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Heading off to college is an exciting time! New classes, new friends, and a fresh start at adulting. With that said, college also comes with several big decisions and expenses. Whether you're a soon-to-be freshman or already deep into your college journey, having the right tools and resources can make all the difference, and we’re here to help you make the most of your experience.
Score Free Money:
Scholarships are a great way to ease the financial burden of college and the best part? You don’t have to pay them back! The trick is knowing where to look. Here are a few places to start your search:
📌 Fastweb: One of the largest and most reputable scholarship databases.
📌 Scholarships.com: Search by interests, field of study, and even your location.
📌 BigFuture by College Board: A great place to explore options based on your academic profile.
📌 College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC): North Carolina-specific scholarships and financial aid tools.
📌 Champion Credit Union: Our scholarship portal opens October 1st for the 2026-2027 school year.
💡 CCU Tip: Apply early and often. Even small scholarships can add up to big savings on textbooks, meal plans, and more.
Make College Life (and your finances) a Little Easier:
1. Create a Simple Budget
Yes, we said the “B” word, but budgeting doesn’t have to be complicated. Track what’s coming in (like part-time income or financial aid) with a budget and what’s going out (think food, gas, supplies) so you don't overspend.
2. Avoid Student Loan Surprises
Understand what you're borrowing, what your repayment will look like, and if there are interest-free federal loan options available while you're in school.
3. Save on Textbooks
Always compare prices online before buying. Check out book rentals, eBooks, or used copies on websites like Chegg, BookScouter, or Amazon to potentially save money.
College is a big step, but you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Use the tools available to you, ask questions, and lean into the support around you. And remember, we're here to help guide you through the financial side of your college life and in every step after to help you experience more in life.