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How did you manage to graduate in just 12 months?
At the science-and-technology magnet high school I attended in Annandale, Va., I took many advanced-placement courses. The University of Virginia gave me 60 credits for those classes. I needed 63 more to graduate with a double major in math and physics. I took 18 classes in two semesters, plus one class in the summer.
| Row 0 - Cell 0 | The Great Scholarship Quest |
| Row 1 - Cell 0 | Freshman Finance 101 |
| Row 2 - Cell 0 | 50 Best Values in Public Colleges |
| Row 3 - Cell 0 | Free Money for Grad School |
Was it hard to persuade the school to cooperate?
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I spoke about my early-graduation plans with an academic dean at UVa as soon as I was accepted. I wouldn't have been able to do it without having the dean on my side.
How much did your degree cost?
I spent only about $1,000 during my year of college, if I count the PC I bought and some other expenses.
How did you manage that?
My family was short on money, so I applied for about 30 scholarships during my senior year in high school. UVa didn't award me any academic or financial aid, but I won roughly $14,000 in scholarship money, which covered a year's tuition and room and board.
What's your advice for finding scholarships?
I used databases in the guidance counselor's office at my high school. If your high school doesn't have a good database, try another school. And if you find scholarships that may not seem perfectly suited to your qualifications, apply anyway.
Did you cram in some fun during your compressed college tenure?
I made friends with some of my dormmates. I hung out with them and played a lot of video games, like WarCraft III and Super Smash Bros. Melee.
What are you doing now?
My 3.6 grade point average as an undergrad enabled me to enter UVa's master's program in mathematics. My tuition and room and board are fully paid for by a grant. Eventually, I aim to get either a PhD in mathematics or a J.D. and work as a patent attorney.
-- Interview by Sean O'Neill
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Ask the Tax Editor: Federal Income Tax DeductionsAsk the Editor In this week's Ask the Editor Q&A, Joy Taylor answers questions on federal income tax deductions
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States With No-Fault Car Insurance Laws (and How No-Fault Car Insurance Works)A breakdown of the confusing rules around no-fault car insurance in every state where it exists.
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7 Frugal Habits to Keep Even When You're RichSome frugal habits are worth it, no matter what tax bracket you're in.
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9 Types of Insurance You Probably Don't NeedFinancial Planning If you're paying for these types of insurance, you may be wasting your money. Here's what you need to know.
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I Want to Help Pay for My Grandkids' College. Should I Make a Lump-Sum 529 Plan Contribution or Spread Funds out Through the Years?We asked a college savings professional and a financial planning expert for their advice.
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Amazon Resale: Where Amazon Prime Returns Become Your Online BargainsFeature Amazon Resale products may have some imperfections, but that often leads to wildly discounted prices.
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How Intrafamily Loans Can Bridge the Education Funding GapTo avoid triggering federal gift taxes, a family member can lend a student money for education at IRS-set interest rates. Here's what to keep in mind.
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How an Irrevocable Trust Could Pay for EducationAn education trust can be set up for one person or multiple people, and the trust maker decides how the money should be used and at what age.
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UTMA: A Flexible Alternative for Education Expenses and MoreThis custodial account can be used to pay for anything once the beneficiary is considered an adult in their state. There are some considerations, though.
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Coverdell Education Savings Accounts: A Deep DiveWhile there are some limitations on income and contributions, as well as other restrictions, a Coverdell can be a bit more flexible than a 529 plan.
