Congratulations, seniors! You’ve made it to the final stretch of high school, and before you know it, your college journey will begin. However, there are several critical tasks to complete before you can officially call yourself a college student. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate those final steps and prepare for college orientation.
Make Your Final Choice
By now, you should’ve received financial aid offers from the colleges you listed on your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). If you haven’t already, it’s almost time to choose where you will attend college! This decision will shape the next few years of your life, so take the time to weigh factors such as the campus culture, the cost of living, financial aid offers, and the academic program in your field of study. Once you’ve decided, formally accept your offer by notifying the chosen school and accepting any financial aid offers needed to pay for your college expenses.
Submit Your Deposits
To secure your spot at the college, you will need to submit any required deposits, including housing or an enrollment deposit.
Secure Housing and Meal Plans
If you will be living on campus, check in with the housing office to confirm your dorm assignment and review move-in instructions. If you’re living off-campus, ensure you’ve signed your lease and secured your housing situation. Many colleges offer meal plans, so decide which plan works best for you. If you have dietary restrictions, inquire about special accommodations.
Continue to Apply for Scholarships
Scholarships can help reduce your overall college expenses, so continue to apply for them, even throughout your college years.
Register for New Student Orientation
Orientation is an invaluable part of transitioning to college. It typically takes place before the start of the academic year, so watch for communication from the college to get registered. While the specific orientation activities vary by institution, here is an overview of what you might expect:
- Welcome and Introductions: Some of the college’s administrators, faculty, and current students will be introduced.
- Academic Overviews: Learn about academic expectations, the course registration process, and resources such as tutoring and academic advising.
- Register for classes: Plan to meet with an advisor to register for your first semester of classes. Be prepared to have your photo taken for your student ID.
- Campus resources: Learn about support services, such as counseling, career, and disability services, as well as information about the college’s health center, library, and student affairs.
- Financial Aid: You will have the opportunity to meet with financial aid representatives to discuss payment procedures and student loans.
- Student Life: Learn about campus policies, safety, dining options, residential life, and student involvement opportunities such as clubs, Greek life, organizations, and intramurals.
Don’t miss your opportunity to connect with future classmates, get acquainted with your new environment, and set yourself up for a successful college experience!
Purchase Supplies and Books
When your class schedule is set, start thinking about the supplies you will need—everything from a backpack and notebooks to a laptop and phone charger. Also, review the syllabus for each of your courses to see if there are any textbooks or materials you need to purchase in advance. Helpful hint: Consider renting textbooks to save some money!
Review Health and Insurance Requirements
Colleges require students to submit proof of immunizations and completed health forms before classes start. Check with the student health center to see what your school requires. If you’re covered under your family’s health insurance plan, you may need to submit documentation proving coverage. If you don’t have insurance or need a separate plan for college, now is the time to get it set up.
Prepare Financially
Before you arrive on campus, take a moment to review your finances. It’s important to know how to manage your money effectively. Consider setting up a student bank account if you haven’t already, and make sure you understand how to use your student ID for discounts, purchases, and meal plans.
Relax and Get Excited
Although these steps to college may seem daunting, remember that everyone is going through the same process. By staying organized and meeting deadlines, you’ll be ready to tackle anything that comes your way! Embrace the excitement of this new phase of life, and remember—college is a time for growth, exploration, and unforgettable memories. You’re about to embark on an incredible journey, so get ready to make the most of it! Good Luck!
By Jacquie Butler