Thursday, October 28, 2010

MBTI Interpretation

Been at a conference the last few days.

I'll be doing the MBTI interpretation in class tonight.

Friday, October 22, 2010

2011 Student Essay Contest

This is a fairly easy one and most of you should qualify. It is for $1,500 and provided by Community College Week.

EssayContest@accbd.org

Money Management Tips #27 to #33

#27 Take advantage of student discounts.
#28 Don't let car expenses drive you crazy.
#29 Keep track of your student account.
#30 Plug everyday spending needs.
#31 Create a budget and stick to it.
#32 Build good credit.
#33 Avoid credit card pushers.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Money Management Tips #21to #26

#21 Talk to your roommates about money issues.
#22 Compare the cost of an apartment with the cost of a dorm room.
#23 Pay the rent on time.
#24 Set ground rules regarding money.
#25 Resist peer pressure.
#26 Separate needs from wants.

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Money Management Tips #15 to #20

#15 Look for a job on campus.
#16 Turn a hobby or a skill into a money-making endeavor.
#17 Take time now to prepare for your career.
#18 Choose the meal plan that works for you.
#19 Save on snacks.
#20 Use the dorm or campus computers instead of buying your own.

Monday, October 18, 2010

Money Management Tips #10 to #14

#10 Use loans as the last resort.
#11 Understand your student loan obligation.
#12 Submit a new FAFSA every year.
#13 Talk to your financial aid officer if your situation changes.
#14 Make school your first job.

Friday, October 15, 2010

Money Management Tips #6 to #9

Remember, I will elaborate on these in class. Here are the next four tips:

#6 Don't bounce checks.
#7 Understand your financial aid.
#8 Keep looking for financial aid.
#9 Watch out for scholarship scams.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Money Management Tips

The National Endowment for Financial Education recently made a booklet available online which ties in with the money management section of the scholarship class.

In the next eight days, I will be posting the money management tips in the booklet.

Here are the first five tips which I will elaborate on in class:

#1 Take charge of your life and your money.
#2 Know the ground rules
#3 Get organized
#4 Protect your personal information
#5 Find the best deal for your checking account

In the meantime, check out www.smartaboutmoney.org

Success

"Success seems to be connected with action. Successful people keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don't quit." Conrad Hilton

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

College and University Day

Please remember to attend the University Transfer Fair today in the Multi Purpose room in the CSSC. It is scheduled from 10:00 to 1:00. See you there.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Scholarship Contests

The focus of the scholarship class and the money workshops given at the college is real scholarships. These require that you meet eligibility requirements and submit an application which contains very critical components like a personal essay and letters of recommendation.

When searching for money for college, this process requires applying for many scholarships on a regular basis. Remember the more you apply for the better your chances of receiving an award.

Since you are trying to cast as wide a net as possible, also consider entering scholarship contests. These usually require the minimum information like your name and contact information. These are based on luck, but could lead to a few extra dollars for your college education.

You may come across these online or in monthly magazines. Keep your eye out for every opportunity which might bring in cash for college.

Monday, October 11, 2010

U-Promise

U-Promise is a great way to earn money for college through your regular purchases at grocery and drug stores, online shopping and a number of other services.

The first step is to register every credit card you have with them or to apply for a special credit card which gives a percentage of purchases and services. In addition, ask family and friends if they will participate to benefit you and your educational goals.

Google U-Promise for more information on how the program works.

A number of years ago I registered my four grandchildren. A good source for extra money--give it a try.

Friday, October 8, 2010

NISOD Scholarship

The National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development NISOD)scholarship is an easy application that all of you should (must) complete. Just being a community college student qualifies you.

For a complete list of prizes, contest details, and to submit an essay, visit:
www.nisod.org/student_essay The deadline is November 8, 2010. Contestants will be notified by Monday, February 07, 2011.

Don't miss this opportunity to win $1,000.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Scams

Sad to say,there are many individuals who do not have your best interest at heart. You are lured by guarantees of customized scholarship searches and actual financial awards. There is even an organization that will complete your FAFSA application for a preposterous fee.

Do not pay any application fees, advance fees on scholarship loans or get involved with any "guaranteed" scholarship search services. I would also stay away from free seminars for financial assistance. Sometimes you gain some useful information, but these seminars are usually a front for financial aid consulting services that charge healthy fees.

Be safe. You are trying to win money for college and not spending hard earned money.

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Thank You Letter

By now you should have your three letters of recommendation--preferably four or five.

Have you send a thank you letter or card? Did you include a little something like a book mark or even a candy bar?

Prior to sending your letter or card, be sure you make a copy for your portfolio.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

First Paragraph of Essay

Many of you neglected to submit your first paragraph. It was due last week.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Coca Cola Scholarship

If enough students sign up, I will be happy to repeat the hour and a half long workshop that I gave last Friday on the Coca Cola scholarship application. Although you may feel comfortable applying without direction, you increaase your chances with more information and tips.