The college search seems like it never ends.

The college search is always a daunting task for parents and students alike. Finding the right school, filling out applications, applying for loans and scholarships and writing those dreaded essays are enough to make your hair hurt.

Don’t let the tuition price tag prevent you from applying to a school you really want to go to. Believe it or not, if the school wants you, or if you demonstrate need, they will make money available to you in the form of grants or loans. And remember FAFSA. Even though times are tight, your state may offer scholarships to in-state schools, and even if you choose an out of state school too. There are many private scholarships out there also. The competition is tough for them, but if you do the work, you will find them. Saving money and then paying for a college education needs careful planning and consideration.

So, you’ve finally made it. You’ve been accepted and getting ready for the school year? Summer isn’t too far away. Relax, enjoy and get ready for the best time of your life. You’ll connect with other incoming students, and schools have many orientation programs to make the transition easier. And of course, there’s the excitement of finding out who your roommates will be.

What should I study? Not everyone knows what they want to do when they get to college. (aside from partying) Many students start with liberal arts courses, and once you find your interests, you can focus in those specific areas. If you already know what you want to do, that’s great. Remember, if you’re not sure, community college can be a good cost saving option for the first two years also.

Are you already enrolled, and getting ready for the school year?  Hey, it’s still summer!  If you’re looking to spend a semester or a full year in a foreign country, student overseas travel is one of the most exciting and rewarding college experiences. Whether it’s to London, Paris, the EU , China , or other parts of the world, what you learn will last a lifetime. Another link to college traveling: College Traveler

College textbooks are always near last on the list, but if you know what you need in advance, you have a number of options. You can purchase new or used books. You can also rent, or buy e-textbooks as well. Every year, college textbooks are always near last on the list, but if you know what you need in advance, you have a number of options. Schools will also buy back your used textbooks, but don’t expect much.

If you are interested in looking at military academies, or the military as a career, you can also find military links here.

Regardless of what you study, your time at college will likely be one of  the best experiences of your lifetime.  Take advantage of what your school has to offer. You will be pleasantly surprised at how many things there are to do, if you search them out.

Good luck and enjoy. Don’t be afraid to reach beyond your grasp. Follow your dreams and ambitions.

Travel and Student Travel

One of the most rewarding experiences for a college student is to spend a semester overseas. Whether it’s Europe, Asia, South America, Africa, Australia or North America, student travel is an experience that you will cherish for a lifetime.

Most colleges and universities have programs for spending a semester or more in a foreign country. Some have cooperative programs with other universities, some have their own programs. Most students will spend a semester, or a full year overseas during their junior year, so you and your parents should be researching and discussing with your advisor well before that.

There are so many sites and so much history to see and absorb. There will be travel opportunities when classes are not in session, giving you a chance to take in the local cultures. In Europe, getting around is relatively easy. When traveling, the rail systems are very affordable, and staying in hostels can save you a fair amount of money. There are student travel cards and discounts available also.

In London, you can visit the Tower of London and it’s neighbor, the Tower Bridge. Be sure to see Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the changing of the guard, or Big Ben and Parliament. Another great place is Windsor Castle and the Royal Borough of Windsor, just a short hop from London. Scotland, Ireland and Wales are not so far and easy to get to.

When you think of France, of course Paris always comes to mind. The City of Lights has so much to offer. Visit the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysees, the Sorbonne, or Notre Dame Cathedral, and take in all the history and romance of Paris. Head to Normandy, or the south of France.

Or if your college travels take you to Germany, Austria or Switzerland. Visit Berlin, Munich, Vienna, Salzburg, Geneva, or Zurich. You can’t miss with the beauty of the Alps and the Black Forest.

You may also want to consider a trip to Asia. Many choose China, where you can tour Beijing, Hong Kong, the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, Shanghai or Macao. Some may consider the US or Canada, or Africa. So many opportunities, so little time.

One thing for certain, if you spend a semester or a year in a foreign country, it will be an outstanding learning experience and provide a lifetime of memories.