subject: How To Prepare For A College Education [print this page] College education is a daunting proposition for parents as the children approach the college freshmen age. Tuition fee, allowance, books, clothes/uniforms and other sundry expenditures are enough to give parents permanent ulcers. These headaches can be prevented, however, by planning ahead of time and using all the resources available in the 21st century. Long range preparation is the preferable option but there are others, though.
College plans. An educational plan is a very good form of investment and savings that will ensure the children can go to college when the time comes. The parents or guardian paying for the plan should, however, choose an established company and thoroughly research its financial status and stability. It is also advisable to buy a plan as early as possible for minimal premium payments.
Scholarships. Scholarships are available for all sorts of courses and schools from foundations, people, religious or cultural affiliations and organizations, even scholarships for students already in college. Preparation is necessary and although it is a tedious process but very rewarding if your child can go to college without you selling the family heirlooms or a piece of real estate. Here are some pointers for sourcing out scholarships:
Help the child decide on the course he is going to take and the best school for it. List all alternative courses and schools as second choices. Do this a year before high school graduation.Surf the college's website for scholarship requirements. Encourage the child to excel in school as excellent grades will enhance scholarship chances. Secure all necessary documents such as birth certificates and Income Tax Returns to be readily available. It is so frustrating to be rejected just because a document was not submitted on time. Consider manufacturing firms (Texas Instruments or Silicone Valley for Electronics courses and the like) that provide scholarships since most of the time they also hire their scholars after graduation. Your own employers may be giving scholarships as part of their succession planning and development.
Part time jobs and Working Student programs. Part time jobs mean less time for study or less units, but working students either in or out of the school itself get more consideration from teachers and the administration. Deadlines and exams could be extended or reset when the part time working student requests so. The student will also be able to appreciate the value of work and to make every minute count and every penny pay. In most cases, the employer considers hiring the part timer when he or she graduates as there is less downtime for new employee training. Part time jobs related to the student's course such as a law firm researcher job for a Political Science student who may eventually opt to be a lawyer may also be advisable.
College student loans. Very popular. But first determine if your child is eligible and understand the stipulations of the contract. College Education may indeed be a costly business but never a losing one. It really helps to be prepared.
