College: Decisions...Decisions

 

Question 1: Should I go straight into a university after high school or go to community college for a few years? 

 

     I feel like there's no right or wrong answer for this question because when it comes to college there is no one way to go about it. Everyone's path is going to be different. For some it might benefit them to save all the money it takes to go straight into a University and just study at a community college. Especially if they cannot afford to pay the expense of a University or they aren't positive which major and career path they'd like to take. On the other hand, if you can afford it and you are sure about the path you wish to take then attending a University right after high school might be what is best for you. Community college just slows down the whole graduating from college process a bit. So you've got to take a look at your situation and figure out what would be best for you.

 

Question 2: Would majoring in art/design/film be a waste?

 

     It's only a waste if you choose to make it one. Someone could major in business and end up being a middle school teacher; that could technically be considered a waste. You know yourself better than anyone else so if you believe you might possibly want to pursue a career that has to do with art/design/film then go for it. Your college education is for you; not for your parents, teachers, friends, or siblings. Personally, I know that a career in film, both behind and on camera, is absolutely what I want to pursue in life. It feels pretty awesome being this sure about something. I use to be ashamed to say that's what I wanted to do in life. I would tell people I wanted to be a lawyer or something because I thought what I really wanted to do was silly and more of a dream than something real. But not anymore. It is a dream, my dream, and I'm going to work to make my reality as well. Go after what you want.

 





Frequently asked questions about college

My parents don't make a whole lot of money. Will I still be able to afford going to college even though it's so expensive?

There are many opportunities you can find to receive financial aid, from grants to scholarships, and there are many of them available to students. Colleges know that everyone can't afford them. They want to allow everyone to be able to attend college, so be sure to take advantage and work hard so there is less money for you to spend. Not to mention, a college education will help you gain that money right back.

My grades aren't doing so well right now. Will that take away my chances for applying to college?

Not everyone is going to have perfect grades, and colleges don't just look at them in their applications. They look for other things like extracurricular activities and community service, and if available your personal essay to determine how well you will potentially do on campus.

Undedicded major

I'm not sure if I should go to a community college first or if I should go straight to a 4 year university.

I think it would be better to go to a community college because my major is still undecided and the struggle to to pay for a four year university would be to much for me to handle straight out of high school. I think it's better to save up what financial aid gives you extra then if you have the requirements to enter a university then one should transfer.

How hard is it to sign up for FAFSA?
Sadly I missed the meeting for the FAFSA sign up because I had just gotten out of practice. I barely started the application and a lot of the application was confusing to me. I know that Cerritos college has a couple events where they help students sign up for FAFSA.

faqs

What to look for in a college?

When applying for a college it’s good to have a couple of things in mind. Where is it? It’s good to keep in mind how far (or near) the school is from home whether the plan is to move away or stay home. How much is it going to cost and how can I pay for it? Depending on whether it’s a private or public school, some schools will be more costly than others. However, there’s always grants and scholarships available as long as you look for them. Majors? If you know what you want to study you’re going to want to make the school you choose will help you get there.

How often should you apply for scholarships?

You should apply for scholarships throughout the entire year until graduation. Different scholarships will have different due dates, if you don’t get the ones you wanted, keep applying you have until graduation to get as much help as you can.

Is community college ok? Is NO college ok? Gap years? Straight into work?
Am I ok?


Blanket answer: YES.

You. Are. Ok. Wherever you are right now, whatever path you'll take in the next few years is 100% ok. There's such a stigma surrounding kids not going to a four year straight out of high school, which is toxic and ridiculous. It results in this huge pressure on families and teachers, but mostly the students working their butts off for something they're not even sure about; something they're being sold on without even really knowing what's going on first. SO much stress over something that is NOT the make-or-break of your life.
If you don't know what you want to do or who you want to be, that's 100% fine. Gap years exist for self-discovery. Community colleges are there as opportunities to expand and grow. You do not need to know everything about yourself as a 17/18 year old high school graduate. You don't. You won't, and that's ok. Whatever path you're on right now is YOUR path, no one else's and you have the freedom to take any path you choose. There're no right or wrong. You're ok.



What if I don't like the school I'm in? What do I do?

Pinpoint the reasons you don't like it. The student demographic? The lack of stimulating classes? Not your style, too many trees? Figure that out and then use the qualities you don't like in a school to find one you do. Talk to your advisers about transferring and what the credit policies are. Think about doing a semester abroad for a change in pace and scenery. Maybe a gap year for self-discovery. Again, it's all perfectly ok.
:)

What opportunities are there for undergraduate research?
Conducting research as an undergraduate is an excellent way to gain experiences and skills that will benefit you both academically and professionally. In addition to providing an opportunity to explore your areas of interest in depth, undergraduate research encourages you to develop skills in collaborative learning and critical thinking. For students interested in pursuing graduate school, undergraduate research is a way of expanding your education outside of the classroom and preparing yourself for the rigors of graduate study. Even if you are unsure about graduate studies, conducting undergraduate research is a great way to develop skills that are useful for a variety of careers, as well as to test the suitability of a research-oriented career to your interests.

What percentage of freshmen return for sophomore year?
Among public institutions, an average of 64.2 percent of full-time, first-time students who started school in fall 2013 returned in fall 2014, according to a report from ACT, which manages the standardized test by the same name. The average rate is slightly higher at private colleges and universities: 70.2 percent

FAQs

1) If you don't know what to major in, where should you go?
In my opinion it wouldn't be a good idea to go directly to a four year if you don't know what you want to major in. It would be better to go to a community college where its cheaper and has more options for courses. Also, typically it is cheaper to go to community because they are closer and you don't have to spend as much money on gas. This is what i play on doing because i am not exactly sure what it is i plan on going into. At community you have a better chance finding what it is you want to do because you don't have to worry as much about debt and college fees.

2) Is price really and issue when it comes to what college you go to?
Nope. As long as you know what it is you are trying to get done, price shouldn't be an issue. Because if college is really what you need to get your dream job then you'll make up the money in the future. Now this doesn't mean you should go to college at an expensive school for a degree in something you could get at a cheaper school. Spend your money where it is worth it. So in conclusion, no it doesn't matter what you pay for college as long as don't waste it on a degree that won't get you your money back.

College

1. Not really sure what I want to major in, should I start at community college first and save a lot of money then transfer?

     I have nothing against community college but I have always told myself I didn't want to go to one. I have always had my mind set on going to a 4 year college. However, people all around me are talking about how they are going to start at a community then transfer because it will save them a good amount of money which kind of makes you double think about it.

2. Are extra curricular activities important in college?
    All throughout high school we try to get in a bunch of extra curricular activities and sports because it looks good on college applications and we want to get noticed and accepted by them. On the other hand, once you are in college you don't really have to try to impress colleges anymore. Also, maybe that will get in the way of your school work. At the same time, they could be super fun and why not get involved.

College FAQ

Is it worth going straight into a four year university if you have an undecided major? Or is community college a better option?
Honestly, I don't really have any clue what I'm interested in as far as my college major. I do want to be happy in whatever I choose because I will be involved in that career for the  rest of my life. I feel like going to community college is a better option because it is cheaper, and it gives me more time to figure out exactly what I want to do in life. That way, I wont feel rushed into an important decision that determines how I will spend the rest of my life.

Is it a bad idea to change your major?
Since I'm not quite sure what I will major in, I am afraid that when I do choose a major, I might lose interest in it and eventually want to change it. I think that if I change my major too many times, it will ultimately cost more and take longer for me to graduate. I am just not sure how many times is considered too many times because I might be in that situation eventually.

FAQ's about college

What if you don't know what you want to study in college?
 
 There are many different ways that can help you decide what you want to do for the rest of your life. The first thing that you should do is try to find things that you like. Speaking to your family and friends could help you realize some things that  you are good at and could possibly make a career out of. Another thing that you could do is talk to your counselors. They can help you look at different careers and different jobs according to your grades, personality, etc. At the end of the day if your go to college as undecided it is not the end of the world. During your the first year you will meet new people and learn new things that could help you realize what you want to study in.

Is it difficult to change majors?

  This actually depends on when you decide to change majors and related the two majors are. If you choose to change your major during your freshmen/ sophomore year it's easier because you have not taken that many classes. If you decide later it also depends on the classes you already took and if they can give your credit towards your new major. For example, you would have a hard time if you were majoring  in something in art and then you want to change it to something in math because you would obviously need to take more math classes.

I don't really have any questions about programs, extracurriculars, courses, or anything like that. I'm pretty well-versed on those things through research and stuff. My two FAQs are broader than that:
1)  What's life like on campus?
      - The only answer I could really find to this question all mostly say the same things...."Classes and grades are a big part of your experience".... "Students are friendly and don't be afraid to get involved"...and the MOST common: "It's WAAAAYYY better than High School"

2) How do you get along with your dorm-mate?
    - Most college students say that dorm rooms definitely provide a great support system of people who are going through or have gone through the same things you are as a freshman. Which makes sense. The only concern I have is...how do you get along with your dorm-mate when you still have to set up the boundaries and rules needed in a roommate situation? Some people (on Google at least) have said that there's no "casual" way to go about doing this and that, basically, you need to dive right in. After kind of preparing them for the conversation, of course. 

2 FAQ's about college

1.  Should one commute or dorm in college?

      When you think about college, a common question seems to arise, "Should you commute or dorm?" We all can agree that college and alone is very expensive and including room and board can stray someone away from paying all of the expenses. As a result many students find it cheaper commuting from home, and this isn't necessarily bad if you are unable to afford it. For instance you'll be able to cut hundreds of dollars per month from rent and you can use the money you accumulate by purchasing gas to get to campus or maybe even paying off student loan debt. Another advantage is that you'll be able to have your privacy be able to have your work done in a more quiet area with fewer distractions. But prices shouldn't discourage from deciding to dorm, you'll be able to live the college experience and best of all be away from your family. Ultimately the decision is up to you. 

2. Is college necessary?

      There is really no reason for you not go to college. Despite the cost of tuition, there is really no harm in getting your college degree. Many students are discouraged from going to college because they feel that they are "not good enough" or that "college is too expensive", but there are so many advantages that come with a college degree. Many high-level jobs require a college degree and this will allow employers to pick and choose between those with just a high-school degree and those with a college degree. You'll have a least likely chance of being fired compared to those without a degree at all. Another advantage you'll have is that you'll have the proper training and skills to assist you in your field of work. And most importantly, the amount of money you'll be able to make is the difference maker between a college degree and a high school diploma. College is possible the best investment you could make and college will  eventually pay off in the long run.

FAQ's About College

How many colleges should I apply to?
The recommended number of colleges to apply to is five to eight, but you can really apply to as many colleges as you would like. Just be sure that you're applying to colleges that you would actually consider going to. Make sure that these colleges have the majors that your interested in. Mainly colleges that seem like a perfect match for you. You should also apply to colleges that might even seem as a bit of a stretch for you, you might be surprised.

Should I apply to a Cal State or a U.C. if my grade point average is below a 3.0?
You should still apply to Cal State's and U.C.'s even if your gpa isn't exceedingly high. There are plenty of students attending theses types of schools who didn't have amazing gpa's. Colleges consider many other factors than just your gpa. Colleges also look at the classes you have taken, your extracurricular activities, your background and also you SAT scores. You have more to offer than just your gpa.

What are the different paths you could take in order to register as an officer to the military?

There are various paths you can take in order to achieve a officer position in the military. The most common way to be come a officer in the military is to get your bachelors degree/four year degree in college prior to your service. Another way you can you can acquire an officer position in the military is join a ROTC program and commit to serving after you graduate. A third way you can become an officer in the military is transitioning from an enlisted member to a officer after a certain amount of time spent in the military.

What are the benefits of being the armed if you want to pursue a certain career outside the military?
 
If you choose to attend school while you are enlisted, the military will pay for your tuition, along with all the other fees such as your housing, book fees etc. After your years of service, the military will ensure you are able to support yourself by making you a primary candidate to whatever career you apply yourself to.

FAQ About College

1. When you go to a community college first, do you miss out on things that would come from going straight to four year?
I feel that when you go to a two year first, you don't get the full college experience. A two year community college classes aren't as rigorous as an university, so when you transfer, you'll have to get used to those challenging courses. Also, going straight to a four year comes with having more of a social life that is away from home. Living in dorms gives you more of a social life with the people around you and hopefully you'll  meet life long friends. To add on, many people get stuck at the community college level and they never go any further. With a four year, you are continually being challenged with courses, which will keep you ready for upcoming courses and make sure you don't slack.

2. Should I keep in mind the price of the college when choosing to apply?
Yes, the price should play a big factor in what college you choose because you don't want to have to struggle to pay for things and end up having to drop out. You should always consider the price. However, there's always financial aid and scholarships that you can apply for. Scholarships can help a lot when it comes to college because there are so many out there that you can apply to and possibly get free money for. Scholarships can be used to pay for books, meal plan, housing, courses, etc. Therefore, keep the price of the college in mind, but don't let the price scare you from applying to you dream college because if there's a will, there's a way.

College Questions

1. Is a gap year better or worse before going into college?

While most of us high school students have no idea what we want to do in life the gap year can actually help. You gather your own thoughts, opinions and gain a new perspective on life that you hadn’t had before helping you realize what is truly important to you and what you want to do. High school shelters you so it’s likely that the experiences you have on your gap year will expose you to the real world with real problems that may change you as a person making it easier for you to get used to the college lifestyle. While being shown the real world and its problems you will find it easier to take college's little setbacks and failures in smaller strides rather than blowing them out of proportion. It’s also been shown that in taking a gap year you are more likely to have better grades coming back into college and get more involved in the school activities. A gap year could be a great part of your life in helping you find yourself in your own way rather than being forced to find something that may not be something you actually enjoy doing.

     2.   Do all colleges have study abroad programs?

One of the great things that I look forward to is to study abroad, I have looked forward to this for many years now but are now wondering if all colleges have this program. First off for those that don’t know what the study abroad program is it’s a trip that you can take, usually for a semester, to a different country and continue your studies overseas. While this may sound great it can also cause a problem for those who look for this quality in a college, but not to worry your college does not need to have this great feature that you are looking for. To explain you are able to go on a neighboring colleges study abroad program and still get credit at your college but make sure it is for your academic needs, that is a big mistake that many make who then end up getting no credit for their trip. For those that are wondering how they will pay for a big trip like this there are lots of scholarships and grants that are offered to students that would like to take advantage of this opportunity. Studying abroad is a great way to experience new cultures and unfamiliar territory, this can be a life changing experience for students that take it and the highlight of their college life. Where would you go?

What do you want to be when you grow up?

One of my FAQ's for college is "What do you want to major in?", which ultimately leads to the question of what I want my career to be. If I am being honest, I have no idea what I want my major to be in college, and I am very confused on what I want to do for a career. I am always faced with this tough question and it really does frustrate me. I am planning on going to college in order to figure out what I want to do, and I want to find something that interests me. In all reality, there are so many career choices that I can choose and so many that are on my plate at the moment, but I want to choose one I really find interesting. Even if I decide my major before I graduate high school, I may change my mind while attending college. I am usually very jealous of people who already know what they want to do, but I am slowly realizing that maybe it is better to go into college open minded. Maybe it is better that I find what I love through taking classes and exploring a bit, because I am a very curious person who loves to explore new things. When I find the major and career I feel best suits me, I know I will be satisfied and happy, because I know it will be my choice and it will make me feel that life is more enjoyable at times. However, for the moment, when people do ask me what I would like to do when I go to college, I just respond with, "I honestly do not know, but I will figure it out later." Life is meant to be lived and no one has to decide what they want to be doing ten years from now today, which is why I just live life how I want to live it and know that I will figure out my career when the time is right.

What is a Hybrid program?

Is a gap year a good idea?

College FAQ: Location and Determination

1. Should I pick a college for a location over what the college can offer me?

• Depending on what kind of experience you want from college, location can be a deciding factor in which one you pick. If you want a purely academic experience, then location wouldn't matter to you; however, if you can't afford to move or you prefer to live in a more urban area over rural ones, then location really could matter.

2. If what I'm passionate about doesn't give job security, should I pick it as a major?

• If you care enough about a hobby or a sport that you want to make a career out of it, and you have the determination to make your dreams come true, then you might as well make your college experience as enjoyable as you can. Don't fall into a major that you don't enjoy just because the jobs that come from it make a lot of money. If you already enjoy what you do, then in theory you wouldn't need the money to do it; you're already being paid for it.

1. Who should you ask for a letter of recommendation?

Many colleges/programs may require a letter of recommendation, which several find stressful since they have limited control over it.  Start off by composing a mental list of the various adults in your life.  Do any of them stand out as someone who has a close relationship with you and knows your character well?  Do not choose a family member, peer, or someone who does not know you that well.  Communicate with your recommenders whenever they require guidance.  It would be desirable if you have known your recommender for a long time, especially if they can point out how you have developed.  Remember, the whole point of the letter is to express why they believe you are a suitable fit for that university/program, so it should display your qualities that set you apart from others.  Finally, don’t be scared to ask!  Chances are they are familiar with the process and have an interest in your success.

 2. What’s EOP?

The Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) is present at numerous colleges and centers primarily on providing support to first-generation college students and/or students from low-income or disadvantaged families.  Services usually include mentorship, academic programs, financial assistance, and counseling.  In many cases, the program offers financial assistance to eligible students.  This can be extremely beneficial for students who are deprived of their potential due to their background.   Make sure to check for the deadline for the EOP application at the colleges you are applying to (Nov. 30th for all CSU and UCs).  If you think you met these criteria and live in California (which you should), then don't miss out on this opportunity to ease the strains of college!

College FAQ: Community College and Major Requirements

1.      Is community college beneficial?

-          I do think that community college is beneficial. It is not any less than going to a four year university to start off. Sometimes I feel like community college is looked down on, but in reality community colleges and four year universities offer the same general education the first two years. The only major difference between a community college and a four year is the degrees they offer. In a community college it is only possible to get an associate’s degree or a certificate for a specific program. While in a four year a bachelor’s degree can be earned. Starting off at a community college and then transferring to a four year university is not a bad idea. The first two years at a university are general classes. By starting off at a community college, you can save a lot of money. The same required classes may be available for a cheaper price.

2.       How do I find out the requirements for my specific major?

-          Depending on your major and what you are thinking about studying there is sometimes requirements to get into a program. Majors sometimes ask for letter of recommendations or a response to a specific prompt. They also may require that you have taken specific classes in the past or have a certain grade point average. It may not be something we think about when applying to college, but it is important to look and check if there are any prerequisites. All of this information can be found on the school’s website and catalogue. On the school’s website you can click on your specific major and see the requirements and it even tells you what type of classes you will be taking. It is always a good idea to check your schools of interest website to gather all the information you can.  

FAQ: Two College Questions

1. What about college do most high school grads. really look forward to?
  Well really I feel that most high school students look forward to the next step in there life which is     going to college, but really the experience that everyone gains from going to college. Maybe along     with that how most student get to experience the real world and what it's like to be on there own for   a little while. Well that's at least what I think.

2. Do high school grads. really understand the reality about how hard college is?
  In my honest opinion I feel that every high school student has a false reality as to how college works, such as how hard it is to manage yourself if you have a job and three class on the same day. I feel that we all tend to fantasize that just applying and getting to college is the hardest part because you have to wait on that acceptance letter, but really it's the managing and studying and actually having to pay for school. I guess that reality sets in when college is right around the corner.

FAQ How Do I Find Scholarships?/ Can I Really Save Money by Choosing to Stay In-state for College?

1. How do I find scholarships?

-When it comes to looking for scholarships, there are many options where you can start your search. A simple option can be going to the college and career center and meeting with a counselor. They can show you which scholarships you are more likely to qualify for rather than just ones that offer the most money. Many websites offer a search engine to narrow down scholarships that you meet the requirements for, such as fastweb.com or cappex.com. Many local organizations offer scholarships to students in the area, such as the Pan American Association or PTSA. A parent’s place of employment may also offer a grant or scholarship. Although the process may seem tedious, there are many scholarships out there and it’s worth the search.

2. Can I really save money by choosing to stay in-state for college?

   - Depending on the school you are looking to attend, staying in state can definitely save you money. By staying in-state, you aren’t paying an out-of-state tax that is a part of your total bill. Using Arizona State University as an example, someone paying the in-state tuition would be paying $26,263 per year for tuition, fees, room, board, books, supplies, and other expenses. Someone attending the same university but coming from another state would be paying $42,363 for the exact same things. Other factors can also cause an increase in price of attending an in-state college vs. out-of-state college. Coming home for the holidays multiple times a year will result in an added price that you probably wouldn’t be paying if you lived near home. Also, some states offer more for your money than others, whether it is entertainment or grocery items, which can cause an increase in spending. Of course there are some exceptions, such as private schools which are generally more expensive, and scholarships being used. However, for the most part, staying in-state for college is cheaper and can really save you money.