Hi my name is Krysten, I am 17 years of age and I am currently enrolled to attend Hampshire College in the fall. Although my parents never attended college they always expressed the concern and value of higher education. With those values I have always strived for the best in school. From a young age I have always wanted to be a neurosurgeon and the only way to achieve that goal is through college. I feel that if someone is unsure of what career path they want to pursue in life, college allows you to experience any profession you chose.
While searching for a school I had to factor many things about my personal life as well including my morals and values. The three major aspects of college that can be the most difficult, overwhelming and even stressful are the application process, physically leaving away from home and the financial cost.
There are many parts to the application process and you must complete them all to have your application reviewed by your chosen school. I thought at times I was finished with my application but I still had more papers to submit.
The best advice I can offer people when it comes to the application process is ask questions, ask questions, ask questions. If you don’t understand something ask your high school guidance counselor, ask your chosen school’s dean of admissions. That is what they are there for to help you out over this long process.
Another aspect that intimidate a lot of people is the financial burden. I am here to tell you that there is money out there. I know that the money is what scared me the most but I was still able to attend to school I wanted to because of scholarships from the school and outside of the school. Trust me there is money out there and with hardwork and determination you can find it.
I have always lived with my mom and this will be the first time I will be living 600 plus miles away from home and that has me nervous and excited. I get to meet new people and experience new things in life and that’s great but the key thing is time and money management. There’s no one telling you what time to go to bed and what time to get up you, have to do all these things on your own but it is possible.
College is obtainable for everyone and being a first generation college student and the eldest sibling in my household I set an example for my younger sisters and brother. The need to know that they can do anything if they put their mind to it and I’m showing them that.