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“All aboard” yelled the NJ Transit conductor at Newark Penn Station. I sprinted up the stairs, weaving past the bustling crowd and dodging pigeons, just in time to catch the train to New York City as the doors were closing. I was sixteen years old on a spontaneous adventure, and little did I know that this experience would become a metaphor for my journey through college and beyond. I found myself in uncharted territory, uncertain of my destination, navigating obstacles at every turn. Doors seemed to close and yet my determination remained unswayed. I pressed forward. Picture it as a challenge – the doors may close, but equipped with knowledge, you hold the key to open any door. So, together, let’s hop on the train named ‘opportunity.’ I’ll be your guide, sharing the essentials of what you need to know about college—knowledge that has opened doors for me and can do the same for you.
Exploring the College Landscape
What is college?
College serves as a continuation of education after high school or obtaining a GED. In college, you typically begin with mandatory courses before delving into a chosen major and minor. These choices are instrumental in paving the way for desired careers or furthering academic pursuits through studies, fellowships, or internships.
When we discuss college, we primarily focus on undergraduate studies. This encompasses the foundational phase of higher education. On the other hand, if one pursues graduate studies, it involves advanced programs following undergraduate studies, such as obtaining Juris Doctorate.
Why should I consider college?
College is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s a transformative journey that cultivates essential skills and opens doors to diverse experiences. Knowledge is a valuable tool that will aid you in securing a job and attaining financial stability and prosperity. However, the true essence of college lies in the rich tapestry of experiences it weaves, pushing you to embrace challenges and fostering personal growth.
Consider this scenario: you may have attended a local public high school where interactions were limited to a specific demographic. College breaks those barriers, offering an opportunity to connect with people of different races and religious beliefs. Through these interactions, you not only expand your social circle but also work towards becoming the person you aspire to be. College teaches you to thrive in discomfort, cultivating empathy and effective communication skills.
Moreover, college allows you to deepen your understanding in ways unimaginable. While you can study Central European history at an American university, immersing yourself in the Czech Republic through a study abroad program adds a new dimension. Learning from those who lived through that history, visiting historical sites, and engaging in active discussions enrich your education.
Although your initial goals for wanting to enter college may be financially driven, you’ll discover in time, the investment in becoming a well-rounded individual pays off. The skills developed, experiences gained, and interpersonal growth will render you invaluable as an employee, leader, and/or manager.
Who goes to college?
Contrary to popular beliefs, college is not exclusive to high school students, and taking time off doesn’t eliminate or reduce your chances of getting into college. These are deceptive narratives, either deliberately or implicitly placed, with the effect of deterring certain people from applying. Everyday is an opportunity for you to be who you want and to create the life you want for yourself. Identify what you want and shovel that coal in your fire and you’ll propel your train forward. High school students are not the only people that attend college and if you take some time off it doesn’t mean you will never get into a college. College applicants come from diverse backgrounds and stages of life, thus there is no typical college applicant.
Here’s some of the applicants we see and where they come from:
High School Graduates: They launch their college journey immediately after graduating high school.
General Educational Development (GED) Holders: The GED is the standard credential for people that did not complete high school, but want to demonstrate they are academically proficient. Someone will obtain their GED and then seek admissions to college or take some time off and then apply.
Returning to School After a Break: Whether they were working, exploring different career paths, raising a new generation, or caring for a relative, they’ve added real-world experience to their application.
International Players: This refers to people that come from other countries through student visas and either fully enroll in a degree program or attend for a semester. They bring cultural richness, diverse perspectives, and a passport full of experiences. They’re not just students; they’re global learners ready to share and soak up knowledge from around the world.
How and when do I apply to college?
Applying to college involves navigating different admissions deadlines based on your classification. Broadly, there are three main categories: early admission, regular admission, and transfer student admission.
Early Admission: Early admission entails applying to a university with the commitment that, if accepted, you won’t submit applications to other universities. The deadline for early admission typically falls in November.
Regular Admission: Regular admission is the standard application process, with deadlines around mid-November to early December. This is the conventional route for most applicants.
Transfer Applicants: Transfer applicants usually have deadlines in February or March, allowing them to transition smoothly to a new academic institution.
If you’re a high school applicant, it’s crucial to formulate a game plan by your junior year. This involves completing standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, visiting colleges, and strategically planning your applications. Additionally, be mindful of application costs, which typically range from $30 to $80 per college. For non-high school applicants, it’s essential to be aware of application deadlines and thoroughly understand the admissions requirements well in advance. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and organized application process, including budgeting for associated costs.
Is there an entrance exam and which one do I need to take?
Most colleges require applicants to take an entrance exam, serving as an indicator of college readiness. The two common entrance exams are the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) and ACT. Colleges often allow you to choose between the two.
SAT: Evaluates students’ proficiencies in reading, writing, and mathematics, furnishing colleges with a consistent benchmark to assess applicants’ qualifications.
ACT: Measures the knowledge and skills students have gained throughout their education. This standardized test covers subjects like English, mathematics, reading, science, and writing.
It’s beneficial to learn about the SAT/ACT early on. The longer you have to prepare, the better your chances of getting your score up. Practice and familiarity with the format enhance your performance, and you can take the test multiple times. Remember, your first score doesn’t define you.
Dive deep into the layout of both exams to determine which one suits you best. Additionally, consider the specific requirements of the colleges you plan to apply to. Explore our SAT and ACT pages for more in-depth information.
How do I prepare for college?
Preparing for college requires more than simply taking the SAT/ACT. Colleges seek well-rounded applicants, emphasizing that standardized tests are not the sole measure of your capabilities. In high school, commit to working diligently, taking into account that you are an individual. Avoid falling into the comparison trap – there’s no one-size-fits-all path. Disregard the misconception that success hinges on taking only honors classes and straight A’s. Your journey is individual, shaped by your unique circumstances.
Don’t be swayed by discouraging remarks, and beware of people that try to label you. I’ve seen this come up time and time again in connection with disabilities, particularly ADHD or dyslexia. News alert, you’re not the first person to have it, nor the last. And there are lots of universities that offer resources to help you succeed. So you have to work harder and find additional resources – the important thing is that you’ve identified it and you have a game plan to do something about it – that’s what matters.
If you never try, you have failed. If you try and fail, that is not failing, that’s a learning opportunity.
Your application package holds significant weight in admissions. Avoid last-minute planning. Prepare your resume in advance, ensuring it follows a standard format and highlights your accomplishments. Seek recommendations from individuals who truly know your capabilities. These letters should not be generic endorsements. They should speak to specific instances of a relevant skill or value. An admissions officer would likely give more weight to a recommendation that recounts a time when you exhibited a skill and value, rather than a high level statement.
Consider the following two statements: “I recommend Jake because he is determined” versus “I worked with Jake over the past year through mock trial and have had the opportunity to see him develop from a shaky speaker to a confident communicator, excelling at articulation and consistently seeking and addressing feedback.” The latter, with its authenticity and specificity, is likely more appealing. Remember, you’re not just seeking any letter; you want one that is meaningful, authentic, and capable of tipping the scale in your favor.
Extracurricular activities also play a crucial role in the admissions process. Your involvement in clubs, student organizations, and other endeavors serves as a testament to your skills, leadership potential, and unique qualities For example, being part of DECA signals entrepreneurial and creative attributes, while active involvement in Key Club may indicate a charitable and empathic nature. Carefully select extracurriculars that complement your academic achievements, strategically enhancing your college application in its entirety.
Understand that the application process is a holistic package. It is a waste of your time and resources if you invest time into only one of the elements of the package, but not the others. Even if you’re a shoe-in for the university, by really preparing that package, you’re opening yourself to even more opportunities – scholarships, special programs, free housing, etc. What i’m saying is it’s not just about getting in so treat it as such.
What do all the acronyms mean (e.g., AA, AS, BA, BS, MA, MS, JD, LLM, and PhD)?
Now that we’ve established what college is and identified and what you need to get in, you might be curious about the significance of all the abbreviations in the college admissions website pages. Let’s dive deep.
Associate of Arts (AA): A two-year degree often pursued at community colleges. It lays a foundational understanding in liberal arts and can serve as a stepping stone for further academic pursuits.
Associate of Sciences (AS): Similar to AA, an AS is a two-year degree focused on scientific and technical disciplines. It provides a solid grounding for those interested in fields like engineering or health sciences.
Bachelor of Arts (BA): A four-year undergraduate degree emphasizing a broader liberal arts education. It allows students to explore a diverse range of subjects while majoring in a specific field.
Bachelor of Sciences (BS): A four-year degree that focuses on scientific and technical disciplines. It often involves a deeper exploration of subjects within a specific field.
Masters of Arts (MA): A postgraduate academic degree that typically follows the completion of a bachelor’s degree. It is awarded in various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, and the arts. Pursuing an MA involves in-depth study, research, and often a thesis or comprehensive examination.
Masters of Science (MS): A postgraduate academic degree awarded in various scientific, technical, and professional fields. It emphasizes research, practical applications, and a deeper understanding of subjects within the chosen field. Like the MA, obtaining an MS often involves completing a thesis or a comprehensive project.
Juris Doctorate (JD): A professional degree in law. It is typically pursued by individuals aspiring to become lawyers and involves rigorous legal education after having completed their BA or BS.
Latin Legum Magister (LLM): A postgraduate degree in law, often pursued by those who already hold a JD. It provides an opportunity for specialization in a specific area of law.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): The highest academic degree, requiring original research and contribution to the field. It’s pursued by those seeking expertise and a deep understanding in a specific subject, often leading to a career in academia or research.
To recap, terms associated with undergraduate degrees are AA, AS, BA, and BS. The associate degrees are connected to two year community colleges, whereas BA and BS are associated with 4 year schools. Acronyms associated with graduate degrees which come after an undergraduate degree are MA, MS, JD, LLM and Phd. To become a lawyer, you’ll need a BA or BS before you can even apply to law school (FN1). To get an MA, you’ll need a BA or BS before applying. To get a PHD you’ll likely need a BA or BS and MA beforehand. You can start at a community college and apply, essentially transferring to a 4 year college/university to then achieve your BA or BS.
What are majors and minors?
Nah, we ain’t talkin’ bout baseball. A major essentially defines your chosen area of focus or expertise. Once you complete the core courses mandated by the college, you can narrow down your focus by selecting a major and potentially adding a minor. Both a major and a minor typically take about two years to complete, requiring a set number of credits. Your college will provide specific guidance on the courses necessary for completion, including any prerequisites for advanced courses within a particular field. You also have the flexibility to pursue multiple majors and minors, though this may require additional coursework, such as taking extra classes during the summers or extending your graduation timeline.
While some colleges may prompt you to declare a major, remember that choosing a major on your application doesn’t lock you into that decision forever. You can change it later, so don’t stress too much about making the perfect choice initially.
If you have a specific major in mind, ensure that the colleges you apply to offer that field of study. For example, if your passion lies in ancient Egypt, and you aim to double major in anthropology and earth and planetary sciences, it’s essential to research and plan accordingly, as not all colleges may offer those specific majors (FN2).
How does financial aid work?
If you find yourself short on cash, the go-to move is submitting a FAFSA, which is essentially a Free Application for Federal Student Aid.The FAFSA gathers information about your family’s annual income and other relevant details to determine your eligibility for government-issued grants and loans, if needed.It’s crucial to file the FAFSA as soon as possible after October 1st of each year, as many financial aid programs operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Early filing increases your chances of securing the maximum aid available. Below are some of the common types of aid:
Grants: Essentially funds provided by the government, sourced from taxes, to support your education. These do not have to be paid back.
Loans: This is financial aid that you need to repay. They can come from the government or private lenders and typically involve interest, meaning you need to pay back what you borrowed plus interest.
Scholarships: These are awards based on academic achievements, talents, or specific criteria. They do not require repayment.
Here’s the deal – being broke is not a reason to give up on college. Start by filling out your FAFSA and explore what the government can offer you. If that’s not sufficient, consider private loans. And if that’s still a challenge, work and save up. In the words of Martin Luther King Jr., “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” This is America, the land of opportunity, and you don’t shut doors on yourself. Take a risk, believe in yourself, and don’t solely rely on your parents or the government to solve your problems or dictate the best path for you.
Navigating the College Journey
Why Do People Choose 2-Year vs. 4-Year Schools?
People choose between 2-year and 4-year schools for various reasons, and one significant factor is cost reduction. Here are some reasons why individuals may opt for 2-year community colleges over 4-year universities, focusing on cost reduction:
Lower Tuition Fees: Community colleges often have significantly lower tuition fees than 4-year universities.For example, Middlesex County College in NJ has much lower in-county fees compared to Rutgers University.
Savings on Living Expenses: Attending a local community college allows students to live at home, avoiding additional expenses related to on-campus or off-campus housing. This further contributes to cost savings.
Transfer Opportunities: Many students use community colleges as a stepping stone. They complete their general education requirements at a community college and then transfer to a 4-year university to pursue their major. This can be a cost-effective way to obtain a bachelor’s degree.
Financial Flexibility: Lower tuition fees at community colleges can provide students with financial flexibility. They may have the option to work part-time or even full-time while pursuing their education, helping to cover the costs.
Debt Avoidance: By choosing a more affordable option, students can potentially graduate with less student loan debt or avoid it altogether. This financial freedom can positively impact their post-graduation choices and opportunities.
Example – 2 Year vs. 4 Year Costs Saved
In order to obtain an AA, you go to your local community college (Middlesex County College) with the game plan to transfer once obtaining your degree to Rutgers for your BA. You’re main reason for going to Middlesex verses another community college, is that you fall into the category of “in-county” fees.
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey (FN3) charges $17,079 per academic, assuming you live in NJ and are a resident and commute to school. A full time student can take between 12 – 20.5 credits for the same price.
On the other hand, Middlesex County College in NJ (FN4) charges $7,728 with a total cost of $188.50 per credit for in-county students taking 20.5 credits a semester (although we do NOT recommend this).
By choosing the more economical option, you save $9,351 annually, amounting to a potential $18,702 in two years. Cost reduction is crucial. Consider the possibilities of utilizing these savings:
Study Abroad Experience: Allocate funds towards a study abroad semester, with an example cost of $7,080 for a semester in Chile (FN5).
Start a Side Hustle: Initiate your own side hustle, as demonstrated by Ameribrights, which was formed for under $10,000.
Make Unbiased Choices: Financial freedom allows for unbiased decision-making based on your values and conscience. Avoid compromising your aspirations due to student loan debt, which often leads to following financial incentives over personal calling.
Support Others: Contribute to charitable causes with the extra funds, whether it’s feeding the hungry or covering expenses for volunteering efforts, such as providing gas for your car so that you can serve others personally at a soup kitchen.
Will all my classes be accepted if I transfer from a community college to a 4-year school?
The transfer of classes from a community college to a 4-year school is not automatic. It’s essential to ensure that the classes you’ve taken are transferable to your new college. This involves identifying the appropriate website for information, usually linked to the state where you attend college. As an example, the NJ colleges have their own website dedicated to this purpose (FN6).
To successfully transfer, you need to carefully plan well in advance. This includes confirming that your courses are accepted by the new institution and ensuring that you meet application deadlines. Taking these steps is crucial to a smooth and successful transition between academic institutions.
What are credits, how many do I need?
Think of credits as points you earn for each class and they correspond to the length and duration of the course. You need a certain amount of these points to secure your degree.
For an Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree at a community college, the benchmark is typically around 60 credits. This translates to aiming for approximately 15 credits per semester. Keep in mind, there are two main semesters (fall and spring), and you can also opt for classes during the summer. Here’s a tip: if it seems overwhelming, consider going for 12 credits a semester instead of 15 – it can make a significant difference and you can take extra classes in the summer.
Now, if you’re setting your sights on a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree, you’ll need 120 credits. So, yes, aim for 15 credits a semester, and don’t overlook the importance of maintaining that GPA. So, you’d still target 15 credits per semester, and don’t forget the crucial role of maintaining that GPA.
In essence, think of these credits as the tracks guiding your educational train toward that degree destination. Just like different train routes, each college might add its unique twists to the requirements. Stay informed, strategically plan your courses, and you’ll smoothly ride the academic rails to a successful journey!
How is college structured?
Well, it essentially involves navigating through the college’s core curriculum, major requirements, and possibly those of a minor. The purpose of a core curriculum is to provide students with a well-rounded and foundational education in diverse academic disciplines. It might include courses like precalculus and writing, with the goal of ensuring you have knowledge that goes beyond your chosen areas of focus.
Once you’ve gone through the core courses, or possibly concurrently, you dive into selecting your major(s) and minor(s), embarking on additional courses with a more focused approach. Each major or minor comes with its unique set of requirements.
To illustrate, majoring in political science at Rutgers requires you to complete 13 courses, totaling 39 credits focused on political science (FN7). The university provides guidance on the specific required courses and available options. While selecting courses, it’s beneficial to consider whether a course could also count toward a minor, contribute to a certification/certificate program, or even be applied to another major. Planning your course selections with these considerations in mind adds depth and flexibility to your academic journey.
What does 100, 200, 300, or 400 level courses refer to?
The numbering of courses, such as 100, 200, 300, or 400 levels, indicates the course’s level of difficulty and complexity within a curriculum.
100 Level: These are introductory courses designed for beginners in a particular subject. They provide foundational knowledge and are typically the starting point for students new to a field.
200 Level: Courses at this level are slightly more advanced than introductory ones. They often build on the foundational concepts introduced in the 100-level courses.
300/400 Level: These courses are considered advanced and are usually taken by students who have a solid understanding of the subject matter. A 300-level course is generally more advanced than a 200-level course, and a 400-level course is even more challenging.
The higher the course level, the more advanced and specialized the content becomes. It’s important to note that for 300 and 400 level courses, prerequisites are often required. Prerequisites are earlier courses that students must have completed to ensure they have the necessary foundational knowledge and skills.
For instance, to enroll in an advanced political theory course at the 400 level, you might need to have taken a prerequisite course on the nature of politics. This ensures that students entering higher-level courses have the essential background to engage with the more complex material.
How do I choose a college?
Choosing a college is a personal journey with various factors to consider. A good starting point is to reflect on your unique situation and circumstances, aspirations, and goals. Take out a sketch pad and consider who you are, who you want to become, and your specific needs for success. Factors like class sizes, individualized attention, available resources like tutoring, desired major, and financial considerations should be considered. Your college choices should align with your unique needs and aspirations.
Is it important to go to an ivy league school?
As for the importance of attending an ivy league school, it’s essential to note that while these schools offer unique advantages, they aren’t the only path to success. Attending an ivy league school provides exceptional networking opportunities and access to prestigious connections. However, achieving similar outcomes is possible through other paths. Building and nurturing relationships, albeit through a different route, can lead to similar opportunities and success. The key is to recognize that success is not exclusive to ivy league graduates, and alternative paths offer diverse and equally rewarding experiences.
Closing Thoughts
I hope this guide serves as your battle plan, a toolset to navigate the challenges and seize the openings that arise. As you step onto your train, remember to act with resilience and tenacity, remember that the fight for opportunities is the essence of the American student’s journey through college. Every closing door is an invitation to push forward, just like that leap onto a train bound for possibilities.
Safe travels as you continue forging ahead in your pursuit of knowledge and opportunities!
Footnotes
FN1 – In case you’re wondering, yes, this is one of the things I couldn’t figure out when I was applying to colleges. Also, the colleges I liked didn’t offer Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees specifically in the field of law, so I was confused about how to pursue a career in law. It’s experiences like these that have inspired me to create resources like this, hoping to make the journey a bit smoother for others.
FN2- I’m including this page here as a quick reference as to what the page looks like that lists majors and minors. You can also start brainstorming! https://sasundergrad.rutgers.edu/major/list-of-majors-and-minors
FN3 – https://admissions.rutgers.edu/costs-and-aid/tuition-fees
FN4- https://middlesexcollege.edu/funding-your-education/tuition-and-fees/
FN5 – https://usac.edu/money-matters/program-fees
FN6 – https://njtransfer.org/
FN7 – https://www.polisci.rutgers.edu/academics/undergraduate/major-and-minor
Fun Facts
This is the song that I was listening to on the train ride that I started this article with – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9klEsdUxNvY
