College and Career Planning
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College Basics

Step 1
Know yourself and Your Reasons For Attending College
Recognize your strengths and weaknesses
Analyze your interests and values
Achieve a personal goal
Increase your earning power
Prepare for a career and expand learning
Extracurricular activities and social life
Influence of family and friends

Take responsibility for your future!

Step 2
Consider College Characteristics
Majors and educational programs
Type of school and degrees offered
Admission Policy
Location and size
Costs and financial aid
College affiliation and accreditation
Campus activities
Support services

Step 3
List, Compare, and Visit Colleges
Compile information from several resources -- College catalogs, bulletins, videos, and computer-based services (College Connector, DISCOVER, etc.) -- College representatives and college fairs Counselors and teachers -- Counselors and teachers -- Directories and ACT score report
Prepare a college comparison checklist
Weigh advantages and disadvantages
Contact the admissions office
Schedule appointments for your campus visits
College affiliation and accreditation

Every campus has a personality!

Step 4
Apply for Admission and Observe Deadlines
Narrow your choices
Review college admissions test requirements
Know application fees and deadlines
Submit application materials -- Application for admission -- High school transcript -- Recommendations -- Admissions test results
Know scholarship requirements

Keep accurate records!

Step 5
Develop a Plan to Finance Your Education
Determine college costs
Investigate all possible resources -- Parents -- Savings -- Summer Earnings -- Financial aid -- Scholarships -- Grants -- Loans -- Work Study -- Other Sources
Secure necessary forms and note deadlines
Apply for financial aid as early as possible

Don't eliminate any college because of costs!