Chapter 4 Maximize Your Resources

Self-Management “Using a credit card is easy-in fact, much too easy. Before I knew it, I had rung up thousands of dollars, and I can barely handle the minimum payments. In addition to credit card debt, I have student loans to pay back. I feel like I’ll be in debt forever.”

Think of a time when you were saving up money for something. What were you saving up for? How difficult was it? What sacrifices did you have to make?

Focus on Planning Going to college is a big change. – What changes have you noticed?

Explore Your School’s Resources Many students who have graduated say they regret not being involved in more school activities. Your college experience will be more rewarding if you take advantage of all the resources provided to you.

Different Types of Resources People Resources: advisors, faculty, classmates, and counselors Program Resources: offices for special needs, areas of study, groups, clubs, and activities Online & Information Resources: catalogs, guides, local news, and events Financial Resources: financial aid

People Resources Academic Advisor: – One of the most important contacts you will have – You’ll want to talk with your advisor about the following: The requirements for your major The best sequence of classes and when certain classes will be offered If certain instructors are better suited to your learning style General education and other requirements Helpful suggestions concerning your academic program Resources at school or in the community that may help you Service learning and volunteer programs that are available Internships, work study programs, etc Potential career opportunities

People Resources Instructors: view your instructors as resources Mentors: – A mentor is a person who is a role model and supports your goals, takes an interest in your personal development, and helps you achieve Peers: – Networking: enriching yourself by building relationships with others Get to know other students in class. Get to know students out of class. Get to know your instructors. Join clubs. Work on campus. Attend campus events.

Program Resources Advising: – Professional advisors will help you plan your general education. They will review your transcripts and perform degree checks. – If you are coming from high school you will want to make sure AP classes have been credited. If you transferred you will want to know what classes were accepted and whether they were accepted as general education or electives.

Program Resources Admissions, Records, & Registration: – All your records are kept at these offices. Also, the registrar can help you with graduation deadlines and requirements. Learning Centers – Learning centers can help you with academic problems and grade improvement. – They offer workshops in various areas and may offer individual or group tutoring, study groups, and study strategies.

Program Resources Library: – Make sure to check out: The Library’s Website: electronic resources may be available The catalog DVDs, CDs, Videotapes, etc Reserves Career Center: – Will help you if you are undecided about your major and can help you find part time jobs or internships.

Program Resources Health Center – Take advantage of free or low-cost medical services for illnesses, eating disorders, alcohol or drug problems, birth control information, sexually transmitted diseases, etc Mediation & Conflict Resolution – Provides assistance in solving problems with instructors, roommates, other students, etc. Counseling Center – Group and individual counseling

Program Resources Student Activities Office: – Provide activities for students to participate in Student Union: – Area that includes dining, services, lounges, etc Athletic Programs & Centers: – Check out exercise and physical activity classes; swimming, the weight room, track, etc

Program Resources Alumni Association: – Discounts, travel arrangements, benefits, etc for graduates Security: – Escort for night class students, self-defense courses, etc

Additional Online Information & Resources School Catalog: – Gives you information regarding guidelines, graduation requirements, information on services offered, etc Orientation Guide: – Student handbook Schedule of Classes: – What classes are being offered School Newspaper: – Campus news and events

Students with Disabilities Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, colleges are required to provide services and resources to students with disabilities. – It is recommended that students with disabilities: Check out resources Meet with instructors Meet with advisors Be assertive Be positive and focus on your goals

Commuter Students Commuter students make up the largest number of college students. – Participate in school activities. – Use on-site resources. – Get support from your family and friends. – Connect with other students. – Tape lectures.

Returning Students These are non-traditional students. 1/3 rd of students are over age 25 and many are well over age 40.

Explore Your Community’s Resources People Resources: – Your community is made up of people who can provide you with resources. Business Professionals Government Officials Political Parties Counselors

Explore Your Community’s Resources Program Resources: – Chamber of Commerce – Clubs and organizations – Recreation Centers – Child Care – Health Care – Houses of Worship – Job Placement Services – Crisis Centers – Support Groups – Helping Organizations

Additional Online & Information Resources Community Telephone Directories Local Newspapers, Magazines, etc Local Libraries

Managing Financial Resources The average college undergraduate has $19,000 in student loans. 8% owe more than $40,000. The average college student has $2,700 in credit card debt. Almost 10% owe more than $7,000. More than 75% of college students have their own credit card. 30% have 4 or more credit cards. In 2006, over 2 million people filed for bankruptcy. The average college student spends more on beer than textbooks. – Why do you think so many people are in debt?

How to Manage Your Financial Resources Keep a Budget. Research financial assistance. – Make sure you apply for financial aid. You may get grants, which you don’t have to pay back. School scholarships and grants. Pell Grants Loans – Stafford & Perkins loans are low interest and don’t need to be paid back until you graduate Work Study

Community Scholarships and Grants Veterans Programs Programs for the Unemployed

Please realize that not even bankruptcy saves you from having to pay back student loans, so make sure you are using them wisely.

Avoid Credit Card Debt Have a budget Don’t exceed your limit Pay on time

Protect Your Identity Never respond to phone calls or s that ask for personal information Get a free yearly credit report at

Save for the Future Pay yourself first – When you get paid put some of your money into your savings account Shop wisely Pay cash Inventory your every day expenses Pay your bills on time Avoid pay day loans Use public transportation when possible Stay healthy Look for free opportunities Conserve energy Get a job. Spend less than you earn.

If you are in trouble… Get Financial Help!!! – Admit you have a problem and get professional help.