Thinking about college? Start planning NOW!

Here at Kirtland, we seem to be obsessed with “college.”  Go figure!  Obviously, as an institute of higher learning, education is what we know and what we do.  Gosh, we’re not even halfway through the fall semester and already we are spending a lot of time thinking about next year!

Kirtland College Night 2012

In addition to spending time with your families researching college options, another great resource to help students make an informed college decision is a book called 21 ‘To Do’ Lists for High School by Valerie Pierce and Cheryl Rilly.  This book maps out the steps for students in 9^th through 12^th grades in order so you’re ready to start college following high school graduation.  And, of course, the internet has tons and tons of resources, tips and pointers. 

Another big consideration is how to pay for college.  College is EX-PEN-SIVE!!!  Be smart.  Plan ahead!  If you’re going to need financial aid, check out www.fafsa.gov and get started on your federal financial aid application.  It requires a lot of information that takes some time to gather – check out the FAFSA website and start lining up your financial aid needs.  Scholarships and grants are another way to offset the cost of college, so high school students should check with their counseling offices to find out what is available.  There are a ton of scholarships out there, but you have to do some work to find out what’s available and how to apply.

Kirtland advisors can help you plan

Remember, community colleges cost ONE-THIRD the amount of a 4-year college or university.  It makes great sense to complete your first two years at Kirtland, save a ton of money, and transfer to a 4-year school to continue your education.

I know, I know!  High school is a great time to enjoy life and hang with your friends.  In fact, Kirtland is looking forward to hosting a tailgate event at Houghton Lake High School’s football game tonight.  We’ll be at HLHS with TV9&10 so if you’re attending the game, stop by and grab some cool Kirtland prizes.  Have fun in high school, but don’t forget to think about your future, your plans and your goals and spend some time preparing for college.  As we like to say at Kirtland, “Your future.  It’s closer than you think!”

For more information on Kirtland, or to learn more about the programs, advising, testing, financial aid and other services available to current and future students, contact Ryan at 989-275-5000, extension 258, or visit online at www.kirtland.edu.

At Kirtland, your success is our business and everyone is committed to helping you access the resources that will help you to realize educational AND career success!