College Planning

 

College Planning

So, you want to go to college.  Congratulations!  Now what??  College planning can be intimidating because students and parents often do not know where to begin looking for answers to the many questions that they have.  Should I go to a 2 year or a 4 year college?  Do I want to live at home, or would I prefer to stay on campus?  How much will all of this cost, and can I afford it?  When do I start to visit college campuses?  What sort of classes should I take in high school to ensure success in college?  What do I have to do if I intend on being a student athlete? 

Step Number 1:  Talk to your counselor first!  We have answers to many of the questions that you may have about college and how to plan for it.  All seniors at the beginning of the academic year have individual meetings with their counselor.  At this time, we discuss post-graduation plans with each student, whether it be to go to a college (2 or 4 year) or to enter the military or work force.  We give important information at that time for every student that is college bound, including application deadlines, transcript information and the necessary classes to take to be eligible for college attendance.  If there is a question that we do not know how to answer, we will find someone who can!

Helpful Links To Aid In College Planning

Peterson's Planner College Board's Planner
Princeton Review My College Guide
College Answer ACT College Planner
CFNC Mapping Your Future

 

 

Are You A Student Athlete?  Do You Want To Play Sports In College?

Please Read This Important Information!!

To play sports as a freshman in NCAA Division I and II, you must meet specific standards. Click on the links to the NCAA and the Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse sites for specific details.  

NCAA

NCAA Eligibility Center

 

 Do You Need A Timeline To Help You Get To College?

Please click on the links below to see a 4 year timeline to help you get to college and succeed in High School!

CFNC Timelines

Peterson's Timelines 

 

 

 

 Virtual College Visits

While it is very important to visit the campuses of colleges you may be interested in, you can also visit them virtually through the internet.  These types of "visits" can help you narrow down the colleges that you truly wish to visit in person, saving time, gas and money!

NC Colleges CFNC College Fair
College View College Board Search
State List NC Private Colleges

 

 Top 10 Tips For College Admissions

1.  Take a challenging high school curriculum.

2.  Research a college that fits you.

3.  Take appropriate tests.

4.  Familiarize yourself with the application process.

5.  Research your eligibility for financial aid.

6.  Investigate scholarship opportunities early.

7.  Beware of scholarship scams!

8.  Understand specific costs associated with college.

9.  Fill out the FAFSA in January (or as soon as possible after January 1st) of your senior year and every year thereafter that you are in college.

10.  Investigate student and parent loans.