Average teenagers insist that the world revolves around them. They need to learn a lesson - that it’s all about giving back to others. Until December 2008, I was one of those ignorant teens- and possibly the rudest of them all. I began volunteering at a preschool affiliated with a nonprofit nursing facility specializing in caring for special needs children. Being around small, healthy children gave me the patience I would need for an even bigger task. I was notified...

Take the freshman scholarship applications seriously. Many universities offer freshmen renewable scholarships, scholarships that are only available to incoming...

In terms of getting recommendations from academic faculty, CHOOSE SOMEONE WHO ACTUALLY LIKES YOU. I recommend that you get involved on campus because it's usually your...

Don't be a stickler for A's. I mean, unless you're trying to go for an Ivy League university, loosen up. There are more deciding factors than just grades and test scores. Colleges...

Definitely volunteer. Summer is usually a time for relaxation but even if you volunteer for one week, you still have...

Free applications! During my senior year of high school, the only application I actually paid for was...

I took out a lot of loans and I do regret that. After my year at a four-year university, I returned home to attend a community college that was 100% covered by my Federal Pell Grant. Community colleges definitely have this advantage...