Preparing for College: What Every High School Senior Should Know
Navigating the transition from high school to college is a significant milestone that involves more than just academics. It’s a journey that encompasses financial planning, social adjustments, and personal growth. In a recent conversation with Megan Brissette, a freshman at Michigan State University, we explored these facets in depth. Megan’s experience offers valuable insights for both parents and students embarking on this important journey.
Starting Early: The Foundation of College Planning
Megan’s college planning process began as early as her freshman year of high school. Despite the disruptions caused by COVID-19, her school emphasized the importance of starting early. This early start allowed Megan to explore various universities, both in-state and out-of-state, and understand what each had to offer academically.
By her junior year, Megan was taking standardized tests and narrowing down her list based on her academic goals. As a pre-med student, she focused on schools with strong STEM programs that could pave the way for her future in medical school. This methodical approach highlights the importance of aligning college choices with long-term career aspirations.
The Role of Open Communication
One of the most critical aspects of Megan’s college planning was the open communication she maintained with her parents. From the beginning, her parents were involved in the process, helping her understand the financial realities of her choices. Megan’s guidance counselor also played a significant role, emphasizing the need for transparency between students and parents.
Many families shy away from discussing finances, but Megan’s experience shows that these conversations are crucial. By understanding the financial constraints and opportunities, Megan could make informed decisions that balanced her academic and financial needs. This approach prevented her from being blindsided by costs and helped set realistic expectations.
The One-Quarter Strategy
A standout moment in Megan’s journey was the implementation of a financial planning strategy known as the one-quarter strategy. This approach, developed by a family working with Paul Fenner, involves breaking down the cost of college into manageable parts:
25% saved by the parents
25% paid while the student is in school
25% covered by scholarships and grants
25% contributed by the student
For Megan, this strategy meant working during the summer to save up her portion of the college costs. She had been working since she was a sophomore in high school, diligently saving money to contribute to her education. This strategy not only alleviated some of the financial burdens on her parents but also instilled a sense of responsibility and pride in Megan.
The Social Transition
While the academic transition to college was seamless for Megan, the social transition proved more challenging. Moving from a close-knit group of high school friends to a new environment required adjustments. However, Megan’s proactive approach to engaging in social activities and building new relationships helped her navigate this change.
This aspect of the transition underscores the importance of preparing students for the social dynamics of college life. Encouraging involvement in campus activities, fostering resilience, and building a support network can significantly ease this transition.
Lessons for Parents and Students
Megan’s experience offers several key takeaways for parents and students:
Start Early: Begin the college planning process early to explore all options and make informed decisions.
Maintain Open Communication: Regular and transparent conversations about finances and expectations can prevent misunderstandings and set realistic goals.
Implement a Financial Strategy: Breaking down college costs into manageable parts and involving the student in the financial planning fosters responsibility and eases the financial burden.
Prepare for Social Changes: Acknowledge the social aspects of the college transition and encourage proactive engagement in building new relationships.
The transition from high school to college is a multifaceted journey that requires careful planning, open communication, and adaptability. By learning from Megan Brissette’s experience, families can better prepare for this significant milestone, ensuring that students are academically, financially, and socially ready for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.