(NAPSA)—Acollege education is one of the most important investments of time and moneythat students and their families will make. Workers with a bachelor’s degree earned 65 percent more, on average, than those with only a high school diploma, according to a Bureau of LaborStatistics report. Fortunately, there are steps to take now that can help makea college education a reality. If college is on the horizon for you or a family member, you probably need to think about how you'll cover the costs. Understanding your scholarship, financial aid and student loan options will help you get started on the right foot. Prospective, new and currentcollege students also need answersto questions such as how to select a major, what schoolis a goodfit, and which housing optionswill best suit their personality, lifestyle and study habits. Tackling these questions can seem daunting, but students and their families have resources for finding answers thanksto friends, family, school guidance counselors and financial aid officers. Talking to other students and parents who have already gone throughthe processor are in the midstof it can help save time and energy. In fact, a new resource is available to help do just that: Wells Fargo’s Online Community. It connects peo- ple with college-related questions with others who can help in developing a plan and getting answers. Here are a few things students and their families may want to discuss: Learning howto pay for college may be less of a challenge with the help of online resources. Develop a budget: Paying for college involves a lot more than tuition and housing. Make an itemized list of monthly expenses such as cell phone and Internet service, food and school supplies to get a good estimate of your overall expenses. Create a plan: Young people should get a summer or afterschool job, and then set up a savings and checking account to organize finances. Research financial aid: Check in on your financial aid options early and often. There are a numberof steps to getting the best financial aid package for your needs. Track deadlines, so you’re not left scrambling. For more information and resources and to join the conversation with other students, parents, financial aid officers and loan experts, visit www.wellsfargo community.com.
