Leaving Bard

For many students, graduation marks the beginning of financial independence. That independence is signified, for the majority of students, by student loan payments that begin 6 to 9 months after graduation, and by bills for rent, utilities, groceries and such sundries as entertainment, a professional wardrobe, car payments and gas. Still others jump right back into school to attend graduate programs that may be as expensive (if not more expensive!) than their undergraduate education. This can add up to a financial struggle, and many alums find it difficult to plan—and save – for their futures.

This section of the website offers fiscal advice and some helpful links to websites geared toward graduating seniors or any individual interested in organizing their personal finances after college. We recommend that you begin examining your fiscal horizon while still at Bard when you can call upon staff members in the offices of Financial Aid, Student Accounts and Career Development for help with financial planning.

• Student Loans
• Budgeting
• Credit Cards
• Investing Your Money

This section begins with the most pertinent information for graduating seniors – loan and budgeting information, followed by information pertaining to credit card debt and investing. General information pertaining to personal finances can be found on the following sites:

• www.hdfs.hs.iastate.edu/financial/
• www.youngmoney.com
• www.fool.com
• financialplan.about.com
• www.bankrate.com/brm/advice_home.asp
• www.salary.com

The information included on the Senior Year Experience website has been obtained through research that we believe to be reliable. We encourage you to contact the Dean of Students Office in the case where a user has found misinformation or an out of date site. Links to various websites do not constitute endorsements of products, services or brands. The content of this site is meant for general informational purposes, the college does not assume responsibility for the advice or information given. Each user should consider his or her own circumstances when making decisions related to topics on this website. The website is meant to be used as a general research tool, not be used as a substitute for professional advice. Individual questions or concerns pertaining to legal, medical, financial or other issues should always be addressed by a professional. The college shall not be held liable for damages incurred from errors, inaccuracies, or omissions arising from director or indirect use of this site.