eCampusTours: a blog about all things college

Every year when seniors are about to graduate from college, they...

Thu, 16 May 2013 15:06:32 -0400

Every year when seniors are about to graduate from college, they begin to get nervous because they are on the brink of entering the real world. That nervousness can escalate if they are about to graduate and do not have a job lined up. If you are a senior who is graduating soon but haven’t found a job yet, you may need to improve upon your process of getting a job. The following will get you on track to land employment in no time.

Make sure your resume is top notch. If you have mistakes in your resume, then a hiring manager will automatically trash it. Be sure to double check for errors and have a mentor or friend proofread your resume before you submit it. When referring to experience, use action verbs, such as implemented, created, planned, evaluated, etc. in order to highlight your accomplishments. Be sure to use short, to-the-point phrases instead of complete sentences. Visit your college’s Career Services Center if you need assistance with making your resume superior.

Don’t forget a cover letter. If you have been submitting a resume without a cover letter, then it’s no wonder that you haven’t found a job yet. Cover letters are a crucial part of landing a job because they give you the opportunity to highlight your specific strengths for each individual position for which you apply. When writing a cover letter, be sure to accentuate how you can benefit the company. Visit your college’s Career Services Center if you need help with writing a compelling cover letter.

Sharpen your interviewing skills. If you have been on several interviews but have received just as many rejection letters, then you may need to improve your interviewing skills. Check out How to Sell Yourself During a Job Interview and Job Interviewing: Dos and Don’ts for tips on how to ace the interview.

Attend area job fairs. If you haven’t attended any job fairs, then you need to start. A job fair will allow you to meet different recruiters from various companies. Treat a job fair like a mini interview. Be sure to research each company, dress appropriately, be prepared to answer questions, ask questions, bring copies of your resume, and end each conversation appropriately by asking what the next step is in the interviewing process.

Research company websites. If you are interested in a certain company, check out the employment section of their website. They may have employment opportunities for which you may qualify. When hunting for a job, many students forget to go directly to the company website to see what positions are available.

Use your network. If you have friends, relatives, professors, former employers, or acquaintances who work or know someone in your field of interest, be sure to talk to that person and let him know that you are interested in obtaining employment. He may be able to help you get an interview. Don’t be afraid to use social networking sites, such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook, to help you find a job.

Utilize job search engines. Job search engines, such as monster.com and job.com, are very helpful tools for finding employment especially if you want a job that isn’t local. Once you post your resume or submit your info to an employer, most search engines will send you future emails of new positions that you may be interested in pursuing. This will allow you to be aware of certain positions that you may not otherwise have heard about since the positions may not be local.

Scan classified ads in your local newspaper. Because some local businesses do not post positions on job search engines, then you need to check out the employment section of your local newspaper often. It is usually filled with a lot of ads for entry-level positions making it a great resource for graduating seniors.

Keep in contact with your school’s Career Services Center. The Career Services Center at your school is there to assist you in finding a job. If you haven’t already visited your school’s Career Services Center, do so as soon as possible. Most Career Services Centers provide career fairs, on-campus interviews, online resume referrals, and job listings.

Finding a job can be a tough process. It is crucial to use all resources available to you and stay persistent in your search. Improving your resume and cover letters and brushing up on your interviewing skills should help you find employment soon. Happy job hunting!

After graduation, be it from high school or college, you begin...

Wed, 15 May 2013 14:11:41 -0400

After graduation, be it from high school or college, you begin the next journey in your life. For some, this journey may be a continuation of school; for others, it may mean diving into the workforce, etc. Wherever your journey takes you after graduation, it is very likely that you will lose touch with many of the friends you have made along the way. If you want to keep in touch with those friends, keep the following in mind.

Use social networking websites. Social networking sites have made it easier than ever to stay in contact with those you love even when they are thousands of miles away. There are numerous social networking sites from which to choose (such as Twitter, Instagram, Google+, etc.) but if you just want to keep up with one social networking site, stick with Facebook where the majority of your friends probably have accounts. To actually “keep in touch” using these social networking sites, you have to be interactive. Don’t just scroll through your newsfeed to read/view the posts. Like and comment on your friends’ pictures. Like and comment on your friends’ posts. Participate in Facebook chats. Reply to those tweets that your friends post about their dinner. Don’t forget to share what’s going on in your life as well. (Just remember to keep these social networking etiquette and safety tips in mind.)

Send e-mails. Try to e-mail your friends at least once a month to let them know what has been going on in your life. If you have a group of friends, you can send an e-mail to all of them at once, but it’s probably better for the friendship if you personalize an e-mail for each friend (you are more likely to get a response if the e-mail is personalized). Attach pictures to give your friends a visual of important events in your life.

Pick up the phone. Your friends are only a phone call or a text away. If you see something that reminds you of a certain friend, if you have big news that you want to share, or if you’re just thinking about one of your friends, pick up the phone and call or text him. It’s always nice to hear the voice of a friend on the other end of the line.

Don’t forget birthdays. Sending birthday cards to your old friends is a good way to keep in touch, and it lets them know that you are thinking of them. While sending an e-card is sufficient, sending a card through snail mail seems a little more heart-felt.

Plan annual reunions. Having annual get-togethers will allow you and your friends to catch up and spend quality time together. If you live relatively close to your old friends, you may be able to have get-togethers more often than just once a year. The little reunions can range from a weekend trip to a casual lunch. If you have a group of friends, rotate who will be in charge of planning the get-together each year, so it’s not left up to just one person.

It takes effort to keep friendships strong, especially when you don’t see your friends every day like you did in school. If you have friends that mean a lot to you, make sure you put forth the effort to stay in touch. You’ll probably regret it a few years down the road if you don’t.

Graduation gifts don’t always have to involve high-priced...

Tue, 14 May 2013 13:07:09 -0400

Graduation gifts don’t always have to involve high-priced items. It’s the thought that counts, right? If you are on a budget and your child/niece/nephew/friend is graduating from high school or college, use this list to pick the perfect frugal gift.

For High School Grads
Do you have a high school grad on your gift list who will be attending college in the fall? He may appreciate these needed presents. Bonus: Many of these items can be purchased at a dollar store.

Laundry kit. Purchase a laundry bag or basket and fill it with essential laundry items that your graduate will need at college. Include laundry detergent, fabric sheets, stain remover, rolls of quarters, and step-by-step instructions on how to wash laundry. Tie the bag or basket with a ribbon, and you’re done!
Bath tote. Most students in dorms have to share bathrooms, so they need totes to carry assorted bath products to and from the showers. Put together a bath tote with all the necessary essentials: toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, mouthwash, deodorant, hairbrush, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, shaving cream, disposable razors, shower shoes, etc.
Dorm-food survival kit. It’s hard to make gourmet entrees in a dorm room, but college students still need some dorm room dining basics. Purchase a dish tub and fill it with eating utensils (plastic forks, knives, spoons, bowls, plates, cups), dish soap/sponge, can opener, cans of tuna/soup, packs of ramen noodles, healthy snacks (nuts, dried fruit, granola bars), microwave recipe cookbook, etc.
First-aid kit. When packing to go away to college, most students don’t think about a first-aid kit…until they need one. A cheap, plastic box will suffice as a container. Fill it with aspirin, ibuprofen, sinus/allergy medication, upset stomach medication, throat lozenges, band aids, hydrogen peroxide, antibiotic ointment, sun block, aloe vera gel (for sunburns), bug spray, etc.
Book about college. Visit a local bookstore or check out amazon or ebay for books about college life. Recent high school grads may experience “fear of the unknown” when it comes to college, so a book about what to expect as a college freshman will help the recent grad prepare for his new adventures.

For College Grads
Because the college grad on your list will be embarking on new adventures as well (new job, new apartment, etc.), he will enjoy the following frugal gift ideas.

Copy card. If the graduate on your list still hasn’t secured a job, he would greatly appreciate a gift card to FedEx Office or any other printing store since the cost of printing resumes in bulk can get expensive.
Household toolbox. Unless the recent grad is moving back home with the parents to save money, he will probably want to spruce up his new apartment or house. Make sure he has all the essentials by giving him a household toolbox. Include a hammer, a pack of nails, a couple screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench, a tape measure, a level, pliers, etc. For daughters and nieces, make it a little more girly by putting the tools in a cute, pink container.
Book about life after college. High school grads aren’t the only ones who experience “fear of the unknown.” College grads will also experience many life changing events over the next several years (new job, buying first house, marriage, retirement planning, etc.), so help your grad prepare with a book full of advice and tips.

For Both
There are several frugal gift ideas that will work for both high school and college graduates.

Family heirloom. If you’ve been waiting for a special occasion to gift a family heirloom, graduation is the perfect event. Examples may include a piece of jewelry, a tie tack, a pocket watch, a piece of furniture, a recipe book, a quilt, etc. It’s a no-cost gift and would probably be the one that the new grad would most cherish anyway.
Scrapbook. If you are the crafty kind and have access to old and recent photos of the grad, create a Life’s Journey scrapbook. Include pictures and stories from special occasions during the grad’s life, such as first day of kindergarten, school performances, birthdays, etc. Make sure to add blank pages so the grad can add to his Life’s Journey scrapbook as he grows older.
Book of wisdom. Reach out to older relatives, teachers, older friends of the grad and request tips and advice on growing up/advice they wished they had received when they were younger. Combine all the quotes/stories and create a unique journal of wisdom for the grad.
Address book. The recent grad is going to need to know where to send all those thank-you cards for his graduation presents. Purchase an address book and fill it with contact information for relatives and friends.

Times are tough but getting a gift for the grad on your list doesn’t have to be. Put a little thought into the gift, and your grad will be sure to appreciate it no matter the cost. If you have room in your budget for a more costly gift, be sure to check out Gift Ideas for the High School Graduate and Gift Ideas for the College Graduate.

Want to get college credit for a class without actually taking...

Mon, 13 May 2013 15:21:10 -0400

Want to get college credit for a class without actually taking the course? The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP), offered by the College Board, provides students with the opportunity to gain college credit for certain courses if they perform well on the subject exams.

Who Should Take CLEP Tests?
Many different types of people benefit from taking CLEP tests, including:

Students who want to save time and money
Students who want to move right into advanced courses
Students who are a few credits shy of graduation
Working adult students with busy schedules who want to earn degrees quickly
International students who want to avoid repeating course work
Students who speak a foreign language fluently and want to earn college credit for that language
Returning students who want to change careers
Military service members and veterans who want to earn college degrees and take advantage of military education benefits

Variations Among Schools
Most colleges and universities grant credit for CLEP exams, but some do not. Find out if your school grants credit for CLEP tests. Rules and regulations vary among the schools that do grant credit; each institution gets to set its own CLEP policy. Be sure to check with the school you plan to attend to assess the school’s policy on:

Applying for credit
How much credit will be granted
Minimum qualifying score
Taking other tests (i.e. essay, oral) in addition to the CLEP multiple-choice exams
Obtaining credit for general requirements (humanities, English, math, etc.)
Getting credit if already attempted a college-level course closely aligned with that exam

Please note: Students may not repeat a CLEP exam of the same title within six months at any school. If exams are repeated earlier than six months, scores will be canceled and test fees forfeited.

Test Description and Scoring
With the exception of the College Composition with essay exams, CLEP tests are made up of multiple-choice questions. CLEP tests are scored on a scale from 20 to 80. Most schools grant credit for a score of 50 or higher.

Registration
CLEP exams are offered at testing centers located on college/university campuses and military bases. Contact the test center directly to find out its registration procedure (fees, test dates, etc.). Some institutions use their own forms or have online registration procedures. Some institutions will accept this registration/admission form (along with payment). Each exam costs $80 and most centers charge an administrative fee per student or per test. CLEP exams and administrative fees are free to eligible military personnel.

For more information about CLEP exams, please visit the College Board website or contact your college or university.

College is a time for you to learn money management skills...

Thu, 09 May 2013 13:20:05 -0400

College is a time for you to learn money management skills because it is the first time you will be handling money without parental supervision. Whether your parents will be supporting you financially or you opt to get a part time job, it is crucial for you to learn how to budget now so you will have proper money management skills in the future. So before you go off to college, sit down now and use these tips to help you plan out a budget.

Determine Fixed and Variable Costs
The first step in developing a college budget is knowing what costs you will incur. These costs can be broken down into two categories: fixed and variable. Fixed costs can include tuition, rent/room and board, car payments, car insurance, and parking fees. These costs are set figures. Variable costs can include entertainment, gasoline, food, utilities, hygiene necessities, clothes, car maintenance, books, phone bills, and/or club dues. These costs can vary from month to month.

Identify Sources of Income
Once you know what your fixed and variable costs are, you will need to determine if your sources of income will cover the costs. Income can include pay from a part time job, allowance from home, grants, scholarships, or loans. If your estimated expenses exceed estimated income, then you will need to identify ways to reduce expenses or increase income. For example, to help reduce expenses, you may be able to carpool with friends or limit entertainment to once a week. To help increase income, you may be able to get a part time job if you don’t already have one. Just remember that your schoolwork comes first. If you decide to take out a student loan or need more student loans, make sure you know the terms and conditions of the loan(s).

Decide on Bank Accounts
You also need to determine what kind of banking accounts will be appropriate. It is probably best to get a checking account and a savings account so you can save extra money. Look for banks that offer checking accounts with no minimum balances and no monthly fees and a savings account that can be used as overdraft protection for the checking. If you are going to college close to home, you can go ahead and set up these accounts. If you are going to a college that is far away, you can wait until you move there before you set up accounts.

Once you get to college and start spending money, you may realize that the original budget needs to be revamped. You may find out that you need more money or that you have way too much money to waste. Either way, you will need to make appropriate adjustments to the budget.

Deciding to transfer is a very important decision to make during...

Wed, 08 May 2013 10:10:09 -0400

Deciding to transfer is a very important decision to make during your college career. If you are thinking about transferring, here is some information you should know to get started on the process.

Why Transfer?
Students decide to transfer to different schools for various reasons. If you are thinking about transferring, you need to make sure you would be doing it for the right reasons. Don’t transfer to a different school just because you don’t like your current roommate. You need to have a valid reason for transferring such as:

You want to move from a two-year college to a four-year college.
You want to switch to a major that your current school doesn’t offer.
You need to switch colleges to accommodate changing financial needs.

These are just a few legitimate reasons for transferring. If you think you have a justifiable reason for changing schools, discuss it with your parents or advisor to see if they think it’s a valid reason. You don’t want to go through the hassle of transferring if you don’t have to.

Choosing a Transfer School
If you decide that transferring is your best option, you need to choose a transfer school. There are thousands of schools from which to choose so this may seem like an overwhelming task. Don’t get discouraged. You have already been through the process of choosing a school once and now you know what you really want from a school. Consider why you are transferring in the first place and that should help you narrow down your choices. For instance, if you want to transfer because your current school doesn’t offer the major you want to study, then check out schools that are highly respected in regards to that particular major. Once you have a list of possible schools, you need to visit the campuses in order to make an educated decision. Be sure to take virtual tours of over 1300 college campuses on this site.

Transferring Credits
Keep in mind that some credits may not be transferable. If you are transferring from a two-year school to a four-year school, you may be required to retake courses that you have already completed at the community college. Furthermore, some schools require you to complete a minimum number of credits at your new school before you can graduate. This may delay your graduation date. Because transferring is such an individual process, you should meet with an admissions officer at the school you want to attend so you will know how your credits will transfer to that particular school.

When Should You Transfer?
Knowing when to start the transfer process is imperative. In general, you should begin the application process at least two semesters before you intend to transfer. Some schools will only take transfers for fall semester, while others will alter their acceptance rates based on fluctuations in enrollment. You should talk to a transfer counselor at the school you are currently attending and make contact with the admissions office of the school you would like to attend so you can research all requirements thoroughly.

Applying
After you have weighed the pros and cons of transferring, have picked a transfer school, and know all the requirements involved, you should submit your transfer application. If required, be sure to send transcripts, admissions test scores, letters of recommendation, and the college essay or portfolio. Remember to proofread your entire application carefully to avoid careless errors or mistakes.

Because the circumstances for each transfer student are different, it is imperative that you stay involved and remain focused throughout the entire process. For more information about transferring, read Should You Attend a Community College? and Transitioning From a Community College To a Four-Year School

Are you skipping the counseling office’s career planning...

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:38:52 -0400

Are you skipping the counseling office’s career planning programs? Apparently a number of students across the country aren’t taking advantage of all that their high school counseling offices provide.

A National Center for Education Statistics survey of public high school counselors found that half or fewer juniors and seniors took part in available career planning opportunities at their schools, depending on the program offered. The largest participation was in career tests with 93 percent of public high schools offering a test but only 56 percent of juniors and seniors participating. Career days and career speakers were the next most popular activities, followed by internships, job site visits and job shadowing.

You might think it’s OK to put off career planning until later in your college years, but you’ll benefit from any career exploration you can do in high school. You won’t have as much time later on as you might think, and you can start learning about careers now through classes and experiences.

Utilize the Kuder Career Planning System and ACT’s World-of-Work Map to find out which careers will align with your skills and interests.You can also use ACT’s DISCOVER computer program for career suggestions. Your counselor can help you find the programs and show you how to use the results to explore careers.

Because many colleges expect to receive your final admission...

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 12:52:13 -0400

Because many colleges expect to receive your final admission decision by May 1st, it is crucial that you submit your acceptance notification (form that accompanies your offer notification) as soon as you have made your choice. However, accepting admission isn’t the only task you have to complete. If you applied to and were accepted at other colleges, then you need to decline admission to those colleges so they can offer your spot to other students on their waiting lists.

Many institutions include instructions in their offer package regarding how to inform them of your decision to attend another university. You may be asked to return a response form via postal mail or update your status through an online student information system. However, if no status form is offered, you may send a short letter. The letter should be brief, positive, and to the point. Here is a sample letter for declining college admission:

John M. Student
123 Acceptance Lane
Anytown, USA 90000

April 20, 20XX

Admissions Committee
Y University
100 College Street
Anytown, USA 70000

Dear Admissions Committee:

Thank you for your letter of April 16, 20XX, offering me admission to Y University.

While I appreciate the invitation to attend your institution, after careful consideration of my admission offers, I have decided to accept an offer from State University.

Once again, thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

(signature)

John M. Student

Finding a summer internship isn’t easy. While there are...

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 12:58:46 -0400

Finding a summer internship isn’t easy. While there are usually various positions available, you will still have to compete with a lot of other college students and people already in the workforce who are looking for a career change. The key is to start your search early and use the right sources during your search. Use the following resources to assist you in finding a summer internship.

The Internet. The Internet is a great resource to use, especially when you want an internship that isn’t local. When you begin your search, look for general internship websites, such as monster.com, as well as industry-specific websites. If you already have a list of companies in which you would like to intern, check out the career section of each company’s website. A lot of company websites will also have a section just for internships.

Career Services. The Career Services office at your school is there to assist you in finding internships and employment. Most offices will have a list of internship programs and related information available for your review.

Career Fair. Many colleges and universities have on-site career fairs to help their students find internships and full-time employment. Check with the Career Services office at your school to see if/when a career fair will be held on your campus. If you decide to attend a career fair, be sure to bring copies of your resume to hand out to recruiters as well as dress in a professional manner. Recruiters may even request an on-the-spot interview, so be ready for questions.

Major Department. If you want to get an internship that is related to a specific major, check with faculty at the major’s department office. They should be able to tell you of any internships that they are aware of and give you contact information.

Social Media Sites. Social media sites have become one of the best avenues to use when searching for an internship. Three of the most common social media sites to utilize when networking for an internship are LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.

Personal Contacts. Networking is very important during an internship or job search. If you have friends, relatives, professors, former employers, or acquaintances who work or know someone in your field of interest, be sure to talk to that person and let him know that you are interested in obtaining an internship for the summer.

Cold Contacts. Cold calling companies is a great way to find an internship that hasn’t been vastly advertised. Telephone, write, or visit employers in your area and inquire about summer jobs/internships for college students. Be sure to explain why you would be beneficial to their company by briefly promoting your skills and strengths.

Print Materials. Internships can be found through a variety of print materials. There are annual directories of internships, which can probably be found in your school’s career services office. You can also find internships in trade magazines that are published for a specific career field and in newspaper classified ads.

The above-mentioned sources should get you on the right track to find an internship for the summer. Once you have found several internship possibilities and applied to them, you need to get ready for the interviewing process. Read How to Sell Yourself During a Job Interview for tips on how ace the interview.

As a student, you may not be able to afford a hybrid car, but...

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 12:17:35 -0400

As a student, you may not be able to afford a hybrid car, but there are plenty of small steps you can take to help the environment. To become an energy conscious student, adapt these practices to your everyday life.

Recycle. Students use a lot of paper each semester. From class notes to school newspapers to Internet print-outs, your paper consumption can add up pretty quickly. To really help the environment, save the paper and go electronic as much as possible. Use your laptop/tablet for note-taking and bookmark Internet pages instead of printing them out. When you have to use paper, always recycle. Many high schools and colleges have paper recycle bins around campus, so utilize them. Don’t forget to recycle other items as well, such as cans and bottles.

Buy vintage. By purchasing items from thrift stores, not only will you be helping the environment, but you will also have a more unique wardrobe and bedroom/dorm/apartment than your peers. Buying items second-hand instead of brand new means no new manufacturing resources that create pollution and carbon emissions had to be used.

Purchase used textbooks. If you are a college student, be sure to buy used textbooks instead of new ones and sell them back at the end of the semester. Buying used books saves trees and money. Check out half.com and textbooks.com. Research companies that make a conscious effort to recycle and reuse textbooks. Bookbyte.com recycles textbooks, keeping them out of landfills and donates usuable textbooks to the “Rotary Books for the World” project.

Unplug idle electronics and chargers. Just because you aren’t actively using an appliance, doesn’t mean that it isn’t using electricity. If it’s plugged into an outlet, it’s sucking power whether it’s being used or not. To save money, waste less electricity, and cut down on your carbon emissions, unplug your cell phone charger, computer, TV, toaster, and lamps when you are not using them.

Save water. Water is a limited resource and is “recycled” through water treatment facilities. The more water we waste, the more energy we have to produce to run those facilities. Save water and energy by taking shorter showers, washing full loads of laundry, and turning off the faucet when brushing teeth and washing hands.

Walk, bike, or take the bus. Stop driving your car everywhere you need to go. If you live close enough to school, try walking or biking. Live a little farther away? Take mass transit. If you do have to drive your car, drive the speed limit in order to use less gas and roll down the windows instead of using the air conditioner.

Carry a refillable water bottle. Save money and the environment by using a refillable water bottle instead of buying bottled water. Bottled water leaves a huge carbon footprint because of the packaging and transportation.

Eat less meat. Out of this whole list, eating a vegetarian diet is the activity that will have the greatest impact on helping the environment. A United Nations report states that “meat production produces more greenhouse gas emissions than all forms of transportation combined.” If you refuse to give up meat completely, you can still be green by avoiding meat just a few days a week.

Environmental issues are more important than ever. Be sure to do your part to help make our earth a better place to live.

Dorm rooms are known for being cramped and tiny. Small living...

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 14:58:10 -0400

Dorm rooms are known for being cramped and tiny. Small living areas make clutter and messes stand out that much more, so take steps every day to keep your dorm room neat and organized.

Make your bed daily. The bed is usually the focal point of every college dorm room. Take a couple minutes every morning to make your bed. It will make a huge difference in the appearance of your room.

Give every item a home. The key to this is organizational tools. Do you have shoes scattered across your floor? Get a shoe organizer. What about those shampoo and body wash bottles spread across your desk? Shower caddy to the rescue! Organization is a fundamental step in having a neat dorm room. Check out more dorm room organizers from dormco.com.

Utilize your laundry bin. Don’t just throw your dirty laundry on the floor or across your bed. Use a laundry hamper or bag. Not only will it keep your room less cluttered, it will also make laundry day easier.

Organize your desk. A cluttered desk is uninviting and will only distract you from your studies. Invest in a filing cabinet and file important papers, documents, and receipts that you need to keep. Recycle old term papers, exams, and assignments that are no longer needed. Utilize small storage containers for pens, pencils, staples, post-its, etc.

Empty your trash basket regularly. Get into the habit of taking your trash to the dumpster once your trash bin is full. Don’t wait until you have trash overflowing onto your floor. Leftover food and food containers should be taken to the dumpster immediately as to avoid giving your dorm room an unpleasant odor.

Clean up spills immediately. Be sure to wipe down surfaces (i.e. counters, microwaves, etc.) after preparing meals in your room. This will prevent crumb/dirt buildup and sticky surfaces. Food crumbs attract unwanted guests, such as ants and mice, so be sure to clean up spills immediately.

Wash dishes. You probably won’t have dirty dishes often, but when you do, wash them immediately after use. If you don’t have a sink in your room, you may want to get a dish pan. Assemble a dishwashing caddy, complete with dish soap and sponges, to keep items organized.

Clean out your fridge. Don’t let your fridge become a breeding ground for bacteria. Clean your fridge at least once a month by throwing out expired food items and wiping up spills with mild bleach or disinfectant. To avoid bacteria growth, store leftovers in air tight containers and toss the leftovers after about four days.

Dust and vacuum as necessary. You will probably want to dust and vacuum every one to two weeks depending on how dirty your room becomes after a week is up. Invest in a vacuum or borrow one from your RA. If you have tile or concrete floors, use a Swiffer to pick up the dirt. Wipe down all surfaces to keep dust at bay.

Use air freshener. From dirty socks to leftover Chinese food, smells can become overwhelming in tiny dorm rooms. Stand-alone air fresheners and sprays will help eliminate the odors.

Having a clean and tidy dorm room will make dorm life so much more enjoyable for you, your roommate, and your guests. So, break out that vacuum and get to work!

Deciding where to attend college is a huge decision because you...

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 16:42:26 -0400

Deciding where to attend college is a huge decision because you will probably be spending the next four or more years there. Students often choose a college for all the wrong reasons and end up transferring to a different college or maybe even dropping out of school altogether. Don’t become one of those students. Here are the top ten reasons notto choose a college:

1. Your boyfriend/girlfriend is going there. Think of all the different people you are going to meet in college. You may get to college and realize that you want to focus more on developing new relationships. You may also decide you don’t want to be distracted by a relationship and want to focus more on studying and earning your degree. You should give yourself the opportunity to experience college life and enjoy your educational experience so you can reach your maximum potential.

2. Your best friend is going there. If you and your best friend want to go to the same college because you both like the courses and extracurricular activities that are offered, then that’s great. Just don’t choose a college solely because you want to go to school with your best friend. Going away to college means meeting a lot of new, unique people. If you choose a college so you can be with your friend, the two of you may spend every day with each other, and you may not take the opportunity to meet other people and make new friends. Making new friends will help you grow as a person.

3. It’s a party school. While school should be fun at times, it is more importantly a place for you to learn new ideas and earn a degree. While enjoying your time outside of the classroom is important, you can’t spend all your time at school socializing. You need to pick a school that is conducive to your educational needs.

4. You decided in the 7th grade that you wanted to go there. While it is important to begin thinking about college early, you shouldn’t choose a college solely because you decided when you were young that is where you wanted to go. You need to open yourself up to other possibilities and give yourself other options. If, after you’ve visited the campus, spoken with college representatives, and found a suitable course of study, you’re still convinced it’s the right school for you, then you can begin making plans to attend. Just make sure you have considered a variety of possibilities before making your final decision.

5. Your mom and dad are alumni. Try to avoid letting your parents persuade you into going to their old alma mater if you’re not interested. To be successful in school, you need to pick a college that is right for you based on a number of factors. If you share the same enthusiasm for your parents’ school, still be sure to look around at other campuses to broaden your perspective. If you aren’t excited by the prospect of becoming a legacy, have an open and honest conversation with your parents and offer reasonable examples of why you might be happier somewhere else. Chances are, when you work together as a family, you’ll come up with a choice that makes everyone happy.

6. It has a good football team. Unless you want to be on the football team, don’t choose a college just because you like the team. While school spirit is important to have, you need to base your decision on what the school can offer you in regards to academics, extracurricular activities, and so forth.

7. Your school counselor told you to pick it. Your school counselor can be a great resource when you are choosing a college. He or she can help guide you through the process and answer questions you might have about a college, based on valuable experience with former students. It is important for you to let your counselor know all of your interests in order to help you determine which colleges might be a fit, but you must also remember that this is your decision to make. It’s best for you to take suggestions, research the schools and then make a decision on your own.

8. The school is prestigious. Just because a school has the reputation of being prestigious, it does not mean that you are going to like it. What if the school doesn’t offer the major that you want? What if it doesn’t offer the extracurricular activity in which you want to be involved? You need to consider aspects that are important to you when choosing a school instead of worrying about how whether or not it is a high-status school.

9. The tuition is low. Money is often a big factor when choosing a college, but keep in mind that a school that is more expensive may offer you a larger financial aid package with more gift aid (depending on your financial situation) than a school where the tuition is lower. Apply to the schools you really want to attend, including schools with high and low tuitions, and then compare their financial aid award notifications in order to make a decision. Don’t forget that you can also get a student loan to help you pay for tuition.

10. It looks good in the guidebook. Do not choose a college without visiting the campus first. While guidebooks and virtual tours will help you narrow down your choices, it is important to visit your top two or three schools in person so you can get a feel for what the campus atmosphere is like.

When it comes to choosing a college, students can give many good and bad reasons why they picked a certain school. Instead of choosing a college for the reasons listed above, take the time to research schools and find out what they have to offer. You want a school that will get you well prepared for the future, as well as one where you feel comfortable.

You finally submitted the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal...

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 13:35:37 -0400

You finally submitted the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). You think everything is going smoothly until you receive notice (via your Student Aid Report) that you have been selected for FAFSA verification. What does this mean?

Verification is a process used to verify certain information on the FAFSA to ensure its accuracy. Some students are selected for verification by the U.S. Department of Education. Others are selected by the school. Usually only a certain percentage of students are selected for verification (but keep in mind that some schools choose to do 100% verification so every student file is verified).

Why is your file being verified?
There are several possibilities for being selected for FAFSA verification. Keep in mind that more possibilities exist, but the following are the main reasons for being selected:

You were selected randomly.
The submitted FAFSA application has incomplete data.
The data on the FAFSA application appears to contradict itself.
The FAFSA application has estimated information on it.

What needs to be done after the selection?
After you receive notification that you have been selected for verification, you should first read any messages from the Department of Education appearing on the Student Aid Report. Contact your Financial Aid Office (FAO) if you have any questions. Next, you should submit copies of documents that the Financial Aid Office requests. These documents may include:

Verification Worksheet
IRS Tax Return Transcript (Note: If you use the IRS Data Retrieval option when completing the FAFSA and make no changes to the tax information, a tax return transcript may not be required.)
Marriage Certificate
Social Security Card
Alien Registration Card
Other information/documentation

The type of documents required will vary from student to student, and not all students selected for FAFSA verification will have to submit the same documents. Do not turn in any documentation that was not requested.

What happens if there are discrepancies in the application?
After you turn in all required documents, the Financial Aid Office will compare them with your Student Aid Report. If errors are found, corrections will be made. If the errors are significant enough to change the amount of financial aid that you were awarded, the Financial Aid Office will send you a revised award notification showing increased or decreased amounts.

If you are selected for FAFSA verification, you need to return the information and requested documentation as soon as possible. Processing usually takes two to three weeks, but it can take longer during the peak season. Because verification must be completed in advance of disbursing any money from any financial aid program, it is vital to send complete and correct information as quickly as possible. Above all else, don’t be upset because you were selected for verification. This is a process that is required by the federal government. The Financial Aid Office may even discover errors in your report that could actually increase your eligibility for more aid.

In April, many colleges and universities begin sending offer...

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 12:09:38 -0400

In April, many colleges and universities begin sending offer notifications to students who have been accepted for their incoming freshman class and have applied for financial assistance. Offer notifications list the cost of tuition and fees plus the amount of financial aid available through the school. When you’ve been accepted and receive financial aid offers from more than one school, you need to compare the offers, make a choice, and accept the offer that best fits your needs - and your budget.

How do you compare offers? Follow these guidelines and make a list of pros and cons of each school and the key reasons for your decisions. Most families need to consider the annual net cost of attending each school and the annual cash outlay required of the family. To figure these out, you can make a chart listing each school and include the following:

(A) Estimated Annual Expenses

Tuition
Fees
Room
Board/meal plan
Travel
Estimated price of books and supplies
Personal expenses

(B) Total Gift Aid (aid that does not need to be repaid)

Grants and scholarships
Other gift aid

(C) Net Price = A - B (Each college participating in federal student aid programs should have a net price calculator on their website.)

(D) Work Study / Job Offers

(E) Loans to be Repaid

Stafford Loans
Perkins Loan
Other student loans

(F) Cash Outflow = (C - [D + E])

Once you’ve completed the chart, consider the pros and cons of each school along with the financial considerations. Consider the nontangible factors (your feelings about the school and the environment) as well as the tangible factors (cost, course offerings). Listen to your parents but realize that the decision is ultimately yours.

If you want to obtain a good post-secondary education at a...

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:13:24 -0400

If you want to obtain a good post-secondary education at a moderate price, you may want to consider attending a public university or college in your home state. Because you/your parents are already contributing to the funding of public colleges in your state when paying taxes, you are charged less than out-of-state residents who haven’t made tax payments to the state. If you attend a public school in another state, you will have to pay out-of-state tuition, which can result in shelling out thousands of dollars extra each year. If you do decide to attend a public school out of your home state, keep in mind that you can’t quickly change your residency status in order to get a tuition break. There are stringent rules to follow when it comes to determining eligibility. Here’s what you should know about qualifying for in-state tuition.

State Residency Requirements
State residency is the key factor used to judge eligibility for in-state tuition. Residency requirements vary significantly from state to state. The College Board’s Guide to State Residency Requirements will give you specific information on the requirements for each state. Typical requirements for residency determination include:

A durational residency requirement (usually 12 months). Tennessee is the only state that has no durational requirement.
The intent to maintain domicile or be a permanent resident of the state for the foreseeable future.

Because your college of choice usually has the authority to determine whether you qualify, you should be ready to provide proof of residency and intent to remain a resident. Examples may include:

Car or voter registration
Income tax returns with an in-state residential address
Records of attending secondary school in the state
State driver’s license
Home ownership in the state
Local bank account
Records of full-time employment in the state
Local civic group or club involvement

Keep in mind that these examples are provided as a guide. No state has a comprehensive list that automatically grants resident status.

Out-of-State Tuition Waiver
If you are in a certain geographic area and are looking for academic programs that are not available at your state institutions, you may be eligible to participate in a tuition-exchange program. Partaking in this program means that you will be charged in-state tuition (even though you are not a state resident) or will be offered a reduced tuition rate. Regional tuition waiver programs include the Academic Common Market (Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia), the New England Regional Student Program (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont), the programs of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, U.S. Pacific Territories and Freely Associated States), and the Midwest Student Exchange Program (Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Wisconsin).

Some schools may also offer out-of-state tuition waivers to the following and their dependents:

Active-duty military personnel stationed in the state
University faculty or staff
School teachers in the state
Newly settled retirees
High school graduates who left the state for a period of time
Etc.

Again, this list is not comprehensive. Some schools may offer tuition waivers to certain people and their dependents, while other schools will not. Decisions are made on an individual basis.

Non-U.S. Citizens
Typically, if you are a non-U.S. citizen, you are only eligible for in-state tuition if you are a lawful permanent resident or have been granted a visa in an eligible category. (This varies from state to state.) Of course, you must still meet the state residency requirements, such as durational residency and intent to maintain domicile.

This information is intended to give an overview of the policies involved in qualifying for in-state tuition. All questions about a specific circumstance or practices of a particular school should be directed to that institution.

Diversify Your College Activities College life offers an array...

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 14:08:10 -0400

Diversify Your College Activities

College life offers an array of activities in which to participate. You should try to take advantage of as many new endeavors as possible in order to broaden your horizons. Here are a few more reasons why you should diversify your college activities.

You could find a possible career path. If you limit yourself to activities that you are already comfortable with, then you could miss out on a possible career path that you find truly exciting. By participating in an extracurricular activity that you have never considered before, you could end up having a whole new perspective on what you want to do with your life. So, if you are the type of student who is interested in art, why don’t you mix it up a little and try joining a science club? Only involved in math clubs? Try something new by writing for the school newspaper. You never know…you could find the career of your dreams.

You will look good to potential employers. Employers want well-rounded individuals who are interested in growing and learning about new ideas. You should still definitely be involved in activities that pertain to your career path, but you should also be involved in maybe one or two other activities that show you can be a flexible and diverse employee. For instance, even if you won’t be dealing with the general public in your chosen career field, employers for that career will still want an employee with good communication skills. Think drama club or debate team.

You will meet and make friends with a variety of people. College is a melting pot of diverse cultures, lineages, and ideas. Being involved in different activities will allow you to meet a variety of people and learn about their different cultures and ideas. Use this opportunity to learn as much as you can while making new friends along the way.

You will build self-esteem. By putting yourself out there and trying something new, you will help build your self-esteem. You will be proud of yourself for opening up to new experiences. Think about how great you would feel if you tried out for a sports team and made it, even though you thought you weren’t that good. If you try something new and succeed, you will gain the confidence to keep trying new activities.

You will expand your leadership skills. Part of being a leader means being able to adapt to new ideas and experiences. Become involved in an activity that challenges you. A person who does not feel the thrill of challenge will not progress into being a leader.

Keep in mind that while you should diversify your college activities in order to be a well-rounded person, you shouldn’t spread yourself too thin. Don’t be involved in so many different activities that you don’t have time for your school work. Find a few activities that you are interested in and that pertain to your possible career path(s), and then find one or two activities where you can challenge yourself and be open to new possibilities.

Spring Break Dos and Don’ts Spring break is a time to get...

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 14:41:36 -0400

Spring Break Dos and Don’ts

Spring break is a time to get away from school for a whole week (or maybe more) without having to worry about term papers, group projects, and grades. Many of you may be planning on going to a spring break hotspot, such as Key West or Cancun. If you are going on a trip for spring break, be sure to keep these dos and don’ts in mind so you can have an enjoyable time.

DO keep safety first. If you are driving to your spring break destination, be sure to have your car checked to make sure it can go the distance without any trouble. Also, while you are on the road, be sure to switch out drivers so no one gets sleepy while driving. Once you get to your destination, try to always go out with a friend. Remember that there is safety in numbers.

DON’T get arrested. Spring break is a time to have fun and let loose, but you can have fun and let loose without doing anything illegal. To help keep your activities legal, think of how angry your friends would be if they had to use their extra spring break money to bail you out of jail. Not a pretty mental picture.

DO be respectful of others. Even if you think that your hotel is only filled with fellow spring breakers, you never know who could be in the room next door. Try not to make a lot of noise in your hotel room or in the hallways. And don’t get into any bar fights; it’s just unnecessary and unattractive.

DON’T forget the sunscreen. If you plan on spending any time on the beach or by the pool, you better put on sunscreen. Not only will it help keep you from getting skin cancer, but it will also keep you from looking like a lobster during your trip. Hello SPF 45!

DO take lots of pictures. Spring break is a time to make memories with your friends. Be sure to capture moments with your phone or camera so you will have photos to cherish. Try to have your phone/camera accessible at all times because you never know when a photo op will occur.

DON’T be reckless with your belongings. Always be aware of where you put your wallet, purse, money, credit cards, cell phone, etc. Be especially on guard when you are on the beach or go out to a nightclub. Try not to leave your belongings unsupervised. You never know when someone might try to snatch something when you aren’t looking.

DO have fun. You only get to be a young college student once so enjoy it while you can.

Hopefully, these dos and don’ts will help you have a fun, yet safe, spring break trip. Above all else, just try to enjoy your time away from school because it won’t be long before you are back to the daily grind of writing papers, taking tests, and reading page after page of college textbooks.

What Determines the Amount Of Aid You Receive? The primary...

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 11:13:46 -0400

What Determines the Amount Of Aid You Receive?

The primary factor in determining the amount of aid you receive is your financial need. The following formula shows how financial need is calculated:

Cost of Attendance - Expected Family Contribution = Financial Need

Determining Cost of Attendance (COA)
The Office of Financial Aid at the school you want to attend or are attending calculates your COA for an academic year based upon certain assumptions and certain individual factors. Cost of Attendance includes tuition and fees, as well as allowances for books and supplies, living expenses, transportation, and personal costs. Factors such as course of study, grade level, residency status, etc. are also used in determining your COA.

Determining Expected Family Contribution (EFC)
Your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is the amount that you (and your parents if you are a dependent student) are expected to contribute to your educational costs. This figure is determined from all the data you and your parents supply on the FAFSA and/or the CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE Application. There are currently two main formulas used to determine the EFC: the Federal Methodology (FM) and the Institutional Methodology (IM). The Federal Methodology is used by the federal government to calculate eligibility for federal aid. The Institutional Methodology is used by many colleges to calculate eligibility for institutional aid programs. The EFC is mainly determined by considering family income and assets, number of family members, and number of family members in college.

Determining Financial Need
Your financial need is calculated as being the difference between the Cost of Attendance and the Expected Family Contribution, as demonstrated by the formula above. The amount of aid you receive is then based upon your financial need but may vary from school to school depending on educational costs, aid policies, and amount of aid available to give. In general, the higher your financial need, the greater your eligibility for gift aid (money that you do not have to pay back) or other need based aid, such as Federal Subsidized Stafford Loans. Even if you have no financial need, you are still able to receive non-need based aid, such as certain scholarships or Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loans.

If your college offers aid that is less than your financial need, then you have a financial aid gap. Your financial aid office should be able to work with you and make recommendations to help you pay for the difference between the amount you have been awarded and the actual cost of attendance.

Tax Rewards For Your College Spending There are numerous tax...

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 14:45:57 -0400

Tax Rewards For Your College Spending

There are numerous tax credits and tax benefits to help families manage the cost of higher education. Here is an overview of some of the programs available.

American Opportunity Credit
The American Opportunity Credit provides a maximum allowable credit of $2,500 per eligible student for the first four years of post-secondary education. This credit modifies the previous Hope Credit for tax years 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012, making it available to a broader range of taxpayers. Income guidelines are expanded and required course materials are added to the list of qualified expenses. Please refer to IRS Publication 970 to get income requirements for the current year. American Opportunity Credit provisions include:

Available only for the first 4 years of postsecondary education.
Available only for 4 tax years per eligible student (including any year(s) Hope Credit was claimed).
Student must be pursuing an undergraduate degree or other recognized education credential.
Student must be enrolled at least half time for at least one academic period that begins during the tax year.
No felony drug convictions on student’s record.

Lifetime Learning Credit
Up to $2,000 can be claimed as the Lifetime Learning Credit. This credit is computed as 20% of the first $10,000 paid in tuition and eligible class fees. Room and board, transportation, etc. are not covered. Differing from the American Opportunity Credit, the Lifetime Learning Credit is calculated per taxpayer, not per college student. This means that the maximum credit a taxpayer may claim for a taxable year is $2,000, no matter how many students are in the household. There are income requirements to obtain the credit. These income requirements vary year to year due to inflation. Please refer to IRS Publication 970 to get income requirements for the current year. Other Lifetime Learning Credit provisions include:

Available for all years of postsecondary education and for courses to acquire or improve job skills.
Available for an unlimited number of years.
Available for one or more courses.
Not denied due to a student’s felony drug conviction.

For each student, a taxpayer can elect for any year only one of the credits mentioned above. For example, if a taxpayer elects to take the Lifetime Learning Credit for a child on his 2012 tax return, he cannot, for that same child, also claim the American Opportunity Credit for 2012. If a taxpayer pays qualified education expenses for more than one student in the same year, he can choose to take certain credits on a per-student, per-year basis. This means that a taxpayer can claim the American Opportunity Credit for one student and the Lifetime Learning Credit for another student in the same year.

Student Loan Interest Deduction
Taxpayers who have taken loans to finance an education at an eligible institution (a university, college, vocational school, or other post-secondary school that is qualified to participate in federal student aid programs) may be qualified to deduct interest they pay on loans for themselves, their spouse or dependent. The maximum deductible amount of interest is $2,500. This tax credit also has income limitations, which vary year to year due to inflation (refer to IRS Publication 970). Terms of this program include:

Student loan must have been taken out solely to pay qualified education expenses, including tuition, fees, room and board, books, supplies, transportation, and other necessary expenses.
Loan cannot be from a related person or made under a qualified employer plan.
Student must be enrolled at least half-time in a degree program.
A taxpayer can deduct interest paid during the remaining period of the student loan.

Coverdell Education Savings Account
The Coverdell Education Savings Account lets families invest up to $2,000 per child per year. Contributions to a Coverdell account are not deductible, but amounts deposited in the account grow tax free until distributed. If distributions from an account are not more than the beneficiary’s qualified education expenses, the withdrawals are tax-free. These accounts have income limits (refer to IRS Publication 970). Contribution provisions to these accounts include:

No contributions other than cash can be made to a Coverdell account.
No contributions can be made to a Coverdell account after the beneficiary reaches age 18, unless he is a special needs beneficiary.

Qualified Tuition Program (aka 529 Plan)
Certain states and educational institutions allow taxpayers to prepay or contribute to a tuition savings account on behalf of a student. No tax is due on a distribution from a 529 plan unless the amount distributed is greater than the beneficiary’s adjusted qualified education expenses. There are no income restrictions on the individual contributors. Other terms and features include:

Contributions to a Qualified Tuition Program (QTP) on behalf of any beneficiary cannot be more than the amount necessary to provide for the qualified education expenses of the beneficiary.
Contributions can be made to both a Coverdell account and a QTP for the same beneficiary in the same year.

For information on other programs that have tax benefits or for more specific information on the programs listed above, please refer to IRS Publication 970. If you have any questions about the programs, please consult a tax professional.

Understanding the Financial Aid Award Notification Once a...

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 10:52:44 -0400

Understanding the Financial Aid Award Notification

Once a financial aid administrator at your school(s) reviews your SAR, you will be notified regarding your eligibility and the amount of aid you may receive.

Financial Aid Awards
There are two types of financial aid awards: gift aid and self-help aid. Gift aid does not have to be paid back. Self-help aid must be repaid through money or labor.

Gift Aid

Scholarships are based on merit (for example: good grades, music ability, or athletic skills). Some are also based on need. Scholarships are offered through colleges, the community, and other organizations.
Grants are awarded by the federal or state governments or by the school and are usually based on financial need.

Remember that the financial awards listed above do not have to be paid back.

Self-help Aid

Federal Work-Study is awarded to students with financial need. Students can work part-time to earn this award money to help with the cost of attendance. Work-study jobs can be found on or off campus through the school’s Financial Aid Office.
Federal Perkins Loan is a low interest rate loan that aids students with a large financial need. As long as the student is enrolled in school, the federal government pays the interest on this loan. Financial aid officers at each college determine which students receive these loans and how much they receive.
The Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan is a need-based loan. The federal government pays the interest on the loan while students are enrolled in college at least half-time. Please note: For Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans made on or after July 1, 2012, and before July 1, 2014, the interest subsidy provided during the six-month grace period has been eliminated. Here are the loan limits effective July 1, 2012. Please note: As of July 1, 2012, graduate and professional students are no longer eligible to receive Federal Subsidized Loans but will still remain eligible for Federal Unsubsidized Loans.
The Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan is non-need based. All students, regardless of need, can receive this loan. Students are responsible for paying the interest while enrolled in school and during any grace period or deferment. Here are the loan limits effective July 1, 2012.
The Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) is non-need based. These loans are available to parents of undergraduate dependent students, but the parents must have a good credit history. Parents can borrow up to the cost of education as determined by the school minus any financial aid received. Repayment usually begins within 60 days after funds are disbursed. However, rates, benefits, and deferment options vary for each organization or bank offering the PLUS Loan.
Alternative or Private Student Loans are offered through organizations and banks. Rates, repayment plans, and borrowing limits vary for each organization or bank.

Remember that any self-help aid must be repaid through money or labor. For more information about Subsidized and Unsubsidized Stafford Loans, PLUS Loans, and private student loans visit the Student Loan section of this site.

Comparing Financial Aid Award Packages
Once you receive financial aid award notifications from the schools to which you have applied, it’s time to compare the financial aid packages offered by each school. In order to make comparisons, you should follow these guidelines:

Compare like terms. Make sure that the cost of attendance is the same for each school before comparing. Some schools may not include transportation or personal costs in their estimated cost of attendance.
Compare ratio of gift aid to self-help aid. Generally, packages with a higher proportion of gift aid are more appealing because students may have less debt when they graduate. However, more gift aid may mean a larger family contribution at some colleges.
Compare the terms of any loans included. Will the payments be affordable? Student loans with low interest rates and no repayment until after college may be more affordable than private loans or other consumer loans.
Compare the effect of scholarships on other aid. If you are applying for or will qualify for outside scholarships, you should determine if it is possible for a scholarship to reduce your financial aid package.
Check on future packages. What part of the financial aid award is renewable from year to year? Are there requirements for maintaining the awards?

Although very important, the amount of financial aid you receive isn’t the only factor you should consider in choosing a college. Neither the school that offers you the most financial aid nor the most popular school among your friends is guaranteed to provide the right fit for your personal and academic goals, so try to keep an open mind when weighing your options. There may be several schools on your list of choices that balance academic, personal, and financial needs.

After Receiving the Financial Aid Award Notification
After reading the financial aid award notification, you may realize that the awards listed are not enough to cover all expenses. However, there are other loan options that may not be shown on the notice. Your parents may be eligible for the Federal PLUS Program or you could consider getting a private student loan.

After receiving the financial aid award notification, you must let the school know whether or not you are accepting or declining the awards. Not everything that is offered has to be accepted. Declining an award will neither help nor hurt the award. Pay close attention to deadlines for accepting the award package. Deadlines are usually within two weeks after receiving the award notification. If a deadline is missed, you may risk losing a scholarship, grant, or loan assistance.

For more information about the financial aid award notification, contact the Financial Aid Administrator from the college.