As your senior year in high school winds down and you contemplate “adulthood” and “freedom,” you need to spend some time ensuring that the road to the next level has been cleared of some basic obstacles.
Here’s a checklist to help you on your journey:
- Have you filled out your FAFSA? If not, see the previous blog!
- Have you received your letter of acceptance from the higher education institution to which you applied? If not, you may need to contact the admissions department. If so, I hope it is proudly displayed on the front of the refrigerator!
- Schedule your orientation visit at your future school! Even if you think you know everything that you need to get started there, there are always handy “tips” shared during the sessions that make them worth your time.
- Once you have your acceptance letter, be aware of other upcoming deadlines including the date you need to register for classes. Many schools assist you in registering during your orientation but you will need to verify that that is the case for your particular school.
- If you are not going to live at home, have you applied for housing? If so, have you checked with your insurance agent to determine if you will need renter’s insurance? In many cases, your parents insurance will cover you but it is best to be certain before an emergency arises.
- Are you checking on private scholarship opportunities? Visit your guidance counselor to find out if he/she has knowledge of scholarships specific to students in your area.
- Take advantage of sales and thrift stores to begin stocking up on things you need for your dorm or apartment! Waiting until the last minute could be costly because you have no time to comparison shop.
- If you are working the summer before you go to school, set aside some of your earnings for unexpected expenses that will inevitably arise during the semester!
Best wishes for a successful launch into higher education!