Community College: The Best of Both Worlds

by Casey Chin, The Tutoring Club

When I reflect back on my college days, I think about football and basketball games, sorority events, the countless hours spent hanging out in dining halls, and the joy I felt from being independent for the first time in my life.  As much I loved my time in college, I am aware that a large 4-year university is not suitable for everyone. College education is expensive, and if a student is not socially or academically ready, the downfall could result in thousands of wasted dollars.  I also firmly believe that education and training beyond high school is imperative!  What are the options for those students who perhaps can’t afford a large University or struggled a bit in high school?  I did some research and came across several great options for Florida students!  These options allow for significant cost savings while offering the same experiences of large university living – it’s the best of both worlds! read the full article 

College Planning  101 
by Casey Chin, Admissions Expert at the Tutoring Club & Your Scholarship Search

With today’s fast-paced world and ever-changing processes, the days of waiting to plan for college until the senior year is over!  College planning should begin during the start of your freshman year and should include close consultation with your child’s guidance counselor.  
    
Freshmen 
Become aware of your spare time and the rigor of courses that you select.  Community service and student organization participation should begin as early as your freshman year.  Become active in your school community.  Make it fun and enjoyable and drag your friends along!  Also, meet with your guidance counselor to ensure that the courses you are taking are right for you!  The courses you select during your freshman year will have an impact on your schedule the rest of your high school career.  

Sophomores
Continue with community service and participation in student organizations.  Step it up a notch and take on a leadership role within your clubs and engage in community service when you can.  The more you engage in community service projects within the community, the more other potential opportunities will arise.  You could be offered an internship or a community service award – both of which will be great resume boosters!  
    
Juniors 
Now that you are actively involved in your school and community, it’s time to start thinking more specifically about college planning!  You should be going on numerous campus visits throughout high school, especially in your junior year!  Visit in-state and out-of-state campuses.  Visit large public universities and small private institutions to get a feel for what fits you best!  You should have your final schools narrowed down before the start of your senior year!  Most students apply to at least 5 different schools.  Also, be sure to get SAT/ACT Prep!  Good scores are vital to admission into the college of your choice, and your scores will follow you throughout your years at college when it comes times to apply for scholarships… and even some jobs! 
    
Seniors 
By now, you should know where you want to apply!  Seniors have enough going on – this one piece should be figured out before the start of your senior year.  Seniors should be working on the final drafts of the academic resume as well as preparing the admission essays for the college of their choice.  

Casey Chin

Casey Chin is an expert at knowing how to match students to the scholarships for which they are most eligible, giving YOU the competitive edge!