USA Today College Guide 2020

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BOSTON MIT, CAMBRIDGE, MASS. MEET A FEW OF OUR

While The University of Alabama is known for its legendary success in athletics, we have many other legends who are making their mark nationally and internationally in other areas. These are just a few of our legendary alumni.

AUTHORS

Harper Lee Winston Groom Kathryn Stockett Gay Talese Mark Childress Ann Waldron To Kill a Mockingbird Forrest Gump The Help Honor Thy Father Crazy in Alabama Eudora Welty: A Writer’s Life BUSINESS LEADERS

Marillyn Hewson Bruce Culpepper Nan Boden Chris Emerson Sam DiPiazza Vicki Hollub Chairman/President/CEO Retired President Head of Global President Chairman President/CEO Lockheed Martin Shell Oil Tech Partners Airbus Helicopters Mayo Clinic Occidental Petroleum Google ENTREPRENEURS

Millard Fuller Joe Gibbs John Hendricks Thom Rainer Jimmy Wales Janet Gurwitch Founder Co-founder Founder Retired President and CEO Co-founder Co-founder Habitat for Humanity Golf Channel Discovery Channel LifeWay Christian Wikipedia Laura Mercier Resources Cosmetics STAGE AND SCREEN

Sela Ward Jim Nabors Sonequa Martin-Green Michael Luwoye Rece Davis Michael Emerson Emmy Award-winning The Andy The Walking Dead, Hamilton ESPN anchor Lost, actress Griffith Show Star Trek: The Discovery (Broadway) and host Person of Interest

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Untitled-2 1 8/26/19 3:37 PM MEET A FEW OF OUR

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ON THE COVER ABOUT THIS YEAR’S COLLEGE GUIDE

The MacLaurin Buildings at Flip through the pages and find information about Boston MIT, Boston, Mass. featured schools large and small, urban, rural and suburban, across the United States, plus important tips Sela Ward Jim Nabors Sonequa Martin-Green Michael Luwoye Rece Davis Michael Emerson for making the most of your college experience. Emmy Award-winning The Andy The Walking Dead, Hamilton ESPN anchor Lost, actress Griffith Show Star Trek: The Discovery (Broadway) and host Person of Interest STOCK.ADOBE.COM

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CREATIVE DIRECTOR CONTENTS JERALD COUNCIL [email protected] STUDENT LOANS 101 18 Above and Beyond MANAGING EDITOR Get schooled on how to best 22 Identifying Stressors MICHELLE WASHINGTON choose and manage your education [email protected] costs. PAGE 14 Slay Your Essay 24 EDITORS AMY SINATRA AYRES 4 Deadline Guide TRACY SCOTT FORSON STUDY ABROAD HARRY LISTER 7 Post-Secondary School Paths SARA SCHWARTZ Studying abroad can offer lessons DEBBIE WILLIAMS 10 Digital Degrees beyond the classroom. PAGE 26 INTERN 16 Time Management 28 Scores Matter AMBER TUCKER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS HANNAH ADELY, KAREN ASP, BRIAN BARTH, MARY HELEN BERG, EMILY EILEEN CARTER, KAYCEE HUBBARD, KYNDALL HUBBARD, ADAM STONE

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2 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 INTERNSHIPS JUNIOR JOURNEY 4-YEAR GRADUATION OUR GUARANTEES Florida Southern College goes beyond the conventional college experience, guaranteeing each student an internship, a travel-study experience, and graduation in four years. These signature opportunities, combined with our devoted faculty and stunning historic campus, create a college experience unlike any other.

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USAT_CollegeGuide_FullPage.indt 1 7/17/19 3:48 PM Deadline Guide Follow this schedule to keep your college search on track BY COLLEGE FACTUAL

hoosing a college can be may seem obvious, but be sure that each PSAT first in October. If you’re taking overwhelming, and once you’ve school offers the degree program(s) you the ACT route, look into the PreACT to Cstarted your search there are are interested in pursuing. help you prepare. SAT and ACT tests a few key deadlines to keep in mind. • Schedule trips to visit each are offered multiple times throughout Here are priorities for your checklist campus. While the summer may be the year. Take either test once as a and calendar: more convenient for you to do this, junior; then, retake it in the fall of your the optimal time is during the college senior year, if necessary, to improve your ADVANCE PLANNING school year so that you can get a better score. JUNIOR YEAR feel for the campus culture. • Narrow your initial list of colleges FALL to the ones you are most interested in • If you have not already done so, com- WINTER/SPRING attending.

pile a list of colleges that interest you. It • If you plan to take the SAT, take the • Research scholarship opportunities. STOCK.ADOBE.COM

4 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 SENIOR YEAR Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as Oct. 1. TIP FALL The earlier date allows you more time • Meet with your guidance counselor, to prepare your finances and gives who will help you stay on track and colleges more time to prepare financial ensure you create a calendar that helps aid packages. It’s important to you keep track of deadlines. • By September, you should have a WINTER/SPRING stay on top of final list of colleges to which to apply. • Most regular-admission applica- deadlines because The number may vary, depending tions are due in December or January. on how much you want to spend on • College acceptance letters and you will need to application fees (the average fee in financial aid offers generally arrive in juggle studying for 2019 was $43 per school). Your list April. Review and compare financial aid should include two safety schools, two offers with your parents or guardians to tests (high school or three good-fit schools and one or determine which school is offering the and standardized) two reach schools. best deal. If you’ve done your research, • Request letters of recommendation there shouldn’t be too many surprises with completing and work on your essays for colleges in the financial aid packages. applications for and scholarships. • Most schools have enrollment • If you are retaking the SAT or ACT, deadlines of May 1. Let the college colleges and do so no later than December. Have your you’ve chosen know you’re coming and scores sent directly to the colleges you make any necessary deposits. scholarships. want to attend. Applications for scholar- College Factual (collegefactual.com) is a website ships are also due around this time. that helps guide students through the college- • File the Free Application for Federal selection process. STOCK.ADOBE.COM

COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 5 6

COLLEGE GUIDE2020

STOCK.ADOBE.COM Post-Secondary Paths Not all roads lead to a four-year college

eciding the right course of action He notes that students may find while four years of tuition and fees at a for your soon-to-be graduate can their career path while studying at a typical state college average $39,880. Dbe tough. Weighing the cost of community college. Starting salaries, meanwhile, don’t higher education, the job market and There is also a financial benefit. “The vary by much. A general electrician cost of living, families are thoughtfully amount of savings a student can have earns about $57,350 a year, and a considering their options. Here are four during a two-year cycle at a community welder earns more than $40,000 for to consider: college versus starting at a university entry-level positions. That’s not far can add up to over $20,000,” Brasier from the $49,700 starting salary of the COMMUNITY COLLEGE says. “Community colleges also afford average college grad. When deciding if a student is ready students the benefit of residing with Still, trade school has its down sides. for a four-year college, it’s important family to save money, flexible course “Those considering trade school to look at his or her motivation and options and career exploration services may also have to battle the negative academic preparedness. for students who are undecided on a stereotypes that are still out there about “If a student has struggled academi- career path and/or who are looking for blue-collar work,” says Mark C. Perna, cally and does not express interest or a new career path and/or retraining.” author of Answering Why: Unleashing aspirations to attend a four-year Passion, Purpose, and Performance in university, then they may want to con- —Emily Eileen Carter Younger Generations. Also, some may not sider a community college-university be temperamentally suited to manual transfer option,” says Tom Brasier, TRADE SCHOOL work. “It’s important to understand your vice president of student services for Four-year institutions aren’t for personal preferences before committing Asheville-Buncombe Technical Com- everyone. With college costs rising and to a program of any kind.” munity College in North Carolina. a nationwide skills shortage in the “This option allows the student to manual arts, many find trade school For some employers, build their academic skills, improve an attractive option. their grade-point average and seek Experts expect some 3 million job trade school career guidance so they can best deter- openings in the skilled trades by 2028. graduates are a mine the right major choice and then Trade school averages $33,000 in start the university search process.” total, according to DegreeQuery.com, must-have. STOCK.ADOBE.COM

COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 7 post-high school options, placing more responsibility on students who are expected to challenge themselves to reach their own personal and academic goals with less assistance from professors or instructors. Also, tuition costs and fees vary from state to state. Out-of-state students’ tuition cost can increase exponentially. These costs can be lowered through financial aid, loans and scholarships. A state college or university may be the quintessential choice for a student who is responsible and flourishes academically within small student groups and also independently. LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGE Liberals arts schools are four-year universities that offer an undergraduate education across subjects related to the humanities such as history, the sciences, philosophy, music and art. The wide variety of curriculums offered at these institutions allows for students to develop a stronger appreciation for learning. Students who attend liberal arts colleges are given more one-on- one instruction due to smaller class sizes and overall intellectual enhancement. These schools focus on discussion-based education as opposed to lecturing. As CEO of manufacturing company These institutions A liberal arts college allows WCCO Belting in Wahpeton, N.D., students to acquire broad knowl- Tim Shorma depends on trade school also offer gradu- edge, instead of focusing solely graduates to keep production moving. ate degrees in fields on a particular field. This method “The hardest thing is to find people of instruction allows students to who like to do things with their hands, such as medicine, explore different career paths with people who can roll up their sleeves law, business and more flexibility. and do hard mechanical skills: twist These schools can be more a wrench, drill something,” he says. more. expensive than other post-high “The majority of our jobs don’t need a school options. Liberal arts colleges four-year degree.” Students who attend state colleges tend to cost more than $40,000 in and universities are given less one- tuition and fees each year. — Adam Stone on-one instruction from a professor, But don’t let the prices deter as lessons are often lecture-based. you. Available need-based financial STATE SCHOOL OR UNIVERSITY Collaboration with other students aid and scholarships from these Unless pursuing an associate is widely encouraged, according to institutions can significantly lower degree at a community college, scholarships.com, a financial aid and the actual cost of attendance. many students choose to attend scholarship research resource. And Liberal arts colleges may be an universities for four-year degrees. most are financially supported by ideal option for a student who The standard university includes a state government. thrives in environments that foster a variety of colleges and schools such State schools and universities more flexible method of learning. as business, liberal arts and sciences, generally have a larger population engineering, education, music and of undergraduates compared with Kaycee Hubbard is a sophomore majoring in digital and

science, among other things. private institutions and other print journalism at the University of North Texas. STOCK.ADOBE.COM

8 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 A beautiful campus. Inspiring professors. Amazing friends. Responsive. My Radford experience. Resilient. - Fiona Scruggs ’19 Real. www.radford.edu

tempfile_18925691 1 8/13/19 2:55 PM Digital Degrees Is an online education right for you? BY AMY SINATRA AYRES

aking college classes online classes — in this untraditional setting “Even though we have a great deal of gives you the flexibility to do isn’t for everyone. Here’s what experts support for our students and really try Tcoursework when it’s con- say you should consider if you’re to foster as much success as possible, venient for you. That can be very thinking about this option: when it all comes down to it, an online appealing, especially for those with student has to be a little bit more of an full-time jobs or who might have WHAT’S YOUR independent learner,” says Chris Foley, family responsibilities to balance with LEARNING STYLE? associate vice president and director of their studies. Online students need to be self- online education at Indiana University. But working toward a degree or motivated and organized to keep on It’s unlikely that you will bump

certificate — or just taking a few top of their studies. into peers on campus or have the STOCK.ADOBE.COM

10 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 opportunity to stop by the professor’s office after class, so that makes it especially important to be willing to ask for help, says Margaret Oakar, associate director for admissions services and financial aid for Penn State World Campus. Still, Evangeline J. Tsibris Cum- mings, assistant provost and director of UF Online, University of Florida, notes that while it’s helpful for students to be adaptable, “gone are the days of one-size-fits-all programs … a variety of learners may be able to find an online program that suits their unique needs.” DO YOU HAVE THE TIME? Often, online students are balanc- ing a lot of demands, so they need to Because it is quite a commitment.” IS IT A QUALITY PROGRAM? think carefully about how to carve She says Penn State’s online stu- You’re making a big investment, so do out time to dedicate to their studies. dents report spending 10 to 12 hours your research to make sure the institu- “Online learning makes sense for per week on one three-credit course. tion you’re considering is respected. them because they can’t physically While most programs don’t require Potential students should ask, come to a campus or it would just a specific time that you need to be “What is the quality of the degree?” take up too much of their time,” online, you will likely have struc- says Foley. “How much does my Oakar says. “A big consideration is tured deadlines and requirements employer or my potential employer … where am I going to fit this extra for interacting with classmates or respect this institution? What kind of

STOCK.ADOBE.COM time in my schedule each week? your instructor. references will I get out of this? How

The right size. The right setting. The right value. UMW’s the right place to make things happen. MADE FOR THIS

Fredericksburg, VA umw.edu

Untitled-2 1 8/1/19 10:08 AM COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 11 much networking will I have available to me?” Check out the faculty, too. “Do your homework to find out where the experts in your field work, conduct research, actively teach students and shape the curriculum,” Cummings says. “It’s important not to just look for specific courses but find out who teaches.” Oakar recommends researching the school’s accreditation and investigat- ing how its credits would transfer to another institution. She also suggests asking for a sample syllabus, a demon- stration of the learning management system you’d be working in and talking with students about their experience. HOW CAN YOU PAY FOR IT? Students “need to understand the cost of the program,” taking into account any transfer credit and fees, Foley says. “I would also want to make sure that the institution is making a commitment to get me through the degree in my timeline.” Online learners are often older, and therefore being able to put their degree to use quickly is especially important, he notes. Like a traditional program, online students can apply for financial aid and should make sure they understand the difference between a loan and a grant. “Attending college is one of the biggest investments you’re going to make, and you want to feel comfortable that a school you’re considering takes that seriously,” Oakar says. DO YOU HAVE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT? Another financial aspect you might need to factor in is the cost of computer equipment. You’ll need high-speed internet access and should check with the colleges to find out what platforms their systems work on, Oakar says, but a laptop or desktop would be best. Students should be comfortable with using technology, especially email and word processing programs, and should ask the school about the tech support they offer. “We offer a 24/7 tech support and some places do that and other places don’t,” says Oakar. “If you’re having students that are working at 2:30 in the morning, that might be when they need some technical support.” STOCK.ADOBE.COM

12 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 USAToday_SUad_2017.qxp_Layout 1 6/21/17 10:46 AM Page 1

SALISBURY A Maryland University of National Distinction The quality of a private campus with the affordability of a public university. Academic Excellence Accomplished Alumni To find out how Offering 60 distinct programs Nearly 50,000 graduates are Salisbury University is the within four endowed schools, SU taking the lead in the boardroom, right — and affordable — fit is one of those rare universities the lab, the legislature and even for you, visit that celebrates individual talents on Broadway. SU helps put www.salisbury.edu and encourages big ideas. students’ education to work, supporting job searches and National Recognition graduate school applications. SU consistently ranks among the nation’s best in U.S. News Beautiful Campus & World Report and The Home to 8,700 students from Princeton Review. On the field, 32 states and 66 countries, the the Sea Gulls have won 20 NCAA University, a national arboretum, Division III team national is situated between the Atlantic championships. Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. www.salisbury.edu

SU is an Equal Opportunity/AA/Title IX university and provides reasonable accommodation given sufﬁcient notice to the University ofﬁce or staff sponsoring the event or program. Student Loans 101 Get schooled on how to best choose and manage your education costs BY ANNA HELHOSKI

he summer before your fresh- Opt for federal loans before Borrow only what you need — and man year in college means 1 private ones 2 can reasonably repay Tchoosing classes, checking out There are two main loan types: Undergraduate students can borrow your future roommate’s Instagram and federal and private. Get federal up to $12,500 annually and $57,500 figuring out how you’re going to pay loans first by completing the FAFSA. total in federal student loans. Private for your education. They’re preferable because you don’t loan borrowers are limited to the cost Chances are you will need a loan: need credit history to qualify, and of attendance — tuition, fees, room 2 out of 3 students have debt when federal loans have income-driven and board, books, transportation and they leave school, according to 2017 repayment plans and forgiveness personal expenses — minus financial graduate data from the Institute for that private loans don’t. aid you don’t have to pay back. Plan to College Access and Success. Many You may be offered two types of borrow an amount that will keep your consider loans a last resort after federal loans: subsidized and un- payments at around 10 percent of your applying for grants, scholarships subsidized. Subsidized loans — for projected after-tax monthly income. If and work-study. You can get these by students with financial need — don’t you expect to earn an annual salary of submitting the Free Application for build interest while you’re in school. $50,000, your student loan payments Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Unsubsidized loans do. shouldn’t be more than $279 a month, Here are six things you need to know Take a private loan only after which means you can borrow about

about getting your first student loan: maxing out federal aid. $26,000 at current rates. STOCK.ADOBE.COM

14 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 You’ll pay fees and interest at Winston-Salem State University 3 on the loan in North Carolina. You can use it You’re going to owe more than the for transportation, groceries, study- amount you borrowed because of loan abroad costs, personal supplies or fees and interest. Federal loans require off-campus housing. that you pay a loan fee, or a percentage of the total loan amount. The current Find out who your servicer is and loan fee for direct student loans for 6 when payments begin undergraduates is 1.062 percent. If you take federal loans, your debt You’ll also pay interest that accrues will be turned over to a student loan daily on your loan and will be added servicer contracted by the federal to the total amount you owe when government to manage loan payments. repayment begins. Federal undergradu- If you have private loans, your lender ate loans currently have a 5.05 percent may be your servicer, or it may similarly fixed rate, but it changes each year. transfer you to another company. Private lenders will use your credit Find your servicer while you’re history or your co-signer’s to determine Center at Michigan Technical University still in school and ask any questions your rate. in Houghton, Mich. Then, students are before your first bill arrives, says John refunded leftover money to use for Falleroni, senior associate director of After you agree to the loan, your other expenses. financial aid at Duquesne University 4 school will handle the rest in Pittsburgh. They’re also whom you’ll Your loan will be paid out to the school You can use loan money only for talk to if you have trouble making after you sign a master promissory note 5 certain things payments in the future. agreeing to repay. “All the money is Loan money can be used for education- When you leave school, you have a going to be sent through and processed related expenses only. “It’s specifi- six-month grace period before the first through the financial aid office — cally for educational purposes: books, bill arrives. whether it’s a federal loan or a private clothing, anything that is specifically loan — and applied to the student’s tied to the pursuit of education,” says Anna Helhoski is a staff writer at NerdWallet, a USA account,” says Joseph Cooper, director Robert Muhammad, director of the TODAY content partner providing personal finance and

STOCK.ADOBE.COM of the Student Financial Services office of scholarships and financial aid general news and commentary from around the web.

58 What You of our students have 96% jobs or are in grad school within six 41 Need to months of graduation. countries states represented Know About represented Average World-class Adelphi class faculty size Our main campus in Garden City is less 21 University than a one-hour train ride from Manhattan.

Big enough to Let’s see what the give you choices, 60-plus experts say. programs of study We are ranked a Best College for undergrads nationwide and among the Best small enough to Value Schools in the 2019 U.S. News & World Report rankings. feel like home Recognized by Money magazine for excellence in 98.9% Educational Quality, Affordability, of full-time incoming first-year and Alumni Earnings. students received some kind Named a Best College in the of financial aid last year. Northeast by Princeton Review.

Connect with your enrollment counselor: Adelphi.edu/Counselors

Untitled-2 1 COLLEGE GUIDE8/14/19 2020 9:1015 AM Time Management Smart strategies for college-bound students BY KYNDALL HUBBARD

ou are about to begin a new be as detailed or as general as you would of time instead of cramming. Study chapter in your life where you like, but at the very least it should include effectively by limiting your distractions Ywill have the freedom to make important recurring events, such as and putting your phone away. Remember most of your own decisions. The classes, jobs and extracurriculars. Some to take breaks. By the time it’s exam week, flexibility and independence might smartphones even have useful calendar you will feel confident and prepared. be liberating for a while, but you will features that determine travel time to soon find that to effectively manage locations and send reminders to leave, DON’T OVEREXTEND YOURSELF your time, you need structure and helping you be punctual and responsible. As soon as you arrive on campus, you organization. will be bombarded with opportunities How you manage your time will GOOD STUDY HABITS ARE KEY to participate in student activities, clubs determine your success in college. Here Setting a study schedule sounds unnec- and work-study groups. Choose your are a few tips I gained in my first year to essary, but you will be glad you did when activities carefully. Consider a couple help the transition run smoothly: finals week rolls around. Studying doesn’t of organizations and only join more have to be tedious and can be as painless once you’ve settled into college life. You USE A CALENDAR OR PLANNER as reviewing your notes every night for 30 may have the energy to juggle several This is the first step in keeping track minutes. You will retain more information commitments at the beginning of the

of your commitments. Your schedule can by studying consistently over a period semester, but you will eventually find that STOCK.ADOBE.COM

16 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 TIP

Tackle Your Time • Create a to-do list and stick to it • Get enough sleep • Eat well • Exercise • Avoid distractions • Only do one thing at a time • Tackle small tasks first • Enjoy your newfound freedom

SOURCE: PURDUE GLOBAL UNIVERSITY

you are more interested in one or two before bed, get extra sleep. One sleepless EXERCISE rather than five or six. Pace yourself. Be night may start a continuous cycle of long If you find yourself feeling over- selective with your involvements so that midday naps and late nights, putting you whelmed, go for a walk. Take a break you can dedicate your best effort to your in a constant state of catch-up. A good from your studies to hit the refresh responsibilities and not compromise your night’s sleep will give you the energy button and unload some of the stress. physical, emotional and mental health. to effectively manage your time during Exercise is also a great mind-booster. the day, so you can complete your work GET SUFFICIENT SLEEP without taking “power” naps that will Kyndall Hubbard is a sophomore at the University of Instead of scrolling on social media keep you up at night. Missouri, majoring in journalism. STOCK.ADOBE.COM

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Untitled-1 1 COLLEGE GUIDE8/26/19 2020 173:29 PM Above and Beyond Is graduate school for you? BY BRIAN BARTH

ursuing a master’s or doctorate future salary will be higher; you will the opportunity to observe hundreds degree can consume your life, find personal fulfillment through of students move through graduate Pand likely your savings. Before the rigor of advanced academia; you school and into the workforce suggest applying, think carefully about your will make important contributions that those considering an advanced return on investment. to society through your research and degree thoroughly and thoughtfully Of those who complete an under- expertise. But not everyone is cut out examine their potential choices. graduate degree, only 1 in 3 will go on for graduate school. And graduate Kip Wheeler, a professor of literature to obtain a graduate degree. Under- school is not the only path to achieving at Carson-Newman University in Ten- grads are bombarded with reasons they the aforementioned benefits. nessee, says it starts with examining should consider a graduate program: Career counselors, professors and your motivations for pursuing graduate

You will be more employable; your university administrators who’ve had school. “Why do you really want to go STOCK.ADOBE.COM

18 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 STOCK.ADOBE.COM Education that moves mountains inspires greatness. www.mhu.edu North Carolina that location inwestern classroom, anda curriculum inthe campus, achallenging experiences on comes from engaging COLLEGE GUIDE2020 At MHU, ourvalue

19 CAREER to graduate school? Is it because you FIELDS enjoy the idea of being considered smart? Because you’ve been in school so long, you aren’t sure about any other options? Those might not be the best motivations for seeking a degree.” He also stresses that casual interest in an HIGHER EDUCATION area of academia may not be sufficient reason to make the leap. “I often tell Examples of workforce options that my students that graduate school isn’t typically require graduate-level degrees: for people who enjoy a topic — it’s for people who are obsessed with a topic. Graduate students who thrive are the ones who can focus on a single problem for months or years because they feel a compulsion to explore it or solve it systematically.” CONSIDER COSTS In other words, graduate school is not for dabbling. An undergraduate degree is designed for students to explore a range of interests, but if you’re unsure after earning your degree what you want to focus on, consider continuing your exploration in the workforce — where at least you’ll get paid for it. Wheeler offers another bit of advice: “Only accept a position in graduate school if that school will provide financial support, such as tuition waivers as a research assistant or a teaching fellow.” That may sound like an extreme position, but it’s prescient when you consider the hundreds of thousands of dollars in tuition that some schools charge. If you can’t attract such an offer after a bachelor’s degree based on the merits of your academic record alone, you might have better luck after spending a few years developing your Business — economists, securities, commodities and financial services course of life through work experience. sales agents “Amassing huge debt is a poor reward for pouring your heart into graduate Community and social service — sociologists, rehabilitation counselors school,” says Wheeler. Legal — attorneys REALISTIC GOALS Health care — physicians, psychologists, nurse practitioners and clinical One simple way to weigh your graduate school options is to think laboratory technologists in terms of the return on investment you’d like to achieve and then do the Postsecondary education — college professors, and school and research to find out whether your goals career counselors are realistic. With a little digging you can likely — biochemists, Science, technology, engineering and math determine your salary prospects with mathematicians, statisticians, environmental scientists and geoscientists various degree types in your chosen profession (graduate school programs SOURCE: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR range from one year for some master’s programs to more than five

years for many doctorate degrees) and STOCK.ADOBE.COM

20 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 do the math to see whether the pay bump justifies the cost of attendance. Be sure to consider all tuition, fees “Only accept a position in graduate and living expenses, plus the fact that school if that school will provide financial you may need to move to another city, or even another country to obtain support, such as tuition waivers as a your desired degree. research assistant or a teaching fellow.” Then, consider the intangible aspects — time constraints, job demands and – KIP WHEELER, PROFESSOR OF LITERATURE AT CARSON-NEWMAN UNIVERSITY for those with families, commitments. “Grad school is, for most of us, a grind — you’re constantly being corrected, reminded of how much you highest-ranked schools in your subject still have to learn and how difficult it Consider these area, define a specific topic of interest, is to land a job. A rare few thrive in that identify the most highly respected kind of environment,” says Rachel Toor, intangible aspects and widely published scholars on that the author of Write Your Way In: Crafting body of research, and then look at an Unforgettable College Admissions Essay • Time constraints the schools where they teach. Refine and a professor of creative writing • Job demands your search by interviewing faculty at Eastern Washington University in from those schools, and current and • Personal commitments Cheney, Wash. former students, who can paint a • Satisfy intellectual curiosity more candid picture of the culture of the department. It’s not uncommon, FINDING A GOOD MATCH • Spark your passion On the other hand, advanced degrees she points out, that star scholars can be extremely valuable in the job associated with a particular university market if your academic research actually do very little teaching. Your has direct application to fast-growing provides career advice for students goal should be to get as accurate business opportunities, typically in at historically black colleges and a picture as possible about what technical fields such as computer universities (HBCUs), says the bottom you’re getting into, and what you can science and biotechnology. line in the graduate school equation is realistically expect to get out of it, Marcia Robinson, a human resources finding the right match. She suggests says Robinson. “It comes down to the consultant who runs a website that that rather than simply applying to the individual and their unique goals."

Three ways we go above and beyond for our students 1. A college that puts you first — always. You’re mindful of your schedule, you’re smart with your finances, and you want a college that is truly invested in your success. We’re here to help you accomplish your goals in a way that works for you. 2. Prepare for success in a great career. At Goodwin, you’ll get more than just the necessary skills and hands-on experience to be successful — you’ll make professional connections so you will flourish in the workforce. 3. Resources and supports — when and where you need them. You’ll get the one-on-one attention you deserve, along with access to tutoring, counseling, career services, our Academic Success Center, Math and Technology Lab, drop-in child care service, and more. Programs That Lead On-Campus, Online, Classes Start To Rewarding and and Hybrid Programs Six Times Contact us today! In-Demand Careers Are Available Each Year www.goodwin.edu/learnmore Goodwin College is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Consumer information about the College and 800.889.3282 its programs, including gainful employment data, is available at: www.goodwin.edu/institutional-effectiveness/consumer-info-heoa

USAT_CollegeGuide_HalfPage.indt 1 7/16/19 9:57 AM Anxiety, in fact, affects 15 percent of students nationally. “Many people have their first episode of a psychiatric issue between 15 and 22 years old,” says Justin A. Barterian, a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral health and psychologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio. Multiple factors are driving the increase in stress among college students. While some are obvious, others may not be so evident at first. Entering college often means leaving behind family and friends, which can make some people feel untethered. “The typical support systems you had in place are no longer there,” says Colleen Cira, founder and executive director of the Cira Center for Behavioral Health in Chicago. Even if you’re not close to your family or view college as an escape, it comes with a new set of circumstances, people and places to navigate, which can be daunting. This may also be one of the first times you’ve struggled socially or academically. “As a result, your per- ception of yourself might be shaken,” Barterian says. For many students, the academic pressure to perform can also be overwhelming. “Given the cost of college, students often arrive with high expectations of how they’ll perform, especially those who are the first in their family to attend college,” says Elizabeth Gong-Guy, executive director of UCLA Campus and Student Resilience and associate clinical professor of psychology. She’s also noticed an uptick of students who are food insecure and homeless Identifying — factors that can worsen stress. Another surprising source of stress: a growing lack of resilience among young individuals, a trend that may Stressors have roots in a change in parenting styles. “Although I’m a parent and I’m Mental well-being is crucial to academic success not blaming parents, the parenting BY KAREN ASP trend has swung toward eliminating barriers and making sure kids don’t s exciting as this period of Between 2009 and 2015, mental fail or struggle,” she adds. “While life is, transitioning from high health conditions increased among it’s well intentioned, it means young Aschool to college can be stress- U.S. college students, with anxiety, people haven’t been given as many ful. Even if a student is living at home depression and panic attacks rising opportunities to overcome struggles, to attend college, the new experiences the most, according to a study from and that can make it tougher for them

can be overwhelming. the Journal of American College Health. to adjust to college.” STOCK.ADOBE.COM

22 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 Fortunately, you don’t have to wait And you should make sure you you need. “Sleep supports academic until you get on campus to head off balance your activities so that you’re achievement, emotional regulation and that stress. The process can start before not just focusing on academics but healthy immune functioning,” Gong- you arrive by getting as much informa- social and extracurricular pursuits, too. Guy says. It is important to get at least tion about your new environment as This way, if you do start struggling with seven to nine hours of sleep a night. possible, Gong-Guy says. For instance, one area, you’ll have others to fall back If, however, stress begins to you should acquaint yourself with on, Barterian says. overwhelm you, seek help. “Although your roommate, attend the school’s manageable stress can motivate and orientation program or peruse the propel you forward, too much can college’s website to familiarize yourself “Sleep supports paralyze you,” Cira says. As a result, with everything it offers. And if you are you might struggle to get assignments prone to anxiety or depression, check academic done or attend class, or withdraw what resources will be available once achievement, from social engagements and lose you get on campus. interest in activities. In such cases, Students should establish a daily emotional talk with family, friends, your resident routine as soon as possible. “Other- assistant or academic adviser or visit wise, when you’re aimless and find regulation and the student services center to connect yourself with a several-hour block in healthy immune with a mental health professional. the middle of the day with nothing to Some colleges even offer free mental do, it’s easy to get inside your head, functioning.” health screenings. which almost always leads to nowhere In the end, the best antidote for — ELIZABETH GONG-GUY, good if it lasts too long,” Cira says. That stress may simply be embracing the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF UCLA may be because the average individual CAMPUS AND STUDENT RESILIENCE moment. “College is an interesting has seven negative thoughts to every time in human development as you’re one positive thought, Barterian adds. emerging into adulthood,” Barterian So, create a daily schedule where most Self-care is also critical for quelling says. “Yet because that can be scary, of your hours are accounted for, even stress, so you should take time to it’s important to focus on what’s going if that means filling extra hours with exercise, eat healthy, meditate or find on now versus what’s going to happen

STOCK.ADOBE.COM leisure time. ways to be mindful and get the sleep down the road.”

COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 23 Slay Your Essay Use this opportunity to reflect your voice and mindset BY HANNAN ADELY

ompeting for coveted spots in a a compelling essay can reflect a crunch time for students who should freshman class with thousands student’s voice and mindset or provide be drafting their essays. Cof peers, including many with a glimpse into his or her life that a Here are suggestions from a few similar grade-point averages, test transcript alone might not convey. experts on how to write a great col- scores and activities listed on their “This is really where they can lege essay, from brainstorming ideas applications can be daunting and shine,” says Kelly Peterfriend, supervi- to proofreading the final product: stressful for any college hopeful. sor of counseling with the Northern What’s one way to stand out? Highland Regional High School dis- BIG MOMENTS, Experts say well-crafted application trict in New Jersey. “This is a chance SMALL MOMENTS essays can get the attention of admis- for the student to speak to who they Some colleges ask for personal sions officers and propel an applicant are and what they believe and what statements, and others provide a to the top of the heap. Whether they’re passionate about.” With most choice of topics, or prompts, for writing about a life-changing event early action and early decision college students to write about. Applicants

or an acitivity as simple as fishing, applications due Nov. 1 or Nov. 15, it’s can write about ways they had an ef- STOCK.ADOBE.COM

24 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 taught skiing to a disabled and nonver- bal child. He wrote about how the two communicated, and how he felt when he got to see the child ski down his first slope. He expressed that he didn’t realize how much joy he could receive by helping someone else. The story reflected compassion and self-growth. UNFORGETTABLE ESSAYS Shames recalls one unforgettable essay in which a student who was asked to write a page from his future autobiography, offered a story about fishing with his future child — as he had done with his own father and grandfather. “It was beautifully written,” Shames says. “It stuck with me. Here’s a kid who has compassion and respect for his father and wants to create a legacy for this child. That probably (translates) to how the fect on their community or overcame REVISE UNTIL YOU GET IT RIGHT student acts in business and life.” obstacles in life, experts say. “It can be When it comes to the writing pro- Experts caution that while a great small moments told in an interesting cess, Peterfriend encourages students essay can be a “tipping point” to get a or novel way — something that tells to “just write and get it out” with the student noticed in a field of qualified about their character,” says Deborah intent to refine it later. Students should applicants, an essay alone won’t be Shames, a college counselor in New write and revise multiple drafts and enough to get into college. Grades Jersey. “Sometimes the smallest show the essay to a trusted adult, such matter, too. moments make the best essays.” as a teacher, counselor or parent, to “You can have the most amazing For students writing about why proofread and offer feedback. Those essay in the world,” Shames says. they want to attend a certain reading the essay should make sure “(It won’t matter) if the college college or pursue a certain major, the student’s point is coming across isn’t confident that you can come Shames cautions to be specific and and that the topic resonates. But they there and be successful given your advises applicants to cite examples should not attempt to change the academic history.” about what they want to do at that student’s voice. college and how they plan to take For Peterfriend, an essay that stood Hannan Adely is a reporter at the North Jersey (Bergen

STOCK.ADOBE.COM advantage of the school’s offerings. out to her came from a student who County, N.J.) Record FEATURED COLLEGES

Garden City, New York Tuscaloosa, Alabama Lakeland, Florida KEY STATISTICS KEY STATISTICS KEY STATISTICS

Ranked a 2019 Best College by U.S. News & World Report for UA was founded in 1831 and is the oldest public institution of FSC was founded in 1883. our personal approach. higher education in Alabama. Offers 70+ programs of study including business 98.9 percent of full-time incoming first-year students We are ranked #2 in enrollment of National Merit Scholars administration, education, nursing, computer sciences received some kind of financial aid. among public universities in the country. and marine biology.

More than 60 undergraduate programs of study. We are ranked #1 in the SEC in internship placements. Three Fulbright Award recipients in 2019.

96 percent of our undergraduate students have jobs, are in UA’s Astrobotics team has won NASA’s Robotics Mining FSC has been recognized as one of the nation’s best grad school or are volunteering within six months of graduation. Competition for five consecutive years. four-year colleges.

Adelphi.edu/Info ua.edu flsouthern.edu

Adelphi University_Capsule.indd 1 U. of8/14/19 Alabama 9:23 190927 AM Capsule.indd 1 8/19/19 12:40 PM Victor Namer says his experience in Thailand helped ignite his passion — addressing In spring 2018, Julia Ernst spent her first days in Prague taking in the culture and issues of poverty in health care and education. Photo provided by Victor Namer. magical atmosphere in Old Town Square. Photo by Julianne Armbruster. Immersive Experiences Studying abroad can offer lessons beyond the classroom BY ADAM STONE

hen college students take a than 332,000 Americans studied overseas additional depth and breadth to the semester or a year to study in 2016-17, with roughly 1 in 10 U.S. college experience. Wabroad, they discover new students studying abroad during their cultures, build language skills and get a undergraduate careers. ‘A PROFOUND MOMENT’ taste of the world beyond their backyards. Victor Namer and Julia Ernst are As an undergrad at Western Con- A recent study by the Institute of among those who discovered that necticut State University, Namer wasn’t International Education found more an overseas experience can lend sure how he would put his double major

26 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 “In Thailand, I got to see a style of life that was very different, and what I saw there helped to jar me into my passion. I walked half an hour to and from my university every day, and on that walk, I saw homelessness and poverty on a pretty open and regular basis,” he says. “Growing up in Connecticut, I never saw these (kinds of things) so openly, and this experience really inspired me.” FINDING COMMON THREADS A high school trip to Italy sparked Ernst’s desire to see the world. While double majoring in business administration and philosophy at Susquehanna University in Pennsyl- vania, she took a semester in Prague, using the central European nation as a jumping-off point for weekend trips to Ireland, England, Norway, Belgium and Germany, among others. “It was all very different from Susquehanna,” she says. “I knew I wanted to do a lot of travel while I was abroad. I chose a city that had a relatively affordable standard of living so I could have the extra money for travel. I liked that I could use Prague (Czech Republic) as my home base to Namer visits an elephant sanctuary for abused pachyderms that had been rescued. Photo provided by Victor Namer. see the rest of Europe,” she says. Ernst started her semester abroad with a two-week intensive course in psychology and political science to in the Czech language, a move that work after graduation. helped her make the most of her time “I didn’t know what I wanted to do in Prague. with my career; didn’t know what I “They lived under the Soviets for a wanted to do with my life. I felt that if I long time, and everyone there is still could see something completely differ- very reserved. They don’t smile at ent from what I had ever seen, I could strangers,” she says. “But if you even break free from this standstill,” he says. say ‘hello’ in Czech, they open up He found that completely different immediately. If you make even a small experience in Thailand, where he effort to acknowledge their culture, studied the local language, explored they loosen up with you.” Buddhist precepts and saw poverty She then returned the favor, volun- firsthand. teering to teach English in a local after- “I was walking across a bridge school program for elementary students. and there was this blind man just That experience helped her to see that sitting there. I gave him what would despite surface differences, people be a couple dollars in U.S. currency, everywhere have a lot in common. which in Thai currency is a lot, and he When Ernst returned to the U.S., grabbed my arm to thank me,” Namer she knew she wanted to help other says. “He started tearing up. It was a young people broaden their horizons. really profound moment to see how After graduating this past spring, she much good I was able to do, just by took a job with the Pennsylvania Col- doing a little bit.” lege Advising Corps, helping students Namer came home wanting to do to navigate the college admissions more. He graduated this past spring and process. “The world is a lot more went to work with CityCenter Danbury, accessible than people might think,” Ernst says her experience in Prague helped her realize that "the world is a lot more accessible than where he is helping to address issues of she says. “It isn’t hard to learn about people think." Photo by Caroline Muré. poverty in health care and education. a place and become a part of it.”

COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 27 Scores Matter Put your best test forward to improve acceptance odds BY MARY HELEN BERG

our standardized test score may followed by test scores and the rigor fall outside an expected range, says give you the boost you need for of high school programs, according to Mimi Doe, co-founder of Top Tier Admis- Yacceptance to college, but that the National Association for College sions, a college counseling service with depends on the school, experts say. Admission Counseling (NACAC). offices in Massachusetts and Vermont. Overall, colleges consider a student’s Highly competitive schools with low “Very top colleges are not going to grade-point average (GPA) to be the most acceptance rates often won’t consider give you the benefit of the doubt. They’re

important factor on an application, an applicant whose grades and scores data driven,” says Doe. STOCK.ADOBE.COM

28 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 TEST Fortunately, there are hundreds of Weintraub, a college admissions PREP schools to choose from (the average consultant who advises students in acceptance rate at four-year institu- Los Angeles. tions is 65 percent) even when an applicant’s GPA is lower than average. APPLY WISELY Options for High test scores can persuade many Look at smaller schools that admissions officers to take a second conduct a holistic review of Every Budget look, says David Hawkins, executive applications because they are director for educational content and more likely to consider how other • The Princeton Review offers a policy for the NACAC. elements of your application influ- money-back guarantee on their enced your grades, experts say. prep course, promising to raise SAT THE GOOD NEWS “They have fewer applicants and scores from 1160 to 1400 or higher. Colleges recognize that a GPA they have the time to dig a little can be subjective because students deeper and can look at why the • The College Board and Khan Acad- take classes with different levels of grades are kind of low,” Doe says. emy offer eight free full-length SAT rigor, says Robert Durkle, dean of In addition, colleges that want to practice tests. admission and financial aid at the boost their standing may be eager University of Dayton. to enroll an applicant whose test • The Princeton Review, College Low grades and high test scores score helps raise the mean of their Board, McGraw-Hill, Barron’s and “generally signal to an admission of- overall student profile, Doe says. others publish test prep books for ficer that they might need to consider Admissions officers are some- about $30. an applicant in a different context times suspicious of a disparity because it is difficult to dismiss a between scores and grades. If a • Revolution Prep, Kaplan, The high test score,” Hawkins says. student has a 2.75 GPA and a high Princeton Review and Arbor- The bottom line is, “if you have a SAT score, he might look like a Bridge offer classes online, in high score on the SAT or the ACT, it slacker or “one might suspect small groups and with private indicates to a college that you have that (the test score) was not won tutors. Prices range widely. the goods to succeed,” says Joyce honestly,” cautions Weintraub.

Who are we? Mississippi Valley State University is a public, coeducational university serving more than 2,000 students from diverse backgrounds. Established in 1950, MVSU is the youngest institution and HBCU in the Mississippi HONORS Public Universities System. The University is fully accredited and offers 36 undergraduate and graduate FOR ALL degree programs. The beautiful campus is located in When you choose St. Mary’s College honors-level the heart of the Mississippi Delta. It’s a great place to education, you’re asking for something special: elevated academics, a pathway to a prosperous career, prestige discover yourself. without the pretentiousness, and professors who genuinely care about your success. Learn more. www.smcm.edu

To learn more about The Valley, contact the Office of Admissions at 662.254.3347, 800.GO2.MVSU (in-state), or visit www.mvsu.edu

COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 29 Untitled-2 1 8/19/19 10:45 AM Best Undergraduate#1 Teaching

#2Overall See our excellence in action during a visit to our suburban Cleveland campus: jcu.edu

Best#7 Value

FEATURED COLLEGES

Dover, Delaware Greenwood, South Carolina Nashville, Tennessee KEY STATISTICS KEY STATISTICS KEY STATISTICS

Delaware State University was founded in 1891 as a land- Public, coeducational, four-year university founded in 1872. Lipscomb University is a premier, private, Christian university grant institution. located in Nashville, TN Approximately 3,100 students, with an average class size of 21. We are one of the nation’s premier Historically Black Colleges 75+ majors and 145+ areas of study | Top 5 majors: and Universities, with a diverse campus community. More than 60 areas of study offered, including high-demand, Engineering, Business, Nursing, Education and Pre-Med | market-driven signature programs. Distinctive Programs: Sustainability; Game Development; We offer 60+ undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree Animation; Commercial Music; and Law, Justice & Society programs across four colleges. Vibrant campus life with 60+ student clubs and organizations, 25+ intramurals and club sports, and 16 NCAA Div. II Best Values in Private Universities - Kiplinger | #1 Under- Our Aviation program has its own plane fleet and 100% athletic programs. graduate Business Program in Tennessee | #1 IT Degree in placement of professional pilot graduates. Tennessee | Top 1% National Teacher Preparation Program

desu.edu lander.edu lipscomb.edu

30 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020 Lander University 190927 Capsule.indd 1 8/21/19 9:28 AM It All MATTERS.

• Diverse campus community ranked among the nation’s premier Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)

• Degree programs that connect with high-demand career fields

• Aviation program with its own fleet of aircraft and 100% placement of pilot graduates

• State-of-the-art laboratory facilities and major research centers on campus

• 91% of our recent graduates were employed or attended graduate school within 6 months of their degrees

DESU.EDU 302.857.6351 FEATURED COLLEGES

Itta Bena, Mississippi Radford, VA KEY STATISTICS KEY STATISTICS

“One Fee @ The V”—MVSU has no out-of-state tuition fees. An American classical campus located in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, with many outdoor activities and MVSU offers 35 unique programs, including 100% online options. engaging opportunities

With a faculty ratio of 13-to-1, MVSU provides the classes you A mid-sized public institution with a low student to professor ratio need and the personal attention you deserve. Living-learning communities for a wide range of interests MVSU has one of only seven accredited graduate environmental health programs in the nation. 36% of students are first-generation and 31% of students are from diverse backgrounds

www.mvsu.edu radford.edu

MISSITY00001-USAT_Capsule_180925.indd 1 11/2/18 10:36 AM

East Hartford, Connecticut Fredericksburg, Virginia KEY STATISTICS KEY STATISTICS

Undergraduate enrollment: 3,477 (Fall 2018) Within an hour’s drive of both Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Virginia Student-to-faculty ratio: 10:1 (Fall 2018) Offers unique internships, research excursions, and Program focus areas: nursing, healthcare, business and recreational opportunities management, manufacturing, safety and security, and social and educational sciences 88% of faculty have earned a doctorate or other terminal degree in their field Goodwin College is a private, nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission No classes are taught by graduate teaching assistants ever of Higher Education (NECHE).

www.goodwin.edu umw.edu

Goodwin 190927 Capsule.indd 1 UNION00004-USAT_180927_Capsule.indd8/14/19 2:24 PM 1 11/2/18 10:15 AM

Saisry, Marya St. Mary’s City, MD KEY STATISTICS KEY STATISTICS

alisbury niersity is known for excellence in public Ranked one of the best public liberal arts schools in the nation higher education. (U.S. News & World Report) and a Best College for your Money (Money Magazine). The niersity is home to 8,700 students from across the .. and around the world. 10:1 student to faculty ratio.

tudents may choose from 0 undergraduate majors, Tailor an experience that aligns your interests with 78 majors, masters degrees and doctoral programs. minors, and interdisciplinary programs.

The beautiful 00acre campus is located on Marylands 94% of students employed or continue education astern hore, near beaches and major cities. after graduation.

.ssu.edu smcm.edu

32 COLLEGE GUIDE 2020

SALISTY00010-USAT_180925_Capsule.indd 1 11/2/18 9:55 AM DEEP FAITH. ROBUST ACADEMICS. INCREDIBLE SETTING.

Looking for a challenging academic experience that builds your faith? Northwest University could be your best fit. Here, students actively pursue God as they train for their careers. And NU is set in an exceptional, thriving location—near Seattle, Washington—just minutes from world-class brands and unmatched outdoor recreation.

Find out more at northwestu.edu.

Untitled-3 1 10/21/19 1:39 PM Crew Squad Besties Boos Fam Bros Baes Peeps

Whatever you call your friends, you’ll find them here.

BEST REGIONAL COLLEGES PRINCETON REVIEW SOUTHEASTERN

STAUNTON, VIRGINIA / MARYBALDWIN.EDU