I want to go to college, but I graduated in 2001. I have no idea where to start!?

Question

I am 24 going on 25 in August. I started college right out of high school (even joined the cheer squad) but dropped out about 3 months in, so I didn't earn any credits. I REALLY want to be a Marine Biologist (long term goal) I know it will take a long time for that, but that's what I want to do. Anyway... I am married and work a full time job, so I was thinking about taking some online course. The only problem is, I have limited funds due to monthly bills and such and my credit is horrible! Therefore, I know I can't get a loan. First question; Any recommendations on online courses that I should take? Second question; Any suggestions on how to pay for it? Third question; Will I have to take any entrance exams again?

Please only serious answers =0)

Answer 1

With the costs of schooling so high, many students run into trouble paying their bills and end up with bad credit. Now you may be scared into thinking you cannot complete your education! However, there is still hope for cleaning up these financial messes<!--You can get student loans with bad credit from the government. The interest rates are low compared to other types of loans. If you go through a lender, your interest could be higher. There are different types of student loans with bad credit. . If you are an undergraduate or new student, two of the best student loans with bad credit are the Federal Perkins and the Stafford Loan. Both offer low interest for students.

http://best-loans.awardspace.com/student...

Lets face it, getting a loan with bad credit is hard. You should try for one yourself first, and then if you don't get approved, find a co-signer. These issues with credit created student loans for people with bad credit. There are different types of loans in this category, one being the signature loan. Signature loans are activated-->after the receipt of a signed activation letter. Such a loan does not require a co-signer or collateral like other loans. If you have bad credit or no credit, your parents can help by getting a PLUS loan to help pay your education expenses.

Answer 2

Because of your financial constraints, I suggest you attend a community college first. A CC is very cheap and will allow you to take courses that you can transfer to a university. If you get really good grades while there, it can also help you get scholarships for your university of choice.

Because you've been out of school for so long, you probably will have to take a placement test. When I took mine, the CC tested me on reading comprehension and algebra. The tests will determine if you can take college level English/Math or if you need to brush up first by taking a developmental course.

After that they'll have you see an advisor. At my college, they can get pretty specific with degrees. They do have two year degrees called pre-major in Biology, English, Chemistry Education, etc. If they don't have this degree then try for an Associate of Science. You should also take a look at the university you'd like to attend and see what specific courses they require. If they want someone to take Calculus I, you may be able to get it done at the CC. My community college had a *ton* of online and night courses. I was able to take almost all of my classes online.

For funding, you need to fill out a FAFSA first. Then try Fastweb. You can also research at the library, they do have scholarship books. Once you get to the university, they should have a full section of scholarships students can apply for. The college I attend, UNC Greensboro, seems to cater a bit toward adult students, and they did list outside scholarships. Colleges may also have separate funding for those who are in the honors program, those who show leadership, etc.

You may want to attempt to clean up your credit a bit though. When signing my financial aid package for the university I had to borrow several thousand dollars through federal loans. I also got a bit from a pell grant and special funding through the school for being a needy student.

Good luck and don't give up. I just turned 25 and am transferring to a university in the Fall. You may owe money but I see education as an investment.

Answer 3

Try a community college. They are cheaper and you get the same level of education as you would at a bigger school. Most offer online classes but before you do anything, I recommend you go to the school and talk to an advisor to determine what you need to take to get you on your path. They will help with financial aide and have payment plans for tuition.

I've been where you are and it's hard to balance all that but you can do it!! The first step is the hardest but once you get your first semester out of the way you'll feel like an old pro! Good Luck!