I thought I was ready for the big jump, transferring to a university.
I was excited. I had all my paperwork done and turned in by May. I was happy and proud. School didn’t start for another three months. I could relax and waltz into my classes Aug. 23.
When most students go to college, they don’t really think about the soon-to-be future of transferring or the requirements and deadlines for acceptance into a university.
My FAFSA wasn’t processed, and I missed out on scholarships that very well could have made my life easier. The university of my choice had failed to process my FAFSA until three days before school started. I was stuck in a very hard place — take out a $6,000 loan or rush back to community college for more basics and graduate a semester later.
I was frustrated that no one voluntarily told me the ins and outs of a university, the best times to file a FAFSA, the required GPA to get a transfer scholarship and the application process. How could this happen? I did everything right on my part.
I set out to investigate and find the right answers. I found out that if you want a transfer scholarship, there are deadlines, and they vary per university. Additionally, I found out the university doesn’t always give you the allotted amount for FAFSA. The actual amount is based on a first-come, first-served basis. So in January, you should file your taxes and submit your FAFSA to the universities of choice to ensure you receive as much aid as possible.
The responsibility is on you to make sure everything gets done right. Don’t be afraid to contact the financial aid department and see what the status is on your government aid. Research each school’s scholarships, and contact their office to ask questions and double-check deadlines. And it definitely doesn’t hurt to put a face to the name and meet the people who could help you.
If you’re thinking about moving on to a university, there is plenty of research to be done. Take advantage of the advisors here to help you bridge the gap between TCC and the university. Earlier is always better, and the coming winter break is a great opportunity to get all your ducks lined up.
