In a previous life, I worked in college advising and freshman programs. My particular area of focus was (and still is, but I’m working “farther upstream” by teaching K-5 special education now!) helping prospective first-generation college students. This includes not just preparing for and being accepted by colleges, but also study skills and financial strategy.
Long story short, while I talk often with my younger students about their visions for their futures, my skills in college advising often go unused. All the more reason I was ready and willing to help my older son prepare to apply for college…. except… he can’t hear it from mom. So I told him I would write down the most salient points, and let him steer his own ship.
Once I had finished writing these tips, I decided to share them on this blog in case they are helpful to any other young people. So here are some NC college strategies: