College Prep Guide Fall 2019

COLLEGE PREP GUIDE FALL 2019

INSIDE Campus Tours

page 2

Stay Safe

page 4

Sharpen your Technical Skills

page 5

What Not to Pack

page 6

7 Dorm ideas

page 7

Financial literacy

page 8

Pros and Cons

page 9

6 Tips for Parents

page 10 Before a tour, research the university to help develop questions you may not think of on the spot.

Finding a mentor

page 11

Publisher Dave Worstell Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau Special Sections Coordinator Mo Lucas

The College Prep Guide is a special advertising publication of The Billings Gazette.

Access the College Prep Guide at www.billingsgazette.com/specialsections

TAKE CAMPUS TOURS Choosing where to go to college can be as significant of a decision as deciding what to major in. If you’re weighing multiple options, taking a campus tour can help make up your mind.

Before visiting, make a checklist of the most important factors to your decision.

To discover when a university is scheduling visits, check with the college’s administration office through their website or by reaching out to an admin via phone or email. You can typically take these tours with a group and gauge how others react or take a more intimate tour on your own to absorb the campus on a personal level.

Clear Your Afternoon Since deciding on a school can be a decision that will impact your future, it’s crucial to take your

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COLLEGE PREP GUIDE | FALL 2019

dusanpetkovic1 - stock.adobe.com

time during a tour. Clear your schedule so you aren’t in a rush to finish and make sure your guide is available to answer questions during and after the visit.

Take notes throughout your walk-through, especially when deciding between a few options.

You can compare advantages and disadvantages before you make a final decision.

students, they will show you the main parts of the campus and be available for questions.

Attend a class: Some colleges will invite you to sit in on a class, giving you a perspective on size, learning style and peers.

Meet a financial aid officer: These experts can explain the expectations for qualifying for financial assistance if required.

What to Expect

Prepare Yourself

While each college may have their own procedure for tours, you should know what you may expect before your visit. The College Board suggests preparing yourself for these common experiences.

Information session: An admission representative will present you with a brief explanation of the campus.

Tour: Typically led by current

Before a tour, you should research the university to help you develop questions you may not think of on the spot. You should prepare with inquiries for both fellow students and staff members.

Check out a map of the campus too, so you’re familiar with its layout before your scheduled appointment.

YOU BELONG UNIVERSITY UN OF MONTANA, YOU MULTI-DIMENSIONAL, MULTI-POSSIBILITY PERSON.

At UM, we believe the most valuable tool we can give you is the ability to reinvent yourself again and again so you are prepared, not just for your first job, but your fourth, fifth and sixth. It begins with a community that nurtures you and holds you close in a landscape that gives you room to breathe. Here you will expand your universe of knowledge. Here you will learn, not in silos, but across boundaries, collaborating just as you will need to in all the worlds beyond college. Here you will develop grit and perseverance, because this place cultivates it, and the future demands it.

And from here, you will take with you what you need to move with confidence and aplomb, with diamond-like resilience – in a world that looks different next week, next month, next year.

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COLLEGE PREP GUIDE | FALL 2019

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Tips for staying safe on campus Lee SHULMAN BIERER The Charlotte Observer‌

afraid to use the Blue Light Security system if you’re feeling endangered; that’s exactly why it is there. Average response time by campus security is typically just a few minutes.

‌M

ost parents don’t spend much time worrying about the safety of their children on what they believe are, for the most part, idyllic college campuses.

And until something happens to someone they know, most students assume nothing can go wrong in their “college bubble.”

Students often get a false sense of security. But, unfortunately, bad things do happen. Students should always use extra caution.

Here are some suggestions on ways for students to stay safe on a college campus:

Plan ahead when planning to party Students need to think about where they’re going, who they’re going with, and they must absolutely make sure that everyone gets home safely. “The highest sexual assault risk situation for college women is after they become voluntarily intoxicated,” according to a study cited by the One in Four organization.

Lock ’em up

Avoid drinking too much

It’s always important to lock up your valuables, but it gets more challenging, as students start making holiday purchases and at the same time become less vigilant because they’re more comfortable in their school environment.

Do not accept a drink from anyone other than a bartender.

Date rape drugs are easily slipped into drinks. Never go home with a stranger. Bring enough money to pay for an Uber or taxi back to your dorm. Feelings of invincibility lead young people to riskier behavior than their common sense would dictate.

Approximately 1,700 students die from alcohol-related injuries each year.

Be aware of your surroundings

Do not leave your stuff unattended.

Get a locking device for your computer.

If you’re studying in the library, ask a fellow student you trust to watch your laptop while you head to the restroom, and do the same for him or her.

A new campus security product

Be prepared for an emergency

Enter your “In Case of Emergency” numbers in your cellphone. ICE is commonly known by security forces, police departments and paramedics. If something happens, it will speed up contact with your loved ones. Also, know the phone numbers you will need to call to cancel your credit/debit cards if your wallet is stolen.

Don’t carry around a lot of cash

Lock your dorm room door at all times

Use debit and credit cards; there’s no People in first-floor dorm rooms should need to make yourself a target. also lock their windows.

Don’t walk alone after dark

looking confused (and like an easy target), by being prepared and looking confident.

Avoid wearing headphones

I know everyone does, and you’re probably thinking, “What will I do if I Be smart about personal safety can’t listen to music?” Be safer and inMake sure someone knows where you stead listen to the ambient noise or the are at all times. Text when you arrive safely quiet sounds of your college town. Wearat your destination. ing headphones reduces your awareness of your surroundings.

Use the campus escort service. If you must walk alone, stay alert. Don’t stop at an ATM. Be sure to walk on well-lit paths, and know where emergency phones are located. Know the number for campus secu- Know where you’re headed rity; plug it into your cellphone. Keep the It sounds obvious, but don’t wander off Don’t be naive Know where campus security is locellphone handy so you can make a call, if trying to find a shortcut. Map your route necessary. on your GPS before heading out. Avoid cated and how to contact them. Don’t be

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COLLEGE PREP GUIDE | FALL 2019

Revolar is a new wearable safety device (www.revolar.com). The Revolar technology allows students to call for help if they are feeling unsafe or uncomfortable.

With either one, two or three clicks, they can send a Check-In, Yellow Alert or Red Alert to family or friends.

It’s discreet, so students can notify loved ones without pulling out their phones to send a text or make a phone call. It’s quick and less likely to escalate a situation.

Selected contacts can see a student’s specific location and take appropriate action once Revolar’s notifications are sent from the press of a button. One click means “I’m just checking in,” two clicks mean “Not urgent, but please contact me,” and three clicks mean “Urgent!”

The more you know, the safer you’ll be.

Lee Shulman Bierer is an independent college adviser based in Charlotte, N.C. Visit her website College Admissions Strategies.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Sharpen your

TECHNICAL

SKILLS Attractive Afro American girl is thinking and using a laptop while sitting on the floor

By Greenshoot Media Regardless of your major, brushing up on your technical skills provides you advantages before college.

Understanding how to use the required technology will allow you to focus more on learning rather than figuring out how to download content, prepare papers and decipher an email program.

As you prepare yourself for your collegiate adventure, take the steps to brush up on your basic knowledge of tools you will rely on.

are due and navigating the internet for research. Mastering your typing skills can lessen the time you spend on each assignment and allow you to absorb more knowledge rather than being frustrated about how to transcribe it.

You can find ample typing software with a quick search online or take lessons from a professional or friend. As you get started, practice on your accuracy before speed.

Consider your Online Persona

There will come a time where you will reach out to a professor, administration and peers for assign-ment instrucKnowing your way around a keyboard tions or campus questions. A common will make it easier when long draft papers type of communication will be email and

Typing Master

georgerudy - stock.adobe.com

online forums.

Once you are familiar with different Make sure to use a professional tone and techniques, plan to create a mock spreadproper grammar as the professionals you sheet or presentation to test your capabilicontact may be references you rely on dur- ties. ing your professional career.

It’s also a good idea to keep your social Resourceful Research media free from offensive material and The internet is a beneficial tool to unnegative content. derstand when you’re conducting research for an assignment. However, preparing a Research Required Software credible document or presentation relies If possible, ask your college official if a on sourcing credible content. particular software suite is preferred for Understanding how to find these respreadsheets, papers and presentations. sources can speed up the time you spend Take the time to navigate each program researching and dis-covering the material. to develop an understanding of how they Learn the shortcuts available from popwork. A good place to start is in the help ular search engines to produce results from menu where there are typically detailed in- government, medical and other official structions on features. sources.

COLLEGE PREP GUIDE | FALL 2019

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What

NOT to pack for college

Lee SHULMAN BIERER The Charlotte Observer

T

he countdown to your fi rst day as a college freshman has officially begun. There are advice articles galore with lists of what to pack and what not to pack; it’s almost as overwhelming as the college admissions process.

Here are a few important mantras that I must share.

Please remember: You are going to college in the United States, and there will be a CVS, Walgreens or Rite Aid close by. There is no need to stock up on items that you can purchase locally. I have heard stories of students insisting on packing a year’s worth of shampoo and laundry detergent.

You will be living in a frighteningly small space, and you may be sharing it

with one, two or three other students. There simply isn’t enough room for you to bring all of your clothes, all of your personal mementos and everything that reminds you of home.

The U.S. Postal Service does a great job. If you forgot or need something you left behind, you can either have it sent or it can wait until you come home at Thanksgiving.

Nobody wants to lug everything up to your room and then realize there’s no space and have to lug it back to the car and back home. Pack lightly and intelligently.

Physical space and outlet capacity is at a premium. Any important item that doesn’t take up a lot of space or require being plugged in becomes more valuable.

Based on conversations with students who have recently completed their freshman year, here’s what they said were items not worth bringing:  Keurig: It sounds like a great idea — coffee in your room, any time you want. Truth was, students preferred to make their coffee time so-

cial and join friends at Starbucks.

A Keurig also takes up space and a valuable outlet.  Television: Most students were happy watching their favorite shows on their laptops. A subscription to Netflix or Hulu could be a great gift.  Printers and ink: Check with your school; many colleges now provide complimentary printing as a great perk.  Wall calendars or wall planners: Face it: You’re just not going to use them. There are plenty of organizational apps that are easily accessed on your phone and allow for continual modifications.  Candles/hotplates: Most colleges have strict rules against candle and hotplate usage.  Microwave or refrigerator: Once you are aware of what is permissible in your residence hall, it’s a great idea for one roommate to purchase the microwave and another to purchase the refrigerator.

Lee Shulman Bierer is an independent college adviser based in Charlotte, N.C. Visit her website College Admissions Strategies. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Seven dorm items you didn’t know you needed to have Lee SHULMAN BIERER The Charlotte Observer‌

‌T

aking a glance into the future and it’s kudos to you.

You’ve made it to the beginning of August and you’ve already purchased the necessary items from the packing checklist.

You made arrangements to pick up some of the big items at a store near the college so you don’t need to stuff your car to the gills. You’re one organized family.

So, the necessities are taken care of. Here are seven items that many freshmen feel are needs, not wants, although you may disagree:

1 . Extra-long phone charging cords Many dorm rooms were constructed in the 20th century, when students only needed an outlet for their lamp or clock ra-

space imaginable in their tiny dorm rooms. Elevating beds is commonplace because it allows some serious under-thebed storage. But night tables are still the traditional height. So, a clever company has come up with a bed shelf that attaches to the bedframe. The Bunk Buddy is great for the college student who needs space for the iPad, computer, cell phone, alarm clock, water, etc., without leaving the bunk or lofted bed. Beds are often raised to weirdly elevated heights with no space to place a phone, glasses or a bottle of water.

4. Safe or lockbox

You’ll feel safer knowing that items such as passports, medicine and valuable jewelry are secure. The Sentry model offers digital security with a programmable electronic lock that has two user codes. You can order a compact electronic safe for less than $30 — money well spent.

5. Refrigerator cart

The dorm fridge that was desired amenity a generation ago is now standard fare. But dorm floors are still disgustingly dirty, and a compact fridge cart elevates the fridge from the floor while providing additional stor3. T-Shirt quilt age space. They range in price Surround your child with from $50 to $150. their memories while simultaneously making them empty their 6. Portable charger A dead phone is the curse bureaus of their old T-shirts. You may be able to find someone lo- of the millennial. College stucally to put the quilt together, or dents, and now parents, use their 2. Bed shelf contact Project Repat (www.pro- phones constantly, and it’s easy College students have be- jectrepat.com) and they’ll create to drain a phone’s battery. Now come experts in utilizing every a one-of-a-kind T-shirt quilt. there are lightweight and inex-

dio. While many dorms have been upgraded with more outlets, it can sometimes be challenging to have the cord reach all the way to bed. Since most students used their phones as alarm clocks and need to see their most recent text at 2 a.m., they want their phones close by. A three-pack of extralong, 10-foot charging cable cords will solve this problem for only $10.50.

pensive chargers that you can throw in a backpack to make sure the phone is always charged.

7. Echo Dot and Echo Show

Do you remember the popular talking Elmo? Demand far exceeded supply, and it was chaos in the stores at Christmas. The Amazon Echo Dot is similar — it’s the electronic toy everyone wants. Students can ask “Alexa,” the virtual assistant, to set an alarm, play music, get the weather forecast, have a book read to them, order a pizza or an Uber, and so much more. And recently, Amazon announced the Echo Show, which has a touch screen and video camera so you can video-chat with your college student via voice command.

Lee Shulman Bierer is an independent college adviser based in Charlotte, N.C. Visit her website College Admissions Strategies. Distributed

by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Financial literacy for college students Lee SHULMAN BIERER The Charlotte Observer

B

efore the often-teary ride home after freshman drop-off days, parents feel compelled to impart tidbits of wisdom and life lessons, plus pleas for a balanced diet and a reasonable amount of sleep.

What is the one thing most parents forget to discuss? The question: How will you manage your money?

Unfortunately, many families never have a conversation about budgets or even reasonable spending expectations. Parents need to be aware of the realistic costs of books, clubs, activities and midnight pizza runs. But students can’t assume there is a limitless debit card at their disposal.

Many researchers have determined that rather than sweep this huge financial investment under the rug, parents owe it to their children to discuss their financial commitment. They also recommend that parents make their academic and financial expectations clear. Do you expect that your children will have some “skin in the game” and be responsible for some mea-

sure of the expenses? Are they taking out loans? Are they responsible for their personal expenses? Do you plan to provide them with a monthly allowance? Just writing the checks and not having these conversations is not a recipe for financial success.

Part of what makes this conversation even more challenging is that money is almost a virtual concept for many students. They use gift cards, credit cards, debit cards and apps such as Venmo and PayPal. Money, the green stuff, is not a meaningful part of many of their lives.

Here are some tips for getting that financial conversation going:  Be straight about the costs of tuition and room and board. Most students can’t comprehend the idea of laying out $50,000 or more per year. Help them understand the investment by comparing it to something more tangible — the costs of two cars, perhaps.  Be specific about what you’re willing to pay for and even more specific about

what you’re unwilling to subsidize.  Discuss the hidden costs at college.

Some fees are not included in the list of required fees. For example, class-specific fees may include charges for materials (e.g., art, chemistry, biology, physics, etc.), studio or practice room time, and laboratory fees. The same is true for per-use fees such as the athletic facility, or pool or weight rooms. Unfortunately, even when a college has a “comprehensive” fee, the fee usually isn’t all-inclusive. According to Edvisors, most students will spend $250 to $500 per month on these hidden costs.  Consider putting your expectations in writing. For example, if your student will be responsible for paying back any loans, ask them to sign a contract. Some parents tie in academic expectations as well, such as: “You must have a 3.0 GPA to continue.”  Make sure your student is cautious before setting up multiple credit and debit card accounts. Be clear with them about

Be fearless.

Don’t back down.

Choose challenge.

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COLLEGE PREP GUIDE | FALL 2019

what you’ll pay for and what is their responsibility.  Schedule a financial checkup with them about a month in. Review the specific items and where they’ve been spending your money and their money. Let them know if they’ve done a good job, loosen the leash a little if deserved, and agree to check in again at Thanksgiving.

Not long ago, many high schools had courses on basic finances for students.

Unfortunately, few schools offer them anymore, mostly due to budget cuts, so it’s up to parents to be the teacher.

If you’re not a good money manager, seek out someone who is, or consult a book such as “The Complete Guide to Personal Finance for Teens and College Students”

by Tamsen Butler.

Financial literacy is just another part of your child’s education. This is a great opportunity to share your wisdom.

Lee Shulman Bierer is an independent college adviser based in Charlotte, N.C. Visit her website College Admissions Strategies. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Pros and cons of private student loans Steve ROSEN Tribune Content Agency‌

Y

ou’ve seemingly exhausted your options for borrowing money from the federal government to help pay for college tuition, housing and meal-plan bills that must be paid soon. Where else can you look?

Many families turn to private student loans from their bank, credit union or an online lender.

Borrowers typically can choose from fixed-rate and variable-rate products.

But private loans come with their own pluses and minuses, so borrowers need to comparison shop and research thoroughly before signing on the dotted line.

Lenders set the terms and eligibility for private student loans, and the interest rate and any fees are generally based on the credit score of the borrower. Private loans are typically made in the

parents’ name, although loans can be taken out by students with parents’ co-signing.That means that co-signers also are responsible for the debt.

Keep in mind that co-signers may help their child qualify for a lower interest rate because the loan’s rate and fees are typically based on the higher score of the two borrowers, said Mark Kantrowitz, a financial aid specialist and researcher at SavingforCol-

lege. com.

Interest rates are rising for all sorts of consumer loans and are likely to continue climbing through the remainder of this year. But shopping around will help you find the best deal for your situation.

Parents with good or excellent credit scores may be able to pay less on a private loan.

Kantrowitz, recommends applying for loans from several

private lenders to compare the actual interest rate, fees and repayment terms.

Among his shopping tips: Before exploring private loans, check federal PLUS loans, which are made in the parents’ name. Loans carry an origination fee and a fixed interest rate.

Parents cannot at any point transfer repayment responsibilities to their child.

With private loans, compare both the monthly payment and total payments over the life of the loan. A longer repayment term will reduce the monthly payment but increase the total amount due.

The interest rate on variable-rate loans may increase over time beyond the rate on a fixedrate loan. But a variable may be cheaper for borrowers planning to pay the loan off early, Kantrowitz said.

Remember, loans from private lenders don’t generally come

with the same repayment benefits as federal loans, such as incomedriven repayment plans and loan forgiveness options.

Some private lenders offer help for troubled borrowers.

Sallie Mae, for example, offers at least three repayment options.

In addition, some private lenders offer perks, such as cash rewards for good grades, and interest rate discounts for automatic monthly payments (just like federal programs).

Regardless of whether you turn to a private lender or another source, don’t borrow more than you need, Kantrowitz said. If total student loan debt at graduation is less than annual income from a new job, the borrower “should be able to repay the student loans in 10 years or less,” he said.

“Live like a student while you’re in school,” Kantrowitz said, “so you don’t have to live like a student after you graduate.”

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Six tips for parents to make the most of orientation programs

‌I

t used to be that parents packed up the station wagon, drove their son or daughter to college, unloaded the boxes, made their bed, kissed them goodbye, shed a few tears and headed home. Today, colleges cater to parents with comprehensive multi-day orientation programs.

Whether or not this relatively new phenomenon is a response to “helicopter parent� hovering, having more open communication, more information and more services seems to be exactly what parents are craving.

According to College Parents of America, “The 21st century orientation is viewed by schools as a retention and development tool. Schools want you to have a favorable impression from day one so that you will pay your bills on time, and maybe, just maybe, decide to give a little bit more when your child eventually graduates.�

Most colleges and universities schedule parent and student orientations simultaneously. Larger campuses stagger the sessions over the summer and allow parents to sleep in dorms as part of the orientation experience. Smaller colleges and those with many

out-of-state students tend to arrange their orientations around move-in day.

For much of the orientation, students and parents are separated. Students register for classes, and parents learn about campus safety, meal plans, credit cards, health insurance, etc.

Usually there are dozens of concurrent workshops that students and parents attend, dealing with topics such as study

abroad, leadership opportunities, clubs, Greek life, career services, outdoor opportunities, performing arts, first-year seminars, and diversity and multicultural affairs.

Parents and students are joined for videos and presentations on a variety of student services (academic, social, psychological and health) as well as introductions to deans and advisers. During meals and campus tours, parents swap stories, and the anxiety of “first-timers� is slowly soothed.

The funniest moments are the hilariously accurate skits of parents and children adjusting and not adjusting to the “letting go� phase during first semester by the orientation ambassadors.

Here are some tips on how to make the most of parent orientation: ƒƒ Don’t be shy: You have unprecedented access to campus personnel that you’ll likely never have again. Take advantage of this opportunity to meet anyone you think your student might come in contact with, such as the staff at the writing center or health center. ƒƒ Listen: A lot of information is shared

at these orientations. Much of it is standard fare, but some may be particularly applicable to your son or daughter. ƒƒ Take notes on special opportunities: These may include leadership seminars, internship fairs, extensive career services, a learning disabilities center, free peer tutoring, free transportation, mentoring and research opportunities, etc. ƒƒ Join the parent association: At least sign up for their emails and stay informed. ƒƒ Give your student some space: Let them meet their roommates, and let them call the shots. ƒƒ Don’t linger: It’s hard to say goodbye, but just do it.

Remember, colleges are in a “pleasing mode,� which means they are on their best behavior. The campus typically looks spotless, and the food is almost always of a better quality than what is served to students during the academic year.

Lee Shulman Bierer is an independent college adviser based in Charlotte, N.C. Visit her website College Admissions Strategies. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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FINDING A MENTOR

By Greenshoot Media

Balancing your work, education and social life can take a lot of dedication to perform successfully.

It’s easy to get distracted and find yourself rushing to complete assignments or finding it difficult to concentrate on your lessons.

To keep yourself motivated, find a mentor who can provide you with compassionate guidance to lessen your stress levels.

Finding someone you can trust to be a mentor doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, a potential mentor may already be a large part of your life. Try to network with upperclassmen or even professors for their advice.

Their friendship will not only boost your college experience, but it can have a beneficial impact when you begin applying for jobs

yours and casually explain how you admire their achievements and ask if they would be willing to engage in a short meeting.

Ideally, they will accept, and you can propose more frequent get-togethers if the meeting is a success.

Maintaining a Relationship

zinkevych - stock.adobe.com

Vital help. Pleasant senior mentor holding a cup of coffee and helping his young colleague draw a blueprint by pointing at a place requiring correction

someone for friendship and guidance without becoming comfortable with them first.

Asking for Help Instead of being blunt about The initial conversation with a your desire for their advice, you potential mentor may seem intim- should be proactive in identifying idating. It can be difficult to ask a person who took a career path like after graduation.

Once you have found a willing mentor, nurturing the relationship is important to maintain it.

Be adamant about staying in touch where you share achievements and concerns. Over time, you will both become excited to express success stories and push each other to tackle more challenging tasks.

It’s important to reciprocate the friendship if your mentor reaches out to you for ideas or problemsolving. Together, you can share a wholesome relationship that lasts

a lifetime.

Mentorship Programs If finding a mentor proves to be difficult, your university may offer a program where current students are eager to provide their assistance. Check with your career counselors to find out if they have an alumni-mentoring program you can become a part of.

Working with these caring individuals may inspire you to take a similar approach to offer your friendship to incoming students as you progress through college.

If there is no available program, your school’s website will likely offer a database for alumni contact information. You can usually reach out to these graduates through email or a phone call to ask for a minute of their time for a casual conversation.

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