# Navigating Your College Journey with the REACH Pathfinder
October 14, 2024
Hey, fellow students! 🎓
Why We Created the REACH Pathfinder
🚀 The REACH Approach Decoded
1. Research phase
- Academic fit
The essence of teaching, the learning environment, and curriculum types. - Career fit
How does this institution propel you toward your future goals? - Financial fit
Crucial. Ensure affordability. - Personal fit
A culmination of academic, social, and financial aspects. - Student support services
Aid for student success. - Degree programs (e.g. 4+1)
Dual degree programs or extended ones. - Institution type (HBCU, HSI, etc.)
Understand the nature and mission of the institution.
2. Explore phase
- Clubs and organizations
What sparks your interest? - First-generation support
Resources for first-gen students. - Alumni network
Building valuable connections. - Student population
Get a feel for the demographic. - Housing
Understand your living options.
3. Apply phase
- Recommendation letters
Endorsement of your skills. - Transcript
Your academic journey. - FAFSA
Your route to federal financial aid. - Application platform
Where you apply. - Early Action vs. Early Decision
Understand the implications.
4, Confirm phase
- Direct Costs vs. Indirect Costs
Know your budget. - Personal budget
Manage your finances wisely. - Financial Aid Office
Your guide to financing your education. - Net price
The actual cost after scholarships. - Orientation
Dive into the college vibe.
5. Hone phase
- Welcome activities
Befriend and bond. - Get involved
Dive into extracurriculars. - Stay organized
A clutter-free environment = a clutter-free mind. - Faculty/staff engagement
Build relationships. - Academic/Campus resources
Maximize available aids. - Establish community
Foster a sense of belonging.