Dear Parents Of First Generation College Students
First of all, breathe. I know it's stressful, trust me, I know. Sending your child away to college can both be exciting and sad at the same time. Exciting, because they're starting a new chapter in their lives and because they're finally getting out of the house. (No more stinky socks for you.) Sad because they're your baby, your sunshine, the light of your life. It's hard to let go and see them off but they'll be okay. Here are a few tips for you because I know you're stressing,
1. Ask questions.
Don't be embarrassed about it. You'll want to know all you can. Questions are a good thing.
2. Look for scholarships early on.
You'll regret it if you don't, trust me, I know from experience.
3. When supplies are involved, cheaper is better.
Trust me, if it's at the dollar store, get it. College is expensive.
4. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
There's no shame in needing help from time to time. Ask for it, trust me someone will help.
5. Expensive isn't always better.
I know from personal experience. Just because your college has an expensive tuition, it doesn't necessarily mean it's a better choice. Do research, find the college of your dreams.
6. Renting or buying used books saves your wallet.
I know, we all want our very own brand new book to call our own. Sometimes they're expensive, go with renting or a used book, later on, you can always buy a new one.
7. For my fellow Financial Aid babies.
Use the resources they give you. Get every last amount you can get, you deserve it. You'll get it, trust me.
8. Parent PLUS loan.
Even if you have bad credit, you can still get this. Apply, even if you're denied some Universities will give you extra money just because of that.
9. Start planning early.
Don't wait till last minute, you'll regret it. Plan everything out months in advance, it'll give you some peace of mind when it starts getting close to move-in day.
10. Go to everything.
Some high schools give away scholarships just for attending "College Night." If you have one. Go to your chosen college's events, orientation, don't miss the important stuff.
11. Look for ways to save money.
Bigger isn't always better, you don't need all the luxuries right away. There are so many ways to save money, from commuting to using your own health insurance.
12. Coordinate with your roommate.
This is another way of saving those valuable dollars, don't over shop. Your roommate is bound to have something you don't, or they might have a duplicate. Saves you both money, and an extra dollar or two never hurt anyone.
13. And finally, don't let money stop you from living your dreams.
If you want that college, go to it. Don't let money be the reason you can't do what you want to do. You'll find a way to make it work.
