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Summer Melt & How to Avoid It.
Renee E. Henderson | 6.16.2017
Summer Melt - Defined.
Summer melt is the phenomenon that up to 40% of students who are college-bound upon high school graduation do not actually enroll in college in fall. Students end up not enrolling on their selected campus for many reasons, most often due to financial burdens. Often, students find they need college help over the summer but in many areas there are a lack of resources. High schools are closed, and some college campuses may seem intimidating (or less than helpful) to students in dire straights. As a result, many students postpone their college ambitions.
How can you avoid falling victim to summer melt?
1. Don't procrastinate.
Complete as much college planning as possible before you graduate from high school. Try to complete everything before the deadline, particularly your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and scholarship applications. Sometimes, you might be asked to provide more information to your selected college, and that information may take some time for you to gather. You don't want to miss the deadline for enrollment because you waited until the last minute. Not only that, but your high school counselor is more available to you while you're still in school. They can help with any questions that arise before they are hard to reach during summer vacation.
2. Reach out to someone on your college campus.
If you are unsure where to start, call the general number for the college you plan to attend. Tell them what you need, and they will direct you to the right place. Nationwide, many colleges have started to put a lot more time and dedication into providing great customer service. If you are speaking with someone that's not helpful, ask for someone else until you find someone that answers your questions and puts your nerves at ease. Save that person's contact information and ask them for help when you need it. Don't think of college faculty and staff as scary! Without you, they don't have a job! They are employed for the sole purpose of helping you.
3. Have a backup plan.
There is no denying that college is expensive. A lot of high school grads end up forgoing college because they realize they can't afford their chosen school - even with student loans. Know that if you find yourself in this situation, you're not alone! You may be planning to save and attend later, but you should understand that studies show that students that postpone attending college, even for one semester, are significantly less likely to graduate with a bachelor's degree. There is no shame in changing your plan to make college more affordable. Consider going to a community college. They cost roughly 90% less than the average yearly cost of attendance at a private university. You can also consider taking just a few courses to lower your bill, speak with your academic adviser to see how this affects your college completion plan. Remember that you have options, and moving slowly toward your goal is better than stalling altogether.
4. Keep your goals high on your priority list.
Sometimes all you need to do to get through a tough time is remember why you started. You made the decision to go to college because (at the very least) you're hoping for a better future for yourself and for your family. Have faith that the path you've chosen is the right one, and that you're capable of doing anything you set your mind to. There will be roadblocks along the way, and there might be times you think college isn't for you. But remember that you are in control of your future, and your education should be your highest priority. If you ever feel like college graduation is out of reach for you, especially in the summer right before you start, reach out to me at hendersonren@missouri.edu (or through the "contact" link on the home page). I'll walk you through it, and help you figure out a way to make your college dreams a reality. YOU CAN DO IT!