So, you’re about to embark on your biggest adventure yet. It’s time to leave home for the first time, move to a new city (or perhaps state), make new friends, and find your own path in life. You’re excited but apprehensive about what this next chapter holds. You may even feel that there are reasons why this isn’t a good idea, going away to college that is. Those feelings are totally normal, and you want to be as prepared as possible so there are no nasty surprises along the way. Here we’re going to uncover some secrets from past students on things that people don’t normally talk about when it comes to going to college.
Tuition and Fees Are More Expensive Than You Think
When you are looking into colleges, one of the most important things to consider is the cost. This includes both tuition and other associated fees. It’s important to be prepared and have a plan as expenses can quickly add up and you won’t have your parents to fall back on. There are a variety of ways to cover your expenses and it’s worth looking into all your options. There are scholarships for college students available – some are based on academic achievement while others are given out based on other criteria that may include financial need. You could also take out a student loan or get a grant. Another option is to work while you’re in school, either through a work-study program or by finding a part-time job.
Living Expenses Add Up
In addition to tuition, you will also need to budget for living expenses. This can include room and board, transportation, and food. Room and board can be a significant expense, especially if you live on campus. If you live off campus, your costs may be lower, but you will still need to budget for transportation and food. Transportation can also be a significant expense, regardless of where you live. The average cost of transportation is $1,641 per year; this includes both commuting costs and costs associated with traveling away from home.
Food is Another Major Expense
Not only do students have to pay for their meals, but they also have to buy food for their dorms. This can add up to a lot of money each month. There are a few ways that students can save money on food. One is to cook meals at home instead of eating out. Another is to buy groceries in bulk. Finally, students can take advantage of campus dining discounts. Even with these tips, food can be a major expense for students so it’s important to find ways to cut back on spending wherever possible.
Your Course Load Can Be Overwhelming
When you are choosing a college, one of the most important factors to consider is the course load. Each college has different credit requirements, so it’s important to know how many classes you will need to take each semester in order to graduate on time. Another thing to keep in mind is that most colleges have a limit on the number of credits you can take per semester. So, if you’re thinking about taking more than 18 credits per semester, make sure you check with the college first. Finally, remember that taking too many classes can be stressful and lead to lower grades. So don’t overload yourself and be sure to balance your course load with other activities, like work or extracurriculars.
