Getting Ready For Your Next Chapter

Hey Baby Jags!

You're all coming to the end of the road and getting ready to close a large chapter of your life. You may be excited, you may be nervous.. I must admit, I was a little of both. There are a few things you can do to help you prepare for your transition to college. These things definitely helped me be comfortable as I left home and started the next chapter of my academic career.

First of all, SCHOLARSHIPS. My entire last semester was devoted to finding scholarships in my community and surrounding areas that I could apply for. College is expensive, as we all know. Many students do not realize how much money is available to them if they just search. Your guidance counselor at your high school should be able to lead you in the right direction if you aren't sure where to start and I would also suggest searching online for scholarship possibilities. Most are simple applications with short essays to accompany them and most people are not aware of many of the scholarships offered so you have a great chance of being awarded large amounts of money. This was extremely helpful to me because it took a lot of the financial stress of college off of my parents!

Second, start connecting with people who are also attending your college of choice. At South Alabama, we have a Facebook group (USA Class of 2021) which many of you are a part of. This is a great way to meet people so when you get on campus you have people who you can talk to, go to the caf or student center with, and help you get used to your new college routine. Making connections beforehand makes watching your mom drive away and leave you at your dorm much easier!

Lastly, cherish every moment you have left in your hometown surrounded by your high school friends. The group of friends I went to high school with are still my best friends today and being away from them was extremely hard to get used to, especially because I was the only one who left my hometown of Troy and came to South. Enjoy all of the time you have with them because although you will make amazing lifelong friends in college, nothing can compare to your squad back home :)

Good luck to all of you as you finish your last few months of high school.

Love & light xx

Laura

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3 Tips

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