Student & Parent
Questions & Answers, p2
5. How can I finance my education and what are my options?
You can apply to financial aid assistance through the FAFSA application at fafsa.ed.gov/ or consider a loan or scholarships. In addition, you can check-out our website for a complete explanation of loans and the FAFSA application or for scholarships go here.
Other sources of academic financial support include student employment at the school campus. If a student receives work-study, he/she may qualify for work-study jobs at their campus, which is based on the FAFSA application. For students not receiving work-study, they can still find jobs on-campus or off-campus. If students are receiving work-study and want a job, they can go to the financial aid office and request more information. For students with no work-study, they can find a job on-campus through the human resources office or if they want to find a job off-campus, they can link to our page here. Other financial resources include programs such as the EOPS program that offer support to underrepresented low-income students or the Trio Programs. To view more about these programs go here.
6. Once I’m admitted, what should I do?
Once admitted, you need to make sure you accept the offer to attend the university, submit any paperwork you haven’t submitted, and then attend their summer orientation. Through the summer orientation, you’ll be able to meet with counselors, register for classes, explore the university, explore the dorm you’ll stay in, make new friends or peers, get your identification card and meal card, and learn about the university life.
7. Should I live on-campus or off-campus?
Consider living on-campus for at least the first year of college. During the first year, you’ll make new friends and connections. If after the first year you decide you don’t want to live on-campus anymore, you may want to consider renting an apartment off-campus with your friends and split the rent. Renting off-campus is cost-effective, and in the long run, you’ll save money on your education. Also, commuting from your home can save you money, and it is usually more cost-effective than living on-campus.
8. How do I deal with the stress of college and my personal life?
Students experience many academic and personal issues such as stress in their college lives. So, if the student is feeling overwhelmed, contact the school’s counseling center for support. However, if the student is unable to get to these services, the student can also contact national counseling services at our site: Personal Counseling.
9. I’m still not sure about my career path. What should I do?
If you are unsure about the career path you want to take, consider exploring a career center. A career center has a lot of information on careers as well as career exploration assessments. You can find a career center at your high school or at your local community college and explore careers there.
