Armstrong Atlantic State University, Savannah, Ga.

When talking to people (mainly parents and their children) about pursuing a higher education degree, the questions they have are many. Though parents’ questions are different than their children’s questions; they are still questions that are yet to be answered. So, in my attempt to help more than just one person, I will answer some of the most common questions I get.
• I finished high school a long time ago. Can I still apply to college? Answer: Yes, You Can
• I just finished high school. Can I wait a year, while I work and save money, before I go to college? Answer: Yes, You Can
• I did not finish high school; but I did get my GED. Can I apply to college? Answer: Yes, You Can
• College applications request a Social Security number and I don’t have one. Can I apply to College? Answer: Yes, You Can
• I discussed my immigration status with an admissions counselor at the college I want to attend; Can I request to keep that confidential? Answer: Yes, You Can. Staff are not required by federal regulations to report undocumented students who seek counseling or other services in their college.
• I’m not a U.S. citizen, but I’m a U.S. resident. Can I apply for Financial Aid? Answer: Yes, You Can
• I was born in the U.S. but my parents are undocumented. Can I apply for financial aid?Answer: Yes, You Can
• I am undocumented. Can I apply for Scholarships? Answer: Yes, You Can (though those are mainly private scholarships)
• If I get a Scholarship. Can I use it to pay for expenses other than tuition? Answer: Yes, You can (But, you MUST check first with the organization that awarded you the scholarship about any restrictions on its use)
• My family can not afford for pay for my education. Can I work and study while I go to college? Answer: Yes, You Can
• I have a full time job and I do not have enough time to go to school full time. Can I still attend college if I may only take 2 or 3 classes per semester? Answer: Yes, You Can (though graduation may take you longer than 4 years)
• I can not afford to live on campus. Can I live off campus (i.e. parents, friends, relatives)?
Answer: Yes, You Can
• I want to go to a school located in another state. Can I do that? Answer: Yes, You Can
• I am not sure what I want to major in yet. Can I still enroll in classes while I decide my major? Answer: Yes, You Can
• I like nursing but I think I like Education too. Can I change majors later if I need to?Answer: Yes, You Can (though this could add more time to your graduation plans).
• I can not afford to go to a university yet; Can I enroll at a community college first and then transfer? Answer: Yes, You Can
• I started college back in my country. Can I transfer those hours to a college here? Answer: Yes, You Can (though a lot of colleges keep in mind before admission when you last attended school)
• I have a disability. Can I request some accommodations when I go to college? Answer: Yes, You Can. Almost all colleges and universities in the country provide some level of services and/or accommodations for students with disabilities, as mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
As you can see, most of your questions have an answer. We are here to help each other and if you never ask, you will always end up wondering. So ask away!
Call me at (912)344-2513 or email me at veronikha.salazar@armstrong.edu