---
title: 3 Money Must-Dos for Before You Head Off to College
description: Financial blogger Brian Preston has three tips for before you head off to school.
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published: '2015-12-10T19:23:40.000Z'
modified: '2015-12-10T19:23:40.000Z'
section: Education
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![Screen Shot 2015-12-08 at 4.43.42 PM](https://img.money.com/2015/12/screen-shot-2015-12-08-at-4-43-42-pm.png)

With tuition on a steady incline, it's important to do your research before applying. Financial blogger [Brian Preston](http://www.money-guy.com/) has some tips on how to ease your way into freshman year.

**Choose a school you can afford.** Choose a college based on affordability, don't go beyond your means.

**Choose a major that has a good ROI (return on investment).** Choose a major that will provide a good salary, to ease the stress of student loan payments. Go to [Saving For College](http://www.savingforcollege.com/) for salary information.

**Be mindful of what you post on social media.** Both schools and potential employers will look at your social media accounts. Don't post anything that could put your future at risk.

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