The College Search
A Student's Perspective
Darien Maples, a student at Prairie View A&M University, has worked hard to come to a college that helped her grow. Her mother and father, both having a college background, encouraged her to set the same educational path for a better future, even though while in High School the rumors of how expensive and intimidating college can be, can frighten and discourage a future college student.
"The only way to find out is to take risks and know that it's for your future. I wanted to go to a school that would help me grow and be an adult, so I didn't want to be too close to home in order not to rely on my parents. Coming to college made me grow up fast. Mommy and daddy were not around so I was forced to take care of myself which is the best feeling showing sign of growth," she says.
Like most high school students, Darien's goals gave her the ability to focus on what's next in life, preferably college is the next best thing. To get into college, start by challenging yourself in high school so that you will be ready for college courses. Of course grades are important, but the harder classes you take the more likely you will impress your college of interest. Darien took the time in effort to know what school she wanted to attend.
To really know, create a list of colleges and universities that interest you, discuss with your school counselor, and start visiting campuses. Colleges expect you to take certain classes in high school. Find out which classes and sign up for them.
"I visited many schools in Texas, and even out of state, but being in state is so much cheaper. My parents, living in Dallas, would already kick out the schools near them. So, I visited schools in Houston which were only 4 hours away from my family which was a perfect distance for me," she says.
College is all about planning, so research, because colleges are looking at what you're about. Your whole personality is in a file so make sure to stay active in clubs, activities, sports, and anything else that will look good to increase your chance of getting accepted.
"My senior year was tough because I was still debating on what school I really wanted to attend. I was also worried about ACT and SAT scores, but I was confident and extremely excited to know that I was working hard," she says.
Yes, every High School student's nightmare, the standardized tests. Some schools require different tests, so you need to make sure which one qualifies for your selection of schools. The four main tests you may want to apply for are: ACT, PSAT, SAT, and PLAN. Research these tests and find out which one is suitable for the colleges you like.
Colleges are all about planning, so start a career plan and create a career goal for whatever is suitable for you. Filling out college applications can be very time consuming and also stressful. You must make sure you do not oversight your applying process. Some great tips to direct you in this procedure are: know the guidelines, plan accordingly, learn about the school, work with the high school to send all your materials, get positive references, write a marvelous essay, and be prepared to interview and submit your documents.
Get your hands on cash fast and start saving. Don't be discouraged about the high funds of school, there are many ways to receive money for school. Apply for financial aid. Your great academic achievements and other talents might award you. Scholarships, grants, student loans, and parent loans are different types of financial aid, so find out which one best fits the criteria.
"I didn't know school would be so expensive, I really wish I would have saved up more money in high school. It's not just school you're paying for, it's so much more. So now I'm working while I'm school and it helps me pay for other things that I need to survive the college life," she says.
By following her dreams and conquering challenges while at a college or university, really helped her understand the true aspects of life. She is an Honor Student and was recently inducted in Lambda Pi Eta, the National Communications Honor Society, and is currently the Vice President. Darien has served her fellow students with remarkable ideas in her organization and continues to help others.
Find the right college for you, and choose to attend a college or university that reflects your goals. Whether you choose a public, private, community, or even online school, you are still planning for your future career. Figure out what you like to do and what you're about the best way possible. Research what majors, even minors, you like to study in to help reach your target.
"I believe no matter what school you attend, you're still getting an education and increasing your knowledge for the business world. How the world is today, I suggest to attend some educational institution after high school. Jobs out there are getting harder each day to apply for and so much competition is at hand," she says.
Push yourself on your final journeys of high school and go to the next step, whether that be college, or any other school that will help your ambitions to be the best you can be.
Editorial provided by Darien Maples, Student at Prairie View A&M University.
