Part I: Net Salary How did you choose your career? I chose a career in law because it caters to my interests in social justice, criminal justice, psychology, reading, and writing. For a great portion of my life, I wanted to pursue a career within the medical field, specifically pertaining to psychology. Initially, I thought I wanted to be a psychiatrist or therapist. However, I considered my lack of interest in science and considered my other passions: social justice, history, reading, and writing. A career in law better suits what I want to accomplish in the world. Rather than helping people through providing prescriptions and giving advice, I want to have a direct impact on all of society through interpreting the law. Through this career, I think I will find more joy in what I do and it will pay off in the long run.
Now that you’ve seen your preliminary budget, reflect on your career choice and the lifestyle you may be able to live as a result. What might be the benefits or challenges? One of the clear benefits of becoming a lawyer is the potentially high salary that comes with it. Seeing the income that is possible, I am further motivated to stay on this track. However, it is important to note the amount of time and work that goes into this profession. My life will heavily revolve around my career, allowing limited leisure time which is a challenge of this career.
Despite this, I will be well-off enough to spend my money on things such as clothes, gifts, matcha lattes, books, and devices (laptops)--a huge benefit. Eventually, over time, I can make enough money to pursue travel, a car, and a cat (because I have always wanted a cat). Depending on my wellbeing and the circumstances, if I am in a steady relationship, I could factor my money into that future. Overall, the most prominent benefit is the financial comfortability that comes with a career in law.
Part II: Savings Strategy
How much did you decide to save (in savings and in retirement), and why did you make these choices? Regarding savings, I saved 10% for savings and 7% for retirement. I simply picked 10% because it was recommended to me, but also because it meant I would be putting aside $7536. This amount could potentially go up due to my remaining monthly balance which I do not plan on using entirely. That said, I can add about $1000 to my savings, totaling almost $8500 every year. Regarding retirement, I chose 7% considering I am in the early stages of my career. I will increase this percent as I advance in my job.
After seeing how your final budget turned out, do you think you should be saving more or less than you originally chose? I had a remaining balance of $2933. I think this balance leaves me well off, but I think the opportunity to continue saving remains despite this sum of money. I would rather save my money than spend it.
Part III: Spending Habits
When you look at your overall spending, which category are you spending the least on? Does this surprise you? Why or why not? I am spending the least on transportation. I am not surprised as this makes sense, considering I theoretically planned my budget around living in the city of Philadelphia. With this lifestyle, I depend on public transportation as getting and maintaining a car is a bit out of my price range. It would cost roughly $96 to live in Philly and depend on public transportation.
Which category are you spending the most on? Does this surprise you? Why or why not? I spend the most on living. I am not surprised as keeping up with an apartment and all its many utilities requires a lot more money. With a roommate, it would cost $929 per month to live in Philadelphia.
What is one category you know you could spend less on? What sacrifices would you have to make if you were to spend less on this category? I surely could spend less on food. I currently spend $371 on food per month which is a lot of money. I allowed myself to eat out twice a week on $20 meals. If I desired to be more conscious of my money, I would eat out less. Instead, the bulk of my meals would come from cooked meals/meal preps made with my own groceries.
What is one category you wish you could spend more on? What would need to happen for that to be possible? Honestly, I am satisfied with how much I am spending on each category. I do not wish to increase my spending for either category, even the “wants”. This activity has made me realize the importance of securing a job and saving money to survive. If I want to accomplish all the goals I have of traveling, I need to save my money. In doing so, everything will pay off in the end.
Budget Spreadsheet
Postsecondary/College Research Questions
College/University Research Questions: University of Pittsburgh General Information 1. Where is this school located? How long would it take you to get there from Garnet Valley? How do you feel about this distance?
University of Pittsburgh (main) is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The main campus is about a five hour drive and one and a half hour flight away from Garnet Valley. I am perfectly fine with this distance. I did not initially plan on attending a state school. In fact, I prefer attending urban schools in Washington DC and New York. However, University of Pittsburgh caters to me as it combines both the feel of a campus and the city while being in state, allowing for a lesser net price. Overall, I like the idea of staying in Pennsylvania while being a decent distance away from home.
2. How many undergraduate students attend this school? How many graduate students?
23,466 undergraduate students (1,087 part-time) attend the University of Pittsburgh. 7,280 graduate students (1,911 part-time) attend, as well. That said, it is clear that the majority of Pitt’s attendees are undergraduates. I have been interested in attending schools with a large undergraduate population as it will allow me to meet a diverse group of people.
3. List three sports, clubs, and/or organizations that the school offers that interest you. Consider Greek life (fraternities/ sororities), campus ministry, study abroad opportunities, community service organizations, etc.
Asian Student Alliance; This group would allow me to meet with other Asian American students. This is something I would be interested in as I would be given the opportunity to learn about different cultures while spreading advocacy on current issues that pertain to our community. While Garnet Valley has an Asian population, it will be refreshing to collaborate with others that I can resonate with.
Feminist Empowerment Movement; I am interested in pursuing more advocacy-type activities as I presently enjoy being part of the GirlUp! Club at GVHS. I want to continue uplifting and shedding light upon issues disproportionately affecting women, but especially women of color.
The Pitt News; I enjoy writing and I would consider joining the school’s newspaper. I am interested in learning more about the process of publishing and I like how such an organization will keep me informed.
4. What kind of internships are available to students of this school? Try to find the answer to this question for your prospective major.
The internships available to Pitt students include: paid internships, unpaid internships, unpaid internships with academic credit, and unpaid educational internships without academic credit. With regard to my prospective major (legal studies/political science/etc.) The internships pertain more to law enforcement-oriented interests.
5. What is the campus setting (urban, suburban, rural, etc.)? What kinds of off-campus experiences are available to students at this school?
The University of Pittsburgh consists of an urban campus which caters to my campus setting interests. Off-campus include multiple museums, restaurants, and parks in the city for students to enjoy (including free student bus passes). What I admire most about Pitt is its combination of both a typical college campus feel and the close proximity of the city, giving students the best of both worlds.
6. What are three majors that this school offers that you would like to consider?
Political Science and Government
Legal Studies
Ethnic Studies
All three of these majors include educational focuses that I would like to continue in college. For a career regarding the law, these majors will benefit me best.
7. What is this school’s job placement rate for graduating students?
In 2018, 68% of Pitt college graduates went directly to work, 24% sought higher education, and the rest comprised of entrance into the military, volunteer services, and more. It is clear that Pitt students find success after college. That said, it is likely that I will pursue higher education after undergraduate study.
Application Information 8. When is the application deadline?
The University of Pittsburgh has rolling admissions, meaning that applications are evaluated as they come in. In other words, the sooner you apply, the sooner you will receive a reply.
9. Does this school accept the common application?
Yes, Pitt accepts the common application as well as the coalition application.
10. What are the SAT/ACT requirements for this school?
SAT/ACTs are conditional, meaning that although they aren’t required, they will be evaluated. Average scores consist of 1260-1440 and 28-33.
11. What are the GPA/Class Rank requirements for this school?
GPA is recommended to be included when applying for admissions to the school. According to data provided by Niche, high school students with a 3.5-4.0 GPA are likely to be admitted. Class rank is considered but not required.
12. What other admissions requirements are there? SAT 2, letters of recommendation, personal statement, interview, audition, etc.?
The admissions requirements include: statement/essay, high school transcript, and college preparation courses. Optional requirements include: SAT/ACT scores, high school GPA, class rank, resumes, and portfolios.
13. Is this school “Safety” “Reach” or “Middle of the Road” for you?
Considering my academic performance, rigor, and extracurricular activities, the University of Pittsburgh is likely a safety/middle of the road school for me. My overall GPA is about a 3.9 unweighted and a 4+ weighted. I took classes that were challenging and managed to come through with grades that I am proud of. I am involved in multiple honors societies, clubs, and activities that showcase who I am and what my passions are. That said, I have confidence in myself as a student.
Campus Life/Services on Campus 14. Where is the Health Center and/or Counseling Center located and what are the hours? How do you make an appointment at the Counseling Center?
The office of Pitt’s student health center is located at the Nordenberg Hall - Wellness Center (119 University Place Pittsburgh, PA 15260). Their business hours vary (Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8:30 am to 7pm; Tuesday and Friday from 8:30 am to 5 pm; and Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm).
The counseling center is also located in Nordenberg Hall on the second floor of the wellness center (119 University Place Pittsburgh, PA 15260). Virtual drop-in services are available from 9 am to 4 pm (Mon-Fri) to accommodate the current circumstances of the pandemic. If attention is needed right away, one can call 412-648-7930.
15. What are the hours for the Writing Center? Do you need an appointment or can you just drop in?
The hours for the Writing Center vary daily by semester. This Spring Semester (2021), the hours range from 8am to 9 or 3pm, 1 pm to 6 pm, and 11 am to 9 pm (Sun-Fri). Appointments must be scheduled.
16. What academic supports/curricular accommodations can students with special learning needs receive?
Pitt offers multiple special education programs and accommodations including designated classrooms and faculty aids.
College/University Research Questions: Fordham University General Information 1. Where is this school located? How long would it take you to get there from Garnet Valley? How do you feel about this distance?
Fordham University is located in the Bronx, New York, essentially making it about two hours away from Garnet Valley. I like how this distance isn’t too far away from home yet allows me to experience the freedom of living on my own in the city. In comparison to the University of Pittsburgh, Fordham is significantly closer while still far enough to let me dorm, but also take multiple trains to come back home.
2. How many undergraduate students attend this school? How many graduate students?
9,399 undergraduate students attend Fordham. In comparison, 6,965 graduate students attend Fordham, demonstrating a greater emphasis on underclassmen. Clearly, this university is a medium-sized school which benefits professor to student relationships and a more defined sense of community.
3. List three sports, clubs, and/or organizations that the school offers that interest you. Consider Greek life (fraternities/ sororities), campus ministry, study abroad opportunities, community service organizations, etc.
The clubs/organizations vary between the two campuses, Lincoln Center and Rose Hill, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that there is an extensive list of organizations to participate in.
Fordham University Philippine American Club
Leading Women of Tomorrow
Mock Trial
Pre-Law Society
All of these organizations cater to my interests in law, social justice, and opportunities to appreciate and learn about culture. In particular, the FUPAC caught my attention as I think it would be a great opportunity to meet other Filipinos at the university. Growing up in predominantly white school like Garnet Valley has kept me from interacting with other Filipinos due to the small population. Through this club, I can appreciate my background and form friendships with people I can resonate with.
4. What kind of internships are available to students of this school? Try to find the answer to this question for your prospective major.
The internships available at Fordham consist of ones that are unpaid with academic credit. Not much information is provided with respect to specific majors, but this information may be accessed through meeting with a counselor.
5. What is the campus setting (urban, suburban, rural, etc.)? What kinds of off-campus experiences are available to students at this school?
Fordham University is an urban school. Similarly to Pitt, one of the two campuses, Rose Hill, offers that “campus” and “city” feel simultaneously. To elaborate further, rather than being just a city school like NYU, Fordham has spaces reserved for students to allow for a sense of community. Furthermore, due to the college’s location in the Bronx, NYC is only a fifteen minute subway ride away. Off-campus experiences/attractions include gardens, restaurants, museums, and other joys of the city.
6. What are three majors that this school offers that you would like to consider?
Political Science
Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Sociology
All of these majors connect back to enriching my knowledge on people. Understanding how certain groups of people are affected by multiple factors will benefit my interpretation of law.
7. What is this school’s job placement rate for graduating students?
According to reports on Fordham’s website, 50-60% of graduates advanced to full-time employment, 50-80% to part time employment, and about another 10% seeking higher education. This indicates that most graduates find success in obtaining job opportunities once they graduate which is reassuring.
Application Information 8. When is the application deadline?
Early Decision, Early Action, and priority deadlines are November 1st whereas regular decision applications are due January 1.
9. Does this school accept the common application?
Yes, they accept the Common Application but not the Coalition Application. It is also vital to note that the application fee is $70.
10. What are the SAT/ACT requirements for this school?
Submitting SAT/ACT scores are optional; however, the typical ranges are 1240-1450 and 28-32, revealing slight competition.
11. What are the GPA/Class Rank requirements for this school?
One’s high school GPA must be submitted in the application.
12. What other admissions requirements are there? SAT 2, letters of recommendation, personal statement, interview, audition, etc.?
Along with high school GPA, the other requirements include review of a portfolio/audition (applying to certain students, such as those attending for the arts), high school transcript, college preparation courses, and recommendation letters.
13. Is this school “Safety” “Reach” or “Middle of the Road” for you?
Considering the school’s 46% acceptance rate, Fordham University is a middle of the road type of school. I think it targets and matches my academic abilities and interests as a person. After entering my stats at face value, the Niche website
Campus Life/Services on Campus 14. Where is the Health Center and/or Counseling Center located and what are the hours? How do you make an appointment at the Counseling Center?
There are multiple health centers available by campus.
Rose Hill center is located at 441 E. Fordham Road Bronx NY 10458. Their hours are 8 am to 6 pm (Mon-Fri); 10 am to 3 pm (Sat-Sun); and Monday Holidays from 10 am to 3 pm. The Lincoln Center is located at 140 W. 62nd Street, Room G-16 New York, NY, 10023. Their hours are 10 am to 6 pm (Mon-Tue); 9 am to 5 pm (Wed-Fri); and appointments must be scheduled for Saturdays. For both centers, appointments must be made through the website: www.fordham.edu/health.
15. What are the hours for the Writing Center? Do you need an appointment or can you just drop in?
The Writing Center is a free service for all students. Their hours vary by 3 campuses: Rose Hill, Lincoln Center, and Westchester. Overall the hours are usually from 9:30 am to 5,7, or 9:30 pm. Appointments can be made through contacting each branch via phone or email.
16. What academic supports/curricular accommodations can students with special learning needs receive?
The supports and accommodations include services that are applied for to cater to the individual needs of each student. One example of these services include staff and student meetings which allow for individual, personalized aid, as needed. Evidently, students of all background and learning abilities are supported by Fordham University.
Postsecondary Reflection
Reflection
What schools did you research? How did you select these schools? I chose to research the University of Pittsburgh (main) and Fordham University. Fordham was recommended to me by Mr. Salladino based on the qualities I look for in a school: affordable, quality of education, size, campus setting, student organizations, and diversity. Similarly, I chose to research Pitt as it was recommended to me by SCOIR, Naviance, and another website called Niche, after I factored in those same qualifications.
How do the academic offerings, location and social experience correlate with what you would like at your future school? Both schools correlate with regard to academic offerings in the way that they offer programs with focuses on political science and other related studies. They also have a variety of clubs and organizations that I am eager to be part of--in fact, seeing the wide variety of organizations has increased my interest in both schools. Regarding location, Pitt is much further in distance from home in comparison to Fordham. I am content with both distances, however. Regarding social experience, Pitt has a larger population of undergraduates by an extra 10,000. This does not qualify an advantage in social experience. I think that campuses in a city allow for students to venture as young adults and form relationships in a place full of diverse people. The organizations available also allow for relationships through shared cultures and passions which is incredibly beneficial. I am eager to meet a variety of people, each with unique backgrounds and experiences.
Does the school you are going to choose have the major you would like? Will you go in undecided? Both schools have majors I would be interested in taking (political science). I will likely commit to a college as a political science major, but until I solidify my choices and considering opportunities of financial aid, I cannot be sure.
Can you afford this school? Pitt is an in-state school allowing for a lower net price ($22k) in comparison to Fordham ($39k). I am more likely to afford Pitt, but I cannot come to a conclusion until I factor in financial aid opportunities and complete thorough research regarding my family’s financial situation to calculate a more accurate estimate.
Are the schools you researched reach, safety, or middle of the road schools? Both schools are “middle of the road” schools. With acceptance rates of 46% and 57%, it is possible that I can get accepted based on my academic performance and extracurricular activities, specifically in the way that I fit the ranges provided by each school. For example, Niche calculates that I rank higher than 57% of students accepted at Fordham and 59% at Pitt based on my SAT scores and GPA.
What is required for entrance to this school? Fordham University requires an essay/statement, but SAT/ACT scores, resumes, portfolios, and interviews are optional. The University of Pittsburgh does not necessarily require an essay/statment or SAT/ACT scores, but they are conditional. Like Fordham, resumes, portfolios, and interviews are optional. Though SAT scores are optional, the average scores are 1345 to 1350.
What specifically do you need to do between now and application time? I need to do much more research on my respective list of schools to narrow down my choices. I need to further research majors/minors and organizations available as they are very important to me. Most crucial to a successful application, I must have a talk with my parents to discuss/fill out the FAFSA and determine how we will finance my postsecondary education. My parents have never gone through the college application process so this is very new to us. If needed, I can reach out to Mr. Salladino again to ask for guidance. Now, I can continue to narrow down my list and score well on my AP tests, another SAT, and solidify my grades of junior year. Once I have finalized my list, I will make efforts to tour the schools over the summer and obtain a job to save up more money.