Check out the following websites for more assistance on funding your college education.

http://www.knowhow2go.org

https://studentaid2.ed.gov/getmoney/scholarship/scholarship_search_select.asp?13817/

http://www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov/F4CApp/index/index.jsf

http://www.ed.gov/parents/academic/help/hyc.html

http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/

Make sure your child is healthy and well before they head off to school.  Here is a healthcare college checklist so you don’t forget anything!

· Physical Exam: It’s not required but it is a good idea to get a comprehensive examination by your family’s healthcare provider before heading off to school. At this visit, you can discuss immunizations, getting copies of medical records and transferring prescriptions.

· Immunizations: Check with your healthcare provider to make sure all recommended immunizations are up-to-date. Make sure your student brings a record of their immunizations to school.

· Medical Records and Prescriptions: Students should have a record of all immunizations, allergies, chronic medical conditions and medications, including doses and reasons for taking the meds.

· First Aid Supplies: Put together clearly-marked container with band-aids, antibiotic cream, aspirin, ibuprofen, cold medications, digital thermometer and cold packs.

· Campus Health Services: Identify locations of medical resources on campus, become familiar with hours of operation and be familiar with resources for after-hours, weekends and for emergencies.

When kids go off to college they start making many of their own decisions, including what and when to eat.  Now is a good time to talk to your college-bound student about making smart food choices to keep them healthy and prevent an unwanted weight gain.

Dorm Room Munchies
Instead of those late night pizzas and microwave meals, have some easy breakfast and snack items on hand for the mini-fridge.
-Fresh, dried or packaged fruit
-Whole wheat crackers
-Cereal
-Granola bars
-Yogurt

Think the Drink
-Diet soda
-Fat free milk
-Low-cal flavored waters
-100% juice
-Only occasional high calorie coffee drinks

Build a Better Plate
The college cafeteria can be filled with high calorie foods. Stick to these simple plate rules.
-Fill 1/2 your plate with non-starchy vegetables
-Fill 1/4 your plate with whole grains
-Fill 1/3 your plate with lean protein
-Limit fats, especially high fat dressing on the salad bar and fried foods.

With a little education and planning, your college student will be on their way to a year of healthier living!