Myths & Facts About College

Let's consider the myths and facts about college.

 

Myth: My senior year doesn't count. Once a college accepts me, it's okay if my grades slip in the last semester.

Fact: It counts against you if you don't stay on track. With more competition for college seats, some colleges are rejecting previously accepted students if their course loads and grades decline. Finish high school as strong as you can and start up college at your best!

 

Myth: The more famous the college, the better it is.

Fact: It is your character such as persistence, humor and warmth, not the name of the college you attended, that will help you stand out in your community and in the job market.

 

Myth: Once you attend a college, you must complete your education there.

Fact: If you realize that the college you have chosen is not the one for you, you can always transfer to another campus. One out of every five students who graduate from a four-year college actually began their education at a different college.

 

Myth: I shouldn't waste my time on national scholarships because too many people apply for them and I won't be competitive.

Fact: Every year, Ohio students receive national scholarships. Be sure to find out about the awards other Ohio students have gotten.

 

Myth: After I apply for scholarships for my freshman year of college, I don't need to worry about them.

Fact: You should apply for scholarships throughout your college career. Don't stop looking for scholarships because financial aid is available for college freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors and even graduate students.

 

Myth: Strong SAT/ACT scores alone will get me admitted in to highly selective colleges.

Fact: High SAT/ACT scores will help your chances, but selective colleges often focus more on your high school transcript to see if you've worked hard in rigorous classes.

 

Myth: My family can't afford private college tuition.

Fact: Students can sometimes get more financial aid if their college costs are higher. If you find a college that fits your needs, apply to it along with other lower cost colleges. You may be surprised by great differences not just in the fees but also in the financial aid offered to you by each school.

 

Myth: You can get more scholarships by paying someone to search for you.

Fact: You should never  pay money to increase your chances for getting scholarships. Beware of scams which promise to find you a scholarship for a fee.

 

Myth: I'm not a straight "A" student, so I won't get financial aid.

Fact: The vast majority of federal financial aid is based on financial need only.