Making College Affordable

The College and Career office recently hosted Bill Bufkins and Niel Michielsen from Thrivent financial services for a College Planning and Financial Workshop at ECHS. This has become an annual tradition and one that I look forward to each year. Here were four takeaways from this year’s presentation:

1. There is no such thing as a dream school. We have a tendency to romanticize the college admissions process as if it were a journey to find your true love. The truth is, you can reach our academic, career, and personal goals at many colleges.  
2. Pay attention to the out-of-pocket costs. We often focus our attention on the amount of scholarships received or the initial sticker price of a school. In the end though, all that matters is what you are actually paying the college per year.  
3. No, there are not trillions of dollars in outside scholarships just waiting for your son or daughter to snatch up. The truth is, the vast majority of financial aid will come from the government and from the colleges. Choosing what schools to apply to is the most important aspect of making college affordable.  
4. Consider community college. This may not be the best option for everyone, but students can take classes at a fraction of the four-year college prices. This is why EC is working with Geneva College to host an anticipated satellite campus at EC’s North Haledon campus where students will be able to earn accredited associate degrees in General Studies, Business, Engineering, and a one-year Pre-Nursing track. 

By: Ben Fuller

Ben Fuller is the College & Career Counselor at Eastern Christian School.

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