Few things are as nerve-wracking and anxiety-inducing as preparing for college as a freshman. After all, you are reaching a stage of your life that influences your career and professional life. So what are the best steps to take in ensuring you are fit for your first days in college? Consider these following tips.
Grants Before Loans
Every year, billions of grant dollars end up as lost opportunities for students. Although attributed to numerous factors, these missed opportunities are often the result of students who just do not follow-up on discovering them, and it costs them more in the end. This money is available, and there are networks you can look up to find them. Apply for as many of these grants as possible. Also, check on local sources if there are any scholarships or grant programs available. You may never know if your local dentist is offering a scholarship.
Weigh Your Commuting Options
Commuting makes sense for many reasons; family and financial concerns are among them. It is especially is recommended for your freshman year as the adjustment can be difficult – and you may prefer not having to pay for a room. Discuss this option with your admissions counselor and confirm whether you can commute during your freshman year.
Take a Different Mental Approach
You do not have to be out of character, but view the college experience as a transition period into adulthood. You will have some significant milestones to be achieved during these years. With these expectations, it is preferable to take a mature approach to preparing for college. While fun experiences are waiting for you, do not forget the primary reason you are investing your money and time in a university. Adopting a more disciplined and professional mindset can only help you as you meet the challenges college will throw at you.
Complete a Common Application
A typical application offers greater convenience and is simple to fill out. Also, it lets you select from a database of 700 schools, which is an excellent first step toward preparing for the college enrollment process. It also helps save time and money, which are always good to have during your early college years.
Consider Your Final Career Choice
The end goal of college itself is to prepare yourself mentally and physically for your career ahead. You do not have to declare a major right away, but it only benefits you if you place some thought into this area early. Also, students tend to change their minds and juggle around with a lot of choices. The earlier you make a decision, the more time you have to change plans.
Schedule a Visit
Reading and researching your college does not entirely replace visiting the campus itself. Once you have a preferred set of schools, you can further narrow your list by making physical visits to the university. While there, think about whether you see yourself spending the next four or more years on the campus. If there are tour providers, then prepare a set of questions to ask before going on the trip. A knowledgeable freshman is a prepared freshman.
These numerous tips go a long way towards helping you not only to be a prepared college freshman but a future professional as well. This experience is going to be an essential chapter of your life, so take advantage of the resources you have and give yourself the best opportunity to succeed. Your initial plan and mentality are going to play a significant role in how your academic career pans out.
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