TheBlackBookMark

Author "Mama" Pat Johnson On

"From Homeroom To Dormroom"

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Author "Mama" Pat Johnson is a professional college counselor. By telephone, she told us what every student needs to know before applying to college.

BBM: For starters, what made you want to write this book?

MPJ: 20 years of college counseling young people who didn't know or understand the process. So far, we've helped an estimated 500-700 students, traditional and non-traditional, go to college.

BBM: What are some of the most common errors made when planning for college?

MPJ: Seniors are waiting until the first semester of senior year to start thinking about college. The planning process should really being early in freshman year. By law, colleges can't contact students until the 11th grade, so parents should plug into a school early. Find out their admissions and financial aid guidelines.

BBM: Talk a bit more about financial concerns.

MPJ: In our workshop, we walk parents and students through filling out mock financial aid forms. I remember filling out those forms back in 1988-it took me 3 hours! Also, start to look for scholarships early. AT&T offers one for students with GPA's (grade point average) above 3.5. There's also generous financial assistance for students with deceased parents. There's many options.

BBM: What mistakes did you make when your son went to college?

MJP: Parents should go with their children to every campus visit. Choosing a college is no different from buying a car or house. Would you buy either of those based on a brochure? Again, meet with admissions counselors, go to financial aid workshops, and talk with your child about their goals and objectives.

BBM: What about students considering 2 year programs?

MJP: The book can be tailored to 2 yr, 4 yr, trade school, traditional and non-traditional students. Some students bloom later than others. Some find their passion early and then change it. I had one student who started off majoring in medicine and later graduated in fashion merchandising and now owns a store.

BBM: Any final thoughts?

MJP: Remember educationg your child is also about educating your child to take care of you!