10 things I wish I knew before being in my 5th year as an Undergraduate

  1. Do your research on what grants and scholarships are only good for 4 years. This will help you plan ahead in your finances.
  2. Your financial aid works over summer term, it does not get divided into 4 terms but rather gives you a separate amount for summer.
  3. Access codes usually work for up to a year of when you take the class. If you are taking a series it saves you money if you take them all the same year. Also, if you fail the class (because we know it happens) retake the class before your access code expires. 
  4. Network and volunteer throughout your undergrad career, trying to fit everything into your senior year is very stressful. 
  5. That being said plan out your senior year know when your last set of classes are offered and most importantly don’t forget to register on time, classes do fill up.
  6. Do your own research on what classes you can double dip in. For example psych 201 counts for a bacc core but, it also counts towards a lot of degrees ‘s requirements. It might save you a fifth year.
  7. Apply for SNAP benefits, buying grocery adds up real quick and with the new SNAP requirements it has made it easier to qualify as a student. Stop by the HSRC if you need assistance with the application.
  8. Apply for scholarships such as scholar dollars every year. You would be surprised on the number of scholarships available that you can qualify for.
  9.  Find ways to save money on things that make you feel good, such as coffee and shopping without breaking your bank. Aka take advantage of student discounts using platforms such as pocket points. Stay tuned for a more detailed blog on all student discounts available. 
  10.  Lastly, taking advantage of the resources available at the HSRC. Sometimes you may think that you need the resource but do not realize the amount of stress that gets relieved once you are able to relocate your funds which reduces the financial burden. Check out our website for a full list of resources offered.