Looking back a year ago, I was one big stressed out mess – so I understand what you guys are going through. Essay after essay, resume after resume, research after research, while still having homework and work and a social life!?! What gives? Oh the joys of being a senior in high school trying to find and apply to the schools that fit you best. On the bright side, it’s late January, so I’m sure most of you already have a pretty good idea on where you’re going to be studying in August.
I’m sorry to inform you that the college application process is not over for you yet. First off I want to say congratulations on making it this far in the tiring process. I know it’s stressful, but you know as well as I do that it will be worth it in the end. Yet, even if you have been accepted into the school of your dreams, you’re not finished. The next most important step in the course is to figure out how to pay for college.
Apply for FAFSA! Or, “Free Application for Federal Student Aid”. FAFSA is basically this long, confusing application that asks a million questions that seem completely irrelevant to your need of financial aid; but, it’s a nice thing that the government offers for you and it is definitely worth your time. FAFSA can issue you a Federal Pell Grant, which is money that you don’t have to pay back- depending on the circumstances, you may receive up to $5,550. FAFSA also makes loans available for you. I know the thought of applying for loans is scary; but, sometimes it must be done. FAFSA generally offers you loans that have a very low interest rate, which is exactly what students need.
Apply for scholarships. I know you have a billion other things to do other than write another scholarship essay – but, you should write it anyway. When you check your email, see if you have any scholarship opportunities sent to you. Check your school’s bulletin board or ask your counselor about financial aid, or check scholarship websites. There are tons of ways to find scholarships, you just have to go out and look!
I know that you are probably stressed and you’re sick of hearing about all this college stuff; but, the process is almost over. Take a look at other bloggers’ post and see what you have to look forward to in a few months!
🙂