College. Life. Blog. http://www.collegegrant.net Mon, 14 May 2012 04:55:08 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.0.4 Students Guide To College http://www.collegegrant.net/students-guide-to-college/ http://www.collegegrant.net/students-guide-to-college/#comments Mon, 14 May 2012 04:51:20 +0000 admin http://www.collegegrant.net/?p=869 Choosing a college can be a huge decision for anyone looking to further their education. There are several different very important factors when it comes to picking a college. Choosing a major and deciding on the location and school itself are essential, but the steps to getting into college are much more involved. Students need to know how to apply, what paperwork must be completed, and more importantly, how to pay for their new education. When making such a life changing decision, it is important to understand how the world of higher education works. Thorough research and having a full comprehension of the college application process can make your decision much easier.

What to Study: Degrees, Majors, and Programs

Before you decide on a college, you need to know which major you plan to choose. Think about the things you are passionate about and what your ultimate career goals are. Whether you plan to be a teacher, doctor, scientist, or business owner, each plan should be customized for your individual desires. Think about the program you want to join, and then make your college decision based around it. Look for fully accredited schools that specialize in the major you are interested in. Then, narrow your choices down depending on the various requirements they have. Read the school’s website to find out more about the programs they offer so you have a clearer vision of what is in store for you. By deciding on a major, you will have a clearer vision of the school that will be right for you.

Where to Go: Choosing the Right College

Of course, deciding which college is right for you is the most important part of the process. Do you want to find a campus that is close to home, or do you prefer to move to a different state? Is a private university or public college more your style? Do you want to live in a dorm or off campus? What kinds of extracurricular activities does the college provide? These questions and many more should be asked, so you really have a clear picture of the college that will best suit your needs and personality. Since you will be attending this school for at least four years, you want to make sure the school is the right fit.

How to Apply for College: Letters of Recommendation, Transcripts, and More

When you apply for college, there are many things that have to happen before your application can be approved. Some of these things include an entrance essay. This essay is essentially you in a nutshell: your goals and dreams, your background, and why you want to attend a specific college. Colleges also need your high school transcripts so they can see your prior classes and grades. Letters of recommendation are also often required from teachers, church members, or other influential adults in your life. Of course, don’t forget to take the SAT test, because most colleges utilize these scores to help determine whether or not you will be accepted. Most larger schools also require a completed application and application fees.

Paying for Schooling: Scholarships, Grants, Loans, & Financial Aid

Of course, paying for college is also extremely important. The cost of higher education is skyrocketing, so it’s essential to understand how to get the most out of your experience without paying the most out of pocket. Scholarships and grants offer students money that does not have to be paid back, but getting them is a process. Student loans can help you to pay for college, but they can collect interest over time and must be paid back. Fully understanding the scholarship, grant, and loan process will help you make the right choices and will make paying for college easier.

]]> http://www.collegegrant.net/students-guide-to-college/feed/ 0 College Student Study Tips http://www.collegegrant.net/college-student-study-tips/ http://www.collegegrant.net/college-student-study-tips/#comments Fri, 27 Apr 2012 04:48:41 +0000 admin http://www.collegegrant.net/?p=864 A student’s success in college is dependent on a number of important factors that must be learned and put into use on a routine basis. Time management, good study habits, note taking, and the ability to properly prepare for and take tests are crucial to the learning process and are often the key for even the most successful of students. Time management and good study habits will help students to be more organized, reduce procrastination and increase productivity. Students with good studying habits are more focused and know how and when to study for the best results. To get the most out of studying a student must first understand how to take accurate notes during lectures or while conducting research. Even when the previous factors have been met, students must also know how to prepare for and take tests.

Knowing how to effectively perform research, hone one’s writing skills and prepare presentations are other skills that must also be mastered in order for students to obtain their desired degree. Each of these skills will make them a better student and improve the quality of their assignments. In addition, as important as these factors are while in college, some may even prove equally as important after graduation in terms of one’s professional career. Unfortunately, these skills do not always come naturally to every student and for them learning can be more difficult. For these students, studying skills can be learned with the right guidance and advice.

Time Management

  • Time Management for College Students: A PDF that gives college students tips to help avoid procrastination and develop good time management skills. Includes a section on getting organized and creating a plan. At the end of the PDF there is a procrastination quiz.
  • Time Management: A PDF from the Center for Teaching and Learning at Stanford University. The page gives students ten tips on developing good time management skills.
  • Time Management for Right Brained People: A two paged PDF that provides time management guidance for people who are predominately use their right brain.
  • Effective Time Management: A PDF from Duke University that explains the importance and advantages of good time management. It also provides students with directions on how to get started.
  • Time Management for College Students: Suggestions on how college students can properly manage their time.
  • Time Management for Students: An article on time management that recommends weekly task lists and calendars.

Note Taking

  • College Success Tip: Note Taking: Defines note taking and provides tips on note taking and methods.
  • Listen Actively and Take Great Notes: Discusses how to listen in class and take the best notes. Explains the Cornell method of note taking. Also discusses filling in notes immediately following the lecture.
  • Lecture Note Taking: Summarizes how to take notes and gives helpful tips. Also includes how to recognize signal words that can help with note taking.
  • Note Taking Skills: Provides tips on note taking skills that students can use. Begins with a yes or no quiz to help students evaluate their current note taking abilities.
  • Hints for Good Note Taking: Outlines ten basic steps to good note taking and tips on taking useful notes.
  • Note Taking Techniques: Includes general tips and tricks for note taking. Also explains what should be included when taking notes and why notes are necessary.

Study Habits

  • Developing Effective Study Habits: A PDF from the University of Maryland that discusses study preferences, when to study, how to study, and organizing to study. It also discusses joining a study group and using memorization tricks.
  • Developing Good Study Habits Really Works: A Psychology Today report on the benefits of good study habits. Gives some advice on how to develop these good habits.
  • Developing College Study Skills: A page from the Western Nevada College website. Reviews what is necessary to develop good study skills, such as successful behavior, thinking, listening and reading.
  • Developing Good Study Skills is More Than Hitting the Books: An article that discusses good study habits, when they are developed and the importance of developing. Mentions several useful study skills and habits that may be developed.
  • How to Concentrate on Studying: A one page PDF that lists seven steps for studying. The PDF is from the College of Coastal Georgia and is an assignment for tutors.
  • Assessing Your Study Habits: Clayton State University general guidelines for studying. This page also includes a link to online inventories on studying.

Writing Skills

  • Four Ways to Improve Your Writing Skills: A PDF from St. Joseph’s College that charts four ways that students can improve their writing. Each step includes clear examples.
  • Tips to Improve Your Writing Skills: The Art Institute of Pittsburgh provides useful tips on improving student writing skills. Four tips in bulleted format are given.
  • Writing Skills: A PDF that provides guidance regarding writing skills. It includes topics such as six ways to boost writing skills, writing tips, and five steps for essay writing.
  • Writing Tips: Five tips for improving writing in terms of academic writing.
  • Purdue Owl: An online resource that helps student and other writers work through grammar and punctuations tips and advice.

Research

Test-Taking

  • Test Taking Strategies: Consists of three sections that outline strategies for taking tests. Sections include before the test, during and after the test.
  • Survival Strategies for Taking Tests: Strategies are broken into two sections about test taking. The first section is a brief discussion about before the testing. The second section includes strategies for the actual test.
  • Test Taking Tips: Eight Spelman College test taking tips listed in numbered format.
  • Test Taking Strategies and Suggestions: Reviews several aspects of test taking, such reducing anxiety, visualization and six types of common errors that people make when taking their tests.
  • Math and Science Test Taking Tips: A checklist of tips that are meant specifically for taking tests that are math and science related.
  • Managing Test Anxiety: Tips for students on how they can manage anxiety over testing. Includes effective study habits, memorizing content and other test taking strategies.

Presentation Tips

]]> http://www.collegegrant.net/college-student-study-tips/feed/ 0 What’s So Great About Grants and Scholarships? http://www.collegegrant.net/whats-so-great-about-grants-and-scholarships/ http://www.collegegrant.net/whats-so-great-about-grants-and-scholarships/#comments Mon, 09 Apr 2012 04:45:50 +0000 admin http://www.collegegrant.net/?p=861 Many students don’t think about financially planning for their education before they graduate from high school. Unless they’ve been managing their own money and working, students don’t know how much it costs to live—much less, the cost of a college education. This doesn’t include the cost of owning and operating a car, filling it with gas at current prices or paying to have it maintained. In today’s current market, a college education can cost as much as it does to purchase a home. When it comes to planning a college education, consider searching for grant and scholarship opportunities to help defray these costs.

The National Center for Education Statistics reports that, as of the 2009-2010 school year, a four-year undergraduate education will average $128,736 if you attend a private college and $51,216 if you attend a public college. While some colleges may offer lower tuition rates, don’t forget to include the cost of rent, food, clothing, books, and more. That’s a lot of money to spend on an education, and doesn’t include the extra money needed if you plan to obtain a graduate degree.

Most students end up having to get a student loan to afford a college education, but they don’t think about the long term effects of such a loan. Student loan rates vary as well. Some start out at 3.4 percent, but most average 6.8 percent, and some are as high as 7.9 percent. Most student loans take a minimum of 10 years to repay. With the current economy, many college students are finding themselves with a hefty loan payment and a lack of good job openings. For a student who has borrowed $50,000 in student loans (with a 6.8 percent interest rate), an estimated minimum yearly salary of over $70,000 would be required to sufficiently pay off the debt. Most four-year college graduates cannot expect to make that kind of money from their first job.

To bring down the cost of your education, research all grant and scholarship opportunities out there. Grants and scholarships don’t have to be repaid, but many of them do have specific eligibility requirements that have to be met. For instance, the Pell Grant requires students to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid and meet specific income requirements. The U.S. Department of Education makes a decision on student financial aid based on a formula that includes your income and assets if you are independent from your parents, or includes the income and assets of your parents if you are dependent upon your parents for financial help. You must meet their filing deadlines and include income tax returns, and more, to qualify.

Many corporations, private charitable foundations, and associations often offer scholarships or grants to students of members or employees. Many organizations geared toward specific disciplines also offer grants or scholarships to qualifying students. Scholarships and grants can help ease the burden of the hefty cost of a college education. Colleges usually have a financial aid department that can also direct the student toward grants and scholarships, as well as provide help in calculating financial needs to complete a college education. States may also provide student aid information.

Some students also work while attending college to help defray these costs. But that can be a heavy load to bear, especially when you have to pay for rent, food, transportation, clothing, and more. While many high school graduates can’t wait to “get out on their own,” consider living at home while going to school to help ease the burden of room, board, and living expenses. Other options include attending a junior college for the general education core requirements; as long as you have verified that coursework will transfer over to a public or private college of your choice for the remaining two years.

Living in a dormitory on campus and eating at the college cafeteria may not sound all that glamorous, but if you are set on getting a college education, this is another way that you can help save on room and board costs. Many colleges also offer on-campus employment to help defray expenses for those students that qualify. Nowadays, to get a college education, you need to engage some creative thinking, keep all your options open and consider all the different opportunities available to help pay for that education.

]]> http://www.collegegrant.net/whats-so-great-about-grants-and-scholarships/feed/ 0 College Grant Resource Guide http://www.collegegrant.net/resource-guide/ http://www.collegegrant.net/resource-guide/#comments Tue, 28 Feb 2012 19:14:53 +0000 admin http://www.collegegrant.net/?p=831 Grants and scholarships, financial aid awards for outstanding and underprivileged students, usually have one party disburse a specific amount of money to a particular cause.

Grant makers are often government entities, corporations, foundation or trusts, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, private businesses, or well-established individuals. Grant recipients participate in a long and arduous application process that may or may not lead to a successful submission. The majority of grant recipients may have financial assistance granted to them, because of poverty conditions or uncontrolled natural phenomena.

On the other hand, scholarships award students to further education based on criteria reflecting the values and sight of the donor. Generally, scholarship applicants have excelled in their academic studies, which prompted the donor to select the prospective student for tuition assistance. However, some foundation and trusts will offer scholarships to underprivileged students based on ethnic and racial backgrounds, income status, and parenthood status. The following links will direct prospective students to discover unlimited opportunities to further one’s education with the helping hand of any willing participant.

Grants.gov:

The United States Department of Health Services manages this federal website with an effort to promote federal grants for all individual seeking financial support.

ED.gov:

The United States Department of Education provides an all-inclusive searchable database with available options for students seeking financial aid.

FAFSA.gov:

Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) ensures that eligible individuals can receive financial assistance for further education after high school.

NASA GSFC:

NASA offers both educational and research grants for those pursuing financing in the interest of the space program.

United Negro Collect Fund (UNCF):

The UNCF program manages an array of scholarship programs geared towards African American prospective students.

KODAK Scholarship Program:

The Kodak Scholarship program offers competitive awards of students demonstrating proficient film making production skills and creativity along with other academic successes.

Microsoft University Scholarship Program:

Microsoft offers different types of technical scholarships to undergraduates, including gender scholarships, minority scholarships, and disabled students scholarships.

McDonald’s Training and Education:

McDonald’s offers financial assistance for employees seeking a higher education, including scholarships into Hamburger University, a corporate management training center for advanced positions at the headquarters.

National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE):

The NSBE offers corporate-sponsored scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students majoring in engineering.

Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation:

The Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation aims to discover college sophomores who excel in leadership with vast potential for careers in government.

Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation:

The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation provides scholarships and other financial assistance for families of those enrolled into the United States Marine Corps.

The Oxford and Rhodes Scholarships Trust:

The Rhodes Scholarship Trust selectively awards 32 talented students out of thousands of applicants from over 300 American colleges and universities for their outstanding academic achievements.

American Chemical Society:

The American Chemical Society directs future chemists to federal and private grants to further their secondary education.

The American Institute of Architects (AIA):

The AIA directs future architects to federal and private scholarships to assist in furthering their secondary education.

American Philosophical Society (APS):

The APS has assisted thousands of students in the past with their college tuition and other expenses.

Grants, Fellowships, and Other Funding Opportunities:

The American Political Science Association (APSA) sponsors multiple financial aid programs to support and train prospective students in political science.

Fulbright Scholarship Programs:

The Fulbright program offers thousands of scholarships to students seeking a secondary education abroad.

Outside Scholarships:

Yale University offers advice on applying for outside scholarships, especially for foreign students and underprivileged applicants.

Committee on General Scholarships of Harvard University:

General information for aspiring students seeking to join one of the most prestigious universities in the world.

Find Police and Law Enforcement Grants:

A state-by-state searchable database consisting of federal and private grants for those seeking a career in law enforcement.

The United States Department of Justice: Grants:

The USDOJ offers financial assistance opportunities for those looking to enroll into college, or research and support law enforcement agencies in their personal journey into the criminal justice system.

The National Criminal Justice Reference Service:

A subsidiary of the United States Department of Justice that provides federal funding options for an education in the criminal justice system.

Grants: How Many Different Types Exist?:

This article provides information on the various types of grants that exist, including the federal Pell grant, federal supplemental educational opportunity grant, and other funding options specific to Massachusetts.

]]> http://www.collegegrant.net/resource-guide/feed/ 0 Making Sense of College Grants, Loans, and Scholarships http://www.collegegrant.net/grants-loans-and-scholarships/ http://www.collegegrant.net/grants-loans-and-scholarships/#comments Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:02:11 +0000 admin http://www.collegegrant.net/?p=825 The cost of attending college increases each year, with some private institutions charging as much as $40,000 to $50,000 for one year of education. Student savings are often not enough to cover these high costs, so there are several sources of financial aid available to qualified applicants. These sources of funding include grants, loans, and scholarships. Each type of aid has different eligibility requirements, so it is important to read all application materials thoroughly and follow the instructions to the letter. Qualifying for financial aid can make the process of paying for college a little less stressful for both students and parents.

What is a College Grant?

Grants are a type of college financial aid that does not have to be repaid by the borrower. The U.S. Department of Education offers several grants to students who are enrolled in community colleges, four-year colleges and universities, and technical schools. The Federal Pell Grant is available to undergraduate students who do not have previous professional degrees or bachelor’s degrees. As of 2012, the maximum Pell award is $5,550. This does not mean that every student will receive the maximum award, however. The Pell grant is awarded based on financial need and education costs.

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is for students who have substantial financial need. The amount given each year is anywhere from $100 to $4,000. The award amount depends on financial need and the availability of other funding sources. The federal government also offers special grants to children of veterans who died in Iraq or Afghanistan after September 11, 2011. The maximum award for this grant is $5,500. The Teacher Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) grant is available to students taking courses necessary for teaching at the elementary or secondary levels. Recipients must enroll in schools that participate in this grant program. Students interested in these grants must complete the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). The Department of Education will then determine an expected family contribution (EFC), which will help college financial aid officers develop a financial aid package to help meet the student’s financial needs.

Some colleges and universities award grants to students who cannot cover their educational expenses with their loans, income, and savings. Each school has different criteria for awarding student grants. Some are awarded solely on the basis of financial need. Other grants reward students who participate in a specific activity or maintain a certain GPA. The best way to find out about available grants is to contact the financial aid office. Financial aid officers can provide information about all available grants and the eligibility criteria for each one.

Students should apply for grants as early as possible, as some schools award grants on a first come, first served basis. The deadline to file the federal FAFSA form is typically June 30. Each state has its own specific deadlines. Pennsylvania has a deadline of August 1, but North Carolina recommends that students apply as soon as possible following the first of the year. Some states stop giving awards once funds have been depleted. Colleges also have specific deadlines for filing financial aid forms. Check with a college financial aid officer to find out the cutoff date for grants.

What is a Student Loan?

A student loan is money used to pay for educational expenses. The difference between a student loan and a student grant is that, like a car loan or home loan, a student loan must be paid back. There are several types of loan programs available for students attending community colleges, private colleges, state colleges, and trade schools. One of the most popular is the federal Stafford loan program. Subsidized Stafford loans are given on the basis of financial need. Students must be enrolled at least half time in order to receive this loan. The interest on this type of loan is deferred until repayment begins after graduation.

The unsubsidized Stafford loan is not given on the basis of financial need. Unlike the subsidized Stafford, the interest accrues immediately after the funds are disbursed to the student. Students must be enrolled in at least six credits in order to qualify for this type of loan. A completed FAFSA is required for both types of Stafford loans. The maximum amount of a Stafford loan depends on three factors: school year, whether the student is considered dependent or independent, and whether the student is an undergraduate or graduate student.

Dependent first-year students receive a maximum of $5,500. Independent first-year students receive a maximum of $9,500. For both types of students, only $3,500 of the loan funds can be subsidized. Second-year dependent students receive a maximum of $6,500, while second-year independent students receive a maximum of $10,500. Only $4,500 of this money can be subsidized. Students in their third, fourth, or fifth years of undergraduate school receive a maximum of $7,500 if they are dependent students, and $12,500 if they are independent students. The maximum amount subsidized is $5,500. All graduate students qualify for a total maximum of $20,500 and a subsidized maximum of $8,500.

The Perkins loan is a type of loan given to students who demonstrate financial need. This type of loan has the best terms available, as it comes with a low interest rate, and students do not have to repay their loans until nine months after leaving school. This type of loan does not require a credit check, so it is a good alternative to private loans that require good credit. To receive any federal loan, the student must not be in default on any other educational loan. The student must also meet all other eligibility requirements for receiving federal aid. The maximum award amount for this loan is $4,000 for undergraduate students, and $6,000 for graduate students.

Those who do not qualify for federal student loans should consider applying for private loans, which are also called alternative loans. These loans help students pay the costs that other types of financial aid do not cover. Students must have good credit to get a private loan. Since some high school students do not have credit histories, their parents may have to sign as co-borrowers. Select a co-borrower with a good credit score, as good credit helps borrowers get the best loan terms possible. Sources of private loans include credit unions and banks.

There are some pros and cons to taking student loans. One of the pros is that they help cover tuition, room and board, books, and other college expenses. Savings and income from a part-time job may not be enough to cover these expenses. The major con of taking out student loans is that they must be repaid. Repaying these loans may be difficult, especially if a student is unable to find employment after graduation. Federal loans typically have more attractive loan terms than private loans, so students should apply for this type of loan before applying for a loan with higher interest and fees.

  • Stafford Loans: This resource lists the types of Stafford loans and explains the maximum award for each type of student.
  • Federal Perkins Loan: This page explains the eligibility requirements for the federal Perkins loan.
  • Private Loans: This resource explains why a student may need a co-borrower to qualify for a private loan.
  • Pros and Cons of Co-signing for a Student Loan (PDF): This article discusses the use of private loans to cover the cost of a college education.
  • Federal Student Loan Portal: This site allows students to view loan documents, sign loan promissory notes, and complete loan entrance counseling requirements.
  • Entrance and Exit Counseling: This site allows students to fulfill the federal student loan entrance counseling and exit counseling requirements. The activities on this page explain the importance of repaying student loans.

What is a College Scholarship?

A college scholarship is an award given, based on a specific set of criteria. This is free money that does not have to be repaid, so it is ideal for students of all income levels. Schools, nonprofit organizations, community organizations, and businesses offer scholarships to students who meet specific eligibility criteria. A business might offer a scholarship to the student of an employee. Nonprofit organizations may offer scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need. Many scholarships require students to maintain specific grade point averages or enroll in specific academic programs. The requirements for each scholarship are different, so always read the application materials thoroughly.

The application requirements vary, based on each scholarship. Some only require students to complete a basic application. Others require students to write essays and gather letters of recommendation. Follow the application instructions carefully to avoid being disqualified. Some scholarships cover any education-related costs, so students can use them for tuition, fees, room and board, books, and class materials. Some scholarships only cover tuition. In some cases, the organization gives the scholarship directly to the student in the form of a check. The student is free to do what he or she wishes with the money. Applying as early as possible is important, as each organization has a limited amount of funds.

The major benefit of getting scholarships is that they do not have to be repaid. A $10,000 scholarship is a more attractive form of aid than a $10,000 loan with a 5 percent interest rate. Since the eligibility requirements vary for each scholarship, students who do not qualify for federal grants and loans may be able to gather funding by winning several scholarships. The biggest drawback of scholarships is that most programs are very selective and there is a lot of competition. It is difficult to stand out among 1,000 applicants, so students must put a lot of effort into fulfilling the application requirements.

]]> http://www.collegegrant.net/grants-loans-and-scholarships/feed/ 0 Student Debt Consolidation Resource http://www.collegegrant.net/student-debt-consolidation-resource/ http://www.collegegrant.net/student-debt-consolidation-resource/#comments Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:59:28 +0000 admin http://www.collegegrant.net/?p=823 For many college graduates, student debt is an unfortunate byproduct of receiving an education. To pay for an education it is often necessary to take out loans from several lenders. As a result, a person is often paying two or more loans following graduation. This can complicate repayment and make it difficult for borrowers to manage their debt. Student debt consolidation involves combining private or certain eligible Federal loans into one manageable payment.

What is Consolidation?

In general, debt consolidation involves taking out a single loan to pay for two or more loans. The borrower then has a single payment versus several payments. When it comes to certain federal student loans, there is the federal consolidation loan program. This allows borrowers to combine several federal student loans into a single loan at a fixed interest rate. These loan consolidation programs may fall under the Federal Direct Student Loan Program (FDLP) or the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP).

Why It’s Necessary

Reducing and eventually eliminating debt is a crucial part of being financially fit. Excessive debt topped with high interest rates can overwhelm a person’s ability to pay back loans. As a result, there is an increased risk of missing or making late payments. This has a negative impact on an individual’s credit score. Low credit scores can result in a number of difficulties when it comes to buying a home or a car, or even obtaining employment. While debt consolidation isn’t the only option for reducing student debt, its potential benefits make it worth consideration.

Pros and Cons of Consolidation

The obvious benefit of consolidating student debt is the consistency of paying a single bill. Another benefit of debt consolidation is that it will often result in a lower interest rate than the original loans. When it comes to Federal consolidated loans, interest rates are fixed. When consolidated, the repayment terms of the loan can be extended up to 30 years with lower monthly payments. Although interest rates are fixed for the term of the loan, the extended repayment terms result in higher interest paid over the life of the loan.

Federal Consolidation Eligibility

Only certain loans are eligible for Federal Consolidation loans. These include Subsidized and Unsubsidized Federal Stafford and Federal Direct Stafford Loans, as well as Federal Plus, Federal Direct Plus Loans and Federal Perkins Loans. Private loans are not eligible for Federal consolidation loan programs. People who wish to consolidate these types of loans will need to obtain a loan from a private lender. While some may be unsecured, it is often the case that consolidated loans must be secured against an asset, which may be done by putting a mortgage on a house for example.

]]> http://www.collegegrant.net/student-debt-consolidation-resource/feed/ 0 An Online College Guide to the Ivy League http://www.collegegrant.net/online-college-guide-to-the-ivy-league/ http://www.collegegrant.net/online-college-guide-to-the-ivy-league/#comments Fri, 27 Jan 2012 09:55:03 +0000 admin http://www.collegegrant.net/?p=819 Many high school students aspire to enter an Ivy League college; however, very few are fortunate to pass the rigorous testing and application process to do so. Due to the large number of student applications each of the eight Ivy League schools receives, administrators not only look for test scores, but also applications that stand out above the rest. Remember that a successful academic career in the Ivy League starts with getting the application correct. For instance, all students should remember to highlight actual experiences, as opposed to status accomplishments and titles. Taking the time to understand the mission and requirements of each school will improve a student’s chances of making it through the selection process.

Brown University

As one of the oldest colleges still standing in the United States, Brown University is well known for its active campus culture. When combined, the available graduate and undergraduate programs total well over one hundred concentrations. The diverse offering that Brown University offers attracts scholars from all over the world to the college every year. The location of the college is one of its most notable characteristics; many students enjoy studying on campus grounds because of the beautiful historic setting.

Columbia University

Famous for its School of Engineering and Applied Science, Columbia University offers students much more than just math courses. In fact, there is a range of different studies that students can pursue, including medicine, law and even liberal arts. Columbia has provided undergraduate students with the opportunity to further their education at one of United States oldest and most prestigious colleges since 1754; the campus even survived the American Revolution! Many people visit Columbia because it is home to one of the most famous medical research centers in Manhattan.

Cornell University

Established in 1865, Cornell University has come a long way since the campus first opened over 100 years ago; there are now several thousand different classes available. Students come to Cornell University to study in one of the 14 different colleges located on campus, ranging from life sciences to computer courses. Life on campus presents many opportunities, including personal support, academic enrichment, and athletic pursuits. The college’s comprehensive set of student services sets Cornell apart from the rest of the Ivy League family.

Dartmouth College

Although Dartmouth College offers a broad range of higher learning studies, from engineering to medicine, the school is most famous for its extensive arts courses. In addition to its academic concentrations, Dartmouth also boasts one of the most extensive libraries of all the Ivy League schools. In fact, students have access to over 6 million different resources, from historical texts and maps to very specialized documents. Like all the Ivy League campuses, Dartmouth hosts a variety of athletic facilities. 

Harvard University

One of the most widely recognized Ivy League Colleges, Harvard University is a school known for advanced studies, beautiful landscaping, and diverse research programs. The most popular on-campus educational exhibit is the Harvard Museum of Natural History, which is world renowned for its collections and displays. During admission, Harvard seeks out students who show motivation, discipline and self-drive. Once enrolled, administrators expect students to adhere strictly to the campus rules.

  • Harvard University – Become familiar with Harvard University’s rich cultural background and history.
  • OSNAP – Check out the current nutrition and physical activity study Harvard University is conducting.
  • Harvard University Buildings – Read about the historical buildings located on the Harvard University campus.

Princeton University

Students interested in pursuing a sports program throughout school typically look to Princeton University first when choosing an Ivy League College. Among the top 10 schools for athletics in the United States, the campus has programs for both men and women. In addition to their successful sports division, Princeton is also a private research facility, where students can pursue science, engineering and many other academic disciplines. It is home to six prestigious undergraduate colleges, including Forbes College.

University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania, also known as Penn State, is one of the most difficult of the Ivy League schools to get accepted into. Dating back to Benjamin Franklin, the college is home to some of the most accomplished graduate students in the United States. Many alumni of Penn State continue on to lead highly esteemed research and medical discoveries. The college’s athletic programs range from basketball and tennis, to lacrosse.

Yale University

Home of the Holocaust Archives, Yale University is a hub for not only prestigious academic and athletic pursuits, but also a center for extensive research on cultures around the world. While law is the most commonly referenced course of study at Yale, the college also helps students achieve higher degrees in many different subjects, including art and science. In addition to the many undergraduate studies offered, students can also enroll in a variety of accredited graduate programs, as well. In fact, Yale is most noted for not only being among the oldest U.S. colleges, but also the first to award a Doctoral degree, too. 

]]> http://www.collegegrant.net/online-college-guide-to-the-ivy-league/feed/ 0 Staying Safe in College: The Dos and Don’ts http://www.collegegrant.net/staying-safe-in-college-the-dos-and-don%e2%80%99ts/ http://www.collegegrant.net/staying-safe-in-college-the-dos-and-don%e2%80%99ts/#comments Sat, 19 Jun 2010 19:45:07 +0000 admin http://www.collegegrant.net/staying-safe-in-college-the-dos-and-don%e2%80%99ts/ College can be a dangerous place. The news is rife with stories of students who overdose at parties, go missing on spring break (or even while out jogging), or succumb to the effects of rohypnol (roofies). It’s no wonder your parents send you off with a mixture of pride, sadness, and total anxiety. However, the student who is both wary and prepared need not fear the perils of life in the big, bad world away from home. Just follow these few simple dos and don’ts to make your stay in college safe and fun.

DO – use the buddy system. You probably haven’t done this since you learned to cross the street at age five, but as you may or may not know, it is much easier to attack an individual than a couple or a group.

DON’T – go to parties alone or go jogging by yourself in remote places, and definitely don’t wander off with strangers. If you find yourself alone on the wrong end of the quad at night, call campus security for an escort.

DO – BYOB. If you feel the need to partake of alcohol during your time in college, bring your own to ensure that what you think you’re drinking is really all you’re ingesting.

DON’T – Take an open container from someone you don’t know. This is how many girls fall victim to the notorious date-rape drug every year. If you leave your drink and come back to it, just toss it and get another. Better to waste a beer than end up unconscious.

DO – bring a designated driver. Give them your keys and ask them to cut you off when you’ve had too much to drink. Trade off amongst your group of friends so that everyone has a chance to have a good time with someone responsible looking out for them. Make sure everyone knows CPR and the location of the nearest emergency room.

DON’T – be a jerk to the DD. If you’re a belligerent drunk, you may find that no one will have your back in the future.

DO – invest in some pepper spray or mace. Tasers may look like fun, but they’re not foolproof, and the minute you stop using them, an attacker can get up and chase you. Spray them in the face and they won’t be able to see you…or breathe very well. It should stop them long enough to give you a chance to get away.

DON’T – forget it in your dorm. Keep it clipped to your key chain or cell phone so that you have it if you need it. And make sure you know how to use it so that you don’t hesitate when the time comes.

DO – enter an “ICE” (In Case of Emergency) number in your phone. If you have an accident, emergency services will look for this number to notify someone of your whereabouts.

DON’T – make it someone unreliable. You may not want your parents to find out about whatever delinquent behavior got you into your current mess, but they have your medical history, insurance information, and your best interest at heart, so you probably want them at the hospital to speak for you if you can’t speak for yourself.

]]> http://www.collegegrant.net/staying-safe-in-college-the-dos-and-don%e2%80%99ts/feed/ 0 Getting into Your School of Choice (When You Just Don’t Have the Grades…or the Money) http://www.collegegrant.net/getting-into-your-school-of-choice-when-you-just-don%e2%80%99t-have-the-grades%e2%80%a6or-the-money/ http://www.collegegrant.net/getting-into-your-school-of-choice-when-you-just-don%e2%80%99t-have-the-grades%e2%80%a6or-the-money/#comments Tue, 08 Jun 2010 19:44:34 +0000 admin http://www.collegegrant.net/getting-into-your-school-of-choice-when-you-just-don%e2%80%99t-have-the-grades%e2%80%a6or-the-money/ It’s getting harder and harder to get accepted into an institution of higher learning. Budget cuts have jacked up tuition prices (not to mention fees), scholarships are scarce, and lenders are making students jump through hoops to get loans. And as costs soar and programs are cut, colleges are accepting fewer students every year, making it even more difficult for kids with just average grades or low SAT scores to make the cut. So what can you do if you’re ready to go to college but find yourself out in the cold due to poor grades or lack of funding?

Your best bet is community college. Many people feel that there is a certain stigma attached to attending one of these schools. You may worry about what your peers will think, but more and more students are looking into this option in order to combat rising costs (effectively reducing the stigma attached to attending a 2-year program). Or you might assume that it’s simply a waste of time, but the truth is, community colleges offer an equal education at far less cost. Not only is the tuition a fraction of what you would pay at state schools, they also offer all of the GE courses you would take in your first two years anyway (with the option of attaining an Associate’s Degree or other certifications). In addition, they can advise you as to which courses will transfer to state schools, universities, etc. You can even get a leg up on the competition by taking classes that will apply to your major, possibly saving you even more time and money when you get to your four-year university. The best part is, if you have not taken the SATs, or you simply don’t excel at standardized testing, you need not include the information when you apply to finish the last two years of your undergrad degree.

In fact, it is likely that only the grades you earn in community college will be considered. This means you have an extra two years to turn your bad grades good. And if you take advantage of campus resources like the learning center and subject-specific tutors, you are bound to improve on your high school grades. In addition, you can increase your odds of snagging a spot (and even a scholarship) by engaging in community service activities that you may not have had time for previously. And you have two extra years to search for grants and outside scholarships that can help you pay for a more expensive school once you get there. In short, community college can solve many problems that students are facing today, whether academic or financial (or both).

If you decide that college is really not for you after all, or you simply can’t face four more years of school, you may also want to consider vocational instruction or another short-term certification program to increase your job prospects. If, however, you are set on attending college but didn’t quite make the short list, look into the many advantages offered by spending your first two years at a local community college. You will definitely spend less money, and you’re giving yourself a second chance to attend the school of your choice.

]]> http://www.collegegrant.net/getting-into-your-school-of-choice-when-you-just-don%e2%80%99t-have-the-grades%e2%80%a6or-the-money/feed/ 0 Going Greek: The Pros and Cons of Pledging http://www.collegegrant.net/going-greek-the-pros-and-cons-of-pledging/ http://www.collegegrant.net/going-greek-the-pros-and-cons-of-pledging/#comments Sun, 30 May 2010 19:24:31 +0000 admin http://www.collegegrant.net/going-greek-the-pros-and-cons-of-pledging/ You’ve seen the movies that show shapely sorority sisters conducting pillow fights in their underwear, or drunken frat boys pulling pranks on rival houses. You’ve heard your parents talk about the glory days of college, when their brothers and sisters in the Greek system became their new families. You’re well aware of hazing (the laws that govern its limits and the students who break them anyway) and you know you’ll have to dress like a preppy, learn your house song, and take vows of some sort. What you may not know is what pledging a sorority or fraternity really entails and what you stand to get out of it.

Going Greek can be a lot of fun, but it’s also a huge commitment. During pledge week, you will visit several houses and then you will receive bids (meaning the house has accepted you), at which point you must choose one, usually committing to one year at the house before you can pledge a different fraternity or sorority (although you are free to leave at any time). Once you have committed, you will go through a “hell week” that generally includes some sort of good natured “hazing” (for lack of a better term) usually consisting of wearing silly outfits, participating in pranks, and becoming familiar with your house and your new brothers or sisters. At the end of the week, you’re in. You move into the house and commence to partake in a range of social activities designed to introduce you to others (mixers, BBQs, and so on) and benefit the larger community (charitable work, fundraisers, etc.). The best thing about pledging and joining the Greek system is that you will have an instant group of companions, several mentors, and a lifelong network for the future.

The drawbacks, however, can be equally compelling. There is a time commitment involved, as you will be expected to participate in events and contribute both in the house (chores) and during community service, fundraisers, or outreach, for which Greek houses are well known (and often pursue competitively). In addition, most houses have a mandatory residence requirement for new members, so if you don’t get along with your housemates, you may have to shut up and live with it or quit altogether. You may also face a certain amount of social expectations from a group that is known for partying and physical appearance. This can put a lot of pressure on a new student who is also trying to contend with focusing on their studies and even holding down a job.

In the long run, if you’re interested in pledging, you can benefit from doing a little homework. Certain organizations are going to offer what you want, while others will fall short, so find out which houses embody the moral values, academic sensibilities, and charitable goals you desire. Then consider, as you visit, which houses seem the most comfortable and which occupants make you feel the most welcome. You’ll find that by using your heart and your mind, you can enter a situation that offers both social rewards and intellectual and emotional fulfillment. Some houses will help you while others will only be a hindrance. So take your time and choose the one that is right for you. After all, you’re the one who has to live with the decision.

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