Hello EIF Scholars! Below you will find some helpful resources for preparing for college this fall, based on the feedback we received in the Summer Check-In Survey.
Financial Aid:
-
Grants, scholarships, loans, and work study… What is the difference?
Grants are typically need based, while scholarships may be need or merit based. These forms of financial aid do not require repayment. Loans will need to be paid back after graduating or leaving college. Work Study is a federal program allowing students to work part-time to earn money for their education.
-
What should I do if I have unmet financial needs?
Every school has contact information on its website for the office of financial aid, and they can assist you in finding the right person to talk to depending on what financial aid questions you have.
A financial aid advisor at your school will be able to walk you through the options they have available for grants, scholarships, loans, and work study. Every university is different, which is why the university’s office of financial aid will be the experts for YOUR school.
-
Where can I find scholarships outside my university?
For scholarships outside your university, the more specific you can be in your search, the better. Try doing a search via Google or Twitter for freshman scholarships based on your ethnicity, gender, major, career interest, or any other specific interests you may have. The less people that are eligible for a particular scholarship, the greater your chances are of being awarded.
-
How can I get unemployment assistance from the government as a college student?
You can find a guide for who is eligible and how to apply for student unemployment assistance click here
Employment in College
Your university will provide several resources for help in finding employment in your school’s city while in college.
For Work Study programs, the Office of Financial Aid can assist you with options.
For part-time jobs and internships, the Career Center on your university campus can assist you.
Academic Advising/Registering for Classes:
Every school has contact information on its website for academic advising. If you aren’t sure who your advisor is, you can call or email the advising center and they will assist you. Your advisor will help ensure you are enrolled in the correct classes both for core required classes and for your major, and they can give tips on making the best schedule for you.
You will register for your first semester of classes at orientation. If you have not signed up for orientation, your college/university’s website will have information on orientation dates and a link to register.
Transition to College
Starting college is a very big life change for most students. Below you will find a helpful web series meant to help prepare students for the transition. Topics include:
- How do I live on my own?
- How do I find my squad?
- How do I find a mentor?
- How do I balance school and social life?
- How do I stay on track with my studies?
- How do I live on a budget?
- How do I stay healthy and practice self-care?
To access these videos, click here
Other Resources
Of course, your EIF Advisor will always be here to help. If you have questions that your university resource is not able to answer, don’t hesitate to reach out to your advisor. You can schedule a virtual meeting here.