EARN SCHOLARSHIPS While most scholarships are for juniors and seniors, there are steps you can take now to prepare. DO YOUR BEST IN SCHOOL. Many scholarships are awarded based on GPA, ACT/SAT scores, or class rank. GET INVOLVED. Join clubs, play sports, volunteer, or participate in music and fine arts. Leadership roles can make you stand out even more. TRACK YOUR ACHIEVEMENTS. Use the Activities Resume tool at eqf.org/ActResume to document your involvement and accomplishments throughout high school. ACTIVITY List one activity you’d like to try this year and one area where you can take on a leadership role.
SAVE FOR COLLEGE Saving money now can make a big difference later. Here are a few tips to get started. SAVE GIFT MONEY. Set aside part of your birthday or holiday cash. GET A PART-TIME JOB. Save a portion of your earnings for future expenses. ASK ABOUT COLLEGE SAVINGS PLANS. Talk to your parents about options like the Nebraska Educational Savings Trust at nest529.com . NEXT STEP Set a savings goal for the year. Even small contributions add up over time!
ACTIVITY
AREA
ESTIMATE YOUR COSTS Get a better idea of how much college will cost by creating a budget. Visit College Profiles at eqf.org/ClgProfiles to compare costs for different schools. Record your estimated tuition & fees, books & supplies, housing & food, and personal & transportation expenses. T hink about ways to lower costs, such as living at home or attending a community college for two years before transferring. ACTIVITY Fill out this sample budget for your top college choice. 3 2 1
TUITION & FEES
BOOKS & SUPPLIES
HOUSING & FOOD
PERSONAL & TRANSPORTATION
6
EDUCATIONQUEST.ORG
Powered by FlippingBook