides undergraduate and graduate degree programs to about 5,800 students worldwide. Students get a traditional college experience of excellent education, tradition and innovation within a comfortable and welcoming campus environment in Fayette. However, as a UIU education is an “Education Built for Life,” the university also has 25 education centers across the United States — as well as multiple centers in Hong Kong and Malaysia — with the evening classes, expert faculty and supportive staff students need to advance their career while still tending to family, job and other day-to-day responsibilities. UIU also is a recognized leader in online and selfpaced education, so students never need to go far for an exceptional education. Students have more than 40 majors to choose from, and all utilize a unique, flexible course schedule. Each academic year consists of five 8-week sessions and
Know better. Do better. As a credit union, we help educate our members on how to get money ahead. Our free Education Planning Toolkit can help you decide whether college is the right choice for you—after all, it will be one of the biggest financial decisions of your lifetime (no pressure). Download the free Toolkit at dupaco.com/ ExploreYourOptions
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2 Subject to credit qualification and additional criteria, including graduating from an approved school. Borrowers must become a member of Dupaco Community Credit Union.
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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
and other benefits to employees of participating companies.
Graduate programs
40
GRADUATE & UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
12
8 WEEK CLASSES
FAYETTE – UNDERGRADUATE
UIU-FAYETTE CAMPUS
2
CLASSES PER SESSION
GO
ANYWHERE!
STUDENT POPULATION
STUDY
ABROAD
57%
43%
14:1
FLEXIBILITY TAKE CLASSES ON CAMPUS OR ONLINE
EASYTRANSFER OF COLLEGE CREDIT
UP TO
Many current graduate students take one class at a time to allow them to balance work, family and other commitments in their busy lives. The UIU master of education is tailored to the needs of classroom teachers and accommodates the tight schedules of working adults. The master of business administration is a forward-thinking curriculum providing students a perspective in leadership, functional department integration, ethical management and risk assessment. The program provides learners the opportunity to examine ethical and managerial issues in a respected educational environment supporting life-long learning. In addition, the master of public administration degree provides learners with the current theories, concepts and learning models necessary to assume leadership roles with a nonprofit agency or in the public sector. The most recent of the UIU graduate programs, the master of sport administration is an online degree program in a fast-paced curriculum. Each MSA student is required to complete a minimum of 36 credits with an emphasis in sport management or coaching and leadership education. An 18-credit Leadership Certificate also is available to students not seeking a college degree. With a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio and a highly supportive and caring faculty and staff, the UIU experience helps students become confident in their abilities, challenges them to achieve their educational and career goals, connects them with professionals within their desired field, and inspires them to reach their full potential. For additional information about Upper Iowa University, visit uiu.edu or call 800-5534150. To learn more about evening courses and the Upper Iowa online and self-paced programs specific to the UIU-Waterloo Center, visit waterloo@uiu.edu or call 319.232.6980.
OVER
one accelerated 6-week summer session, so UIU students typically take less classes at a time. Many students blend their degree plan by taking both face-toface and online courses. Other students get a jump on completion by easily transferring in up to 90 undergraduate credits or 12 graduate credits from other schools. Credits also may be earned through an individual’s work experience via an experiential learning portfolio or various college examinations. In January, UIU’s online undergraduate programs were highest ranked in Iowa by U.S. News & World Report. The university’s online bachelor’s program was ranked in the top 30 percent of online bachelor degree programs nationwide. The online undergraduate program was also ranked among the best online programs for veterans by the publisher. Repeatedly named a top military-friendly university by Military Advanced Education & Transition and Victory Media, UIU was named a Military Friendly Top 10 Gold School Award recipient for 2018. Upper Iowa is also a proud participating institution in the Principles of Excellence and Yellow Ribbon programs. The university offers a wide variety of educational opportunities tailored to fit the dynamic lifestyle of today’s military personnel and their families. UIU’s military-based academic advisers help develop a flexible program of coursework that fits the student’s busy and often-changing lifestyle. UIU has competitive tuition and highly skilled professionals to help students understand and make the most of financial aid. In addition, most students are eligible for endowed or institutional scholarships to further lower the cost of their UIU education. Students who are completing a two-year degree at another college are encouraged to inquire about UIU’s transfer tuition scholarship program; eligible students earn a scholarship of up to $19,820. In addition, UIU’s Corporate Advantage Program provides tuition grants
78 CREDIT HOURS
(2-YEAR INSTITUTION)
90
CREDIT HOURS
(4-YEAR INSTITUTION)
ONLY NCAA DIVISION II SCHOOL IN
ATHLETIC TEAMS
STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO
CAREER SERVICES RÉSUMÉ BUILDING INTERNSHIP ASSISTANCE CAREER COUNSELING JOB FAIRS INTERVIEW PREPARATION PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
92%
OF UIU GRADS ARE EMPLOYED OR IN GRADUATE SCHOOL SHORTLY AFTER GRADUATION
Source: 2016 Graduate Survey/Application (1359 responses/1726 surveyed)
EDUCATION CENTERS WITH
EVENING CLASSES
For more information call 563.425.5281
UIU.EDU/FAYETTE2018
10 | Sunday, March 18, 2018
GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
HAWKEYE SUBMITTED PHOTO
Hawkeye’s career and technical programs, like Agricultural Power Technology, are led by industry-proven instructors with real-world experience that helps prepare graduates for an easy transition from classroom to career.
Hawkeye College prepares students for life after graduation
W
ATERLOO — “Choosing the right college for me meant finding where I felt comfortable,” said Bailey Boyer, a 2017 graduate of the Agricultural Business Management program at Hawkeye Community College. “I felt very comfortable at Hawkeye, and a lot of that is the faculty. They were easy to talk to and very knowledgeable.” As a Hawkeye student, Bailey was able to study abroad in Brazil and gained valuable experience during an internship with AgVantage FS. Through it all the personal connections she made with classmates and faculty helped her feel prepared for life after graduation. “It was easy to be one-on-one with faculty at Hawkeye,” Bailey said, “It’s not like a bigger school where it feels like 30,000 to one.” Sarah Ludwig felt the same way when she came to campus. Like many Hawkeye graduates, Sarah saved money on tuition by starting at Hawkeye, before transferring credits to a fouryear university. “I knew I didn’t want to start at a university,” said Sarah, a 2016 graduate of the Liberal Arts Transfer program. “At Hawkeye, you still get that college feel without it being too big.” Hawkeye’s credits transfer virtually anywhere, and partnerships with Iowa State Uni-
versity, the University of Iowa, and the University of Northern Iowa, mean Hawkeye students can transfer with junior status to stay on the path to a bachelor’s degree in four years. An added perk of Hawkeye’s UNI partnership is that students can live in UNI residence halls. Hawkeye’s campus is a 15-minute drive or bus ride from UNI, and students can take advantage of student life and activities on both campuses. For students interested in career training, Hawkeye’s technical programs provide hands-on learning with industry-proven instructors. Izaak Miller, a 2016 graduate of the Agricultural Power Technology program, saw this first-hand. A self-proclaimed “diesel junkie,” he was thrilled to find instructors who had been in the field and brought with them industry knowledge and connections. With just 15 students in the average class, creating personal connections wasn’t difficult. “It was really nice for me,” he said. “You don’t have a hundred guys in a class all trying to do the same thing. You get more oneon-one and a lot more hands-on work.” To see if Hawkeye Community College is the right choice for you, schedule a campus visit at www.hawkeyecollege.edu/visit or call (319) 296-4000.
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319-296-4000 or www.hawkeyecollege.edu
Sunday, March 18, 2018 | 11
GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
Prairie Lakes offers graduate program for seminary degree
A
re you searching for a graduate program that can equip you with an advanced degree and practical leadership skills to be utilized in or out of the local church? What if you had access in Iowa to a cutting-edge graduate program providing a relevant, practical and affordable seminary degree? The Prairie Lakes Church Center for Learning and Leadership offers just that program through a partnership with Wesley Seminary at Indiana Wesleyan University. Graduate students in the Center for Learning and Leadership have the opportunity to earn a master of arts in ministry degree from an Association of Theological Schools accredited program. The degree is a streamlined 36-hour degree designed to be done “on the run” while students are working or serving in ministry. Classes are offered through a convenient combination of online and onsite venues, making it possible for students to continue working full-time. This highly practical program is designed to
challenge students to learn new skills and apply their knowledge to their local context. “Before I started the graduate program, I felt I was in a good place educationally and spiritually, but my heart longed for more depth in my knowledge of Scripture, relationships, ministry techniques, and ministry strategy. It’s been an adjustment getting back into the school groove. The struggle is real, but it’s worth it. There’s immediate value implementing coursework to my ministerial context,” said student Lucy Kerns. Students are able to craft their perfect degree by selecting a specialization track, which allows students to focus their studies around their unique leadership area. Paige Price, a student in the Leadership specialization said, “Being able to choose my own specialization was an amazing option because I was able to take the same foundational core classes as my classmates but select electives to fit my specific interest and ministry areas.”
Available specializations are children, youth and family ministry; leadership; worship arts; spiritual formation; church planting and multiplication; and church health and revitalization. The coursework is not exclusively for future church leaders but for anyone interested in positioning themselves as a strong leader. Student Paul Gibson was preparing to retire from a career at John Deere when he made the decision to start the graduate program. “The seminary experience has changed me from the inside out and added a new level of meaning and purpose to my life. It’s never too late to answer God’s call,” he said. Seminary classes take place in a cohort model, meaning students begin their degree together and then proceed through the degree together until graduation. This model not only helps motivate students to keep going, but also creates a spiritual and relational bond with others on the same journey. The first cohort of 20 students began their degrees in Au-
gust 2015 and will graduate together in April. The cohort completed their degree with a capstone project where students chose a problem within their area of interest and concluded with a practical solution. Revered Dr. Colleen Derr, President at Wesley Seminary, commented on the partnership saying, “How wonderful for Wesley Seminary to partner with Prairie Lakes Church! PLC has the opportunity to impact people and communities for Christ the faculty and staff at Wesley will never meet. You have expanded our vision of what partnership in the equipping for the ministry can look like. Thank you for that gift!” The Center for Learning and Leadership is currently recruiting students for the launch of a third cohort in October. If you are interested in taking a step into the graduate program in October or beyond, visit prairielakeschurch.org/cll or contact Director of Advancement, Connie Erpelding, at (319) 266-2655, ext. 132.
12 | Sunday, March 18, 2018
GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
Ag majors in greater demand for jobs
A
s the farming industry faces growing consolidation in the U.S., one might get the impression fewer jobs are now available in agriculture. In fact, just the opposite is true. Today, one in three people worldwide —more than a billion employees —work in an ag-related industry. Industry growth and digital innovation combined with retirements are driving significant demand for college grads and other professionals, including those without experience in typical ag-related subjects, and many feature excellent salaries. The USDA and Purdue University predict 57,900 jobs requiring ag skills will become available each year between now and 2020 while only 35,000 grads in food, ag, renewable resources or environment studies will look to fill those jobs each year. Further, the average starting salary in the U.S. for those graduating with bachelor’s degrees in agriculture or natural resources was a healthy $54,364 as of winter 2017, a 12 percent increase from 2016. “People are starting to discover (agriculture) is a pretty good industry to be
in,” Iowa State University College Career Services Director Mike Gaul recently told CNBC. “They realize this sector isn’t our traditional what-we-joke ‘cows, plows and sows’ industry anymore. It’s incredibly diverse.” The expectation is that grads with expertise in food, agriculture, renewable natural resources and/or the environment will fill 61 percent of all ag-related openings, while employers must seek grads in other majors to fill the 39 percent gap. Notably, women already make up more than half of the higher-ed grads in food, agriculture, renewable natural resources and environmental studies. High school grads considering degrees in agriculture might consider one of these highest-paying ag occupations: 1. C-suite executives: The CEOs, COOs and CFOs at ag startups or established corporations routinely earn $200,000-plus for overseeing company growth and profitability. A bachelor’s or master’s degree is generally needed in addition to a background in leadership and at least five years’ industry experience. 2. Ag lawyers: Because ag is so highly
regulated, such professionals may handle issues related to water, land use, pesticides, seeds, the environment, labor/ HR, immigration, commerce, intellectual property, mergers/acquisitions, etc. Salaries average out at $160,000. Required: a bachelor’s degree followed by a J.D. and completed state bar exam. 3. Ag sales managers: Those skilled in overseeing sales teams are earning an average $125,000-plus annually. Most hold bachelor’s degrees in agronomy, crop science, soil science, biology, agricultural business or a related field. 4. Ag scientists: Salaries average out at $120,000. A bachelor’s degree is usually sufficient, with in-demand specialties including bioinformatics, animal genetics or the regulatory environment (managing and strategizing a product through the regulatory process). 5. Ag engineers: Among specialties in demand are environmental, ethanol and mechanical engineers, with average salaries running upwards of $80,000 for those holding bachelor’s degrees. Bottom line: The next generation of ag specialists will be crucial to helping solve the world’s most pressing issues.
BRANDPOINT PHOTO
2015 Syngenta Scholarship Graduate Winner Mitch Roth is pursuing a Ph.D. in genetics at Michigan State University. Agricultural company Syngenta is supporting that cause by bestowing multiple college scholarships to ag students each year, and of course hiring many grads in various majors. “This is an exciting time in agriculture because we have new tools to develop better seeds and crop protection products, as well as digital solutions to help farmers be more productive,” says Ian Jepson, head of trait research and developmental biology at Syngenta. “We encourage students to think about the wide range of challenging and rewarding careers in companies like ours to help develop and deliver what farmers need to feed the world.” Source: Brandpoint
5 tips for working adults returning to college What are the best paying careers?
M
ost working professionals want to advance their skills, land that promotion and get a raise. However, some 36 million adults face a significant barrier to achieving their goals and aspirations: They still need to complete a significant amount of coursework in order to earn a college degree.
mention finances. With the demands of family and work encroaching on study and class time, fitting it all in can seem overwhelming. It’s important to take time to research your options, because there may be more flexible and affordable paths to choose from. Kaplan University offers ExcelTrack, which allows them to focus on what they need to 1. Define your goals master, not what they already Before choosing a higher ed- know. ucation program, it’s important to take time to inventory skills 3. Get organized and career experiences. Start by setting up a study station. Begin by holding study 2. Consider time and sessions at different times of the day, while paying attention to explore financial energy and productivity levels.
options
For a working adult, using traditional means to earn a degree isn’t always best-suited to the realities of life — not to
nings a week so you can work without interruption. This is an opportune time to give older kids additional responsibilities, such as folding their laundry, starting dinner and packing their own lunches. Beyond that, consider informing your employer about your college courses and your goals. If your degree is relevant to other work at the company, you might discover they are willing to help.
5. Keep it in balance
Schedule some down time. Having a break to look forward to can be a powerful motivational tool. For more information about earning a degree online from 4. Get support Kaplan University with its new Talk to your partner, parents ExcelTrack program, visit kaor siblings about taking on child planuniversity.edu. Source:Brandpoint care duties a few days or eve-
A
ccording to the latest num- Best STEM majors bers from the Bureau of La Engineering, $83,540 bor Statistics, a high school Physics, $114,870 graduate will earn roughly $718 Computer Science, $111,840 per week, while someone with Mathematics, $100,610 “some college” will earn $799. Statistics, $80,500 Bachelor’s degrees brings in an Systems Engineering, average income of $1,189 per $74,170 week, while a master’s or doctor Information Technologies, ate increases earnings to $1,451 $82,860 weekly. Biology, $60,000 Looking for the highest-paid Science Technologies, majors for 2018? GETEDU$42,520 CATED.com rates these as best: Management Information Best Public Service Systems, $135,800 majors Business Management, Nursing, $68,450 $97,230 Education, $55,490 Marketing, $131,180 Best Humanities major Economics, $101,050 English, $61,240 Finance, $81,760 Accounting, $68,150 High-Growth Sectors Human Resources, $59,180 Health care Communication Studies, Software & IT $57,210 Business & Business Support Sales
Sunday, March 18, 2018 | 13
GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
Make the right choice.
Northeast Iowa Community College
C
ALMAR — Northeast Iowa Community College accepts everyone, and we’re here to help you. The one-onone attention you receive will get you where you want to be, whether your plans include transferring to a four-year college, learning a trade, or training for an in-demand career. Students that enroll at NICC also benefit financially by saving thousands of dollars in tuition and making swift progress on earning a degree. Miriah Hageman understood this message early on. By the time she graduated from high school, she had earned 23 college credits through NICC — nearly enough to earn a Practical Nursing diploma. This May she will complete her associate degree nursing program and R.N. credential. “After graduation from Northeast Iowa Community College, I plan to continue my education at Upper Iowa University to receive a bachelor of science in nursing. After college, I’ll start my career in northeast Iowa. My goal is to be a caring and compassionate nurse who makes a difference in the lives of others,” Hageman expressed. An Iowa Postsecondary Annual Tuition Comparison study for academic year 2016-2017 shows that students receive a substantial return on their investment by attending NICC. Annual tuition at NICC is estimated at $4,480, compared to the $7,108 students can expect to pay attending an Iowa public four-year college. The study estimated that annual tuition at a four-year private college in Iowa was $27,020. NICC provides the education and training students need to begin careers in high-demand
. e c i o h Right C
MAKE THE
$
AFFORDABLE.
Iowa Postsecondary Annual Tuition Comparison Northeast Iowa Community College
$4,480
NICC SUBMITTED PHOTO
Public: Iowa 4-Year College
Miriah Hageman professions, affordably and in two years or less. Students who complete a John Deere TECH Associate of Applied Science degree in two years will earn up to $43,691 working as a service technician, for example. Graduates of the Respiratory Care program are earning an estimated salary range of $42,997 to $58,833. Hageman knows that many students who plan their future careers, work closely with academic advisors and earn transferable college credits will benefit in the long run. “I recommend Northeast Iowa Community College to high school students because it gives them a great opportunity to jump start their future. The College offers an opportunity for high school students to get a head start on the college experience,” she said. Make the Right Choice. Get your start in one of more than 70 academic programs at Northeast Iowa Community College! Schedule a campus visit today at www.nicc.edu/visit.
$7,108
RETURN ON INVESTMENT.
Private: Iowa 4-Year College
$27,020
Tuition saved by starting at NICC and transferring to a four-year university.
$5,256 - $45,080
IN DEMAND PROGRAMS.
John Deere TECH
Respiratory Care
Upon completion, John Deere TECH students are guaranteed a job in the industry.
Practice skills in Health Simulation Lab.
Earn a degree in two years or less and start earning up to $43,691.
Earn a degree in less than two years and start earning up to $42,997.
VISIT CAMPUS TODAY.
www.nicc.edu/visit
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS); Academic Year 2016-17 EMSI; Salary range represents 10th percentile - median annual wage for related occupations within a 100-mile radius from the center distance between Calmar and Peosta Campuses.
14 | Sunday, March 18, 2018
GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
What to know about FAFSA
T
he FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is the primary form that the federal government, states and colleges use to award grants, scholarships, work study and student loans. The FAFSA determines how much financial aid (grants, loans, work study) a student can receive. To apply for federal student aid, such as federal grants, loans, and work-study, you need to complete the FAFSA. Grants and scholarships are free, but you have to earn the work study dollars and pay back the loans. Completing and submitting the FAFSA is easier than ever, and it gives you access to the largest source of financial aid to pay for college or career school. Students are now able to submit a FAFSA earlier. The earlier submission date is a permanent change, enabling students to complete and submit a FAFSA as early as Oct. 1 every year. This better aligns the financial aid and
college application processes and gives students more time to apply for aid. Students now report earlier income information. Now students are required to report income information from an earlier tax year. For example, on the 2017–18 FAFSA, students (and parents, as appropriate) must report their 2015 income information, rather than their 2016 income information. Families can use their prior-prior year tax information to complete the form instead of the prior year’s tax information. That means using 2016 tax information to complete the 2018-19 form. This allows families to file the FAFSA before they file their previous year’s taxes. Many states and colleges also use it to determine how much state aid, like HOPE scholarships, and institutional aid SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO to award. The FAFSA is also imperative for parents and students to determine You can find more information about how much of their own money they will You can find the application at fafsa. have to provide and which colleges they federal student aid through the following ed.gov. can afford. Source: StudentAid.gov, nerdwallet sources: Visit StudentAid.gov.
Spring 2018 College Guide
❑ Ellsworth Community College ❑ Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) 2018 Spring College Guide 1100 College Ave. 1625 Hwy. 150 South • Calmar, IA 52132 Iowa Falls, IA 50126 Admission: 641-648-4611 or 800-322-9235 Website: ecc.iavalley.edu ❑ Hawkeye Community College 1501 East Orange Rd. Waterloo, IA 50701 Admission: 319-296-4000 Website: www.hawkeyecollege.edu ❑ Iowa State University 2433 Union Drive Ames, IA 50011 Admission: 515-294-5836 Website: www.iastate.edu ❑ North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) 500 College Dr. Mason City, IA 50401 Admissions: 1-888-GO-NIACC Website: www.niacc.edu
To request more information, check the desired box (es) and mail form or go online to www.wcfccourier.com
ATTN: SHEILA KERNS P.O. Box 540 Waterloo, IA 50704 | sheila.kerns@wcfcouier.com
8342 NICC Drive. • Peosta, IA 52068 Admission: (Calmar) 800-728-2256 Admission: (Peosta) 800-728-7367 Website: www.nicc.edu ❑ Prairie Lakes Church 1907 Viking Rd. Cedar Falls, IA 50613 Admissions: 319-266-2655 Website: prairielakeschurch.org/cll ❑ University of Iowa 108 Calvin Hall Iowa City, IA 52242 Admission: 319-335-3847 Website: www.uiowa.edu ❑ University of Northern Iowa 002 Gilchrist Hall Cedar Falls, IA 50614 Admission: 319-273-2281 Website: www.uni.edu
❑ Upper Iowa University - Cedar Rapids 700 Bell Dr. Cedar Rapids, IA 52142 Admission: 319-848-8488 Website: www.uiu.edu/standout ❑ Upper Iowa University - Fayette Campus 605 Washington St., PO Box 1857 Fayette, IA 52142 Admission: 800-553-4150 Website: www.uiu.edu ❑ Upper Iowa University - Waterloo Center 3563 University Ave. Waterloo, IA 50701 Admission: 319-232-6980 Website: www.uiu.edu
Check out the Spring College Guide at the link below: http://wcfcourier.com/app/bookshelf/special/
Name: ___________________________ Address:_____________________ City:________________ State:________ Zip Code:_____________________ High School:________________________Year of Graduation:_____________ Phone Number:__________________ Email:__________________________
Sunday, March 18, 2018 | 15
GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
Making college smoother for students who’ve been in foster care JOHN R. SEITA
Michigan State University The Conversation
Y
oung people who’ve been in foster care face some challenging circumstances, but they still hope to go to college just like their peers. For example, 84 percent of the 17- and 18-year-olds in foster care in one survey indicated that they wanted to attend college. That’s just 6 percentage points lower than the 90 percent of young people in the general population who say they want to get some sort of college degree or program certificate after high school. Despite having similar college aspirations, however, something is preventing students who’ve been in foster care from graduating from college at the same rate as their peers. About one-third of the adult population in the United States has a four-year degree, but only between 3 percent and 9 percent of children who have been in foster care complete a four-year degree.
Campus-based support
There are college-based programs that can help turn things around. I say this not only as a researcher but from personal experience. You see, one of the programs — the Seita Scholars Program at Western Michigan University — is named after me. I grew up in foster care myself. My aspirations when I was young were no different than those of my high school classmates who lived with their families. We all wanted love, safety and happiness. We all had goals and dreams for a meaningful and successful life. Despite having similar hopes and dreams, young people attending college who have been in foster care often lack family support, or what I call “family privilege.” Family privilege is defined as the benefits, mostly invisible, that come from having a stable family to teach you how things —including college — work. Many foster care alumni have previously led transient lives. Many have moved from one foster home to another. Ten percent of young people move six or more times. Many have attended multiple schools, which can result in academic challenges, such as falling behind peers, lower scores on standardized tests and difficulty in social adjustment. There are currently about 437,000 young people in foster care. Multiple placements can make it difficult to understand the kind of societal
SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO
norms and rules that aid most young people as they transition to college. Awareness of the challenges facing alumni of foster care who attend college has been increasing. According to my colleague Maddy Day, director of outreach and training at the Center for Fostering Success at Western Michigan University, there are 85 four-year campus support programs nationally for foster care alumni.
emergency financial assistance and care packages during final exams. The other program with which I am affiliated is the one that is named after me: the Seita Scholars Program at my alma mater, Western Michigan University. Through the program, Western Michigan provides fully funded scholarships to undergraduate students who have been in foster care. The program also makes available campus coaches who provide 24-hour on-call support. It also offers Care packages connections to various services and sys& emergency funds tems that range from Medicaid to yearOf all the college support programs for round housing. The critical question when it comes to foster care alumni that exist across the country, I happen to be affiliated with these programs is: Do they work? two. Michigan State University, where I Emergent evidence serve as an associate professor, operates A review of a sample of annual reports, the FAME program for alumni of foster such as this one, shows that the graduacare. FAME is an acronym for “fostering tion rate for Seita scholars is “far above academics, mentoring excellence.” The the national average for youth who expeFAME program serves approximately 52 rienced foster care.” For instance, 44 perstudents each year. cent of Seita Scholars who started during FAME accepts students who qualify the 2009-10 school year have graduated academically to attend Michigan State. – substantially less than the average graFAME provides personal mentoring, dation rate of 79 percent of all students at individual coaching and an interactive WMU, but still substantially higher than website for various services. It also offers the 3 to 9 percent graduation rate for for-
mer foster youth nationwide. However, research in this area is very new, and the quest for evidence of what actually works is still ongoing. For instance, one recent study that looked at a program in the Midwest confirmed the importance of financial aid, housing and adult guidance for former foster youth to successfully complete college. However, the study found that while the program’s 30 percent graduation rate for students “far exceeds the national average for degree completion of students with a background in foster care, it is below the rate for a comparable first-generation student population at the university. “We conclude that while key components of a college support program like financial aid, housing and trained adult staff guidance are necessary in supporting students with a background in foster care attain postsecondary success, they are not sufficient to adequately explain graduation rates,” the study concluded. What that finding means to me is not that these programs are not worth doing. Rather, it just means we have more work to do before we know precisely what parts of these programs are most beneficial and have the biggest effect.
16 | Sunday, March 18, 2018
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GUIDE TO GETTING INTO COLLEGE
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