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Heading off to college is one of life's big landmarks. While you may be thinking about dorm life, college parties and freedom from the folks, there is much more to being prepared for college than simply being ready to leave the nest. I wasn't as prepared as I could have been when I left home for college. Here are 4 tips on preparing for college that I believe are essential to know.
Choose your school carefully
Really sit down and consider what it is you want to pursue as a career before you decide on what school you go to. Transferring to a different college is expensive and time consuming. It is best to be at the school you want to be at from the beginning. If you aren't sure of your future career goals yet, think about what kind of campus environment you want to be in and what kind of programs you are interested in. Then look at schools that have the characteristics you are interested in. Don’t just follow your friends.
Be ready academically
If at all possible take high school classes that will exempt you from college courses. I was not aware of the significance of AP programs in high school, and could have saved myself thousands of dollars in college course credits by simply taking a different English or Biology class senior year of high school. Also, take as many high school foreign language courses as you can. Many universities have a standard that if you take 3 years of foreign language in high school, you don't have to take any foreign language courses in college.
Be ready Financially
Higher education, while a worthy investment, is still is a big one. Try as hard as you can to make your tuition bills cheaper. Fill and file your FAFSA online as soon as possible. Contact your school and go online and research grants and scholarships that you are eligible for early. Check out work study options for your school and state. If you are going to school out of state, check for reduced out-of-state tuition options. There are many online resources to help students find scholarships and grants. The rule of thumb is to apply to as many as possible, because the odds are that you'll at least receive some aid. And some aid is better than none.
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