College is a huge step for a lot of individuals. For many, it is the tine of firsts: the first time making decisions, the first time on your own, the first time away from home, the first time doing your own laundry and cooking. It is a huge transition phase on the way to responsible adulthood. If you are not prepared for college, it can completely overwhelm you. Are you prepared for college?
Financial
During the fall, gather together any information you may need for applying for financial aid. Be sure to fill out the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA. Many school sure the information obtained from the FAFSA to determine what financial scholarships or programs they may assist you with.
There are also other great grant and scholarship opportunities available for college students. Websites like www.fastweb.com and www.scholarships.com have large databases full of opportunities you can apply for. Some of these require a short written passage or two about your goals and pursuits. Others simply require you just fill out the form. Either way, the possibility of free money is well worth the time investment. The key is to start looking early in the fall to make sure you have all of the necessary information in on time.
Academic
Every school and institution has different academic requirements for incoming students. Most schools look at your grade point average (GPA), activities, and community service. They want you to be a good student, but they also want to know if you are dedicated and disciplined enough to be involved in something or volunteer your time. Anyone can study for hours on end. The question is can you do that studying and handle the other opportunities life throws your way.
The other thing most schools require is a SAT or ACT test. These are national tests that look are your knowledge and expertise in different subject matter areas. The higher the number, the more likely you are to do well at college. Some schools and businesses use these scores as qualifications for scholarship opportunities. Do not fret, though. There are a number of online resources available to help you get prepared for these tests.
The most important thing is to contact the schools you are interested in and ask for an application for enrollment. Normally, the application will have the basic guidelines required for acceptance at their school and will list any required materials you will need to submit for admission.
Emotional
The hardest test of going to college is the emotional one. Leading up to graduation is a roller coaster of emotions from one angry end of the spectrum to the elated end at the other. Suddenly, you are out of school, a legal adult, and for many, on your own. Don’t be afraid to talk to people about how you feel. There are counselors at most schools that will listen and advise you. Some programs even set students up with an older student mentor or academic adviser that will listen and point you in the right direction. The most important thing is don’t give up. Here are some ideas to help you prepare for the emotional times:
- Have a contact list of friends you can call or write.
- Have a calling card or cell phone so you can keep in contact regularly with friends and family.
- Get involved in student activities. It keeps you from being alone.
- Find the student ministries on campus. Many have church services and study groups.
- Find somebody at the school before you go. Social media connects people easily. Make a connection now so you’ll have someone to talk to when you get there.
The Boy Scout Motto is Always be prepared. You have time to make yourself ready for college. Preparing now will help you be more successful later.