Smart Ways to Get Creative When Preparing for College

A four-year college degree isn’t cheap. How expensive are we talking? That depends on whether you’re considering a public or private school, and if you're looking in-state or out-of-state—but the bottom line is, the numbers can be sobering.

According to the Education Data Initiative:

• The average cost of college is $38,270 per student, per year.

• For in-state students at public universities: $27,146 per year (or $108,584 over four years).

• Out-of-state students pay around $45,708 per year (or $182,832 total).

• Private nonprofit schools can run even higher—averaging $58,628 per year, with $38,768 of that going toward tuition and fees.

  
  

It’s no surprise that the cost of college has more than doubled since 2000. That might help explain why enrollment peaked in 2010 and gradually declined to 18.9 million students by 2023. The good news? It’s projected to increase again later this decade.

While the cost of higher education is daunting, there are smart steps you can take to make it more manageable.

1. Don’t Miss Out on FAFSA When Preparing for College

If financial aid is on your radar, FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is your starting point. The form can be completed online or by mail, and it unlocks access to grants, loans, work-study programs, and scholarships.

For the 2025–26 school year, FAFSA is expected to go live on October 1, 2024. But don’t wait—aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, and once the funds are gone, they’re gone. Also, keep in mind that individual schools may have earlier deadlines than the federal aid program.

Bottom line: file early and make it a habit to refile every year.

2. Scholarships: Think Local and Get Resourceful

Scholarships come in all shapes and sizes—academic, athletic, need-based, first-generation, religious, employer-sponsored, and more.

Here’s my advice: treat your search like a treasure hunt.

Talk to your school’s guidance counselor. Get connected. Then branch out—are you part of a national organization, local church, Rotary Club, or civic group? These are all great places to look for local scholarships, which often have less competition than big-name national ones.

Remember, people want to help students who are motivated, respectful, and resourceful. Be the one who shows up and asks.

3. Visit Schools That Fit You—Not Just the Rankings

Whether you’ve had your dream school in mind since the 6th grade or you’re still undecided, it’s important to consider where you’ll thrive.

Do you see yourself on a large, urban campus—or somewhere quieter and more outdoorsy? Are you looking for cutting-edge research opportunities, or a strong community feel?

Visiting colleges, walking the campus, chatting with current students and professors—these experiences can be eye-opening and help you figure out if a school feels right.

4. Your Essay Is Your Story—Tell It Honestly

Most selective schools require an essay. This is your chance to show who you are—not just what you’ve done.

Admissions teams read thousands of applications. What stands out? Honesty, vulnerability, reflection. Avoid writing what you think they want to hear. Instead, focus on an experience or value that really shaped you.

Be real, start early, and revise often. And yes—get someone else to proofread it. Fresh eyes can help make sure your voice comes through clearly.

The Bottom Line

Preparing for college is about more than academics—it’s about being thoughtful, proactive, and resourceful. And that starts now.

If you have questions about planning for college, funding options, or how it all fits into your bigger financial picture, I’m here to help. You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Schedule a Free Consultation

Let’s make sure you or your student are set up for success—financially and beyond.