05 December

Freshmen

    • Consider volunteering in your community. It can be a rewarding experience, and it could help you ear a scholarship. Many scholarships are awarded based on community service.

    • How are your computer skills? Work to become adept in common computer application such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint and learn to use the internet to do research.

    • If you have a checking account, balance your checkbook and keep track of all your debits and deposits.

    • Do you have a favorite college sports teams? Is there a college you've always dreamed of attending. Start searching for colleges today.

Sophomores

    • Education after high school doesn't necessarily mean a four-year degree. There are certificate programs, two-year degrees and programs that go beyond four years. Explore the different degree options.

    • College can be affordable. Try not to be put off by "sticker shock" and don't drop colleges from your search because of the price. With financial aid, most colleges can make sure the "sticker price" is not your out-of-pocket cost.

    • Talk with you school counselor about college admission requirements so that you're staying on the right track with your class schedule.

    • Think about volunteering during your holiday break. Check out the Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service for a list of options at www.volunteeriowa.org. Be sure to log your volunteer work.

Juniors

    • Being to research scholarships. Learn about selection criteria and what's required to apply.

    • Register now if you're planning to take the January SAT of the February ACT.

    • Attend an ICAN Financial Aid Night to learn more about the financial aid process and the different types of assistance you might get.

    • Consider volunteering during your holiday break. Check out the Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service for a list of options at www.volunteeriowa.org. Be sure to log your volunteer work

Seniors

    • Attend an ICAN Financial Aid Night.

    • Finish your college admission applications you haven't already completed.

    • Save your year-end payroll stubs. (This goes for your parents, too.) You may nee them for estimating information on the FAFSA. Also, schedule an appointment to have your taxes prepared early.

    • Learn more about the financial aid process that will begin soon after January 1.

    • If you plan to file the FAFSA online, request a PIN at www.pin.ed.gov. The student and one parent will each need a PIN.

Parents

    • Review the information you and your student gather on colleges and discuss the options. Work toward attainable goals and workable solutions. Before you know it, your child will be heading to college, and you will have played an important role.