Red Kite Interviews a Student Financial Services Advisor

Red Kite interviews Kim Bowen, a former Student Financial Services Advisor at St. Edward’s University.

Navigating financial aid can be overwhelming, and the process doesn’t end once you’re enrolled in college. It’s crucial to keep an eye on your college costs, which can fluctuate from semester to semester.

It’s no small feat to balance taking classes with managing your tuition expenses. Many students turn to campus experts for guidance, relying on financial aid counselors to help ensure both academic and financial success.

We recently had the chance to sit down with Kim Bowen, a former student financial aid services advisor at St. Edward’s University. She shared valuable and practical advice to help students with the complexities of financial aid.

Let’s get into Kim’s insights on how students can make the most of financial aid opportunities. These insider tips from an expert might make all the difference in your financial aid journey.

Red Kite: Please tell us a little bit about your background – where are you from? What was your school life like growing up?

Kim Bowen: I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. I attended public school and played the flute in the elementary, junior high and high school bands. I especially loved marching band in high school and have life-long friends from those days.

RK: Where did you go to college? What did you major in?

KB: I went to Texas A&M my freshman year, but big school life and learning was not for me. I transferred home to Houston Baptist University the next year and graduated with dual majors in Mass Media and Psychology. My favorite class in college was a Media class on Alfred Hitchcock movies!

RK: Did you receive any financial aid?

KB: I actually did not receive any financial aid while in college. Tuition wasn’t nearly as high back then, and I lived at home and worked full time to help with the cost of attending a private university.

RK: How did you come to work in the college sector?

KB: A few years after graduating from college, I got married and moved to College Station, where my husband was a student at Texas A&M. I got a job working at Foley’s (now Macy’s), and a coworker told me about a Financial Aid Clerk position that was open in the Financial Aid Office at A&M, where she worked full time.

I applied and got the job! Less than a year later, I applied for a Financial Aid Advisor position and was hired. Little did I know that a Financial Aid Clerk position would turn into a 32-year career in higher education financial aid!

RK: What was your favorite part about being an advisor?

KB: I loved working directly with students to help them make their educational dreams a reality. There is nothing more rewarding than to see a student that you met with as a potential freshman – nervous and wide-eyed – walk confidently across the stage at graduation, knowing you played a role in making that happen.

RK: What were a few of the challenges you ran into?

KB: Navigating sensitive financial situations was definitely challenging at times, especially when families weren’t sure if they could afford for their student to attend a small, private, liberal arts university.

It was my job to thoroughly explain all of the options, show families how to find additional funding (RED KITE!), save on expenses like free room and board by being a Resident Advisor, and look into loan options. More often than not, families were able to make it work!

RK: Can you share an experience you had with a student that stuck in your mind?

KB: I had the absolute pleasure and privilege of working with so many amazing students. I had students who are now lawyers, business owners, teachers, a playwriter… even a student who is auditioning to be on Broadway!

Each student was unique and had amazing potential.  I have been invited to graduation parties, weddings, baby showers, and theater performances. I remain close to many students and their parents.

RK: What advice would you give to college students today?

KB: As a Financial Aid Advisor, I always encouraged high school students to start researching scholarship opportunities early and apply for as many scholarships as possible. Once a student was in college, I encouraged them to continue to apply for scholarships. So many students think you can only apply as an incoming freshman.

I also encouraged students to get involved in organizations on campus to help build a sense of community. It’s also important to get a job on campus; not only to earn spending money, but also to learn how to manage their time, gain job experience, and meet a subset of folks on campus they might not have met otherwise.

I encouraged students to apply to be a Resident Advisor in the residence halls. Being an RA usually means room and board are covered by the school. It is also great resume material, since it shows leadership responsibility.

I encouraged every student to contact me if their financial situation changed, or if they were struggling to buy books or pay for living expenses. There are so many resources on campus to help students. They just need to ask.

RK: Why do you believe that Red Kite is a valuable resource for students?

KB: Red Kite is an invaluable resource for students and parents! College can be expensive, and Red Kite can help find free money to assist with the cost. A student or parent completes a quick survey, and the student is instantly matched to over 25 billion dollars in scholarship funds! How easy and amazing is that?!?

 

RK: To you, why do you think it is important for students to pursue higher education?

KB: Continuing your education after high school at a college, university, or technical school is important for several reasons. It provides students with specialized skills and knowledge that can significantly improve job prospects, increase earning potential and open doors to a wider range of career options.

A 4-year college or university education is not for everyone. Community colleges and technical schools offer amazing opportunities for practical, hands-on training and lifelong critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.  Post secondary education helps students find their passions and reach their full potential.

Kim’s insights shed light on the critical role that financial aid advisors play in helping students fund their education. She emphasizes the importance of being proactive throughout your college journey.

It’s clear that with dedication and the right resources, students can overcome financial obstacles and focus on building a brighter future.

Be sure to explore tools like Red Kite, our simplified scholarship search. With access to over $25 billion in scholarships, Red Kite connects students with opportunities tailored to their unique needs and goals.

Whether you’re just beginning your college journey or are already enrolled, remember that there’s support available. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

Your education is an investment in yourself. With Red Kite, you can unlock a future full of possibilities.

Sign up for Red Kite today!

www.myredkite.com

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10 Ways to Save Money on College Textbooks

The rumors are true… college textbooks are outrageously expensive.

On average, first-year college student spend over $1,200 on textbooks and course materials. A single textbook can cost hundreds of dollars.

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to empty your wallet to get the resources you need to succeed in your courses. Whether you’re a freshman navigating your first semester or a seasoned senior looking to save, there are plenty of strategies to cut down on costs.

Let’s explore a few different ways to save on college textbooks, so you can spend less time stressing about money and more time focusing on your education.

  1. Buy Used Books

Look for secondhand copies, which can be found in bookstores or online. Your campus bookstore is your best resource, but you might also consider websites such as Chegg or ThriftBooks.

Used books are often half the original price, or even less.

 

 

  1. Rent Textbooks

Services like Amazon and eCampus offer rental options for textbooks.

This is especially beneficial for books you don’t want to own permanently.

 

  1. Check the Library

Many college libraries keep course textbooks on reserve.

You can borrow them for short-term use or check if they have copies for extended loans.

  1. Use Older Editions

Textbooks don’t always change drastically between editions.

Ask your professor if an older edition will work.

 

  1. Share with a Classmate

Team up with a friend to split the cost of a book. Just be sure to coordinate study times!

Additionally, upperclassmen might be willing to lend or sell their textbooks at a discount. Ask around in student groups or clubs.

 

  1. Digital or eBooks

Digital versions of textbooks are often cheaper than print. Websites like VitalSource and Google Books offer affordable e-textbooks.

You can buy from online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and AbeBooks, where you can often compare prices and find used, heavily discounted textbooks.

Also, some textbooks are available as free PDFs. Try searching online or checking sites like OpenStax, which offers free textbooks in various subjects.

 

  1. Check Facebook Groups

Many schools have book exchange groups where students sell books directly to each other.

Of course, be sure to practice proper safety precautions when arranging an online sale. Bring a friend when you go to meet up with the seller.

 

  1. Scholarships for Books

Some scholarships specifically cover textbook costs. These scholarships are often overlooked because students tend to focus on those that help with tuition, but they can be a game-changer.

Book-specific scholarships provide funds dedicated to course materials, such as required textbooks, lab manuals, and even access codes for online platforms.

Platforms like Red Kite make finding these opportunities easier than ever. In less than 6 minutes, you can create a profile and answer a few questions about your background, interests, and financial needs. Then we’ll match you with scholarships specific to YOU – including ones that focus on book costs.

It’s a hassle-free way to discover and apply for aid that you might not have found otherwise. Think of it as a double win: not only do you save on books, but you also free up funds for other essentials.

Take a little time to search for scholarships aimed at reducing textbook expenses. You might be surprised at how much you can save!

  1. Participate in Book Swaps

At the beginning and/or end of each semester, many campuses host book swap events.

Join these events in order to to trade books with your classmates. You might even try organizing one yourself!

 

  1. Consider Textbook Subscription Services

Some platforms, like Cengage Unlimited, offer access to a range of textbooks for a subscription fee, which can be cheaper than buying multiple books.

Textbooks don’t have to drain your bank account. With a little effort and creativity, you can find plenty of ways to save money.

From renting and buying used textbooks, to exploring scholarships that specifically cover book expenses, there are options for every budget.

Remember, every dollar you save is one step closer to achieving your academic goals without unnecessary financial stress.

So, before you shell out hundreds on that brand-new textbook, try out some of these money-saving tips. Your wallet – and your future self – will thank you!

Sign up for Red Kite to find scholarships today!

www.myredkite.com

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5 Best Questions to Ask During a College Visit

College tours are an exciting milestone for high school seniors. This is the perfect opportunity for students to experience campus life firsthand by getting a feel for the atmosphere and envisioning what college will be like.

Whether you’ve already been accepted or are simply exploring potential colleges, be sure to take advantage of local college tours – and/or out-of-state ones, if those are within your means.

It’s important to make the most of this experience by being well-prepared with questions for your tour guide. Here are just a few of the most essential things to ask during your college tour in order to ensure you’re making the most informed decision.

1. Academic Programs

One of the most critical aspects of your college experience is your academic program. During your tour, ask specific questions about the strengths and unique features of programs related to your intended major or major(s).

Even for undecided students, asking questions about specific programs is important, because the requirements for the same major can vary widely between schools. It also might give you a better sense of what you’d be interested in studying.

This information can give you a good sense of the academic support you’ll receive and how you can make the most of your studies.

  • Are there opportunities for research, study abroad, or collaborative projects?

  • What is the student-to-faculty ratio?

  • What is an average class size?

  • Are there any specialized resources or labs available within this program?

2. Housing/Living Arrangements

As a freshman, it’s crucial to understand what dorm situation you’re walking into, especially if you’ve never shared a room with another person before, or if you will be needing special accommodations.

This will help you determine if the college offers the kind of living environment that aligns with your needs.

And even though it’s a while off, you also should ask about housing availability for upperclassmen, so you can start to plan out your 4 years.

  • What are the housing options for freshmen?

    • Are there different choices, like single or double rooms, or residence halls for specific programs?

  • Do the dorms have hall bathrooms or suite bathrooms?

  • Is there off-campus housing assistance through the university?

3. Internships and Job Placement

Internships and job placement rates are a strong indicator of how well a college prepares its students for the professional world.

  • What internship opportunities are available to students in this major?

  • Are there partnerships with local companies, internships-for-credit programs, or resources within the college to help secure these experiences?

  • What are the job placement rate for graduates?

4. Campus Safety

Safety is essential when considering a college. You might consider asking your tour guide – who is usually a student themselves – about the college’s history with campus incidents and how issues are addressed.

Peace of mind is a big factor in creating a positive college experience, so don’t overlook this aspect of your campus visit.

  • What emergency alert systems are on campus?

  • Do the lights on campus stay on all night?

  • Are there escort services for students walking across campus at night?

  • Is there on-campus security?

  • Does the college offer an on-campus shuttle service?

5. Financial Aid: Understanding Your Options

College is a significant investment, and knowing your financial aid options can make a substantial difference. There are many different types of financial aid available, including scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and loans.

Take advantage of Red Kite to broaden your scholarship search even further. Red Kite connects students with personalized scholarship opportunities and financial aid resources, helping you uncover funds that might not be listed by your college alone.

We also offer comprehensive, step-by-step guidance through every step of applying to scholarships, including our e-books and this blog. With tools like Red Kite, you can ensure you’re making the most of every financial aid opportunity.

  • What type of financial aid is available?

    • What is the application process like?

  • Are there scholarships specifically for students in my program?

College tours are more than just a walk through campus – they’re a way to see your potential future firsthand.

By asking the right questions, you can gather valuable insights that will help you make an informed decision. Remember, this is your future, so take the time to get the answers you need.

Make the most of your visit, and keep these questions top of mind to help you find the college that feels like home.

Be sure to sign up for Red Kite today!

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Tips for Balancing College and Work

Finding the balance between college and work can be one of the most demanding challenges students face, but it’s also one of the most rewarding.

For many students, working during college is a financial necessity to cover tuition, rent, or other expenses. It’s also a great way to gain valuable experience, build a network, and save for the future.

But it’s no easy feat to juggle personal life with a full-time, part-time, or multiple jobs at once. Once you add academic responsibilities on top of everything, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed.

However, finding the balance can equip you with time management and resilience skills that will serve you for the rest of your life.

The key to thriving in both areas lies, of course, in proper strategy and maintenance. i.e., planning in advance and regularly checking in with yourself to ensure you’re not burning out.

And it’s not just about meeting deadlines and showing up for shifts – the key is to maintain a healthy lifestyle while progressing toward your academic and career goals. That way, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: financial independence, real-world experience, and academic success.

Let’s go through just a few tips to help you manage it all, ensuring that neither your job nor your schoolwork takes a backseat.

Create a Realistic Schedule

The first step towards finding the balance is to ensure that you’re managing all your commitments without feeling overwhelmed. You’re not superhuman, so the most important part of this strategy lies in being honest with yourself.

Start by organizing your time in a way that ensures every aspect of your life is accounted for. Beyond just your planned personal activities, you should create a comprehensive schedule that includes your work shifts and class/study sessions. A planner or digital calendar is invaluable for this, helping you visualize how your days and weeks will unfold.

As mentioned, you should avoid the temptation to overestimate how quickly you can finish assignments or commute between work and school. By allowing adequate time for each task, you’ll reduce your stress load.

Be sure to include regular breaks throughout your day, whether it’s time to grab a meal, relax with friends, or simply take a walk. These moments of rest are essential for maintaining both your physical and mental well-being.

Creating a schedule isn’t just about filling every hour with tasks. It’s about allowing yourself to be productive while still maintaining a sense of personal freedom and relaxation. With a well-structured plan, you’ll feel more in control of your time and better able to meet the demands of both college and work.

Communicate with Your Employer

It will benefit you in any job to have an open, honest relationship with your boss. While you’re in college, you should be upfront with your employer about the fact that you’re juggling multiple commitments. This will help set realistic expectations from the start.

Let your employer know your class schedule in advance, so they understand when you’re available to work and when you’ll need time off for studies. Being transparent will allow your boss to plan accordingly.

And if your workload at school intensifies during midterms or finals, don’t hesitate to discuss the possibility of a more flexible arrangement. Many employers, especially those who frequently hire students, are open to adjusting schedules to accommodate academic responsibilities.

Whether it’s reducing your hours temporarily, switching shifts, or working remotely, a flexible approach will make a significant difference when deadlines start to pile up.

Some employers go a step further by offering benefits specifically tailored to students. Work-study programs or tuition assistance can help ease the financial burden of college while reducing the hours you need to work.

If your employer offers these programs, take full advantage of them. Not only can they lighten your financial load, but they also demonstrate that your employer values your education and long-term success.

Effective communication with your employer creates a foundation of understanding and support, ensuring that both your job and your studies can coexist. It’s always better to be proactive, rather than waiting until you’re overwhelmed.

Use Financial Aid to Lighten the Load

By securing scholarships, grants, or work-study opportunities, you can ease the financial burden of tuition and other college expenses, allowing you to focus more on your studies.

This not only reduces the time you need to spend working but also helps alleviate stress, enabling you to maintain a healthier balance between school and life.

Platforms like Red Kite make it easier to find and apply for financial aid. With access to thousands of scholarships and grants, you can explore options tailored to your specific needs, academic performance, or personal background.

By investing time in applying for these opportunities, you could potentially cover a significant portion of your educational expenses, making it possible to cut back on work hours or take on a less demanding job.

Red Kite compiles over $25 BILLION in financial aid, so you can free up more time for what truly matters -excelling in your academic journey.

Prioritize Self-Care and Rest

As a student and worker, if you don’t take care of yourself, it’s easy to fall into burnout. The demands of your day-to-day life can leave little room for thinking about your well-being, but prioritizing self-care is essential for maintaining long-term success.

One of the most important aspects of self-care is ensuring that you get enough sleep. Sleeping consistently is crucial for staying focused, retaining information, and keeping your energy levels up throughout the day. When you’re sleep-deprived, both your academic performance and work productivity will suffer.

Equally important is engaging in activities that help you decompress and recharge. Stress-relieving practices like meditation, yoga, or mindfulness exercises can help clear your mind and improve your focus.

If meditation isn’t your style, you might try out different hobbies or creative outlets. These activities provide a much-needed break from your responsibilities and allow you to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Ultimately, prioritizing self-care isn’t just about avoiding burnout – it’s about ensuring that you have the mental and physical stamina to succeed in both school and work. By taking care of yourself, you’re investing in your long-term health and productivity.

Evaluate and Adjust

During this time of your life, you must regularly assess your workload to ensure that you’re not becoming overwhelmed. You should check in with yourself frequently – whether it’s weekly, monthly, or at major academic milestones – to evaluate how well you’re handling your commitments.

Are you keeping up with your classes, assignments, and deadlines? Are your work responsibilities manageable, or are they beginning to encroach on your study time? Being honest with yourself about how things are going is the first step in preventing burnout.

If you find that your academic performance is suffering because of your work schedule, it’s okay to scale back on your job hours. Similarly, if your grades are strong but you’re feeling overworked, it might be time to reassess your study habits or the number of courses you’re taking.

It’s not a sign of failure to adjust your commitments – in fact, it’s a smart strategy for success in all areas of your life. Prioritizing your education doesn’t mean neglecting your work, and vice versa. It’s about finding a sustainable balance that works for you.

Flexibility is key throughout this process. Your needs will likely change as the semester progresses. For example, you might be able to handle more work hours early in the term when your course load is lighter, but as midterms or finals approach, you may need to reduce your hours to dedicate more time to studying.

Likewise, certain jobs may offer the option to work more during holiday breaks in the school year. If you find yourself in need of more shifts, don’t hesitate to discuss these options with your employer, and always be ready to adapt your schedule to match your current situation.

Remember, maintaining balance is an ongoing process. Staying flexible and open to change will help you manage the evolving demands of your student life.

Balancing both work and college is no easy task, but with a thoughtful approach and the right strategies, it’s entirely possible to excel in both areas. Good time management is at the core of this balancing act.

By carefully planning your schedule and setting realistic goals, you can stay on top of your responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed.

Be sure to stay in communication with your employer, professors, and loved ones. Keeping everyone in the loop ensures that your needs are understood and respected.

Remember to take things one step at a time. Stay patient with yourself, make use of all available resources, and keep moving forward. You’re doing great!

Be sure to check out www.myredkite.com to find scholarship opportunities today!

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The Ultimate Scholarship Playlist: Songs to Motivate your Application

With the fall semester fast approaching, there’s still time to apply for scholarships!

Scholarship season is all year, y’all. Whether you’re a high school senior, a college student, or a grad school hopeful, there’s a ton of great financial aid opportunities waiting for you year round.

And let’s be real—finding the perfect scholarship can feel overwhelming. That’s where Red Kite comes in. Our platform is designed to help you personalize your financial aid search, making the process easier and more efficient.

So, if you’re still on the hunt for that ideal scholarship, be sure to sign up with Red Kite today and let us help you navigate your options!

Personally, there’s nothing that motivates me like good music. While applying to scholarships, you’ll have to tackle essays, recommendation letters, endless forms… I know that I never would’ve made it through without Beyoncé.

A good playlist sets the vibe, giving you the energy and focus you need to power through. Of course, everybody’s taste is different, which is why I’ve curated a list of songs across multiple genres.

I wanted to stick with the motivational theme, or else just high-energy songs to pump you up. Here’s a link to the full playlist on Spotify! (The clean version, of course…)

Whether you’re into pop, rock, hip-hop, or something more mellow, ya girl Jane has got you covered. Grab your headphones and let’s get to work!

Table of Contents:

Rock

Pop

R&B

Country

Hip-hop/Rap

K-pop

Music of Latin America

 

 

Rock

The song: The Beatles – “Hey Jude”

The reason: This one’s a classic, of course, but “Hey Jude” was also written for a very special reason. Paul McCartney wrote it to comfort his bandmate John Lennon’s young son during a stressful time. So if you’re feeling the pressures of applying to financial aid, remember the golden line: “Don’t carry the world upon your shoulders.”

If “Hey Jude” was a scholarship, I’d probably classify it as need-based. We all need a little help sometimes, and need-based scholarships help underprivileged students achieve their dreams!

The runner-ups:

  • Led Zeppelin – “Stairway to Heaven”
  • Elvis Presley – “Jailhouse Rock”
  • Rush – “Tom Sawyer”

 

Pop

The song: Beyoncé – “BREAK MY SOUL”

The reason: You knew this was coming. There are so many pop icons to choose from, but of course, our queen Bey is proficient across every genre (which is why she shows up on this list so often). If she was a type of scholarship, she’d be a “No Essay” scholarship – one that’s open to everyone!

(P.S. – with Red Kite Premium, you now have access to a curated list of active “No Essay” scholarships!)

And if, like me, you were also raised on Miley Cyrus and Rihanna, you know that pop music gets you grooving. Let’s not forget the greats: Madonna, The Weeknd, Bruno Mars, Billie Eilish, Ed Sheeran, and Michael Jackson, to name a few. But if I had to pick just one song for your scholarship search, you can’t go wrong with music royalty.

“BREAK MY SOUL” has that classic beat that just makes me want to jump out of my cubicle and dance. I’ll be applying to graduate school soon, and this song has been getting me through the brainstorming process. It’s all about persevering through struggle!

The runner-ups:

  • Katy Perry – “Roar”
  • Lady Gaga – “The Edge of Glory”
  • Justin Bieber – “All in It”

 

R&B

The song: Alicia Keys – Underdog

The reason: I know the “blues” half of “rhythm and blues” doesn’t exactly scream “motivational.” But you’d be surprised at the wealth of positive, uplifting R&B songs that can accompany your scholarship journey!

If R&B was a scholarship, it’d be targeted at artsy, creative kids who balance their go-with-the-flow personality with their unique talents. That’s why I chose Alicia Keys, another brilliant artist who defies genres. Remember, don’t be afraid to take risks, because standing out of the crowd might just win you a scholarship!

The runner-ups:

  • Jordin Sparks – “One Step at a Time”
  • SZA – “Open Arms (feat. Travis Scott)”
  • Khalid – “Motion”

 

Country

The song: Morgan Wallen – “Cowgirls”

The reason: Morgan Wallen is a country GOAT, and this song never fails to pump me up! I wanted to look beyond all the great motivational country songs – like “I’m a Survivor” by Reba McEntire, for example – and turn my focus to modern country.

“Cowgirls” sets the vibe for the scholarships of the future. I’m picturing all the students interested in AI, robotics, and STEM, among others. The song blends sounds from multiple genres to create a toe-tapping bop that charted for weeks when it first came out.

The runner-ups:

  • Beyoncé – “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM”
  • Chris Stapleton – “Starting Over”
  • Tim McGraw – “I Like It, I Love It”

 

 

Hip-hop/Rap

The song: Lil Wayne – “Good Morning”

The reason: Obviously, the classic “Lose Yourself” by Eminem gets everybody hyped, but I wanted to dig a little deeper. You need all the good vibes you can get while applying to scholarships, which is why I chose the song that I listen to every morning before work!

“Good Morning” helps me start the day on the right foot, which is why it’s for hard-working students applying for early action deadlines. For all my motivated Kitelings who get up and work on their college applications, you might find that this song gives you a little extra boost!

The runner-ups:

  • Mac Miller – “100 Grandkids”
  • JAY-Z, Kanye West – “Murder to Excellence”
  • Kendrick Lamar – “DNA”

 

K-pop

The song: BTS – “IDOL”

The reason: I know, I know, I’m basic. But when I first heard this song a few years ago, not only did it introduce me to the genre of K-pop, I also fell in love with the core message: “I love myself!”

“Idol” goes out to all the students applying for skills-based scholarships. It reminds me of all the dedicated athletes working hard to score financial aid from their favorite colleges. Iconic people need the proper background music to accompany their greatness!

The runner-ups:

  • BLACKPINK – “Shut Down”
  • IVE – 해야 (HEYA)
  • TAEYEON – “Heaven”

 

Music of Latin America

The song: Marc Anthony – “Vivir Mi Vida”

Like with the other genres, I wanted to step out of my comfort zone (Bad Bunny and Rosalía) by asking my Latino boyfriend for his recommendations. I told him I was looking for upbeat, positive songs to help our Kitelings to the finish line.

Most of what he referenced consisted of love songs, which I put as the runner-ups. But “Vivir Mi Vida” is a fantastic call-to-action for dancing your way through all the trials and tribulations of life. The song won a Grammy and made waves as an instant classic.

So, let’s close out this playlist with a song that reminds me of first-generation students! My college roommate was first-gen, and she is by far the hardest-working person I know. “Vivi Mi Vida” is for all the trailblazers looking for scholarship success not only for themselves, but for their families, too!

The runner-ups:

  • Grupo Marca Registrada – “La Guerita”
  • Santa Fe Klan – “Tu y Yo”
  • Chino & Nacho – “Nina Bonita”

 

 

Hopefully, you all found some inspiration for your college journey on this playlist. Scholarships come in many shapes and sizes, just like the diverse genres of music we enjoy. So, as you navigate the world of scholarships, remember to keep an open mind and explore every genre!

The process may seem daunting at times, but by staying open to different opportunities, you’ll discover scholarships that align with your unique goals and passions. With the right mix, you’ll find the perfect track that not only fits your style but also keeps you motivated and focused on your path to success.

Whether it’s a big award that covers all your needs or smaller grants that add up over time, there’s a scholarship out there that can help you turn your college dreams into reality. So keep exploring, stay persistent, and let your scholarship search play on!

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5 Tips for Living in a Dorm

Coming home from an 8 p.m. class to a 200-square-foot dorm isn’t always a slay, especially if you’re sharing it with one or two other people.

Some college students have carpeted dorms, or an in-room sink, or hallway bathrooms. Whatever your dorm situation is, ya girl is here to share the things I wish I’d known before moving on campus.

I lived in the dorms for all four years (minus the little panny1 during my sophomore year). My private university required all of its students to live on campus, and juniors could apply and hope to get into one of the campus apartments for their senior year.

So, I know more than most students about how difficult dorming can be, although campus housing can also offer plenty of benefits. The short commute to class, neighbor friends, and campus security are all super helpful to fresh-out-of-high school kids who might be living on their own for the first time.

Let’s get into it!

1. Don’t pack too much.

I drove from Texas to California with everything I owned stuffed into a rental van. I had no idea what to expect, so I packed for every possibility. (I’m also a person with diagnosed anxiety, so I tend to overprepare rather than risk underpreparing.)

Imagine my surprise when I rolled up and saw – really saw – just how small my dorm room was. I ended up having to ship back two boxes of my things.

Remember that you can also buy what you need when you arrive to campus. Most out-of-state kids don’t have to worry about this problem, because they can only take one or two suitcases on the plane.

But for local kids and kids who drive from home, be sure to watch just how much you’re packing. “I need this sequin shirt in case there’s an 80s-themed party!” …no, bestie, you don’t. Besides, you’ll be home for winter break soon enough, so it’s better to air on the side of caution, see what you need, then grab it later.

A few of the things I ended up ditching were: my electric pencil sharpener, my scrapbooks, and my candles. You’re sharing your space with another person, and you don’t want to overcrowd them or yourself.

Plus, candles in a dorm are a fire hazard, which is why they’re usually against the rules… but you don’t need ten of them, anyway.

2. Invest in some earplugs.

I’ve had lifelong sleep issues, but even if you can sleep like a tank, you need earplugs. Nobody’s meant to sleep through a dance party above them, or a neighbor who plays the French horn, or a roommate who needs to listen to bubble ASMR in order to fall asleep.

Pretty universally, dorm walls are super thin. There are probably 100+ other people living in the same building, each with their own schedules and noisy habits. And trust, you’re gonna need that midday nap.

After a couple weeks in the dorm, I noticed that even during quiet hours, students coming and going in the middle of the night would wake me up. I could hear the front door slamming from the second floor.

So, I invested in some shotgun-grade earplugs, but even that wasn’t enough. It was also super annoying trying to study and being able to hear your neighbors’ every spoken word, and I didn’t feel like hiking to the library every time.

At the time, I had Beats headphones, which were super uncomfortable to sleep in, but I managed. These days, I default to my Airpods Pro or Airpods Max. Both have noise-cancelling capabilities, and while pricy, they definitely helped me out during my senior year. There are also plenty of cheaper alternatives that offer noise-cancelling, like the Beats Studio Buds for $79.99 (yes, that’s a link to the pink ones. You’re welcome).

Find ’em, wear ’em, and get some rest!

3. Communicate with your roommate.

We’ve all heard the nightmare dorm stories, but a foolproof strategy for avoiding conflict is to overcommunicate with your new roommate/roommates. Some people just have noncompatible personalities, but you can make each others’ lives easier by constantly staying in touch.

Tell them when you’re leaving the dorm, when you’re coming back, if you want to bring friends over, etc. This is also a great life skill to bring to your post-college life, when you’ll likely have to move into a shared apartment.

Of course, communicating is also the key to deepening your bond. There’s no better way to get to know someone than by living with them, so talking about your day with your roommate can feel like built-in therapy.

And if they’re doing something that bothers you, bring it up right away, but don’t come at the problem with hostility. “Hey, I really appreciate you, but I was wondering if we could do things differently.” You’re on the same team. You both want to have a nice, comfortable time in your dorm, so never approach issues with anything less than love.

The first two roommates I had weren’t great. The bottom line was that we didn’t trust each other, which made for a very unsafe-feeling living situation. You need to feel like your personal belongings are safe with your roommate, and that you are safe.

If there’s a creepy dude on your floor, walk your roommate to the bathroom and back (and, of course, tell your RA [Resident Assistant]). Have each other’s back, and maybe bring them a rice crispie every once in a while. Then you’ve automatically won their heart.

4. Clean up after yourself.

One of the most frustrating parts of living in a dorm is the mess. No matter what, you’ll run into kids who leave a mountain of dirty dishes in the community sink, or trash the lobby with their friends. I ended up washing my bowls in the bathroom sink because the dorm kitchen was that dirty.

And yet, one time, I walked downstairs and found a dirty-blonde girl scrubbing the counters like her life depended on it. “You’re cleaning?” I asked, holding my frozen nuggets in my hand.

“Yes,” she said, and looked at me with wide-eyed desperation. “I can’t take it anymore.”

So, I rolled up my sleeves and joined in. We didn’t stop until every inch of the kitchen had been wiped down, and every moldy dish had been tossed in the trash. I don’t even know her name, but that day, I met my soulmate.

Two days later, I found that somebody had already messed it all up again – they’d made some kind of baked good, and both the oven and the counters were sticky all over again.

You can’t depend on someone like me and that girl (if you’re reading this, I love you) to pick up after you. We’re all sharing the dorm space together, and it’s so important to pitch in and do your part.

Of course, there’s only so much you can do, so just try to clean your mess. If the bathroom is already filthy and you spill some makeup on the counter, wipe it up anyway. Little acts of upkeep can go a long way in a dorm.

5. Make friends with your RA.

Residential Assistants are hired by the university to make sure that everything in the dorms run smoothly. They handle roommate disputes, maintenance requests, and hundreds of eager freshmen with a million questions.

Usually, they’re college students themselves, and the school offers free housing in exchange for their services. So, just remember, even though they’re in charge of you, they understand exactly what you’re going through.

My parents always taught me to make friends with people who you want on your side – neighbors, coworkers, and Chipotle workers, to name a few. I don’t mean that you should befriend people with some kind of ulterior motive in mind, but if you have to see them all the time, you might as well introduce yourself.

It’s easy to ignore the people around you, or pretend like they don’t exist, but I promise you, taking the step to make extra friends will pay off. Get that extra scoop of guac!

The best way to make friends with your RA is by going to the dorm events they set up. My wonderful RA hosted a Thanksgiving get-together party in the lobby, where any resident of our hall was welcome to come and decorate turkey-shaped cookies.

I grabbed my roommate and a friend or two, then struck up a conversation with my RA. After I talked to him, he became less like this scary, parentlike figure, and more like a dude trying his best, same as any of us.

Connecting with your RA might also offer some unofficial benefits. My RA let me come study in his dorm whenever my roommate had company over, and even gave me his old textbook for one of his courses.

You really can’t go wrong, even just by being nice to them. They probably deal with a lot of crazy issues, and you can be a positive spot in their hard job.

So, now you have a basic foundation for approaching life in the dorm. It’s good that you’re doing some research so you know what you’re walking into, but just remember that everybody’s situation is different, especially when it comes to roommates. All you can do is approach people with openness and honesty, and then nobody can ever say that you didn’t try.

As I mentioned, I ran into a lot of problems during my own dorming experience. But if you’re required to be there, you might as well make the most of it. One of my favorite ways to cheer myself up in the dorms was by making food, and I perfected a lot of cheap and easy recipes during my time on campus. We’ll update this page with a link to some fun dorm recipes!

1 Pandemic.
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5 Fun College Summer Activities

You made it through another semester at college! Now it’s time to kick back, relax, and take a break from your busy undergrad life.

Even if you’re stuck taking a summer semester, it’s important to make some time for yourself. If I didn’t treat myself to a $7 iced coffee every day of the hot season, I think I would literally collapse.

There’s a lot to prepare for the fall, and I’m sure you’re trying to get organized. Summer jobs and volunteering are also great ways to boost your resume, but if you’re wondering how to maximize your fun, ya girl is here with all my favorite ways to kick off the summer. And spoiler alert… they’re cheap!

 

1. Make a time capsule.

Four years from now, you’ll be looking back on this summer with a totally new perspective. When I was a freshman, I wrote a letter to senior Jane, and it was so interesting to see how much I had changed!

Write to your future self and ask questions. Tell yourself what your biggest hopes for college are, and be sure to refresh them on how your current life is going. Your best friends, your favorite hobbies, your go-to YouTuber… trust, your grad self will LOVE to look back on your time right now.

Some other things you can include in your time capsule are:

  1. Photographs (friends, family, pets).
  2. A mood board of what you think your life will look like in a few years.
  3. A current newspaper (or, ya know, the top Twitter headline).
  4. The last movie ticket you bought.
  5. The receipt from the last time you went shopping.

 

You can also list your favorite things, and then see if they’ve changed by the end of college. Here are a few ideas for lists you can include in your time capsule:

  1. Your favorite foods.
  2. Your favorite musicians.
  3. Your favorite movies.
  4. Your favorite memories.
  5. Your favorite teachers.
  6. Your favorite video games, board games, and card games.
  7. Your favorite restaurants/fast food places.
  8. The current funniest memes.
  9. Who you follow on social media right now.

And why not spice it up with some drama? Tell your future self what your biggest worries and problems are right now. Maybe later on, they’ll look a little less scary!

 

2. Have a presentation night with your friends.

One of my favorite things that my friends and I have ever done was a slideshow night. Each of us prepared a PowerPoint, then presented it in front of the group. Mine was book-themed… are we surprised?

There are so many different ideas for your presentation theme. A few of the funniest ones I’ve found:

  1. “A couple things from the twilight saga that gave me the ick”
  2. “If y’all were on The Bachelor, how you would leave”
  3. “Birds are fake”
  4. “Everyone as Shrek characters”
  5. “What type of cheese I think you all are”

There’s also a “poll” themed night, where the group is asked a question, and everyone votes their answers. They can be friend-related – like, “Who’s the grandma of the friend group?” – or just general, fun polls.

You can use Instagram to collect everybody’s answers. Otherwise, there are plenty of free-to-use poll apps and websites out there, like Pollie.

 

3. Movie binge.

We’ll get into the great outdoors in a moment, but for now, here are some classic film series to watch! Don’t forget your Beyonce Renaissance Tour Popcorn Bucket. (Just me? Okay…)

Big kaiju kinda girl.

 

  1. The Lord of the Rings (my personal favorite).
  2. All of the Studio Ghibli movies.
  3. Star Wars.
  4. Pirates of the Caribbean (I recently rewatched these, and… are you kidding? They’re SO good!)
  5. Harry Potter.
  6. The Hunger Games.
  7. The Dark Knight trilogy.
  8. The Despicable Me/Minions franchise (don’t judge… I’m obsessed with these).
  9. The Jurassic Park movies.
  10. The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). (Skip over The Hulk…)
  11. The Godzilla franchise (see above).

 

4. Camping.

Camping is one of the best ways to bond with your friends. There are plenty of cheap (or even free) campsites all over the place, even if it’s a little bit of a drive.

During my senior summer, I went beach camping with my best friend, and waking up to the sound of the ocean is such a vibe. (Be sure to watch high tide, though…) One tip for beach camping with long hair is that my best friend braided hers, and mine ended up looking like a rat’s nest.

Sunrise at beach camping. (Not my RV. I wish, tho…)

Here are a few of the most essential items to pack for camping, but there are a lot of more comprehensive lists out there!

  1. Bug spray (trust me. This needs to be #1).
  2. Sunscreen.
  3. Extra clothes.
  4. Flashlights.
  5. Sleeping bags and pillows.

And make sure your tent is waterproof! You never know when it’s gonna rain…

 

5. Learn a new skill.

From skateboarding to knitting, there are so many fun skills you can spend your summer perfecting! As Brittany Broski says, “Never stop learning. Always be a student of life.”

I recently went down an art history rabbit hole. I never understood Vincent Van Gogh until I found this amazing YouTube channel: Great Art Explained!

1. Cooking.

You’ll probably have a meal plan at college, but it never hurts to have some quick and easy recipes on hand. We’ll be posting a blog post about fun recipes to make in your dorm, and we’ll update this article with the link.

2. Learn a new language.

Being multilingual is one of the most valuable skills a person can possess in this world. It makes it easier to connect with people, travel to new places, and learn about other cultures. One of my college roommates was Mexican, and I was always so jealous of her ability to speak Spanish with other people.

You’ll need a language credit during college anyway, so might as well get a head start!

3. Juggling.

This will drive the college kids wild, guaranteed… we’re very easily entertained.

4. Learn how to dance.

I would mention that there are a bazillion cheap and fun dance classes out there, but you’ve got one right in your house: social media!

Punch in a type of dance into the search bar of any social media platform, and enjoy the thousands of creators with dance tutorials posted to their profiles. TikTok dances are easy and short, but it might also be fun to try more traditional dance forms.

I’m currently trying to teach myself how to salsa… there’s a reason why I’m a writer, and not a salsa queen. Yet.

5. Meditate.

That college stress is coming, so it’s always good to have a few mental health strategies in your toolkit! Meditating is an easy way to feel grounded in your body and self. And the best part: you can do it anywhere, at any time! (Maybe not while you’re driving, but you get what I mean.)

 

So, there you have it. Just a few fun and simple ways to spend your college summer. Leave us a comment with any other ideas y’all have! 

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The Essay that Won Me $406,000

Jane introduces us to her multi-scholarship-winning essay.

Jane Cooper: Red Kite writer, YouTuber, and mom to a belligerent silver tabby.

Sitting pretty with a 2.7 GPA in your junior year of high school doesn’t exactly scream “scholarship.” The year before, my older sister – who aspired to be a rocket scientist (no, literally) – had gotten rejected from 3 of the colleges she’d applied to. And she had a 4.0. No pressure, right?

And yet, in December of my senior year, I found myself gut sobbing on my mother’s kitchen floor, clutching a book-sized envelope to my chest. The highest one of them all – a $112,000/year scholarship offer. I suppose that you’re now wondering the exact same thing as I was in that moment: how in the world did this happen?

I won’t keep you hanging, but it’s important for me to note that we live in an ever-evolving, ever-competitive world, and it took a dedicated support system to pull me up by my whiny bootstraps.

Of course, I give full credit to my college counselor and my lovely parents (with their saintlike patience) for connecting me to where I needed to go. They also used resources like Red Kite (heyyyyy) to narrow down the application pool to schools with reputations for being generous with scholarships.

Before applying, I had never heard of any of the three schools that extended scholarship offers to me, but their writing programs were reputable, and my amazing counselor correctly guessed that they’d be a good fit for me.

But there’s only so much anyone can do to help you out, especially when you’re a moody teenage girl convinced that her prospects of getting into college at all are pretty much nonexistent. You have to want it, and want it bad. And the best way you can show colleges just how much you want to be there is through your essay.

Christmas diploma – BA in English Literature and Creative Writing (with Emphases in Fiction and Nonfiction) and a minor in Women’s studies.

I lucked out by having so many supportive people around me, and although I recognize that privilege, I also know that these days, there are so many resources available for kids who are navigating this process all on their own. Red Kite – our free, personalized scholarship-finding platform – is one of them.

Another foolproof strategy is the ole learn-by-example, which is a recurring theme we want to offer on this blog. Watch people who succeed, learn how they did it, and incorporate their strategy into your own. No gatekeeping around here!

I don’t pretend to be the greatest writer in the world, nor that my college essay is perfect. Honestly, the first thing that comes to mind when I read back on this – along with a whole wave of cringe – is somewhere along the “bruh… you’re kidding” spectrum. But, facts are facts: this essay won me a cumulative $406,000 in scholarships.

We’ll dissect this essay more in-depth next week, where we’ll get our experts’ opinions on what exactly went right here – and what could’ve been better. We’ll update this page with a link to our analysis then.

For now, here’s my $406,000 college application essay.

Jane Cooper

College Essay for CommonApp

While I was creating each of my novels, I had to think to myself, “how do I make people who don’t know me care about my work, even if they have no reason to?” The same goes for personal essays like this. Anyone can talk up and down about all the things they had to overcome and their accomplishments in their life, but the difference is how it is told. The answer has unequivocally always been to embellish, exaggerate, and create sympathy. This is not what I plan to do here.

Instead, I would like to introduce the truth of my own story, as raw and unbiased as I can manage. I hope to symbolize the confidence I have that the truth alone is enough to set me apart from other essay writers, applicants, and authors.

I was born in Austin, Texas to a mother who earned a Bachelor’s in Journalism at the University of Texas and self-published a book of autobiographical columns. My father also dabbled in poetry, and we like to joke that I took their flairs for writing and multiplied them exponentially.

I wanted to be a writer before I could write. When I was two, I would scribble nonsense in notebooks, then read them out loud as if they were actual books. It has always been a deep passion ingrained within me to the point where it feels as natural as breathing or eating. During my childhood, I had so many ideas that I never ended up completing anything I wrote, because I would too quickly move on to the next one. Eventually, I had thousands of unfinished books, ranging from 2 to 250 pages.

After my family moved to New York when I was in elementary school, I faced abuse at the hands of teachers and family members, suicidal tendencies, and crippling anxiety that would go on to take almost a decade to overcome. I began to slow down, and I finished a 45 thousand word book when I was 12, my first ever novel. It allowed for the confidence that I was actually able to complete my ideas, but more than that, it set the tone for the next five books that I would go on to write.

I joined a website for writers in 2013. It took another 2 years, but eventually, my work began to take off on the site, and in 2018, I had over 100,000 followers, and I’d racked up above 70 million views across my various books. Because I was still a minor, the site placed advertisements on my work, and never paid me for them. Eventually, they deleted my profile and all of my writing over this money dispute, and I was back to square one. I had spent 4 years of my life creating on this site, and now had nothing to show for it except for screenshots and memories.

After moving back to Texas and going through 3 high schools in 3 years, I finally found God and began meditating, effectively curing the anxiety that had crippled me since my childhood. Now, I am a straight-A student about to publish a second novel to Amazon, and my comedy-based YouTube channel has almost 1,500 subscribers. I also volunteer at a local organization teaching creative writing to underprivileged 2nd graders once a week. It’s small compared to what I achieved on the writing site, but I’m proud of it, and most importantly, I’m happy.

Only a year ago I had lost so much, and although I’m still suffering from certain aftereffects of that loss, I now firmly know I am strong enough to face anything. Nobody and nothing can take away my potential, my determination, and my talent.

My name is Jane Cooper. It took some time for me to see it, but I know my future is full of greatness.

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How To Financially Prepare For After College Graduation

COVID-19 has turned everything upside down, including college graduation. These uncertain times make it more important than ever to make sure you are financially prepared for whatever lies ahead. Graduating college and starting your career comes with additional expenses and responsibilities, so making sure you are financially set for the future is crucial. Plus, ensuring financial preparedness can help ease some of the anxiety that comes with graduating. Here are just a few ways you can ensure greater financial stability post-graduation.

Set up a plan to pay off your student loans

According to Forbes, there are 45 million people who have taken out student loans. If you are one of those students, it’s crucial to set yourself up for success to ensure you are able to pay off your loans as soon as you can! This will allow you to save more of your money and live debt-free. Some best practices that will put you on the path to success include:

  • Creating a strict budget.
  • Paying over the minimum payment to avoid accumulating interest.
  • Starting with the smallest loan first and working your way up (often called the debt snowball method).

Seeing that balance drop to zero will not only be a huge weight lifted off your shoulders, but it will also leave you better prepared to tackle future big purchases such as buying a house or a car.

Open up a checking account with direct deposit

Once you’ve landed your first job out of college, it’s time to open up a checking account and set up direct deposit. This will allow you to get your paychecks paperless and automatically deposited into your account, making payday much easier on you and your employer! Many checking accounts also provide you with a debit card, making it easy to access your money and make everyday purchases.

There are many options available when choosing the right financial institution to set up an account with. If you don’t already have yourself set up with a checking account, consider signing up with a financial service  that will directly deposit your paychecks in advance! This can ease some of the stress between pay periods and get you your money days earlier than most would.

Begin contributing to a retirement plan

Besides saving for your emergency fund, it’s important to make contributions to a retirement fund such as an IRA as early as you can. It can be easy to focus on the short term goals like paying off rent and keeping up with your student loans, but it’s never too early to begin planning for retirement.

Even if you are only able to contribute a small portion of your income, every little bit counts! Check with your employer to see their options. Many employers will have a 401(k) plan and may even match some of your contributions! If you’re unfamiliar with these types of plans or where to start, check out these key points.

Build your credit

Lastly, you’ll want to make sure you’re focusing on building up your credit. Applying for a credit card and making small purchases can help you to slowly increase your credit score.

Building or improving your credit score can help you get approved for future purchases such as a new car or mortgage on a house. Finding a credit card that’s right for you can be a challenge for some, so make sure to do your research and ask about these questions to yourself:

  • Is there an Annual Fee?
  • What is the APR?
  • Do they offer benefits such as cash back or travel miles?
  • What kind of fees do they have?
  • Do they have a credit score requirement?

If you are not sure where to begin your search, be sure to check out these student credit cards to start your journey student credit cards to start your journey.

Being proactive about maintaining your finances is a crucial habit to get into, so starting off your college graduation on the right foot will be key. Given the circumstances we are in right now, it’s more important than ever to be conscious of your finances and start off on the right path. Now it’s time to finish off the semester strong!

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