Myths and Pitfalls
Be aware of the stop signs and red flags along the way. Here are some things to avoid:
Limiting the college selection process to one type of institution; academically and/or financially. A good college list will include options that test a student’s reach, match one’s strengths as well as hidden talents and interests.- Assuming all schools use the same admissions criteria. Catalogs and view books might look the same, but institutions are looking for students that will bring different characteristics to their campus.
- Assuming everyone pays the same cost of attendance. Few students and families pay full educational costs. Applying for financial aid is essential. Considering a wide range of college options expands one’s access to potential merit scholarships and other tuition resources.
- Missing Deadlines. Deadlines are deadlines. Meeting deadlines is a must!
- Not applying for financial aid – the fear of applying or sense that one will not qualify should not deter one from completing the Free Application for Student Financial Aid (FAFSA). Colleges need the information, Federal and State Agencies and private scholarship providers need it too!!
- Misunderstood expectations – If the student thinks the family can afford college X but the family can only afford college Y, then someone is going to be disappointed. Real-life conversations regarding expectations are essential to avoid surprises late in the acceptance and decision-making process.
- Listening to the ‘grocery line – parking lot’ chatter. Everyone is proud but sometimes things get inflated. Everyone is different – Never assume!
- Misunderstanding athletics at the college level. Tryouts occur at all levels, nothing is guaranteed and only a select few get $$.
- Sweepstake scholarships – read the privacy statement to learn where and to whom your demographic, IP address and other personal information will be sold. Read my piece on Avoiding Scholarship Scams
