Figuring Out Financial Aid: FAFSA, Loans, and Scholarships

When I started college I didn't know a thing about Financial Aid. I felt very lost and confused! At first, I made some mistakes and didn't get the aid I needed. But then I figured it out. And so, here is some basic Financial Aid information that I have learned. Hopefully it will save you from making the same mistakes!  

The FAFSA: 

1. The first thing you have to do is fill out the Federal application for financial aid, called the FAFSA. But before you start the application, you will need to create a pin number to sign your application. Go to the Pin Web Site, click Apply Now, then follow the instructions. Be sure to keep your pin number in a safe place.

2. Next, complete the FAFSA online at: www.fafsa.gov. Click the green button that says: Start a New FAFSA and follow the directions. Look to the right margin on each page for helpful tips as you go. 

If you are considering more than one college, list each school's code on your application. If you need to make changes to your FAFSA later, you can file a correction (until September 24th). After your application is submitted, you will receive a summary report that lists something called the EFC (Expected Family Contribution). The lower the number, the more aid you are likely to receive, although there is no way to really know until the school decides how much to award based on your need. Always complete the FAFSA, because some help is better than nothing!

3. The FAFSA is available online starting in January of each year. Completed FAFSAs are sent to the school(s) you are interested in attending. There, they are processed in the order they are received. So, the sooner you submit your FAFSA the better. Waiting can cause delays and you may not receive financial aid for the upcoming term/semester. Also, you may miss out on grant money if it has already been given all away. 

While it is better to apply early, you can submit your FAFSA up until June 30th and still receive some federal aid.  However, some states have earlier deadlines for wanting the FAFSA turned in. Check state deadlines here. So, go for the earliest deadline in order to get state financial aid.

When I made the decision to go back to school, it was in March. I didn't get any financial aid for Summer term, but I did get it starting in Fall term. So, if you have any inkling that you may want to go to college in the coming school year, go ahead and fill out the FAFSA in January. If you then decide not to go to school, it's OK -- you don't have to accept the aid. But if you do decide to go, you'll be glad you already filed! This goes for high school students, too. Remember to complete the FAFSA in January before you graduate from high school. 

4. The FAFSA is based on financial information from your last federal taxes (IRS form 1040 or 1040EZ) or your parents' taxes, if you are a dependent. Your financial aid is then awarded for the upcoming school year. For example:

• Complete FAFSA in January 2013 -- using 2012 taxes -- for the Fall 2013 to Summer 2014 school year.

• Complete FAFSA in January 2014 -- using 2013 taxes -- for the Fall 2014 to Summer 2015 school year.

Now, if I decided to start school Summer 2013 and wanted to apply for aid, I would have to go back and apply for the Fall 2012 to Summer 2013 school year and use 2011's taxes for my online FAFSA application.

5. I always start my FAFSA in January, as soon as I have my taxes completed. You can wait to file your FAFSA until your taxes are submitted and processed by the IRS (but this could be April!), or you can complete your FAFSA using information on your tax forms -- or an estimate -- and then finalize your FAFSA later. Either way, FAFSA lets you import your tax information from the IRS after it has been processed. 

6. A new FAFSA application must be completed every year you plan on attending school. You will use the same log in information and pin number each year.

Financial Aid Facts:

1. Your college will communicate with you about your financial aid either by mail, email, or through your online student account. Be sure you know how they plan on contacting you and then frequently check for any updates. Once you are offered financial aid, you will need to accept or decline it as soon as possible or you will lose it. 

2. Your college may also require you to complete other paperwork before awarding financial aid, especially if it is your first time. This may include a verification worksheet to help them further evaluate your financial need, such as: your income, assets, dependents you care for, whether you receive food stamps, etc.

3. Financial Aid may include grants and scholarships (which don't have to be paid back) and loans (borrowed money which has to be paid back, with interest). By completing the FAFSA, you will be applying for federal aid, such as the Federal Pell Grant, and Stafford Loans, such as the Federal Subsidized Direct Loans and Federal Unsubsidized Direct Loans, and Perkins Loans.

4. Financial Aid is based on whether you are attending part-time or full-time. To keep your financial aid you must enroll in the number of credits required. If you decide to go part-time instead of full-time, your aid will be decreased. Notify the school's financial aid office of any changes so they can increase or decrease your aid accordingly. If you are enrolled less than part-time, you may not be eligible for financial aid, but check with your school. 

Financial aid is divided amongst each term/semester. If you are going to school year-round, you may find you have less aid available for summer term, so plan accordingly.

Example #1:

You are awarded a Pell Grant for $3,295. 

     Fall semester they disburse $1,236.

     Spring semester they disburse $1,235.

     Summer semester they disburse $824.

Example #2:

You are awarded a State Grant of $2,000.
     Fall semester they disburse $1,000.
     Spring semester they disburse $1,000.
     Summer semester they disburse $0.

5. If it is your first time receiving aid, there will be a required waiting period (7-30 days) before funds are disbursed. This can be a little tricky if you need money to buy books, etc.

Federal Loans:

1. If you are awarded any federal loans, you can accept or decline them. If you accept them, you can choose to borrow the entire amount or you can borrow less. Only take what you will need, as borrowing more will put you into greater debt. You can also change the amount you borrow (up to the awarded amount) each term/semester. If you accept the whole amount one term and then decide you don't need as much later, you can borrow less the next term/semester. You will have to file a change request with your financial aid office at school.

2. In order to receive student loans, you have to complete a one-time Financial Awareness Counseling and Entrance Counseling online to help you better understand borrowing and interest. Once completed, your school is notified. Go here: https://studentloans.gov/myDirectLoan/index.action. You will then sign an Electronic Master Promissory Note -- a legal contract. If you transfer colleges later, you will have to sign another Master Promissory Note and have your Entrance Counseling report sent to the new school. Loans can be combined between more than one school.

3. Once you accept a federal loan, your account will be assigned to a federal loan service. They will contact you by mail and/or email. You will be able to create an account online to manage your loan, make payments, and check your balance and interest.   

4. Be aware that Federal Unsubsidized Direct Loans offer more money to borrow, but also at a much higher interest rate. Plus, the interest starts accruing right away -- while you're still in school. Federal Subsidized Direct Loans have lower interest rates and the federal government pays the interest while you're in school. However, they offer less money to borrow. 

5. You can always pay money towards your loans or accruing interest while you are in school, if you are in a position to do so. Otherwise, you have to start paying on your loans 6 months after you graduate, stop school, or drop below part-time enrollment. It is possible to defer or postpone loan payments in some circumstances, but the interest continues to build. In the end... you will have to pay your loans back, even if you don't finish school or can't find a job. However, some loans may be forgiven if you work in certain public sector professions. 

For more information about federal loans: http://studentaid.ed.gov/ 

6. Loans can also be borrowed from financial institutions, such as U.S. Bank, Bank of America, Discover, and others. Just be sure to compare interest rates, lending terms, etc. Make sure you go with a reliable, well established company. Do a search online and see if there have been any complaints about the lender.  

Scholarships & Grants:

1. Scholarships are based on financial need or merit. Scholarships are available through your college or other organizations. New ones become available year-round and the deadlines vary. So, keep watch for new ones! 

2. To apply, you may have to write an essay, submit transcripts, financial information, or letters of recommendations. They may require you enroll part-time or full-time. Some awards are limited to students attending a four year school or a state college rather than a private college. Some require you to have completed the FAFSA.

3. There are several sites online to help you search for scholarships. Some of them are more helpful than others. Some are just fishing for your information. NEVER give out your social security number. 

4. There are usually a lot of people applying for a single scholarship on a national level. If you look for local or smaller organizations, you may have less competition. Ask charitable or humanitarian organizations, like the Elks or Rotary. Also, check with your local credit union, grocery store, electric company, hospital, insurance agency, fast food chain, etc. Ask if your employer, parent's employer, or former employers offers scholarships. 

4. You can also find scholarships for students going into particular majors. Other scholarships are designed specifically for high school graduates, adult students, women, veterans (and descendants of veterans), students with medical or physical conditions, foster children, certain ethnicities, and more. 

5. Check with your college for scholarships provided by alumni, memorial scholarships, and other opportunities. To apply for federal and state grants, first complete the FAFSA and check with your school.

* * * * * * * *

Whew! Hopefully that gets you started and answers some of your questions. Let me know if you have any smart tips to add!

  

Overcoming My Fears & Deciding to Go Back to College

When I graduated high school, I knew I wanted to get a degree in something medical-related. First, I earned a certificate in Emergency Medical Technology. Then I obtained a certificate in Medical Assisting. Later, I became a certified Veterinary Technician. At this point I felt like I was collecting certificates! While I had worked very hard to achieve each of them, I still felt a little disappointed I didn't have an actual college degree.

For ten years I worked as a veterinary technician and receptionist. I gained a lot of knowledge and experience during this time. I perfected my customer service and communication skills, educated myself on medical topics and business procedures, helped with payroll, trained new employees, and found creative ways to promote services. However, I always felt that I wanted to go back into the human side of medicine, but I wasn't sure what career I wanted to do the rest of my life -- and how to pay for school?!

Suddenly, a series of events would give me the push I needed. First, the clinic I was at changed owners. Next, I badly injured my back and I realized that I physically would not be able to work as a Veterinary Technician any more. I also had to take into consideration my finances and realized that I would have to get a degree to earn a better salary to take care of my needs. I knew what I needed to do, but I still had to build my confidence!

I started taking one class and then two. I felt successful, but also discouraged. A degree seemed so far away! Then someone gave me some wonderful perspective. They said, "These next few years are going to pass whether you go to school or not. So why not accomplish something during the time?" There was truth in that. In fact, I had often looked back and thought I should have continued with school earlier. I could have earned two degrees by now! But, I try not to look back because everything is for a reason and I feel like the last ten years I have been studying in the "School of Life". The skills I have learned and the things I have been through personally have been incredibly valuable. 

After looking into a couple different programs, I chose my current major. Returning to school has been the best decision! I am successfully taking classes full-time and will graduate with my bachelor's degree soon. Then I plan on earning a master's degree. Not long ago I never would have imagined I would be able to get my degree -- let alone go to graduate school! It was a huge leap of faith to go to back to school, to believe in myself, and to trust that it would all work out. It isn't a race. I celebrate my accomplishments -- big and small. I'm so excited for my future and I wish you all the best, too!

College: Depression and Other Mental Health Issues

While college can be a fun and enriching experience, it can also be stressful. Life changes associated with college can unveil new or worsening symptoms of mental illness or relapse. This may include:

• Anxiety
• Bipolar Disorder
• Depression
• Eating Disorders
• Schizophrenia

According to a study, nearly 40% of college students have suffered depression (1). Symptoms of Bipolar disorder often develop in those 19-23 years old (2). It is important to be aware of the prevalence of mental health issues, especially as college students. Starting college, leaving home for the first time, study habits, irregular sleep, relationships changes, physical illness, alcohol, and drugs can aggravate symptoms.

Seek help if you experience a change in your thoughts, feelings/mood, or behavior. This may include:

• Changes in sleep. Sleeping more, sleeping very little, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or not needing to sleep.
• Change in eating patterns (eating more or eating less). Weight changes. Excessive exercising. Body image issues. Self-harm (ie: cutting).
• Mood swings that fluctuate between feeling depressed, agitated/angry, or happy.    
• Feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or pessimistic. Lack of interest in friends or social activities. Lack of energy. Excessive worrying. Unable to leave the house. Panic attacks. 
• Over-spending or buying gifts. High energy. Risky behavior (including with sex or drugs). 
• Perfectionism. Guilt. Spending excessive time on assignments/projects. Racing thoughts. Not handling interruption. Difficulty concentrating.

So, here's what you can do:

• Ask your doctor, Student Health Center, and college counseling office to provide mental health screenings for college students.
• Understand the signs of anxiety, depression, and mood disorders so you can recognize them in yourself, friends, or roommates.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Eat well.
• Go outside and be active. 
• Find ways to "de-stress" daily.  
• Avoid alcohol and drugs.
• Establish a healthy support system (ie: family, friends, roommates, teachers, advisors, counselors, professionals, or religious/spiritual practices). 
• Seek professional counseling. Therapists are available at colleges, in the community, or through your county Health Department. Low or no cost care may be an option.
• Discuss your symptoms with your doctor, psychiatrist, or other mental health professional. 
• Join a support group at school or in your community. 
• If you have been prescribed medication to control your symptoms, do not change or stop your medication without professional help. Please realize that it is not uncommon for students to need some fine-tuning of their medications periodically. 
• Register with Disability Services at your school for confidential help. They will listen to your needs, be your advocate, and arrange for accommodations with your teachers so that you can be successful.  
• Get help immediately if you are suicidal or feel like harming yourself or others. Call 911 or go to the emergency room. Suicide Hotline: 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or visit: http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

Finally, having a mental illness or needing counseling or medication does NOT mean you are weak. It does NOT mean you are unintelligent. And it does NOT mean you can't be successful. Remember... mental illness symptoms are treatable.
    
For more information:
5 Depression Relapse Triggers to Watch For
Back to School with Bipolar
Depression Toolkit and Bipolar Disorder in College Students
Managing Stress: A Guide for College Students
National Alliance on Mental Illness: Student Resources
Self injury/Cutting

Disclaimer: College Smarties webpage is for informational purposes only. It is not to replace the advice of a doctor or other professional. If you are having an emergency, feel suicidal, or need help -- please call 911 or go to the emergency room. While I tried to be as accurate as possible, I am not responsible for typographical errors, web link errors, or phone number errors.

Unemployment and Going Back to School

If you are receiving unemployment benefits and plan on starting school, be sure and let the Employment Department know when you register for classes. You must continue to be available to search for work and be willing to accept work while attending school or you could lose your benefits. Online classes may make it easier to accommodate this rule.  

Furthermore, if you are receiving unemployment benefits, you may be eligible for a training program through your state's employment department. This allows you to go back to school while still receiving benefits. It is generally limited to students who are interested in a technical or certificate program that gets you trained and back to work. 

Local rules may vary. Be sure to talk to your agency before proceeding.

Choosing a Major

 

Choosing a major can be easy for some and hard for others. In my case, my career plans changed at least 4 times. However, all of my majors have revolved around the same field. Looking back, I had different career ideas in high school than I do now as a returning college student. As I took classes and then worked in the field, I got to know my strengths and weaknesses and was able to fine tune my decision. Now I know what I want to be "when I grow up!" :)

Here's a few things that helped me decide on my major:

• Job shadow. Some high schools, colleges, and businesses offer career exploration programs or job shadow experiences. These can range from a few hours to several weeks. This allows you to see as many occupations and different fields as you like. Contact your high school or college advisor, or visit a local college career center. You can also try contacting a business directly and ask about job shadowing with them.

          In addition, there is a "virtual" job shadow website I recently found online that has videos and career information. It looks really interesting! http://virtualjobshadow.com/

• Volunteer or work experience. By volunteering with places you are interested or working in an entry level position within the field, you will gain exposure to the careers. 

• Talk to someone in your career choice. Ask around to family and friends or call someone in the field. Most people enjoy talking about their career to those interested in it and can give you practical information about the field and its prospects. You can also talk to teachers who teach or work in the field. Ask to speak to students in the program of your choice or graduates in the field. Ask about schooling, internships/apprenticeships, working conditions, duties, salary, hiring prospects, and what the positives and negatives of the job are.   

• Visit the Employment Department. They provide useful pamphlets and booklets that give specific details about careers, their schooling, salaries, and hiring prospects. Just examining the list of careers you are certain to discover something you may be interested in. You may even find something new you had never thought of! 

• Explore your options. Don't limit yourself to a major or career choice without investigating it first. It doesn't hurt to look at other similar choices or something completely different. If anything, it will provide you with more information or confirm your decision.  

• Take a career placement test. These are computerized programs that ask you questions about your interests and then matches you with careers you may be good at. (Note: If you took one more than a few years ago, I suggest taking it again. You might discover something new!) The test is available through high schools and colleges. Contact your advisor or college career center. Some tests are also available online at: http://oregoncis.uoregon.edu/Login/Login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fwebcis

1. Sign in under "CIS Login".
2. The User Name is: OEDSJCC 
3. The password is: solid.flint
4. There are a couple different assessments and they sometimes give some different results. One is the IDEAS Assessment (select from the left hand column, under "Career Assessments"). Then click "Rate the activities" to start. Read each sentence and click on the button that you feel best describes how you feel about it. After answering all the questions, click "Get results." Then click on the red checks that are the highest to get a list of careers in your interest areas. 
5. You can also try the Interest Profiler too. It works in a similar way. Go back to the homepage and select "Interest Profiler" from the left hand column, under "Career Assessments". 
6. Another one is the SKILLS Assessment: The directions on this one is a little tricky: First, click "SKILLS Assessment" from the left hand column (under "Career Assessments"). Then click on "Select Skills" at the bottom. Next, click on the skills you like, one at a time, from the gray area. Then click on the tab from the blue are that describes how you feel about it: "Very Satisfying Skill," etc. It then moves the skill to the corresponding blue area. You don't have to fill up the boxes, but it helps if you choose as many as apply to you. Then click "Rate Skills" at the bottom. Finally, click through the headings at the top of the page (Holland code, Occupation clusters, Top 30, etc.) to view occupational information. 
7. Other helpful resources on the homepage include: "Occupations, Programs of Study and Training, Career Learning Areas, and Occupation Sort" on the left hand column.

Best Wishes!

Access Codes and Saving Money on Textbooks

Sometimes when you buy a textbook, it will come shrink wrapped with a paper card securely tucked inside. Within the card is an alphanumeric "access code" that allows you to access additional information for your class through the publisher. It may include a digital version of the textbook, videos, quizzes, or homework. Examples of access kits include: MyMathLab, MyLab, Mastering, and others.


Most access cards have a pull tab to remove which then reveals the alphanumeric code. If it has already been removed, the code may not be valid. Once the access code is activated (by registering it online), you can access the online content until the end of the term/semester or until it expires (typically after 3 months or so).

Some teachers integrate the additional software in their classes and others do not. So, here is where you can do a little research and save some money!

1. After you register for class, send your teacher an email and ask if they will be using the access code kit or not. Sometimes the bookstore staff at your college may be able to answer this question for you.

2. If your teacher does require the access code, you can choose to buy the book with the access code OR you can choose to buy the access code all by itself.

3. The advantage of buying only the code is that it will save you money. As long as you don't mind not having a physical textbook and you're OK using a digital version, then skip buying the book. However, if you're a person who needs to write in the margins of your book, then stick with buying the book. (Although, some of the software lets you highlight and bookmark your digital book just like a real book. Also, I like that there is a search bar to quickly look things up in the digital books.) 

4. Access codes can be purchased directly from the publisher's website or through sites like Amazon.com. When I was taking a math class, the textbook came with MyMathLab access code for $185 at the bookstore. However, the eBook and access code from the publisher was only $91. That's was more than 50% savings!

Still, books with access codes can be expensive. So, if your teacher doesn't require the additional software, then you have more options.

5. You can usually find used books (without the access code) that are rather inexpensive. That is because once an access code is activated or separated from the book, the book's value goes down. For example, if a student drops a class in the first week and has already used the access code, their only option is to sell it as "used". That means you can get a low price on a book in practically new condition!

6. Some bookstores are now offering students to rent their textbooks. Bookbyte.com and Amazon.com also offer textbook rentals. Rental fees can be a fraction of the price of a new or used book and it pays to shop around! Once the term is over, you must return the book in the same condition -- meaning NO writing or highlighting. (If you need to write or highlight while you study, use brightly colored sticky notes in the margins instead. Just make sure to remove them before you return your book.)    

7. You can also save money on your textbooks when you buy and sell them through a Book Exchange, where students set their own price. Check with the Student Life Office on campus to see if they have a program. You can also buy and sell textbooks on Craigslist.

8. Another way to save is to check your college library. Some teachers put textbooks on reserve (ask a librarian). You can do your reading and studying at the library without buying the book!

9. If you want a digital version of a textbook and don't need an access kit, you can buy the eBook version of many textbooks through your college bookstore or through Amazon.

10. Finally, some cautions about textbooks and access codes:

• Most bookstores will not allow you to return a textbook for a refund after you have removed the shrink wrap or opened the access code. You'll probably have to sell the book as "used" and take a loss.

• Access codes expire once they are activated, so make sure you only buy new ones, not used. 

• If you buy a book with an access kit and your teacher doesn't require it, you can sell the kit separately on sites like Amazon.com and make some money. Just make sure they are unused and not activated.

• When you shop around for textbooks, make sure you get the same edition your teacher requires. This sometimes require going to the college bookstore and taking a look at the books in person. Some teachers are OK if students use older editions and they are typically less expensive. However, classes in Geography or American Government typically use a new edition every year with the latest information. Find out what your teacher requires, so you get the right book!

• Also, be aware that some books come in a "Texas Edition". Unless your teacher tells you to get this version, don't accidentally buy it thinking it will be the same. It may be arranged differently or contain different material than other editions. So pay attention!

For First Time College Students and Returning College Students

I am a returning college student. It was a major life decision for me to return to college. I had been away from school a long time and I felt overwhelmed. There have been some challenges along the way, but honestly, it was the best decision I could have made!  

Whether you are starting school for the first time or you're a returning college student, here are some tips on getting started:

• Decide whether you want to attend school locally or further away. 

• Make sure the school and/or program you are interested in is accredited. 

• Interview the colleges. Take a tour and get a feel for the campus. Tour the dorms. Ask to sit in on a class. Talk to the advisors and the students. Visit other campuses to compare. 

• Be tuition smart. Since community colleges charge less tuition, consider taking all your undergraduate classes at a community college and then transfer. Just make sure you work with an advisor to verify that all the credits will transfer and correspond with your major. 

• Determine if a classroom style or online classes would be better for you. 

• Online classes are certainly more convenient. They are also great for motivated students, self-starters, and independent workers. You do need to know a moderate amount of computer skills. Some classes are entirely online (quizzes and final exams too). Others have you come to a testing center for quizzes/exams. 

• Students attending a physical classroom may experience more consistent interaction with their teachers and classmates. If you'll be taking a class that is difficult for you (like math) you may want to take it in a traditional classroom where you can ask questions and get immediate help. You can also meet other students and form study groups.   

• Pay attention to deadlines. There are deadlines to apply to college, to apply for financial aid, for housing, registration, etc.  

• When you apply to a school, you may have to include an essay or pay an application fee. Once you are accepted, you may have to confirm your acceptance or pay a deposit. 

• In addition, you may be required to take a placement exam for reading, writing, or math. 

• If you have high school or college credits that need to be transferred, contact your old school and request a transcript be sent to your current college. This can usually be done online. There is typically a fee for getting a transcript ($5-$10). Have it sent directly to the school. If you have it mailed to you, make sure you do not open the envelope. Transcripts are not accepted if they have been opened. 

• Your school will likely communicate with you through an online school account or email address. They may post a "To Do" list that you must accomplish before you can register or proceed. This may include requests for immunization dates, financial aid verification, master loan promissory note, etc.

• If you're offered financial aid (ie: scholarships, grants, loans), you'll need to accept it -- or you won't get it! For loans, you can accept the full amount or choose to accept less. If you accept the full amount and change your mind later, you can request to change the amount before it is dispersed or before the next term/semester.   

• Get your Student ID card and meal card. 

• Register for classes and buy or rent your textbooks.

• Begin by taking a few classes at a time, rather than a full load. If you've been away from school awhile, try starting with just one class. As you ease your way into school, your confidence will grow. Starting college entails a lot of changes, so don't overwhelm yourself by taking on too much.

• Establish a support system at school. This may include: family, friends, classmates, roommates, school clubs, or religious organizations. Many colleges offer personal counseling and mental health support, too. 

• If you have a disability (learning, physical, mental, or otherwise) -- contact disability services on campus and register with them. They will be your ally if you need special arrangements with teachers or other assistance.

• If you are moving out of town to go to school, make sure to find a new doctor and pharmacy and transfer any prescription medications ahead of time. Many colleges have a student health center on campus where you can be seen by medical doctors or nurse practitioners for exams, illnesses, injuries, lab tests, immunizations, etc. Services may be low cost or no cost to students. Some colleges require their students to have health insurance or to enroll in the college's health plan if they take classes full time.    

• Take study breaks. Go for a walk or a bike ride. Eat lunch outside. Talk with your friends (face to face). Also, allow yourself one or two days of “downtime” each week where you don't have to think about schoolwork.  

Now, it's your turn! Do you have a smart tip that has helped you? Send it to me in the comments below!

Staying Organized: Studying

As a college student, I don't think I would have been successful without some sort of calendar system or check-list. (I have two examples pictured below.) For me, the weekly check-list works best. I include what I need to work on in each class, each week. I can even add a due date next to the items.

Whether you're taking one class or four, it really helps to write down assignments, the reading schedule, due dates, etc. Sometimes students think they can get by without writing these things down, but you will find you are less stressed and better prepared if you do. As students, we ingest a lot of information into our brains everyday. There's no reason we need to clog up our brain with due dates when we can just write it down and leave more room for knowledge. Try it!

This weekly schedule (pictured below) is my favorite. Although, I typically write it out with a pen and some notebook paper, so it doesn't usually look this pretty.

 Another option... monthly calendar with due dates: 

Now, it's your turn! Do you have a smart tip that has helped you? Send it to me in the comments below!

College Advisor

When I went to college the first time (after high school) I never utilized my college advisor. I didn't think I needed them. On my second time around, I have discovered how valuable they are! Now, I stay in close contact with my advisor and he keeps me on track. Since I was a transfer student, he also helped me choose classes that would transfer over.

Advisors are usually assigned alphabetically, based on the student's last name or by department or major. I also found out that I have a financial advisor assigned to me as well. I recommend getting your advisors' names, phone numbers, and email addresses. Let your advisor get to know you and be sure to contact them when you have any questions.

Final Exams

For some of you, it's time for your Final Exams! And so, I dug through some old papers and found this poem I was given years ago. Good luck!

Now I lay me down to study.
I pray the Lord I won't go nutty.
If I should fail to learn this junk,
I pray the Lord I will not flunk.
 
But if I do, don't pity me at all,
Just lay my bones down in the testing hall.
Tell the professor I did my best,
And pile my books upon my chest.
 
Now I lay me down to rest
and pray I'll pass tomorrow's test.
If I should die before I wake,
That's one less test I'll have to take.

(Author unknown)

Quick Reference: Formating a College Essay

When I returned to college after ten years, I had to relearn some things... like formatting a college paper because I found out that formatting guidelines change periodically.

People typically use either APA or MLA format to write their papers. (APA is often used in the social sciences, while MLA is used in liberal arts and humanities.)

Here are some of the basics:

• Use Times New Roman 12 point font, in black
• 1 inch margins at the top, bottom, and sides of the page
• Double spaced
• Title centered using uppercase and lowercase letters (do NOT bold or underline)

Purdue University has detailed information online about how to format an APA or MLA paper. They also have YouTube videos about APA and MLA which are very helpful (despite the annoying background music).

The following is an example of MLA format:

MLA format

The following is an example of APA format:

Title Page

Abstract

Body

References

Appendices, etc.

Will I like my teachers? How can I pick good ones?

When you sign up for classes you may wonder, "What's the teacher like?" Unless you know another student who can recommend them, it can feel like a gamble. Luckily, there is a useful website called Rate My Professors. It allows you to look up professors by name and read ratings and comments by other students. The teachers are rated on quality, easiness, helpfulness, and clarity.

The information on Rate My Professors has guided me as I select my teachers and my classes. It has allowed me to carefully build my schedule, balancing hard classes with some easier ones. It has helped me know what to expect from the teachers and which teachers to avoid. 

http://www.ratemyprofessors.com/

The Syllabus and the Rubric

I've had the opportunity to take some online classes lately. Because of the type of interaction with other students in the class, I have come to the conclusion that many students do not read the class syllabus.

A syllabus is provided at the start of class and contains some very important information, such as what the teacher expects from their students. If you don't read it... your grade will suffer, your assignments may be late, and you might even fail the class!

The syllabus may include: a reading schedule, grading information, assignment due dates, contact information or office hours for your professor, guidelines for submitting home work, information about late work, deadlines, attendance, required textbooks and materials, etc.

Since every teacher has different requirements, I suggest keeping a copy of the syllabus on hand to refer to it periodically. For example, I've had professors who want assignments turned in as .doc and others who want .pdf. So, I always double check the syllabus to make sure I understand what the professor wants. Otherwise, they may take off points or not accept your work at all! 

In addition, some professors use a grading rubric (see example below). A rubric contains criteria for assignments and includes various levels of points for each task or skill. Basically, it allows your teacher to communicate what they expect from you and how the assignment will be graded. Make sure you study their rubric before you start an assignment so that you meet all the requirements.

If you pay attention to the syllabus and grading rubric in your classes, you'll be a College Smarty!

Click on the rubric above to enlarge.

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WELCOME!

Welcome to College Smarties! This is my first ever blog. I designed it as a place to compile and share smart tips and helpful resources for college students of all ages. 

Not too long ago, I returned to college after more than ten years. It was overwhelming, but I slowly figured it out by trial and error. Hopefully I can pass along what I have learned and maybe it will help someone else. 

As I get used to operating this blog, I will open it up to readers to share their own tips and resources too. Thanks for stopping by and please share my blog with your friends and family! Check back often for updates!