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What if the out of state tuition is just way too much at first? That's my biggest fear. If I could figure out some monthly estimate for expenses it would be easy to figure out, and thanks.
Okay, to help you make your decision, I made a few phone calls...
Since you most likely won't get much help from your parents it seems to me that going with CPCC (the community college) is a great plan. It is a real bargain compared to university out of state tuition. If you move here with your Florida high school diploma it will only cost you about $3800 a semester to attend CPCC - that is an estimate for full-time tuition, books, lab fees, parking, etc. It would be less if you went fewer hours. If you do that for two semesters you could then apply for in-state status and would then only pay approximately $675 a semester in tuition (that does not include books). They suggest you change your drivers license over to a NC license right after you move, as the date on it is what they will look at to help in establishing you as a resident.
Now, $3800 may sound like a lot, but it really isn't, that is very doable. You would want to find someone to room with to spilt expenses, but do expect to pay at least $350 a month for your share of rent and electricities. Any apartment in Charlotte renting for under $600 will be in much less safe areas, so don't go for those kinds of rentals okay?
Keep coming back here to ask for help - that's what we are here for
Okay, to help you make your decision, I made a few phone calls...
Since you most likely won't get much help from your parents it seems to me that going with CPCC (the community college) is a great plan. It is a real bargain compared to university out of state tuition. If you move here with your Florida high school diploma it will only cost you about $3800 a semester to attend CPCC - that is an estimate for full-time tuition, books, lab fees, parking, etc. It would be less if you went fewer hours. If you do that for two semesters you could then apply for in-state status and would then only pay approximately $675 a semester in tuition (that does not include books). They suggest you change your drivers license over to a NC license right after you move, as the date on it is what they will look at to help in establishing you as a resident.
Now, $3800 may sound like a lot, but it really isn't, that is very doable. You would want to find someone to room with to spilt expenses, but do expect to pay at least $350 a month for your share of rent and electricities. Any apartment in Charlotte renting for under $600 will be in much less safe areas, so don't go for those kinds of rentals okay?
Keep coming back here to ask for help - that's what we are here for
Awesome info, Loves! I feel that if he saves enough to pay for his first 2 semesters, he shouldn't have any problem making enough to pay for living expenses, even working part-time. This will also save him the stress of having to apply for and obtain student loans. Of course, scholarships and grants are plentiful, so that may be a partial solution as well.
The two things to focus on for the next year are (1) Raise your GPA as much as possible, and (2) save every penny possible for expenses. Check Craigs list, and get a feel for the roommate situation. Keep us posted!
Was curious, so I checked Craig's list, and this was the first post I came across. Certainly encouraging! Oh, and CPCC has multiple campuses- it may pay to find one close to where you'll be leaving, rather than choosing the campus first.
Perfect for UNCC Students looking to share an apartment off campus! (http://charlotte.craigslist.org/roo/748159739.html - broken link)
My vote would be to work full time and go to school part time for the first 2 semesters. Take 2 courses each semester to gain 12 hours, while working to save and pad your pocket. Plus, less stress of the transition from FL to NC and you get to settle in.
Then, by the time you're ready to take on a full load of school, you'll be a resident and you're likely to need LESS financial aide because of what you've saved through your full time wages in the previous year.
Okay, to help you make your decision, I made a few phone calls...
Since you most likely won't get much help from your parents it seems to me that going with CPCC (the community college) is a great plan. It is a real bargain compared to university out of state tuition. If you move here with your Florida high school diploma it will only cost you about $3800 a semester to attend CPCC - that is an estimate for full-time tuition, books, lab fees, parking, etc. It would be less if you went fewer hours. If you do that for two semesters you could then apply for in-state status and would then only pay approximately $675 a semester in tuition (that does not include books). They suggest you change your drivers license over to a NC license right after you move, as the date on it is what they will look at to help in establishing you as a resident.
Now, $3800 may sound like a lot, but it really isn't, that is very doable. You would want to find someone to room with to spilt expenses, but do expect to pay at least $350 a month for your share of rent and electricities. Any apartment in Charlotte renting for under $600 will be in much less safe areas, so don't go for those kinds of rentals okay?
Keep coming back here to ask for help - that's what we are here for
You don't know how great it felt to read some of those words, I just want to reach out and give you a big hug, thanks a lot...lol got carried away a bit.
I googled Charlottle apartments and found some nice looking ones, I already have an apt. guide, and I know it's too early to look for them, but I figured why not
One thing I found in common is that most apts in the Charlotte area, are nice and cheap too. Same apt in my town would be 2500 a month at least.
Since I am after-all wanting to move in a 1.5 years time, and since Charlotte is booming with newcomers, would apts get that much more expensive?
edit: I was talking to my Dad about an hour ago, and it turns out he thinks my entire plan is absolutely retarded. So I know his support is shakey at best. He thinks leaving state for a CC is flat-out dumb .
You don't know how great it felt to read some of those words, I just want to reach out and give you a big hug, thanks a lot...lol got carried away a bit.
I googled Charlottle apartments and found some nice looking ones, I already have an apt. guide, and I know it's too early to look for them, but I figured why not
One thing I found in common is that most apts in the Charlotte area, are nice and cheap too. Same apt in my town would be 2500 a month at least.
Since I am after-all wanting to move in a 1.5 years time, and since Charlotte is booming with newcomers, would apts get that much more expensive?
edit: I was talking to my Dad about an hour ago, and it turns out he thinks my entire plan is absolutely retarded. So I know his support is shakey at best. He thinks leaving state for a CC is flat-out dumb .
Glad to help, and hugs back at you! Don't get discouraged by your Dad's reaction - maybe he just needs time to see you formulating a plan of action and sticking with it before he'll show you some respect for your decisions. I think it is great to have goals, it's the only way you'll ever go anywhere or acheive anything actually. Along the way your goals and dreams may change, AND that's okay - and long as you make sure to do some planning along with your dreaming
Highly unlikely rents would go up much more than what they are currently, I don't think you have too much to worry about there.
Lacey - a lot has changed in student loans in 6 years - please be careful what you advise this young man. We are going thru the process RIGHT NOW - he will not get student loans so easily any more. Additionally, like I said previously, if he did find someone willing to give him one in his name his parents would still have to co-sign AND his rate would be higher and variable - not the best of plans when taking on out of state tuition.
i agree with the idea of working fulltime and taking a couple of classes at CPCC to save money until you are a resident.
i am finishing up my masters in school counseling (elementary level focus), so i of course highly recommend seeing your school counselor about your plans and concerns as he/she can be a great resource and source of support, especially since you aren't getting support from your parents. best of luck!
Wow! Must have missed that. I must say it's about time!!!
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