Funding Your Education 1997-98

Taking the Next Step

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Now that you know you can afford an education after high school, visit the library to learn more about the careers and schools you are interested in. The U.S. Department of Labor publishes the Dictionary of Occupational Titles, which includes a list of career choices, and the Occupational Outlook Handbook, which gives job descriptions, including starting salaries and annual income averages. You can find both of these books in the reference section of your public library.

Also visit the library to thoroughly research the schools you are considering. Then, make appointments to visit those schools. Bring a list of questions to ask school representatives. Your education is a major investment, so find out as much information as you can before you enroll.

Once you're enrolled, it is important that you complete your education. Completing school will give you more job choices, a higher salary, and more skills. Also, if you complete your education, it will be easier to pay back any student loans you take out. Borrowers who finish school are far less likely to default on their loans than those who don't finish. Defaulting on a student loan has very serious consequences. Among other consequences, defaulting can

• make you ineligible for deferments on your loans,
  
  
• make you ineligible for additional student aid,
  
  
• damage your credit record, and
  
  
• hinder your ability to find a job.
  
  

If you work hard and take advantage of the many programs available to help you keep school costs down and pay for school, you will be successful in continuing your education and in pursuing a career.

Reducing the Cost of School