The Benefit in Having Supportive Parents

Children benefit most when their parents are supportive in their daily activities. With supported parents, children can continue to grow and succeed in everything they do. People will actually become more confident if they know that their parents support their decisions.

When it comes to attending a college of your choice, it is important to have your parents’ support. They serve as your first support pillar when you need someone to lean on; which is typically the case with first year students. Going to a new school, being surrounded by new people, studying for long periods of time and taking one test after the other will definitely be somewhat intimidating for many youngsters.

According to recent studies, students with supportive parents are much more likely to succeed academically than those without them. This serves as proof that a student’s college experience largely depends on the support received from family and friends. This is why it is essential for parents to join their kids when visiting a university or college; giving them advice and tips on what to expect and how to take on this new challenge. By supporting students with their college applications, parents are in fact helping them to lay the correct foundation to prepare them for college life.

With students being 81% more likely to graduate from high school if their parents are supportive of their studies and career choices, students can get into prestige colleges much more easily and improve their chances of academic success. While there are many support groups and “college access” programs available for first-time students, nothing beats the solid support structure that parents can provide.

When applying for college admission in North Carolina, you might be faced with many options; and with more than 30 colleges and universities in this State alone, making the right choice might seem impossible. This is where supportive parents come in. They can shed light on your career goals, the more important things to remember, as well as the subjects and goals that you need to focus on.

Having supportive parents will definitely go a long way in helping a student prepare for the first year of college. With loving guidance and a solid foundation, students are very likely to succeed with their career goals and enjoy the journey along the way. 

5 Important Facts in College Submissions

All parents and students come to a point when they have to decide which school to go to. Every college has different submission requirements and standards for you to adhere to. Once you have decided on the college of your choice, you might want to consider the following tips:

Make Contact. You might want to pay the college a visit to get an overall feel for the college and the campus. Also, by meeting with a student advisor at the college you will get an opportunity to ask questions pertaining to the college itself. You might have to find out if there are any additional points to keep in mind when they approve students, or if this particular school will suit your needs.

Plan Ahead. Once you have answered your own questions about several colleges, you have to plan ahead; not only for next year, but the next four years of your future. You must be prepared to set aside study times each day, to ensure that you achieve good grades from the start, and continue to uphold those standards for your entire college period.

Be Motivated. Not everyone gets the opportunity to attend a prestigious college. This should motivate to you to want to become all that you can be. A student must be motivated to ensure that he or she will achieve the best results possible; and if you feel motivated, positive and passionate about your future, you will definitely reap the benefits.

Parents are Vital. Parents of the prospective student are very important. They need to be involved in the student’s submission process and also provide moral support throughout, until the student graduates. You might be a very diligent student, but you will still need support from your parents in order to keep going through tough times, long study periods and tedious tests.

Communication is essential. Communication is very important. If there is no communication from either side, nothing will function properly. As a student, you need to constantly communicate with your teachers, parents and friends. This will help you to identify problem areas and lean on the support structure that you already have.

Choosing the correct college is vital, but you should also keep in mind that as a student, you should look at the characteristics of your prospective college and make the correct academic decision for your future. Choose a college where you believe you will thrive and one that you will enjoy.

Financial Aid 101

While it is generally considered the responsibility of the family to pay for college, most all students have need for assistance and will receive some type of financial aid upon acceptance to any college or university regardless of a family's economic standing.  The process may seem over-whelming and difficult but a few tips can help ease the tension of organizing documents, completing forms, waiting, choosing and responding.

Every student that wants financial aid must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online.  Some private or larger public schools may also require the CSS Profile form, which could include school-specific questions.  These applications help schools determine the amount of money that they feel the family can contribute toward costs.  This is called the Expected Family Contribution (EFC), but is not the actual figure to be paid.

Once the FAFSA/CSS Profile is processed, students will receive a confirmation that the information has been disseminated to each school listed on the forms.  Schools will then start to process applications once academic acceptance has been made.  Next, students receive correspondence notifying them of various awards.

There are several types of financial aid that can potentially appear on the Award Letter.  Gift aid includes grants and scholarships that are based on socio-economic status and do not have to be repaid.  Merit-based scholarships consider the student's resume and academic record and, generally, do not have to be repaid.  Federal loans are just that, but are often attractive to students and parents based on low interest rates and no credit checks.  Private loans may be offered but are not advised.

One tip is to request tax documents as soon after the New Year as possible.  They will be needed to accurately complete the applications.  If schools require them completed earlier, use the closest estimates possible and expect adjustments to the awards when the exact figures are used.

After students are notified of awards for each school, they can determine how what they are being offered in financial aid and what their family can actually contribute compares to the actual cost of attending each school.  This will allow each student and family to choose the best fit both academically and financially.

7 Most Rewarding College Activities

Many times incoming Freshmen have been so pre-occupied with high school extra-curricular actives in relation to the application and acceptance process that they forget to inquire about opportunities for involvement once they start college.  Often, it is the relationships made in college activities that last a lifetime.

•    Greek life dominates student life on many college campuses with a large proportion of students participating in sororities and fraternities.  First appearing nationally on campuses in the early 19th Century, 'Greek' organizations offer members an instant network of friends that unite for a number of activities from formals and dances to study groups and community service efforts.

•    Colleges also feature Student Government organizations usually compiled of members of the student body that either run for election or are appointed as a representative for member organizations.  These groups participate in many aspects of campus life from planning entertainment activities for the year to participating in official school board meetings.

•    The 'front porch' of most schools is their athletic programs.  Not only do sports teams encourage school spirit for fans, alumni and the community, but they become a life-altering endeavor for the participants.  Student-athletes usually meet every day for several months just prior and during their season.  Team-building skills and friendships flourish in college athletics.

•    Arts ensembles and organizations are plentiful on many campuses and also offer rewarding opportunities through performances and exhibitions.  Band, chorus, drama and visuals arts are activities that enhance the overall educational experience for students, even if it's not their major area of study.

•    Universities have several student-written publications that offer the same camaraderie as other activities on campus.  The newspaper, the yearbook and literary magazines are outlets for those students with skills in writing, editing and photography.

•    Another niche of activities involves religious groups.  Whether it's a denominational or inter-faith organization, students looking for a faith-based campus experience should seek similar groups on their campus.

•    Some students do not even have to leave their dormitory to be involved in school-related activities.  Residence Life organizations are common on most campuses and provide activities involving those living in specific dorms or for those in living facilities campus-wide.

Travel and the College Experience

There are many travel and study options available to today’s adventuresome student. Study abroad programs, taking a gap year, or even going to an overseas school are all ways that students gain an education and see a little more of the world while they’re at it.

With the range of study abroad programs geared towards high school students today, students don’t need to wait until college to take part. Often high schools will participate in ‘swap’ programs, where students from different countries are paired up and take turns ‘hosting’ each other. Check with your high school guidance counselor to see what programs might exist at your school.

As with high schools, many colleges are now offering study abroad programs for their students. These usually take place in the upper years of college programs, and may require students to maintain a certain grade level to be eligible. If your high school student is interested in studying abroad, be sure to look into what international experience programs are available at colleges they are checking out. Students should also take time to think about which country they might like to study in- unless they’re fluent in Spanish, they might have a better time at a university in England than Spain. Students who are itching to travel should also look at the academic calendars of host universities- many education institutions in Europe take the entire month of April off for Easter holidays- perfect travel time!

Rather than travelling while part of a study program, some students opt to take a year or two off between high school and college. While private travel does offer unstructured adventure, there are benefits to organizing your travel around a study abroad program. Academic institutions can offer rewarding social experiences, as well as resources and support. As students usually pay the tuition fees of their home university, things like accommodation (think of your dorm room as an affordable hotel!) and rail passes (many require you to be a registered student to receive a discount) can be significantly cheaper than if you went it alone.

Finally, there is the option of actually going to college outside of the US. There are benefits to choosing this option- especially if your student is looking at specialized programs that are only available out of the country- but the international fees that many colleges charge today can be significant. Other factors, such as cost of living, length of study and visa requirements, should be considered prior to making a decision.

In all, there are many opportunities available to today’s jet-setting student. Knowing what experience you’re looking for- and how much you can afford- are important factors to consider when deciding on the perfect travel and study option.

Making the Most of Your First Year at College

Often students spend so much time preparing for college, they don’t know what to do when they get there! Whether it’s joining a fraternity or social club, playing sports or volunteering, there are many new opportunities available at college. Students, however, need to balance these new experiences with the reason why they’re at college- to get an education. The following are some tips on how students can both respect their academic responsibilities and get the most out of other aspects of college life.

Don’t Blow Off Too Many Classes. 

Unlike high school, attendance at college classes is optional, for the most part. Students are often tempted to skip class to sleep in or hang out with friends, and while missing a class here and there can be reasonable; missing too many classes can have very serious consequences for your grades and overall academic standing. Many courses have participation marks, which means just showing up is an easy way to ensure a decent grade. Students should also keep in mind that a low GPA from your first year can be all but impossible to raise, no matter how much work you put into your upper years of college.

Set Up a Schedule. 

Maintaining a schedule is just as important to knowing when your paper is due as the date of the next big varsity football game. Pulling all-nighters may seem like an integral part of the college experience, but it is not a productive or sustainable study strategy. By knowing ahead of time when to expect to be busy with school assignments, students can also more effectively plan for (stress-free!) social events.

Visit Your Professor.

Even if you feel you know the course material, taking some time to visit your professor during their office hours can be a very rewarding experience. For students contemplating graduate school, building relationships with professors in your first year can result in comprehensive and positive reference letters when it comes time to apply. A chat with your professor now and then can help you better understand your course material, keep in mind that professors are often great at pointing out resources for your assignments.

Get Enough Sleep, Exercise and Eat Right. 

It seems simple, but taking the time to take care of yourself can help you have a positive and productive first year. If you’re tempted by the daily pizza special in the cafeteria, think about taking the stairs instead of the elevator to class. Be sure to check out the school gym- usually its membership is included in your tuition fees. Getting enough sleep is important to not only paying attention in class, but ensuring you have enough energy to hang out with friends.

How to Write an Effective Scholarship Application

The majority of scholarship applications require students to prepare an essay or statement that outlines their eligibility. Preparing these letters takes a certain amount of skill, as each student is striving to make their application look unique. Students should think carefully about how they craft these statements, as they are intended to help selection committees get a better sense of who the applicants really are.

Start your application early. 

Many students do not give themselves enough time to start their applications and find themselves rushing to finish before the deadline. The end result is often a poorly-constructed and weakly-written application. Starting your applications early will give you time to clearly think and articulate your position. Be sure to schedule extra time for editing, especially if someone else will be looking over your paper.

Read through the scholarship application thoroughly. 

Remember that you are not simply listing your accomplishments and goals, but rather responding to a specific set of criteria. Are you being weighed based on academic merit? If so, your application should highlight scholastic achievements and academic performance. Is the applicant being evaluated based on community involvement? Consider outlining you volunteer experience in school, at home, in church or other areas. Student should take time to think about what specific experiences and abilities demonstrate their eligibility.

Start your process by writing an outline. 

Selection committees will often read through hundreds of applications before making a decision. Using simple and concise language that clearly lays out how you meet-and exceed- the criteria will make it easier for the committee members to understand why you are a perfect fit for the scholarship. An outline, using bullet points with main statements, can make it easier for you to structure a powerful and effective application.

Showcase your strengths, but be realistic about your weaknesses. 

Many scholarships seem to look for the perfect, well-rounded candidate- such a student doesn’t exist! Rather, selection committees are looking to learn both about your achievements, and the attitude that got you there. Identifying challenges or adversity you have faced in achieving goals can be a highly effective way of demonstrating both ability and attitude, but be careful not to overdo it.  Discussion should be framed around your strengths, as they relate to the eligibility criteria- after all, why would you want to highlight your weaknesses?

Affording College

For those looking at post-secondary education, the costs associated with a college degree can be staggering. Total student debt for all American college students is estimated at $1 trillion (source: CSNBC), while the average cost of a 4-year college program is over $23,000. With the cost of education on the rise, understanding the financial options available can help ease the burden of a college education on both students and their families.

529s

Registered educational savings plans can help to afford college expenses. Money can be added at any time, tax-free. While these savings plans are best used to incrementally set aside money as the student grows up, they can be started at any time as long as the student it’s intended for is under the age of 18.

Scholarships

There are several types of scholarships which may be available to your student. Many colleges offer competitive entrance scholarships as a way to attract the best and brightest. Students with higher high school academic achievements may be eligible for larger scholarships. If your student is involved in sports, look for available athletic scholarships. There are also many private scholarships and grants associated with specific colleges which have been set up by alumni. Be sure to check out what awards may exist for upper-level college students- some internal awards are only available to students entering their final year of college.

Financial Aid

A college or student loan works just like any other bank loan. Generally student loans are offered with a lower rate of interest for the time the student is in college, although loan scheduling and details will depend on the financial institution. Federal loans are also available to both students and parents, and are a highly common method of financing college educations.

Student Employment

Student employment is another financial option available to support education. Students generally find jobs during the summer months between years, but many are choosing to balance their studies with part-time work during the school term. Student employment can be a great way to make some much-needed cash, as well as provide valuable work experience. Many colleges coordinate paid co-op or internship opportunities, and some colleges offer work-study programs which provides on-campus jobs to students. Exploring employment options or part-time study may find other ways to pay for college without sinking into debt.

5 Ways to NOT Prepare for College

While people will have different ideas of the ideal college and program, there are a few things that everyone should do when planning for college. Often it can be difficult to know what to do, let alone how to make the right decision. The following are definite ways you should not prepare for college!

Use A Magic Eight Ball

Don’t be tempted to leave your decision up to fate! For many, college options can seem so overwhelming that using a Magic Eight Ball or divining rod seems like a reasonable way to make a choice on which college to attend. With so much time and money that will be invested in this decision, you need to make an informed choice.  Doing research, talking to others and sitting down with guidance counselors or college planners are all important ways to gain information about what options are right for your student. In fact, scheduling a meeting with one of these professionals is an important first step in making an informed decision for post-secondary education.

Stay At Home

You would be surprised at the number of students and parents who decide which school to go to without having been to college fairs or even having visited the campus! Course descriptions and types of programs are only one part of the puzzle- other factors like campus layout, extracurricular activities available and meal options at the cafeteria are also important aspects of a positive college experience. Both students and parents should be actively involved in the education, and should make sure to set aside time for campus visits.

Keep Your Opinions to Yourself

Without open communication about college options, you may be in for a nasty surprise, especially if your student is expecting to major in Video Game Production, but you’re looking for the next family doctor. Choosing a college is a decision that should be made jointly between parents and their students; involving students in planning activities from the start can ensure that a decision is reached which everyone can agree on.

Spend All Your Money

College is expensive these days, but that doesn’t mean you have to foot the bill yourself. Your guidance counselor or college planner is well-versed in the types of scholarships, awards and grants that are available to help finance your college education. These funds can often be augmented by student employment or educational plans. Figure out a financial action plan that can help reduce the burden of college education.

Avoid Taking Tests

If there is a college program that doesn’t require an SAT score, chances are your student will find it. While taking college admission tests can be a lot of work and pressure, the study habits and revision 

How to Make the Most of a Campus Visit

College visits are important to making an informed decision on which education institution is right for you. While that program at the state college several hours away might seem good on paper, course sizes and professors aren’t the only factors you should consider. Where you will live, the campus community you will be a part of, and basics like where to eat and study will all play a role in your college experience. To make the most of your campus visits, keep the following in mind:

Take a Student-Guided Tour

Most colleges offer a tour conducted by a current student at the school, and are a great way to get honest feedback from the student perspective. Students are often very honest about sharing their personal opinions of the school and great at answering group questions that frequently come up, both from high school students considering their college and from parents who are anxious about sending their child away to school for the first time.

Do a Private Tour

While taking the official tour is a good way to get a general understanding of how the campus functions, you should also spend time exploring on your own. Often tour guides will highlight the prettiest or more interesting buildings on campus- but this isn’t the entire story. Taking some time to poke around can give you a more complete idea of what each college campus is all about.

Take Pictures and Notes

Chances are you will end up visiting several colleges before you make your final decision. Taking detailed notes and pictures that highlight the pros and cons of each college- as well as your impressions and feelings of the place- will be of great assistance when trying to recall the details months later.

Spend a Day in the Life of a Student

Tailor your campus visit to get a feel of what it would be like to be a student there. Often faculties are grouped in different areas on campus- how far away would your classes be from your residence? What kind of cuisine is offered at the cafeteria? Are there any good study spots in the library? If you know what you want to study, sitting in a course can give you a good idea of what to expect in terms of class size, professors and discussion-most colleges are fine with this if you schedule ahead first.

Explore Beyond the Campus Boundaries

Choosing a college also means choosing a community to live in for several years. While you’ll probably live in residence in your first year, you may want to move off campus at some point. Take some time to explore the neighbourhood around the college. What is the average cost of rent? Is there free street parking? What sort of amenities- like grocery stores, coffee shops or libraries- are there? Getting a sense of the campus and the surrounding area will help you better plan for your complete college experience.

How to Take a Test… and Succeed!

High school students frequently find that the hardest part of preparing for college is taking tests. If the thought of taking your ACT or SAT has left you awake at nights, or worst yet, waking up in a cold sweat, try this simple guide to bring you peace of mind and ace that test.

Be Prepared

Your preparation for testing begins long before test day. Hopefully, you’ve been studying consistently and diligently to be prepared. The week before a big test, make the commitment to get lots of sleep, to limit your studying to no more than 8 hours a day (and that includes class time!), and to eat well. The day of the test, be sure to wake up in plenty of time for a good breakfast, have your materials (pencils, calculators, etc) ready, and show up to the exam center early so you have time to rest and relax before the test starts.

Starting The Test

Listen closely and/or read closely the instructions you’re given, and be conscious of where to find the clock, if you’re timing your test. If the test is science or math oriented, you might want to jot down formulas or definitions that you’re worried you’ll forget during the test. Start with a positive attitude, and quickly review the questions, highlighting the ones that you know you’ll be able to do quickly. Then, simply start with the easiest, highest value questions and work your way toward the toughest questions as your brain warms up.

During the Test

Not all questions on a test are equal; some might be worth more than others in your final grading. Be sure to budget your time closely, so you aren’t wasting time pondering low value questions that might have you stumped. Give yourself at least 10 minutes towards the end of the test to review your answers, and set a time limit on any big questions, so you know to move on even if you don’t have a complete answer. Unless you’ll incur a penalty for wrong answers, try to answer every question. During your 10 minute review period, don’t second guess yourself unless you’re completely positive the new answer is more accurate. Finally, mentally note the top 2 questions you’re most uncertain about, for review afterwards.

After the Test

Whew! Start by congratulating yourself on completing your test. Take a few minutes to search out the answers to the top 2 questions that you were unsure about, and reassure yourself that you were right (or memorize the answers if you were wrong). If you’re unsure about how you did, you may want to avoid talking to others about the test experience, as it might make you even more anxious. Finally, relax… you’ve done the best you can and you’ll receive your grades soon enough. Focus on the next step of your college application process, and think positive!

Coming Home for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is usually the first time that students return home since having left for college. Although it has only been a few months since they first left home, both students and parents often feel like things are different. For students, it might be the new couch in the living room, or even the younger sibling who’s laid claim to their bedroom. Parents also begin to realize that their student is not the same person they helped move into that college dorm only a few months ago. In addition to dealing with massive amounts of student laundry (don’t forget to stock up on the detergent!) the following are some ideas of what parents and students can expect when students fly home to the nest for the first time.

I’m an Adult Now

There is the urge to treat your child as if they never left home so be conscious if you have a sudden urge to over-parent your child. While it may seem logical to you that you student can help out with chores, or that you can finally provide in-person feedback on study habits and social schedules, students may resent being treated as if they’ve never left home. You’ve spent the last few years preparing them for college and becoming independent; Thanksgiving is that first real test of your new adult-to-adult relationship.

Family Time Versus Social Schedules

Students coming home will be eager to hang out with their old friends, compare notes on college experiences and enjoy their newly-found sense of independence. Parents, on the other hand, see their student’s return as a time for the family to catch up and spend time with each other. Seeing familiar places- the old high school, the old social hangout, the old home- can be a difficult experience for many students, and sharing this experience their friends is important. Making sure there is a balance between family time and social schedules is important to ensuring a happy and healthy holiday.

 Leaving Again Can Be Hard

With cleaned clothes in tow, the time has come for your son or daughter to hop on that bus, climb aboard that train, or into the car and head back to school. Often, this good-bye can be harder for both parents and students than when they moved to college at the beginning of the fall. Although difficult, this is perfectly normal. If you or your student might feel upset, remember that Christmas is only a month away!

A Stress-Free Admissions Interview

You’ve studied hard, survived testing, written your admissions essays, and submitted great references – the payoff is that you’ve been granted an admission interview with one of your top colleges. If you’re like most high school students, you’re both thrilled and anxious; especially if you see yourself as somewhat of an introvert or have trouble dealing with questions in person. Here’s a quick guide to help you succeed with your admissions interview.

Practice, Practice, Practice

It sounds silly, but one of the easiest things you can do is to practice common interview questions with friends and family members. Admission officers frequently work from a very limited list of questions, therefore being prepared for the most common ones will improve your odds of doing well during the exam. Be cautious, however, that you don’t simply memorize what you think is the best answer; officers will have heard all the generic answers. Be sure to answer questions in a genuine and thoughtful manner.

Know Your Successes, Strengths and Weaknesses

Students frequently get flustered when they’re asked questions in person, forgetting all their own great accomplishments when put on the spot. Make a mental note of 3 to 5 successes that you think make you stand out from other applicants, and know your strengths both in the classroom and outside of it in extracurricular activities. No one is perfect, however, so be able to identify and verbalize 1 or 2 weaknesses in yourself, to which you can speak on actively working to improve. In all cases, be confident in your answers and you’ll make a great impression.

Don’t Bury Your Head in a Book

Admissions officers frequently use news events and current affairs to get to know students’ personalities. Simply picking up the morning newspaper or checking in on top news events on TV can help you not only keep perspective before your interview, but also give you the ability to respond quickly with a well-rounded answer. If possible, try to engage the admissions officer in discussion, rather than simply giving your opinion.

Interviewers are looking not for the details but for an overall impression of you. If you did your mock interviews, appeared relaxed and confident in answering their questions, and engaged in two-way conversation, you will have made a good impression. 

5 Ways to Compare Colleges

One of the biggest tasks for high school students is choosing the right college for their future studies. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to choose which to apply to, and even more difficult to choose amongst multiple colleges when one has been accepted. Here are 5 factors that you should consider when stacking your colleges side by side.

Cost

It may not be the most attractive of factors, but it’s the most pragmatic. If you’ve examined the financial aid and scholarships opportunities of a school and decided that you truly can’t afford it, scratching it off the list early can actually help you focus on better opportunities. Be sure to consider all aspects of cost, including travel, housing, tuition, materials, and ancillary fees.

Campus Life

Where do you want to live for 3 to 4 years? That’s the question you should ask yourself when comparing colleges. For most students, moving to college is the first time they’ve been away from home, making the campus life a significant factor in the decision. Looking at the amenities, extracurricular activities, housing options, and campus culture can have a big impact on whether a college is good or just good enough.

College Environment

It is more than just the types of classes and majors offered. Consider things such as average class size, student-to-teacher ratios and whether classes are generally taught by professors or graduate assistants. Think about whether you prefer to learn through hands-on experiences or class discussions.

Location

Consider things like distance from home, geographic location and climate. If you’re used to a smaller town, will the move to a big city be exciting, or a distraction? Are you depending on public transit that is found in larger cities, or are you looking at a campus that is all within walking distance of just the basics?

Gut Feeling

Try to visit your top choices before making any decisions. Talk to students, take a campus tour and even sit in on a class. The best way to get a feel for the college is to experience it the way a student would. Most people know when a school just feels right.

Borrowing Money From Family for College

Shakespeare is famous for his quote “Neither a borrower nor a lender be” when it comes to sharing money amongst friends and family. But for families in a crunch when it comes to college costs, borrowing from family members might be one of the few options available at a reasonable cost. How can you borrow from family and close friends without worrying about awkward Thanksgiving dinners if things don’t go well?

Make Informed Investments

Whether you’re the investor or the borrower, understanding the basic nature of the borrowing relationship is key. The investor has to have confidence that the borrower will be able to repay the loan, which means having a certain amount of confidence in the student, his/her line of study, as well as  future employment opportunities. For the student, this means making smart choices about what college is best, and what program to study, as well as being informed on the employment market, and being prepared to answer questions from the lender on those fronts.

Be Clear On Terms

Miscommunication can be the death of a good relationship; doubly true if money is involved. Before borrowing or lending, make sure that the terms of the arrangement are clearly spelled out in writing and agreed to by both sides. The lender may offer to reduce or waive interest during the study period, while the borrower may request the option of paying back some of the loan during the college years, based on summer employment income. Both sides should agree to an interest rate beforehand (even if it’s variable), and plan for contingencies such as if the student needs to drop out due to illness or emergency, if the student doesn’t graduate, or if the student fails to get a job quickly after graduation.

Agree on Boundaries

 Borrowing money from family is truly a case of mixing business with pleasure; pleasure which turns out to be a nightmare when things go wrong. In the age of Facebook, students can feel that family members are scrutinizing their every move, and it can be hard for family members to refrain from commenting “Shouldn’t you be studying?” after every social college outing. Agree on boundaries such as the student sharing end of year grades if the lender doesn’t nose around with family members to find out how the school year is going.

Borrowing from family can be a great way to solve a college financing problem; family can enjoy supporting the next generation of relatives, while students can benefit from better terms than from traditional lenders like banks and financial aid programs. 

Navigating the Education System

LSAT, GRE, SAT...Even just trying to understand the terminology of the college system can make you feel as though you’re learning a new language! With so many institutions, regulations and tests that make up today’s educational system, it can be difficult to understand what educational options exist, let alone which is the right one for your student. A good understanding of the education system is a must, and the following overview can help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Educational System

Educational systems differ from country to country, and from one jurisdiction to another. Generally, most Western countries have compulsory primary education for children starting around age 4 or 5.Students tend to start their secondary or high school education around the age of thirteen, and depending on the system, can graduate as early as sixteen.  In England, compulsory high school education in England lasts until a student is 16. At this point, students may opt to continue their secondary education for another two years, which are spent studying towards qualifications known as A-levels which are the basis for admission to post-secondary institutions. In Canada, Quebec students complete high school in their junior year and have the option to attend CÉGEP, a 2-year junior college system which prepares them for either college or vocational studies. The American educational system is a little more straightforward: after twelve years of mandatory schooling, students can then move on to the college system. 

What about Standardized Tests?

With so many American students applying to college, standardized tests are a common way in which a student’s academic performance is evaluated and used by academic institutions to determine admission for educational programs. Some tests, like the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the model used by American College Testing (ACT) are used for general undergraduate college admission. Other tests, such as the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), Medical College Admission Test (MCAT), Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) are tests used for admission to specific professional graduate studies, once an undergraduate college degree has been obtained.

Credits gained in high school Advance Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses can also be considered for college admissions, and have the added bonus of often being counted as credit, allowing students to ‘fast track’ through college. A community college degree can often be put towards a college degree in the same way.

Where does my student fit in?

There is never an easy answer to this question! Some students are extremely focused and seek to fast track through college to their career. Others use their time at college to explore career options while gaining an education. Each path has its benefits and challenges, and a good understanding of what options are available can help you and your student map out the best solution.

Life Skills for College

In the rush to prepare their children for the academic side of college, many parents often overlook imparting other skills that are important to their child’s academic success and quality of life. Knowing how to grocery shop or how to do laundry is an important support skill that can contribute to a positive college experience. By involving your student in household activities while they are still at home in high school, you are helping equip them with knowledge and resources that can help them succeed in school and in life.

Eating Healthy

Many students who go off to college choose to buy and prepare their own food, rather than purchase a campus meal plan. This certainly has its health benefits- no missing breakfast because they slept in or worrying about what the contents of Monday’s meatloaf- but these benefits can be limited if a student only loads up on snacks and junk food. Poor eating habits have been proven to have an effect on academic performance, so be sure your student has a good understanding of the basics of a healthy diet and lifestyle- check out the USDA’s MyPlate system at http://www.choosemyplate.gov/.

Knowing what to eat is the first step; how to eat well on the cheap is an acquired skill. Students should know how to compare unit prices on items. Often, the plain-wrapped discount or store brand item is several cents cheaper than their brand-name counterparts, so why pay for packaging? Be sure your student know how smell, look and feel for ripeness and freshness in fruits and vegetables. Knowing how to purchase quality meats for low prices is easy- students should look for sales, buy in bulk and freeze into individual portions. Actively include your student in your grocery shopping trips now, and you’ll be helping increase their chance of surviving their first year at college without the dreaded ‘Freshman 15’.

Laundry: The Silent Killer

You would be surprised how many students head off to college without knowing how to do laundry. It may seem simple to you, but those knobs, dials and buttons on the washer can be foreign to those who haven’t used it before. Unless you are okay with your student lugging home giant, stinking piles of laundry for your attention at each holiday, teaching them how to work a washer and dryer is a simple and easy way that can improve their quality of life and save your relationship.

Making a Home out of a House               

Having a safe, comfortable place to hang your hat at the end of the day can be a big boost to your student’s mental health. Whether it acts as a quiet place to study, or simply helps to get a good night’s sleep, make sure your student knows how to turn a house into a home is important. When packing all those books and notes for college, make sure some family photos or a favourite blanket get tucked away, too.

Choosing a Profession

Often, going to college can feel like a reflex response: students need a college degree to be competitive in today’s job market, and rush to enter a program lest they fall behind, falling victim to the ‘everyone else is doing it” mentality. Yet many students struggle in college when confronted with a seemingly endless number of career options and opportunities. Knowing what to consider when considering the future can help make choosing that career and college less frustrating.

When I grow up I want to be...

When your child was six, they wanted to be a firefighter: two years later it was a teacher. While a student’s choice of profession may continue to fluctuate, they will always have certain things they are good at and like doing. Understanding personal interests and abilities is as important to making an informed decision about career paths as statistics related to employment rates and average salaries. Often students feel pressured into certain career paths by their family, friends and the media. While you’d love another doctor or lawyer in the family, this may not align with your son or daughter’s intentions, and being pressured into a career option not of their choosing can often result in poor grades, disinterest or unhappiness. Finding the perfect profession is not easy: studies have shown that the average person switches their career path at least three times in their life. Get your student thinking early about what career choice strikes the right balance between his or her interests and abilities, and you’re helping them establish a sense of self that can lead to a happy, healthy and productive life. 

The Quarter-Life Crisis?

Psychological research has shown that many people in their twenties begin to express doubt about their lives, generally brought on after a young person enters “the real world”. Most, if not all, college-age students experience what has come to be known as the ‘quarter-life crisis’. Many going through this phase express feelings of being lost, scared or confused about the future (think The Graduate or Office Space), and concern about a career after graduation can add to the anxiety.  While chances are that your student will experience some form of anxiety about their future (who doesn’t?), this can be alleviated by educational and professional choices that are in line with a student’s passions and abilities.

Help! My Son wants to be a Mechanic!

Before you think about disownment, consider this: the average electrician makes about $50,000 a year (source: US Department of Labour). With so many people cashing in the blue collar for an office desk, skilled trades are in high demand. The skilled trades offer job security, entrepreneurial opportunities for the independent-minded, and are often challenging and rewarding experiences. Chances are if your student is already spending more time in the garage or rewiring your house, this might be a good career choice. 

Second Thoughts on College Education

Parents generally expect their children to look forward to college as a way to get away from home and experience life on their own. This is not always the exact case, but many teenagers want to have the experience of moving on to college.

Some see it as a necessary step in becoming mature and progressing to the next point in their lives. If for some reason your child is not among that group, it can have a negative effect on how he or she performs academically.

It is difficult to understand how children will develop because they are all so different. Experiencing new things is very attractive to young people. However, this type character does not always dictate how children will feel about similar opportunities.

You may anticipate that your child won't want to fly from the nest when first given the chance. Whatever you expect, it is impossible to accurately predict how the course of events will take place.

How Far Away from Home?

Parents often want their children to attend the same university they went to themselves, but the distance that school is away from home might be a major factor.

If a young adult wants to attend school away from home, they might not want to be a long distance away. Studies indicate that a large majority of college students attend schools within a hundred miles of home.

The reason why some students don't make it at the next level is because they are too far removed from everything familiar to them. The fear of that happening is often in the back of a student's mind causing doubts about college.

Some students want something so much they will go anywhere to achieve it. They may even want to travel to another country. Then again, there are those who want to venture away from home, but in small steps so they can come home on weekends and not feel distanced and isolated. Just knowing home is within driving distance is comforting to some kids.

The Best Plan for Motivation

The truth is no parent can predict how their teenager will feel about college location. The best thing you can do is to encourage learning at the level your child is at the present time and always be positive about the future college experience.

Even if you are not sure that a particular college is right for your student, carefully choose the comments you make that can be interpreted to disfavor college in general. Then work with your student through the situation as more facts begin to present themselves.

Has Your High School Student Decided on a Major?

If you begin planning your child's college education and saving for the expenses like most parents, this stage of the process usually begins long before your son or daughter has decided on a major.

There is a smattering of high school students who already know emphatically what they want to do with their futures before they even choose a college, but the majority still has questions when graduation rolls around.

Parent Responsibility

As a parent, you should encourage your child to give some thought to different college majors that interest them. You should not press or attempt to force your child to accept a major based on your own desires, nor should you apply pressure to get a decision within a short timeframe. The time to begin asking and offering suggestions is no later than the 10th grade.

About 1/3 to 1/2 of the courses a student takes in college relate to a major, so it is important to have some basic idea of what direction your child will take at the start of college.

In a 4-year college, a student doesn't have to declare a major until the end of their sophomore year, but you'd prefer to avoid paying for classes that will have no relevance.

Having two majors due to uncertainty is a possibility at some colleges, but it makes academics harder for the student. Most often, the best choice is to have a major and a minor so that a switch can be made or graduate studies may be pursued.

There is some value in declaring late. The student has time to find areas of study that interest and challenge them.

A Difference in Career and Major

A college major does not always dictate what career the graduate will pursue, but accounting, nursing, or engineering, for instance, are trade specific majors that usually offer jobs within their general realms. Some majors have little to do with what profession is planned, only with preparing students for business futures. Many courses overlap and are required in numerous different and even unrelated majors.

Sometimes, in spite of how hard you work with your child to get an answer on a major, you will never arrive at anything concrete. You may consider a preliminary meeting between your student and an advisor to brainstorm and get a valued opinion on possibilities.

Don't stress if your student is undecided even going into their freshman year. This is not uncommon and college advisors are trained and experienced in helping your student make the right choices. Everyone is different and the best decisions are those carefully thought through and evaluated carefully, even if it requires a little more time.

5 People to Talk With About Attending College

If you want to help your high school student get admitted to the college of their choice, both of you should become familiar with 5 people who can contribute and make a difference. You probably already know one place you should start.

Guidance Counselor

You child should seek advice from the high school guidance counselor on what courses to take to best prepare for college, and the counselor should also encourage your student to sign up for the entrance exams that are necessary to enter college.

Counselors generally offer advice on what schools are a good fit for the individual student's desired degree, too; unfortunately, many counselors are overwhelmed because of their workloads. You may find it necessary to do most of the legwork yourself.

Notable References

Most colleges expect and/or require references from those who know a student personally and can substantiate their character and scholarly accomplishments. These letters are also usually needed for scholarship applications.

It is not possible to have too many reference letters. These should come from coaches, teachers, employers, school club advisors, and members of higher education when possible. Your child should start asking for letters long before it is necessary to apply to college.

Admissions Counselors

Every college has one, and it is their job and goal to make everything as clear as possible so your child has the best chance at admission. It may not always be possible to speak directly with the head of the department, but most schools have capable individuals to help answer questions.

Counselor for Financial Aid

There are important deadlines you must meet to be accepted for financial aid. These come much earlier than you might think. Every college has a financial aid department that explains what is needed and when. There is no penalty for applying early, and that gives you a much better chance of receiving earmarked funds.

Academic Advisor

Your student doesn't stop needing help after being accepted to college. Getting advice from the advisor at that level is very important to be sure that the right courses are taken for the degree that is pursued.

Every student is generally expected to meet with their assigned advisor before being allowed to attend class. Once assigned an advisor, typically this same person remains your student's guide throughout attendance, and their assistance can be of great benefit in many regards.

Someone representing each of these positions will be of valuable assistance to both you and your college student at this very important time in their life. It is essential to take advantage of every available resource.

Is Your Child's High School Performance Jeopardizing College Opportunities?

Many high school kids go through a phase of revolt where they don't perform up to their potential and think it amusing to appear as if though they don't understand and don't care whether they do or not.

They may fake ignorance of subjects they know very well. This is called the "Cute Idiot" syndrome, and unfortunately it is common; thank goodness in most cases it is also usually only temporary.

This nonsense usually originates from a student who is doing poorly academically and may not have any guidance from home to do any better. The sad thing is that students who are doing well in school often look up to the student and think of them as cool. They emulate the same wiseacre ways to seek the acceptance of the bad kid or to hopefully become more popular themselves.

Some of the signs to watch for if your child suddenly goes "brain dead" and wants to follow in the shoes of the person who is going nowhere are:

1. Always Late for School Activities - You should teach your child to be on time for any event they are expected to attend, and that definitely includes school. This should start in the kindergarten/elementary years and become routine. Being late can progress to cutting classes, too.

2. Losing or Forgetting Homework - This is one of those traits that aggravates teachers to no end. It soon becomes evident to educators that the student who does this doesn't care about class studies, and the teacher will lose interest in wasting time with such a goldbricker.

3. Creating a Scene in Class - The number one trait of a bad student is interrupting the teaching process by attempting to make a circus out of class. Trips to the principal's office probably won't do much good, except to provide some peace for the instructor. The parent usually gets some lame excuse of how their child was mistreated.

4. Postponing Assignments until the Last Minute - This is a problem with many students if their parents don't stay after them. It is a poor habit that may have nothing to do with the "Cute Idiot" syndrome. Still, you can be assured that the person influencing the mutiny is doing the same thing.

These are only four of the ways that a student can jeopardize college opportunities and decent grades because of listening to the wrong drummer. Unfortunately, things can get much worse and lead to many more problems both in school and at home. It is important for parents to get a handle on this behavior early, before extreme damage is done.

Imagine trying to get reference letters for college and scholarship applications from teachers and school officials who have labeled your child's behavior as unacceptable for college. Once the damage is done, it is hard, if even possible, to undo.

How Does Your Child Choose a College Major?

If you have friends who have already sent kids to college, you probably have heard stories about failure along with the ones on success. Failure isn't always indicative of talent or desire; it can be caused by simple mistakes in choice and judgment. Unfortunately, that can happen at the parent level on occasion.

You Can't Decide for Your Child

Some parents have predetermined ideas about what their children will be professionally when they are still very young, and the lesson all parents eventually learn is that their offspring have different plans and desires from those of the parents. A doctor might wish the same profession for his son, but medicine is not for everyone, or there would be more doctors than the world needs.

It is much better to coach a child to focus on what they want to do in life at a very early age than it is to simply wait for a decision or force a curriculum on them. Children should start narrowing down their career objectives by the 9th grade, and if a child enters their senior year with no clue as to what line of work interests them, it is time to have a discussion on the subject.

Their career or choice of major need not be too exact, but defining it to a broad category can save some tuition for classes at school that may not be necessary for a particular area of study.

Here are some tips that might help your child in choosing a college major.

1. You can find tests online that help your child select a major by simply choosing answers to multiple choice questions. This is a good start if a child is stuck, and the process often makes important points clear.

2. Base career objectives on marketable skills and employment in fields that are viable and will be so in the future.

3. Build on strengths, not hopes. A child who doesn't grasp some subjects very well and really doesn't improve with tutoring won't do well if those subjects are requirements in a career. A student who does poorly in math will struggle in a field of study such as electrical engineering or computer programming.

Choosing a college major has to rank within the top five decisions a young person makes. What they need most from their parents is for them to be helpful and supportive.

Never Take the SAT or ACT Too Lightly

Everyone knows that an SAT or ACT score is an important part of the college admissions process, and yet many parents send their kids to take the test without any preparation at all.

Either test is a measuring gauge of what a child has learned up to that point in the education system. To achieve the best possible scores on either of these tests, regardless of how good your child's grades are, some preparation is highly recommended.

How important is the SAT or ACT to a college? It is considered the second most important factor in the application. Scores in high school based on the degree of difficulty and any special academic accomplishments beyond those required provides the primary focus of admissions, but poor SAT or ACT scores can be a debilitating factor affecting a college's decision.

Increase College Offers

Higher SAT/ACT scores mean more choices for majors in college as well as more colleges that will have an interest in the student's attendance. While every college is concerned about filling classrooms and receiving tuition, it is the intent to take the students who will be better able to finish the courses and graduate with honors.

Everyone benefits from added points on the test, and some colleges won't even consider a student for acceptance if their scores fall below a certain minimum.

Sponsors offer scholarships every year to students they deem deserving of their offers. They also use the scoring on the ACT or SAT when determining who receives scholarships.

Do Not Underachieve

The student who "settles" for a score rather than attempts to do their best is limiting their potential. This is also indicative of how the student will pursue higher education and life in general. The parent should instill the importance of academic achievement early in the education process and reinforce that concept throughout a child's academic life.

Some study materials for the SAT and ACT are free, but the better prep packages do cost money. Consider it an investment in the child's education that can make the difference in overall college costs and the level of achievement at that level. Sometimes your school's guidance counselor keeps study material on hand to lend to students.

There are four primary fields of study represented in the SAT or ACT; these are Math, Writing, Critical Reading, and Vocabulary. Concentrating more on the weakest subjects is a proven way to get higher scores and achieve more balanced scoring, which is another consideration during evaluation for college acceptance.

Three Ways to Ensure College Success for Your Child

Parents of high school age children with plans to attend college must prepare in advance. Students who do well at the next level are the ones who began to think about taking that step years before it is time. Most often, the only way that will happen is if the parents press the issue.

Three ways you can help to ensure your student's success at college are:

1 - Choose Challenging High School Courses

Try to push them to take the more difficult classes, like the honors level high school courses. Research has shown kids who take the more difficult courses such as honors math, English, and science do better at college.

The reason why so many students don't make it through the first year of college is they have not learned to work hard enough at their studies. The study skills your child will need at the college level should already be developed before they attend.

2 - Keep a Positive Attitude

Taking harder courses may mean grades lower than those your child would make in easier level classes, but that should be expected. You must be encouraging and helpful instead of judgmental and negative. Try to focus on things you can do to assist, such as helping them find a tutor or suggesting they join a study group.

A positive attitude must be maintained all the way through the college application and selection process and beyond. As you know, even good students may not be accepted by their first college choice. A rejection should not be viewed as a bad situation, just an opportunity to excel at another school.

3 - Visit Colleges That Make Offers

If there is any possibility that your child will attend a particular college, it is highly suggested that both of you visit the campus before making a final decision. Arrange a campus tour in advance and allow sufficient time to cover the campus thoroughly. Discuss your findings at length frankly and honestly and make the decision together.