Tips for Seniors

I know there are probably not many seniors reading the College Blog at this point, but I figure I should still share a few suggestions that can be stored away by younger students and parents for when the time comes to head to college. I'll try and skip over the more general tips and give some really new ideas that you may not have already thought of before.

1) Most people already know that colleges typically partner with one or two computer brands to offer incoming students a chance to purchase a computer at a reduced price. But get even more bang for your buck by purchasing the computer online via a rebate site like www.ebates.com (referral link). They offer 1% cash back at Apple. Check and see if your bank offers something similar, Bank of America's 'Add It Up' program is one example that offers 2% cash back at Apple. It may not be a large amount of money, but when it comes to making college affordable, every little bit helps. (You can also buy more than just the computer with these sites- consider them for other items like bedding, office supplies, and even your books once classes start)

2) Keep your eye on the mailbox this summer. The April 1st mail gets all the glory, but some of the most important documents actually arrive over the summer. Here you'll get information about housing, your first payment requirements, and course registration. As someone that got a phone call in August from my college asking me to choose between the only two Freshman Advising seminars that still had space, read your mail carefully and respond to all deadlines on time.With colleges becoming more and more 'green' this also applies to email accounts. If you used your ElRo account when you submitted the application, update it with an email you'll have access to for many years to come.

3) Stockpile Bed, Bath, and Beyond coupons. Seriously. You can use multiple coupons in one visit and you can normally use expired coupons. If you are not already on their mailing list, sign up now. For students attending college in another city or state, also explore Bed, Bath, and Beyond's Pack N Hold option where you can shop in your home city and then pick up all of the items at the other location near your college. You can even still edit your order prior to check out if you opt to pick up the items at the other location (as opposed to having it shipped directly to the school). If you will have access to a car in the college city, I suggest the store pick-up option. I shipped my boxes when I went to school, and the mail room was insane during move in. It may not even be located near your dorm, so save yourself the drama and hit the store instead of the campus package room. 

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