Gearing up for College....YES ALREADY!

You may be thinking, "Gosh, fall semester doesn't get here for a looong time!" so why should I start now? Well, my friends, the answer is very simple: M*O*N*E*Y!

February is national FAFSA month. FAFSA.gov is the website now for the all-inclusive petition for educational grants.  Yep, it takes them (the govy) this long to process all the requests and get you your cheese before the next academic year begins. 

You're going to need your tax information, your social security number, and all the other routine personal info in order to completely fill out this on-line form.  So, gather all that first, then log on. 

Some financial options to consider:
1-LOANS are available to ALL who ask...they have to approve you for education.  Loans (the college's Financial Aid office will help you with the details) do NOT have to be paid back until you finish your degree, unless you drop out...then you must start repaying after 6 months of inactivity.
2-SCHOLARSHIPS are there for anyone who has the gumption to apply.  If you are particularly good at one field, e.g., photography, make a portfolio (a fantastic one of your work) and go directly to the Art Department of the college you intend to attend. Get an appointment with the Dept. Head and SELL YOURSELF. This attitude and plan works well no matter what you're good at doing....computers, writing, performing.  These Heads have power to grant departmental scholarships.  If you're good at nothing, then make sure you at least earn a 3.75 your first semester of college. Once you secure that GPA, you can apply for the "academic scholarship" at most institutions and receive at least half-tuition!

It's so easy to put off college with the normal excuses. [I don't have money. I'm too old. I'm happy with my job at McDonalds.]  The truth is you're not getting any younger, and certainly not getting any smarter. 

Finally, if you're in real crisis--single parent-types, etc., you can always seek out your state's Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.  This little-known, little-used government outlet can pay for your day care, gas to commute to school, even tutors! You only need call and set up an appointment. They are very helpful--that, and they need customers to keep their jobs.

If you have any more suggestions on getting money for college (besides illegal means) please post a comment. Helping others is always encouraged!