TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) —High school seniors are already looking ahead to college just months into the new school year, and enrollment experts say early preparation is key to success.
Monze Stark-Magana, dean of enrollment services at the College of Southern Idaho, said students should be visiting campuses and connecting with their high school counselors now.
“So currently, they should be visiting campuses as well as connecting with their high school counselors. They obviously know what they’re doing, and especially because they’re also connecting with the recruiters of all of the colleges,” Stark-Magana said.
When it comes to applying to colleges and scholarships, Stark-Magana said students should not wait because deadlines approach quickly.
“You’re more likely to lose out on scholarship opportunities as well as get admitted or be put on wait lists. And when you get admitted to an institution, you’re also being able to access you know, their resources,” she said.
Students in the state have access to the Idaho Launch program, which helps make higher education more affordable.
“It allows them to come get their education at 80% of the cost. And it really is a great way for them to get their feet wet when it comes to their education,” Stark-Magana said.
The grant can give students up to $8,000 for college. Requirements include being an Idaho resident, having graduated high school, and being enrolled in or having applied to an in-demand career program at an eligible Idaho institution.
Initial applications are due Nov. 30.
As high schoolers navigate the college application process, Stark-Magana encourages them to stay connected to those who can help.
“Whether it’s with your high school counselor, whether it’s your college recruiter, or your parents. They are the ones who are there to support you and to help you through this process. So having that support is super crucial, and it’s simply by communicating with them,” she said.
Twin Falls High School is hosting several events over the next couple weeks to help seniors prepare for college.
Students can get help applying for FAFSA financial aid on Oct. 21 and 22 from 4 to 8 p.m.
Also on Oct. 22, the Magic Valley College and Career Tech Fair is happening from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Oct. 29 is College Application Day.
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