Follow this step-by-step process to maximize your financial aid opportunities.
1. Look at schools that have the program you need to prepare for your chosen career.
2. Contact the Office of Admissions to make application to the school... and get the name of the admissions rep for your geographical area... keep in touch with this person at least monthly.
3. Contact the Financial Aid Office. Get the name of a Financial Aid Officer... ask about "institutional scholarship opportunities". Do not be shy!
4. Complete the FAFSA form as quickly as possible in February.
5. Complete any institutional scholarship applications available for you school before the deadline.
6. Search scholarship opportunities on the Internet. Think service organizations, clubs, tribal entities, and so forth that you or your parents may be members.
7. Don't forget Work-Study... this is a great way to make money in college and start your professional resume... as a freshman, think of working 5 - 10 hours per week... as a sophomore, you may want to bump it up to 20 hours per week... by your junior and senior year, you may want to become a resident assistant (usually you get a free single room and a stipend!).
In the world of financial aid, truly the fortune is in the follow-through!!!