The document outlines the importance of college preparedness, highlighting the advantages of obtaining further education, including increased earning potential and decreased unemployment risk. It provides a timeline for high school students to plan their college journey, emphasizing academics, extracurricular involvement, and financial aid resources. Additionally, it encourages campus involvement for a fulfilling college experience and offers contact information for further inquiries.

1. Kirksville High School College Preparedness Night

2. What do we mean by college?Any additional education beyond high school 4 year collegesTruman, Mizzou2 year collegesMACC, IHCCVocational and technical programs KATC, Linn State Technical College

3. Why go to college?Every bit of education you get increases your earning potential - the average salary of a high school graduate is $15,000 less per year than a person with a Bachelors degree.. Better yet, further education decreases your odds of unemployment.

4. Demand According to one estimate, by the year 2028 there will be 19 million more jobs for educated workers than there are qualified people to fill them.

5. TrainingToday, most good jobs require more than a high school diploma. Businesses want to hire people who have diverse experiences, know how to think, and can solve problems.

6. Further education makes it easier to change careers in an evolving world – it’s rare that a person sticks with one occupation these days.Experiences Education beyond high school gives you a lot of other benefits, including meeting new people, taking part in new opportunities to explore your interests, and experiencing success.

7. PreparednessThe more planning you’ve done, the more accessible college will be.#1 tip: Focus on your school work – academic performance is the single most powerful factor in the college admissions process. This means not only strong grades, but taking challenging courses.

8. Freshmen YearInquire about taking Advanced Placement courses and Dual EnrollmentTalk to adults in a variety of professionsAsk parents how much they think they can assist you with paying for collegeLook for a job or volunteer position that is related to your career interest

9. Sophomore YearBecome involved in school or community-based extracurricular activitiesMeet with your counselor to discuss college requirementsConsider getting a summer job and save money for college

10. Junior YearContinue with rigorous course selectionsDecide which colleges most interest you and visit them in person.Take the ACT and/or SAT for the first time. Don’t be afraid to take it again.Talk with College Reps who visit your schoolBegin work on your resume to accompany your admission application

11. Every person you know can be a resource in this process: talk to parents, teachers, guidance counselors, and family friends about options, careers, and the education necessary to get there.Who can I talk to?

12. Your best friend: the InternetThe internet is a tremendous resource – use it. Check college/university websites, as well as useful resources like:www.college.govwww.knowhow2go.orgwww.collegeboard.comwww.actstudent.orgwww.finaid.org

13. COSTS Tuition + Room and Board (if applicable) + Fees =The Sticker Price.

14. BASICS OF FINANCIAL AID ScholarshipsInstitutionalPrivateFederal and State AidGrantsWork-StudyStudent Loans

15. The FAFSAThe Free Application for Federal Student AidComplete after January 1st of Senior year at --- http://fafsa.ed.govFederal and State need-based aid considerationEstimate your aid now at: http://www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov/Magic NumbersEFC – Estimated Family ContributionCOA – Cost of Attendance

16. The Missouri A+ ProgramTuition reimbursement at a qualifying 2 year school (community college, technical school)To earn A+ benefits you must meet certain criteriaTalk to your A+ Coordinator for more information

17. CAMPUS INVOLVEMENTWhile college may demand more time studying and a higher level of thinking, learning does not stop when one leaves the classroom. There are numerous benefits to getting involved on campus, some you might not expect. So why get involved?

18. It’s Fun. Just about says it all.Even more fun thanFun Dip…which not much is.

19. Academic Success Several studies have shown that students who are active in campus activities are more engaged in the campus community and have a higher satisfaction with their college experience. A happy, fulfilled student is more likely to succeed more academically.

20. Retention and PersistenceGetting involved connects you to your college community. Studies suggest that more engaged students stay at their institution and won’t feel the need to transfer or drop out. Remember, graduation is the goal.

21. Meeting New People Making new friends is a key part of the college experience – campus involvement allows you to get to know students that you might not meet in class or in your residence hall.

22. Need more reasons?Build your resumeLearn about career fields you had not previously consideredIncrease self-esteem and develop leadership skills

23. What Do Colleges Offer?No two colleges will offer the exact same opportunities to be engaged on campus. 2 year schools will have different experiences than 4 year, etc. This is why researching what a school provides is key when making your college choice.

24. AthleticsVarsity sportsClub SportsIntramural Sports

25. Fine Arts MusicTheatreArtVery often you can be involved in these areas without majoring in them.

26. Clubs and OrganizationsSocial Greek (Fraternities and Sororities)Community ServiceReligious Student UnionsCampus Media (newspaper, radio, tv)Cultural GroupsAcademic Honor SocietiesSpecial Interest

27. Questions?Matt Magruder – BULLDOG Coordinatorhttp://collegeaccess.truman.educollegeaccess@truman.eduPhone: 660-785-7398