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What's a good college in NC?

What's a good college in NC for someone with a low GPA? And less Money? Any answer would be appreciated thank you. P.s 18yr old in HS at SC homeschooled.

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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Hanna,

You've asked about suitable colleges in North Carolina for someone with a lower GPA and limited financial resources. It's a great question, and I'm here to help you navigate through this. Despite having a lower GPA, there are still many opportunities for you to pursue higher education. Your homeschooling background shouldn't be a barrier either, as long as you meet the admission requirements.

1. Community Colleges: These are a fantastic first step for students with a lower GPA or tight budget. They offer two-year associate degrees and technical certifications, typically at a lower cost than four-year universities. In North Carolina, the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) includes 58 institutions across the state. Some highly regarded community colleges in NC are Wake Technical Community College, Central Piedmont Community College, and Durham Technical Community College.

2. Regional Public Universities: These universities in North Carolina often have more relaxed admission requirements compared to more competitive universities. They offer a broad range of undergraduate programs and have lower tuition fees than private colleges or flagship universities. While they may not have the same prestige as larger universities, they still provide a quality education and opportunities for personal and academic growth. Examples include Appalachian State University, Western Carolina University, and UNC Pembroke.

3. Private Colleges with Flexible Admissions Policies: Some private colleges in North Carolina have more adaptable admissions policies that consider factors beyond just GPA. They may take into account personal essays, recommendation letters, extracurricular activities, and interviews. While private colleges usually have higher tuition fees, they often provide generous financial aid packages to help make education more affordable. Examples include Guilford College, Warren Wilson College, and Barton College.

Remember, while these options may be more accessible for students with a lower GPA or limited financial resources, it's still crucial to work hard and show your dedication to academic success. Also, consider contacting college admissions offices directly to discuss your situation and explore any alternative programs they may offer.

Top 3 Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
1. North Carolina Community College System (www.nccommunitycolleges.edu)
2. The University of North Carolina System (www.northcarolina.edu)
3. College Board - Big Future (bigfuture.collegeboard.org)

I hope this information helps you in your college search. Best of luck!

Best regards,
Jim
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Joan’s Answer

Hello Hanna,

Firstly, a big round of applause to you for taking the initial steps towards your college journey.

Don't worry if your GPA isn't sky-high or if your budget is tight. There are numerous pathways to secure your place in a college in North Carolina, and here are some strategies to consider:

1. Be open about the reasons for your low GPA. If unavoidable circumstances like financial hardship, health issues, or personal/family disputes have impacted your academic performance, don't hesitate to share these in your application.

2. Boost your SAT/ACT scores. High standardized test scores can balance out a low GPA and exhibit your academic capabilities.

3. Craft a compelling essay. Use your essay to portray your unique personality, aspirations, and objectives, and to articulate why you're the perfect match for the college.

4. Obtain influential recommendation letters. Letters from your teachers, counselors, or employers can vouch for your integrity, dedication, and accomplishments.

5. Highlight your non-academic skills and achievements. If you've shone in areas like sports, music, art, or community service, make sure to include these in your application.

6. Think about online or community colleges. These institutions often provide flexible schedules and are more affordable than traditional four-year colleges.

7. Apply to colleges that welcome low GPAs. Some colleges in North Carolina admit students with low GPAs and provide financial aid and scholarships to assist with the cost of education.

Here are some North Carolina colleges that accept low GPAs:

- Appalachian State University
- Bennett College
- Blue Ridge Community College
- Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
- Campbell University
- Central Carolina Community College
- Davidson County Community College
- Fayetteville State University
- Forsyth Technical Community College
- Gaston College
- Guilford Technical Community College
- Halifax Community College
- Johnson C Smith University
- Louisburg College
- North Carolina Central University
- Saint Augustine’s University
- Vance-Granville Community College

For additional information, you might find these resources helpful:

- College Foundation of North Carolina
- North Carolina Community College System
- North Carolina Independent Colleges & Universities

Best of luck with your college hunt! Remember, every journey begins with a single step, and you've already taken yours. Keep going!
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Jason’s Answer

Hi there, Hanna!

You've been offered some great advice so far, and you can't go wrong with any of it, but I will offer you another option if you find that you are still struggling with finding the direction that is best for you.

The military provides benefits that help you pay for college, as well as the opportunity to pursue training and real-life work experience during your enlistment in a wide variety of jobs that translate directly to the civilian world. While a career in the military it is not for everyone, a four- or five-year (depending on the job you select) enlistment can be a great transitional step to propel you to future success.

I was in a similar situation to yours and this is the route I chose. With a high enough ASVAB score you can do anything from working on jets to maintaining nuclear reactors on submarines. I worked on helicopters.

I hope this helps. All the best to you!

Jason recommends the following next steps:

Chat with a military recruiter
Prepare for the ASVAB (military aptitude test to determine what jobs you might be best suited for)
Chat with family members who were in the military
Consider everything carefully and make sure you get everything you can from the recruiter (sign-on bonuses, rank promotion on completion of school, etc.)
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Kevin’s Answer

Well I can't add much more given the great advice of previous commentators. I would amplify the fact that technical (2 year) colleges are a great glide path for your college journey. They are affordable and many of these colleges offer a 2 for 2 program where you can transfer your Associate's degree credit for BS completion. As a professional who has hired thousands of employees over my career, employers appreciate college students who have real life work experience. Don't discount the learning you will acquire in the working world. I would suggest that you perform an internship during your college tenure. Best of luck.
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