I have five questions to ask so I just added them below:
How much did earning a high salary factor into your career choice and why?
What factors influenced your college selection?
Did you opt for on-campus or off-campus living? Could you share the advantages and disadvantages of both?
How big of a student loan did you have to take out and how did you pay for college?
Were there any job opportunities available on campus?
I am a student, and I am doing this for an assignment, but I would genuinely love to know the answers to these questions. Thank you for your answers!
4 answers
Michelle’s Answer
The biggest influence in my college selection was, after relocating cross country, selecting a school in that city that I could commute to. I was fortunate that I chose a school that had everything to offer and was a superb fit for me.
My living arrangements as a student were off campus with roommates for my freshman and sophomore years and than having my own apartment off campus living by myself in my junior and senior year. I never lived in dorms. I loved living alone in my own apartment because of the complete self-direction, privacy and the independence it provided.
Student loans were not a thing for my first three years of college, during the time I went to college and where I went to college. In my senior year, my financial aid package included two student loans. Suddenly, student loans were a thing. It was a very different era back than and those small loans were in addition to grants and work study. When I began repaying them, believe it or not, one loan was $30.00 a month and one was $50.00 a month and it took me 5 years to pay both of them off because the payments were so low. I used those loans to relocate 400 miles from where I lived after college. The economy was a whole different ballgame back then. And at that time, my college had a 3% student loan default rate. And back than, you didn't "take out" loans, they were given to you as one of the forms of financial aid.
There were many job opportunities for me on campus through the work study program and I worked on campus the entire time I went to college.
Greeshma’s Answer
To what extent did the prospect of a high income influence your career decision, and why? >> It played a significant role. While it's wonderful to find personal satisfaction and contribute to societal causes through your work, achieving financial independence and peace of mind is also crucial!
What elements played a role in your choice of college? >> The location was a big factor, as it affected the tuition fees, especially since I was an international student. College rankings also played a part in my decision.
Did you choose to live on or off campus? Could you discuss the pros and cons of both? I chose to live on campus. It certainly makes life more realistic and teaches you to be self-sufficient. However, one downside is that it doesn't allow for much saving.
How large was the student loan you had to take out, and how did you finance your college education? I had to take out a loan of approximately $40K for my Master's degree, but I was able to repay it within three years of graduating.
Were there any job opportunities on campus? Yes, there were part-time jobs available on campus, and they were quite beneficial!
Axel’s Answer
1. From 1 to 10, I would say 8. I knew I wanted to be in a big city so I needed a salary that can keep up with the needs of the city and I wanted to be comfortable, to pay what I need to, save money while also enjoying myself. Now that doesn't mean that money is everything because if you hate your job, life will be miserable, do your passion.
2. Money, Family, and Opportunities. My family is not rich so I didn't want to be a financial burden even with the scholarships so I decided in-state. I didn't want to be too far away from my family if something happens. And I wanted to see what I can do in the university, like clubs/organizations , research, study abroad, faculty, degree options, university support. I wanted to see how I could maximize my time in university.
3. I lived in both! Pros of on-campus is that you are closer to everything on campus and there is flexible payment options, cons are limited space and freedom as well as a RA to report to. Pros of off-campus has to be the freedom and privacy, cons are that places are hit or miss and there are more fees and responsibilities associated with it.
4. Around 25k and I paid though scholarships, parental support and deeper into university , I used my internships and jobs to cover the costs.
5. 100%, I had 2, they are the best. Above minimum wage and super flexible hours.
Hope this helps!
Kevin’s Answer
Earning a high salary was of utmost importance during my first stint at college, which unfortunately didn't pan out as I had hoped. However, during my second attempt, my focus shifted towards choosing a field that not only paid sufficiently for a comfortable life but also piqued my interest. This approach worked wonders for me, and I fared much better.
My advice to you would be to select a career path that both intrigues you and provides a decent living.
What factors influenced your college selection?
Honestly, I picked Frostburg primarily because my younger brother was enrolling there. Additionally, the in-state tuition fees and the smaller size of the school were appealing.
Did you opt for on-campus or off-campus living? Could you share the advantages and disadvantages of both?
During my first, less successful college experience, I resided on campus. Living on campus can be quite enjoyable as you're constantly surrounded by peers. However, the downside is that it can lead to distractions, as was the case with me. Also, it tends to be more costly.
How much student loan did you have to avail and how did you manage your college expenses?
I ended up borrowing more in student loans than necessary. In hindsight, I would have been more prudent and taken the smallest possible loan.
Were there any job opportunities available on campus?
Yes, I secured a job through the computer club and also worked as a tutor.