This article was originally written for FirstGenerationStudent.com, now a part of ImFirst.org.
In our first post, we discussed the importance of starting a college search early and outlined programs or services that first-generation students should look for when choosing a college or university. This post shifts the focus to you and what you should think about to find the right fit for your unique personality, financial situation and academic goals.
Know Thyself
Knowing what you want out of college will help you find the best fit. Being aware of your career interests, values and personality will give you an advantage when selecting the right college. Some things to consider when evaluating colleges:
1. Your academic needs:
Do you know that you want to be a teacher or a doctor? If you’re sure of your future career path now, then make sure that the university you want to attend offers the major or program you need. You can usually find this information under “Degree Requirements” for the major you’re considering. There can be subtle differences in the courses each university requires for a particular major. For, example, you don’t want to end up in a communications program that focuses on theory when you really want a program that allows you to get studio experience in producing a television show. If you’re undecided, that’s fine too. Be sure to look at whether or not the college offers special advising or programs for “undeclared” majors to help you figure it out.
2. Your personality:
Where will you feel comfortable? A large public university or a smaller liberal arts school? Large state universities offer lots of opportunities, but they also tend to have large class sizes at first. Smaller universities may have more of a personal feel but may offer fewer majors and activities.
3. Do you want to go away or stay closer to home?:
You may crave independence, but your family wants you to stay at home because they need you or are worried about the cost of housing. Or, you may be worried about fitting in at a college far away. Many first-generation students attend college closer to home even though they have the qualifications to be admitted into more selective schools. Think about your long-term future and the opportunities that a “stretch” or dream school can bring beyond your time in college.
Only you can know where you think you’ll fit best. If at all possible, visit several campuses with your family. Take a tour, talk to current students, ask questions and take in the campus culture. This will allow you to see where you feel most comfortable and help your family members envision you being part of campus life. Often, colleges have a “reputation.” Don’t automatically fall for that. Step on campus and imagine yourself there for four years. You will know if the fit is right.
Affordability
The dreaded question: How to pay for school? This is an especially important consideration for first-generation students and their families. However, don’t let the numbers scare you away from taking this important step in your future. Some factors to weigh in considering affordability are:
1. The cost of attendance:
Universities are required to post the estimated full and reasonable cost of completing a full year as a full-time student. This number includes tuition and fees, books and supplies, room and board and personal and transportation costs. Your actual costs may differ from this amount and the posted amount doesn’t include financial aid or scholarships you may receive.
2. Your grades and SAT/ACT scores:
If you have at least a 3.9 GPA and scored a 32 or greater on the ACT, you’re the type of student colleges want, and you may qualify for a merit scholarship at many colleges and universities. Requirements vary from school to school; you can usually find merit-based scholarship information on the scholarships page of a school’s website.
3. Financial aid:
Even if you’re not the top scholar at your high school, you may qualify for other scholarships, tuition waivers or other financial aid. It’s important to have your parents fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see how much federal and state financial aid you qualify for. Eligibility criteria for scholarships and tuition waivers vary from school to school, so be sure to research them as well.
Final Considerations
Once you’ve done your research, soul searching and budgeting, there are a few last things to consider:
1. Make sure you’re on track to take classes in high school that the university requires:
Some colleges and universities require a certain number of science, math or English classes in order to be admitted. You can find out what a school requires on the admissions page of its website.
2. Get organized:
When are the application, test score and scholarship deadlines for each school you’re considering? This information is listed in the admissions section of a school’s website and may be slightly different for each college or university. You’ll need to have your information together in early fall of your senior year of high school. If letters of recommendation are required, don’t wait until the last minute to ask your teacher or counselor because he or she is probably being asked to write letters by lots of students.
3. Don’t sell yourself short and think you’re not college material:
Think big and dream even bigger. Apply to one “dream” school whether it’s your state’s flagship university or a big-name private university. Those types of schools may have scholarship funds available or good financial aid packages for first-generation students. You may just find that you’re able to afford your dream school.
As intimidating as this process may seem, it’s all part of taking the next step in your life. You might not have the knowledge of your parents’ college experience to fall back on like many of your peers, but there are resources to help make this decision process a little less daunting. If you follow these tips, you are sure to make the best decision for you.