College years matter. Not only are they a time for learning and personal growth, they also open doors to future possibilities. A college degree has steadily gained in importance over the past few decades. In many ways, it has replaced the high school diploma as the baseline requirement employers expect and a key credential to finding a rewarding career. Although attending college has become more commonplace, concerns about college costs continue to rise. There are ways to ensure that financial aid for higher education will be there when you need it, and many begin early and at home. Here are 5 things you can do today:
Brainstorm. Sit down with your parents and write out a plan. Consider these questions: What areas
of study are you interested in? Which colleges offer these areas of study? What type of college experience are you looking for—a big university or a small college? Is there a particular area of the country where you
would like to live? What colleges offer the best scholarship programs?
 
Do some research to get valuable information about college costs.
 
Get rid of the misconceptions you might have concerning saving and paying for college.
 
Look into the savings programs your state offers. Parents, remember to start investing as early as you can in saving for your children's educational needs
 
There are many books out there that can help guide you in your goal to finance college. Check your local library or bookstore. Just be sure that the book’s publication is very recent as tax and financial aid laws change almost every year.