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College: What the Hell Do You Want?

Author: Teresa Brouwer

Published on: August 1, 1998

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Whether you're heading to college this year or are planning your future, this is the article you've gotta read! Everything from choosing that perfect campus to budgeting your hard-earned money for your future career is packed into the informational teen article.

Planning Beforehand

Planning for the big C-word doesn't start after you toss your graduation caps into the air, but way before then. Remember when your relatives and teachers would ask you what you wanted to do when you grew up? Well, that gave you a headstart on planning your life. OK, so maybe you really don't want to be a fireman like you said you did, but maybe this leads you to a career of helping people...possibly a doctor? Whatever you decide, you have just made a goal. Something you want to become. Now, you just need to follow your dreams to college!

And you know those annoying SATs and such that you have to take during your high school years? These scores help you in the future, especially when you are applying for a college. Most ritzy colleges, such as Yale and Harvard, just to name a few, are very picky about who they choose, and they want the most intelligent people in their classes. So make sure you don't just whiz by that test with the thought that "this is stupid, I'm never going to need this is my life." Maybe not at the moment, anyways.

Another way of planning is to choose a job that coordinates with your desired career. For example, if you dream about being a journalist (like me) then a great way to get started is to either get an internship or work for somewhere where writing is important and crucial. Then, when you're ready to tackle that local newspaper, chances are they will more likely hire you if you have the experience in that area. So your best bet is to get a job that coordinates with the field you wish to work in. Now that ain't hard, is it?

Choosing a College

Many factors are included in choosing a college. Whether there is a Pizza Hut nearby is not a good way to choose your schooling. But it is necessary! =)

First things first. As they say, location plays a big part in choosing your college. Maybe you want to live close to family and friends, or maybe you really don't care. If you wish to stay close, narrow your selection to an in-state college. Also, if you are going to live with your parents, chances are you want to live nearby. Another factor to consider is if you are going to get a dorm or purchase an apartment off campus. Make sure that whatever you do, it fits your budget, which will be discussed later.

Also, what classes do they offer? If the college does not offer the classes you need, what's the point of going? Common sense, people.

And last, but not least important, is cost! If your family cannot afford Harvard, don't go there! It's better to get an education and have money than getting an education and being broke. (If that happened, that Pizza Hut really wouldn't matter anymore!)

Budgeting, Budgeting, Budgeting

The most important thing you have to decide when you choose a college is "Does it fit into my budget?" If the answer is no, don't go there. Plain and simple solution for a basic problem. But there are other ways to get help.

First off is the parent's wallet. Ask if they are going to help aid you in paying for your education. Many parents save up for their child, but others find that letting the teen go on their own is best. So check with mom and dad and see what they have to say.

Then there is the good ol' scholarships. Many schools and colleges offer scholarships, which are like gift certificates to your favorite store. Except it's for college, not the Buckle. Check with your school and college and sign up for a chance to get a scholarship. But make sure it fits your needs!

For a last resort, graduates will lean toward the loan department. In many student loans, there are catches, which can cause students to be overwhelmed. BE SURE TO CHECK THE QUALIFICATIONS AND READ THE INFORMATION BEFORE SIGNING ANYTHING! Just some good advice.

Wise Decisions

Overall, a student has to make a wise decision. To make the BEST choices, talk to your school or college counselor and see what options are open for you. And remember - the location of the Pizza Hut DOES make a difference! =)

- Sara Jamison

http://www.suite101.com