5 answers
Mayela
Student
Citrus Heights
1
Question
Asked
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What is the best way to take advantage of my summer before starting college?
Hi! My name is Mayela and I am an 18-year-old senior in high school residing in the Sacramento Area. I recently got accepted into UCSB and will be attending this fall as a pre-biology major on the pre-med track.
I’m currently trying to figure out the best way to take advantage of my summer before school starts because my family cannot support me financially and I’ll be paying for most of my expenses on my own.
I know UCSB offers a FSSP summer program where you can knock off a few units and get ahead in credits, but it requires money and to live in campus. I’m debating whether I should join the program or take cheaper classes at local community colleges instead, that way I wont have to move to Santa Barbara yet.
I am also debating whether I should apply for paid internships/jobs instead so that I can start saving some money before school starts and to gain experience for my resume.
As a first-gen who has literally no idea how to pay for college, what’s the best thing I should do?
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5 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
777
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I would engage is campus navigation.
Go on visits to the college or university. Get maps and locate the various offices, and orient yourself where to find things on the campus.
This includes where your classes are located. where the financial aid office is, the library, and student academic assistance, security, student services, residential life offices, and other resources on campus.
I would also check out the library, to scout out the best study areas.
The more oriented you become, the greater the chances you will avoid confusion or become lost, when the first day of classes arrives.
Go on visits to the college or university. Get maps and locate the various offices, and orient yourself where to find things on the campus.
This includes where your classes are located. where the financial aid office is, the library, and student academic assistance, security, student services, residential life offices, and other resources on campus.
I would also check out the library, to scout out the best study areas.
The more oriented you become, the greater the chances you will avoid confusion or become lost, when the first day of classes arrives.
Duaa Sarayi
Psychology and pre med student
11
Answers
Richardson, Texas
Updated
Duaa’s Answer
Hi Mayela, congratulations on your acceptance to UCSB! Given your financial situation, it's great that you're thinking strategically about your summer. Here are some thoughts:
1. *Community college classes*: Taking cheaper classes at local community colleges could be a cost-effective way to earn credits and get a head start on your degree. You can research articulation agreements between your community college and UCSB to ensure the credits transfer.
2. *Paid internships/jobs*: Applying for paid internships or jobs can help you gain experience, build your resume, and earn money to support your college expenses. Look for opportunities in fields related to biology or medicine to get a head start.
3. *FSSP summer program*: While the FSSP program can be beneficial, it's essential to weigh the costs against the benefits. If you can't afford it, it might not be the best option for you.
Consider your priorities: do you want to get ahead on credits, gain work experience, or save money? You could also explore a combination of these options. Reach out to UCSB's financial aid office or a guidance counselor for more advice.
As a first-gen student, you're taking proactive steps to navigate college, and that's commendable. Good luck with your decision, and I hope you find a path that works for you!
1. *Community college classes*: Taking cheaper classes at local community colleges could be a cost-effective way to earn credits and get a head start on your degree. You can research articulation agreements between your community college and UCSB to ensure the credits transfer.
2. *Paid internships/jobs*: Applying for paid internships or jobs can help you gain experience, build your resume, and earn money to support your college expenses. Look for opportunities in fields related to biology or medicine to get a head start.
3. *FSSP summer program*: While the FSSP program can be beneficial, it's essential to weigh the costs against the benefits. If you can't afford it, it might not be the best option for you.
Consider your priorities: do you want to get ahead on credits, gain work experience, or save money? You could also explore a combination of these options. Reach out to UCSB's financial aid office or a guidance counselor for more advice.
As a first-gen student, you're taking proactive steps to navigate college, and that's commendable. Good luck with your decision, and I hope you find a path that works for you!
Sharon Clemons, MSM
11
Answers
West Bloomfield Township, Michigan
Updated
Sharon’s Answer
Before you leave for college, be sure to enjoy special moments with your family and friends. Plan fun get-togethers, go on adventures, and make memories that will last. Treasure these times and enjoy being with the people you care about before starting your college adventure.
Megan McCoy
Career Coach
179
Answers
Lakeland, Florida
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Hi Mayela,
These are great questions to be asking yourself!
As a previous college advisor when talking to my students who planned to go to grad school- especially med school we would talk about getting your undergrad as paid for AS MUCH as possible because there are not many or any scholarships for med school and it will cost more.
I would definitely consider taking classes at your local community college. You can do this in the summer or even consider going for your first two years to save on the cost of living and the cost of classes. This is only helpful if UCSB will accept those classes and if they will give you scholarships as a transfer student.
When it comes to applying to med school you will want to have AS MUCH experience as possible. Volunteering, part-time job, internship- anything medical related. You can use the summer to gain experience and if you can make money while doing it too that is even better.
Other things you can consider to save you money in college:
1. Always keep an eye out for scholarships to apply to- all throughout college
2. Get a job on campus or become a resident advisor (RA) if you are living in a dorm. On campus jobs will work with you around you classes. RA's get housing paid for!
3. Buy books used or make a friend in class to split the cost of the book and share.
4. Look for Grants (like scholarships) that are for first-generation students- there are a lot of scholarships, grants and programs to support first-generation students.
The cost of college can be daunting and intimidating. The best way to beat it is by asking for help! Talk to your counselors now and when in colege talk to the financial aid office.
I hope this helps!
These are great questions to be asking yourself!
As a previous college advisor when talking to my students who planned to go to grad school- especially med school we would talk about getting your undergrad as paid for AS MUCH as possible because there are not many or any scholarships for med school and it will cost more.
I would definitely consider taking classes at your local community college. You can do this in the summer or even consider going for your first two years to save on the cost of living and the cost of classes. This is only helpful if UCSB will accept those classes and if they will give you scholarships as a transfer student.
When it comes to applying to med school you will want to have AS MUCH experience as possible. Volunteering, part-time job, internship- anything medical related. You can use the summer to gain experience and if you can make money while doing it too that is even better.
Other things you can consider to save you money in college:
1. Always keep an eye out for scholarships to apply to- all throughout college
2. Get a job on campus or become a resident advisor (RA) if you are living in a dorm. On campus jobs will work with you around you classes. RA's get housing paid for!
3. Buy books used or make a friend in class to split the cost of the book and share.
4. Look for Grants (like scholarships) that are for first-generation students- there are a lot of scholarships, grants and programs to support first-generation students.
The cost of college can be daunting and intimidating. The best way to beat it is by asking for help! Talk to your counselors now and when in colege talk to the financial aid office.
I hope this helps!
Miha B
Academic and Career Counselor | Human Resources Specialist | Internal Auditor
30
Answers
Winter Park, Florida
Updated
Miha’s Answer
Hi Mayela! First off—huge congratulations on getting into UCSB and pursuing the pre-med path! That’s such an exciting (and challenging) journey, and it’s amazing that you’re already thinking ahead about how to make the most of your summer.
Since you're managing things independently and finances are tight, you're wise to be strategic. Here are a few options to consider, and the best path might be a blend of them:
1. Compare Costs vs. Benefits: FSSP vs. Community College
UCSB's FSSP is a great opportunity, especially for getting familiar with campus life and knocking out a few units early. But if the cost is a big stretch (even with potential aid), it’s okay to pass on it.
Community college summer classes are a smart and much more affordable option. Just make sure any courses you take will transfer to UCSB and count toward your degree. Use ASSIST.org to check transferability between California community colleges and UCSB.
2. Work or Paid Internship
Working this summer—whether at a job or paid internship—is highly valuable, especially with your financial responsibilities. You'll not only earn money for school/living expenses but also build your resume and time management skills.
If possible, look for opportunities in healthcare (e.g., receptionist at a clinic, medical scribe, pharmacy assistant, etc.) to tie in with your pre-med goals. But any job that helps you save and grow soft skills is a win.
3. Apply for Scholarships and Grants
There are still summer scholarship deadlines open, especially for first-gen and low-income students. Search on platforms like Going Merry, Bold.org, or the UCSB Financial Aid site. Even a few hundred dollars here and there can add up.
Also, make sure you’ve submitted your FAFSA (or California Dream Act application, if applicable) and check in with UCSB’s Financial Aid Office to understand your full aid package.
4. Use Summer to Prepare Personally and Academically
If you’re working, try to leave some time for yourself to rest, reflect, and mentally prep for the transition. College—especially on the pre-med track—can be intense, so entering the fall with a clear and refreshed mind is important too.
You could also do some light pre-reading for intro biology or chemistry, or watch Khan Academy videos to build confidence before your first quarter.
You’re already showing the drive and foresight that will serve you well in college and beyond. You've got this!
Since you're managing things independently and finances are tight, you're wise to be strategic. Here are a few options to consider, and the best path might be a blend of them:
1. Compare Costs vs. Benefits: FSSP vs. Community College
UCSB's FSSP is a great opportunity, especially for getting familiar with campus life and knocking out a few units early. But if the cost is a big stretch (even with potential aid), it’s okay to pass on it.
Community college summer classes are a smart and much more affordable option. Just make sure any courses you take will transfer to UCSB and count toward your degree. Use ASSIST.org to check transferability between California community colleges and UCSB.
2. Work or Paid Internship
Working this summer—whether at a job or paid internship—is highly valuable, especially with your financial responsibilities. You'll not only earn money for school/living expenses but also build your resume and time management skills.
If possible, look for opportunities in healthcare (e.g., receptionist at a clinic, medical scribe, pharmacy assistant, etc.) to tie in with your pre-med goals. But any job that helps you save and grow soft skills is a win.
3. Apply for Scholarships and Grants
There are still summer scholarship deadlines open, especially for first-gen and low-income students. Search on platforms like Going Merry, Bold.org, or the UCSB Financial Aid site. Even a few hundred dollars here and there can add up.
Also, make sure you’ve submitted your FAFSA (or California Dream Act application, if applicable) and check in with UCSB’s Financial Aid Office to understand your full aid package.
4. Use Summer to Prepare Personally and Academically
If you’re working, try to leave some time for yourself to rest, reflect, and mentally prep for the transition. College—especially on the pre-med track—can be intense, so entering the fall with a clear and refreshed mind is important too.
You could also do some light pre-reading for intro biology or chemistry, or watch Khan Academy videos to build confidence before your first quarter.
You’re already showing the drive and foresight that will serve you well in college and beyond. You've got this!
I second using ASSIST! I was a community college transfer and it helped me so much (even more than a councelor!!)
Gurpreet Lally, Admin