College Journey

By: Chris The Graduate  The first thing to learn months before college is that it takes a lot of preparation. As a student taking these steps, I have learned that there are several things to do and understand before the first day of classes. But no matter how much you prepare, there’s nothing you can do to stop college from being expensive. It’s already a hassle to narrow down the top schools. However, preparing for college doesn’t begin until you know which schools you want to attend. Although you might find these times stressful and frustrating, they are intended to enhance your college experience both during and after graduation. The first and most critical step I recommend for college is researching the colleges you want to attend. This is a place and environment you will see for the next two to four years especially if you live on campus. Look at the college’s academic and financial aid programs. Additionally, consider the college’s culture and atmosphere to ensure it is an appropriate fit for you. When I looked for the college I was interested in, I was excited about what they had to offer both academically and in extracurriculars. But unfortunately, they did not provide the major I wanted and the campus is overcrowded and overwhelming. So ultimately, I decided to go to another college that was more suited for me. I found a college that had the major I wanted, smaller class sizes, and a campus atmosphere that I felt more comfortable with. Another significant step is making sure all the documents you need are prepared to be accepted and correct for your college to accept you. Getting ready for college takes a lot of attention from you and your guardians. This includes gathering letters of recommendation, transcripts, standardized test scores, and other necessary documents. Make sure to plan and give yourself some time to review all your paperwork and revise corrections if needed. Submit your application as soon as you can to ensure acceptance. For example, it is recommended to submit your college application two months before the deadline date to give yourself enough time to review your documents and make any necessary revisions. A helpful thing to remember throughout the process is how your education will be paid for. College can be and will be expensive. Therefore, it is important to research the various scholarships and grants available to you to help make paying for college more affordable. It is also worthwhile to consider student loans and other forms of financial aid. Also consider the long-term costs of college, such as interest on loans and the potential for a lower salary due to tuition costs. Finally, it’s time to move in and you need to gather supplies and things for your dorm and classes in general. Make sure to budget accordingly and be aware of any additional fees that may be incurred. Don’t forget to research any scholarships or grants that may be available to help offset the cost of college. Finally, prepare for the college experience by talking to current students or alumni about their experiences. For example, you could research what supplies are necessary for the classes you are enrolled in, or ask current students what the best study methods are for a particular professor. College is meant to be a very life-changing experience. From meeting new people to finding a pathway that can take you down various paths and missions. But in the beginning, it takes a lot of planning and willpower to get the best of it. Try not to feel stressed and overwhelmed in these times and look at the end goal of this journey and all the experiences you will get to do while in college.