College Terminology
What is a major?
Your main field of study.
What is FAFSA?
Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
When do seniors apply to college?
Aug-Dec.
Typical first-year housing?
Dorms/residence halls.
What is a minor?
Secondary area of study.
What does GPA stand for?
Grade Point Average.
Grants vs Loans?
Grants = free money, Loans = must be repaid.
What does a recommendation letter include?
Strengths, character, readiness.
What is a meal plan?
Prepaid access to campus dining.
True/False:You must know your career before choosing a major.
False
Difference between public and private colleges?
Public = state funded; Private = privately funded.
What is the Pell Grant?
Federal grant for low-income students; up to ~$7,000.
What does test-optional mean?
SAT/ACT not required.
Clubs vs Organizations?
Clubs = interest based; orgs = structured with leadership roles.
Name 3 high-growth majors.
Nursing, Computer Science, Business, Engineering, Psychology, Cybersecurity.
What is a prerequisite?
Class required before taking a more advanced course.
Purpose of a scholarship essay?
To explain your goals, story, and why you deserve the award.
What is holistic review?
Colleges consider grades, activities, essays, and background.
What is work-study?
Federal program providing paid campus jobs.
What is an internship?
Short-term work experience in a career field.
What is the Common App?
A centralized college application platform used by 900+ colleges.
Name 3 Michigan scholarships.
Detroit Promise, MI Achievement Scholarship, Rosa Parks, Skillman, etc.
Two common app mistakes?
Missing deadlines, weak essays, no FAFSA, typos, incomplete items.
Purpose of orientation?
Learn resources, meet staff, schedule classes.
Two reasons major choice matters?
Impacts career path, earnings, graduation time, interest.