Whether you are a student right out of high school or in your mid 40’s there are some key things to keep in mind before attending a college.  College is a great time in everyone’s life.  To make sure you keep it as simple and enjoyable as possible try to keep these few things in mind:

Know what you want to go to school for.  When you are about to attend a college you should have a pretty good idea what field you want to study.  Even if you don’t know the exact job just narrow down your interests to one subject.  So let’s say you want to go for nursing, try not to still consider something interesting like marketing.  Try to focus on one main area to avoid taking classes you don’t need.

Know if you want to stay or go.  Once you’re about to attend a college know whether you would like to go away to college or go to a community college. They both have their advantages to consider:
- Community College:  Community colleges are great because they are close to home, you are able to work a job easier and they are a lot more reasonable in price.  I suggest a community college for the first two years of your schooling to get your general education classes out of the way.  There is no sense in going away to college to take general ed. classes at a high rate when you get them for almost half the price at a community college.
- Going away:  Going to a university is a great experience to get away from home and to live on your own.  This is also an excellent way to learn responsibility and get the real college atmosphere.

Know your numbers.  Going to college can be very expensive so make sure you choose a college that fits your financial level.  If you are on a tight budget and still want to go away, try taking your general education classes at a community college to avoid paying the high costs of a university class.

How will you finance college?  Try to have a plan on how you will be able to afford college.  If you have money set aside you are ahead of yourself, and to a good start, if not that is okay try to consider loans.  If you need to consider loans do your research on the best plans for you.  If you have scholarships make sure you take advantage of them!  Try and get as many as possible, they will save you a ton of money.

College vs. jobs.  College can be a lot of work so make sure you are able to balance having a job and going to school.  Keep your hours at work to a minimum, and make school first.  You are going to school to get a better job, just keep that in mind.  It is hard to do but if balance them both well you will be just fine.

There is a lot to think about when getting ready to go to college but don’t let it stress you out.  Just have patience, work hard, have fun and be able to balance both a job and school.  If you already have plans for these points stated above just think of yourself ahead of the game!