So I dunno. I came up with what I think is a decent enough idea that's actually useful for people: namely a seminar on how to go to college without going broke:
a.) Start at community college. This alone will save you thousands, perhaps tens of thousands of dollars. You can transfer later with an associates degree to a four year place. The "core" classes are basic stuff and pretty much the exact same thing as at the expensive school.
b.) If at all possible, have the kid live at home. Rent is expensive and dorms are expensive things they shove you into with another kid in close quarters. Avoid them.
c.) Rented Text books. Seriously book stores are a total rip off and the sellback values are insanely low. Pennies on the dollar.
d.) Socialization, safely and in moderation. CAB (commuter activity boards) whether the kid lives on campus or not.
e.) Student loans (between you and I, the bane of a generation). I worked in a financial aid office all through college. I know all the ins and outs. Unfortunately the FAFSA eligibility changes each freaking year, so it isn't like I can predict aid packages, but I know the red flags to look for that will make the people in the back turn on you. I know how to file it and keep records of it with the least amount of headaches. I also know all the ins and outs of "verification" and tax information.
f.) Personal finances: how to and how not to. You'd be amazed the number of people this hoses over.
g.) Alcohol and drugs, and other concerns: Focusing on criminal law and practical problems. Drunk driving and underage consumption law. Medical and academic problems.
h.) Working through college: experience, networking, and managing your time.
i.) Food: welcome to the discount grocery store. The food is just as good and cost 30% less.
j.) How to pick a major, it isn't just "doing what you feel like," if you want a job.
k.) How to make the most of college: studying, fun and career.
Now, some of you, having been through college, might know this already, and maybe you had to learn it the hard way. You'd be amazed how people simply don't know. Knowledge is freaking expensive and nobody tells these people any of this.
I dunno. It might be a way to actually help people, because I swear, people really do not know any of this stuff, and nobody really tells them.
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Topic: [MILK] There were 12 eggs here what did you do with them? (Happy thread?!) (Read 16180961 times)