What I Wish I Had Known Before Starting the College Application Process
If you are starting to apply for colleges and universities, you might feel a little overwhelmed. Everyone has opinions about where you should apply, what major to choose, and how to stand out. Here are some pointers from current students and past students who have been through the college admissions process and learned a few things.
Thousands of Scholarships Go Unclaimed Every Year
Most students apply to only a handful of scholarships because they assume scholarships are only for valedictorians or students with exceptional circumstances. But there are thousands of scholarships, and there is something for every type of student.
There are scholarships for left-handed students, for students whose parents work in specific industries, for students interested in certain hobbies, and for students from particular regions. Starting the search early, like sophomore or junior year, and treating scholarship hunting like a part-time job will pay off significantly.
Student Debt Creates Long-Term Financial Problems – Work Hard to Avoid It
Borrowing large amounts for college often feels abstract when you are starting college, but the reality hits hard after graduation. Monthly loan payments can prevent you from affording rent, getting married, buying a home, and even being able to work your dream job. Going to a more expensive school is usually not worth massive debt unless you’re planning to work in fields where prestige truly matters, like investment banking or big law. State schools and less expensive private schools provide an excellent education without jeopardizing your financial future. If you can avoid student debt now, you will thank yourself many times later.
Diligent Test Prep Can Save You Tons of Money
Higher standardized test scores qualify students for more scholarships, especially automatic merit scholarships. Some schools offer full rides if scores hit certain thresholds. The difference between a 28 and a 32 on the ACT can be worth tens of thousands of dollars.
Investing time in test prep pays off. Taking practice tests, learning format and strategies, and taking tests multiple times when schools accept your best scores can result in significant scholarship money. A few months of focused preparation can provide better returns than almost any other high school investment.
Don’t Get Too Attached to Your Major – Most Students Change Theirs
College exposes students to subjects and careers never previously considered. Most students change majors at least once. Choosing schools strong in multiple areas of interest, not just one specific program, will give you flexibility if you end up changing your mind. Turning down a great scholarship at a solid school because another school has a slightly better program in an intended major makes little sense when majors frequently change.
Start Your College Applications Early
Starting applications the summer before senior year, writing personal statements when there is time to think and revise, and researching schools early prevents last-minute stress. Early applications often have higher acceptance rates and better financial aid packages. Start even sooner than you think you need to; in the worst-case scenario, you’ll be able to take it easy during senior year.
Financial Aid Packages Are Negotiable
Financial aid offers are not final. Students who receive better offers from comparable schools can ask their top choice to match or improve packages. Many schools reconsider, especially for strong candidates. Comparing offers carefully matters because a school that costs more might actually be cheaper after grants and scholarships. Understanding which parts of aid packages are grants versus loans is crucial.
Contact Us for More Help with the College Application Process
The college application process does not have to be overwhelming. If you have questions about applications, scholarships, choosing schools, or anything else related to getting into college, reach out for guidance based on real experience. Contact us today for help navigating this process with less stress and better results.
Frequently
Asked
Questions
How do I find scholarships that match my major and background?
There are many scholarships available for students from different backgrounds or who are pursuing specific degrees. By searching online, you can find scholarships for specific majors, as well as scholarships for specific types of students, such as single parents or members of the military. My College Companion can help you find a scholarship that will meet your needs.
Can I still apply for financial aid if I missed the FAFSA deadline?
You will typically want to fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) while you are planning to attend college. Submitting this form before you enroll in college can help ensure that you have financial aid lined up. However, even if you have missed the FAFSA deadline, you may have other options, since states and colleges have their own timelines. You may also apply for private scholarships or find other options for financial aid.
How Can I Improve My Time Management Skills in College?
It can be easy to feel overwhelmed as you begin attending college. Attending classes and completing homework and projects may be your main focus, but you will probably also want to maintain a social life and participate in activities, and you may also need to work. Finding the right balance can be tricky, but with the proper preparation, you can set yourself up for success.
To make sure you are managing your time effectively, you may want to set up a calendar to help you keep track of when you need to attend classes or labs while also blocking out time for homework, meetings with professors or advisors, study groups, social events, activities at school, or other events. You can set reminders for yourself, making sure you will not miss any deadlines and will be prepared for exams. Finding ways to prioritize what is important while still making time for yourself when necessary can help you get the most out of your college experience.
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