If you dream
it.. . you can
achieve it.
D
DR
EAM
IT
. BEL
IEV
E IT
.
AC
HIE
VE
IT.
Name: __________________________
T-2-4
SUCCESS
PLANNER
Dear SBISD Student,
In Spring Branch ISD we strive to prepare every child with the information and tools necessary to encourage their T-2-4 success beyond high school graduation. We are in constant pursuit of new tools and resources to help support you through the journey of discovering your future success.
We are excited to provide each of you your very own T-2-4 Success Planner. This workbook has been designed with you, the student, in mind. The pages will surely jump out at you. In this workbook we encourage you to work through the many unique activities from sharpening your understanding of yourself and your talents, all the way to exploring the world of possibilities that you can indeed pursue now and after high school.
We are excited about the conversations this workbook has the potential to insight between you and your family, your peers, and all the influential adults in your life.
Many thanks to our high school Guidance Counselors, Academic Advisors, and To and Through Department leadership for their work and contributions to this tool, including but not limited to: Lance Stallworth Hortencia Vega Erika Delgado Scott Fara Ranjbaran LaWanda Jenkins Cameron Raska Emilio Gonzalez Greg Fore Karren Sims
Beverly Martin Gene Rutland Maureen Gonzalez Shanbriel Woolridge Jacqueline Garcia Noemi Brito
Chelsea Champion Nadine Smith Sasha Argudin Devan Bell Lauren Ridder
Patti Pace Associate Superintendent
Inspiring minds. Shaping lives.
Independent School District
SpringBranch
Spring Branch Independent School District Division of Teaching & Learning
955 Campbell Road, Houston, Texas 77024
Phone (713) 251-2320 • Fax (713) 251-2320
Patti Pace, Associate Superintendent
Literacy…Find the Zone!
SPRING BRANCH ISD 3
Table of Contents
I. Self-Exploration & Career Clusters
II. T-2-4 Possibilities & My T-2-4 Profile
a. T-2-4 Career Options
b. T-2-4 Requirements
c. More on the “4” & College Match Tools
d. What’s Special about Texas?
e. College & University Comparison Chart
f. My T-2-4 Profile
i. Profile Analysis
ii. Am I on Track?
iii. Profile Reflections
iv. Beyond the Numbers
III. Choosing my Future
a. Define My Dreams
b. Declare My Goals
c. Develop My Support Team
IV. Taking Action: My Checklists & Timelines
a. Design My Plan
b. Important Milestones
c. Helpful Videos & Websites
V. My Important T-2-4 Information
a. Websites, Portals, & Log-ins
b. My T-2-4 Target Interests & Requirements
VI. Financial Aid & Beyond
VII. Appendices
a. Checklist & Timeline Worksheet
b. Essay Prompts
c. Essay Writing Tool
d. Naviance College Application Process
e. Campus Information (if applicable)
SPRING BRANCH ISD 4
“Find out what you like doing best and get someone to pay you for
doing it.” –Katherine Whitehorn
1) SELF EXPLORATION & CAREER CLUSTERS
Remember when you first started school and your teacher asked you “What do you want to be when you
grow up?” Well, what was your answer? What did you dream of becoming in the future? Did you picture
any of these careers?
You may not believe it, but you are closer to becoming what you’ve always wanted to be! This year will be
filled with many opportunities to continue on the journey to your future. Let’s start here.
Think about yourself and circle all the skills and abilities below that describe you best. Remember, you can
ask others for help. Many times others know you better than you know yourself.
Active Listener Like following
directions Like helping others
Information gatherer
Analytical Thinker
Flexible Natural Leader Problem Solver Easy to make
friends Willing to learn
Planner Creative Like working in
teams Like making
decisions Organizer
Develops Strategies Like using
technology Prefer to focus on
the details Loyal Motivator
Enjoy debating Like to draw or
paint Like to teach others
Like managing money
Like working with numbers
Goal setter Enjoy nature Like working with
animals Enjoys the abstract
and not details Enjoy Health &
Fitness
Enjoy working alone
Good writer Hard worker Observer more
than a talker Enjoy raising hand
in class
What extracurricular activities and classes do I enjoy most? Why?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
What motivates me? What keeps my attention?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
SPRING BRANCH ISD 5
SELF EXPLORATION & CAREER CLUSTERS
Did you know that most jobs fall into 1 of 16 Career Clusters?
Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources Hospitality & Tourism
Architecture & Construction Human Services
Arts, Audio/Video Technology & Communications Information Technology
Business Management & Administration Law, Public Safely, Corrections & Security
Education & Training Manufacturing
Finance Marketing
Government & Public Administration Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Health Science Transportation, Distribution, & Logistics
If those career categories don’t look familiar, take a look at these sample jobs from each Cluster:
Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources Agricultural and Food Science Technician, Animal
Scientist, Floral Designers, Zoologists
Hospitality & Tourism Chefs & Head Cooks, Tour Guides & Escorts, Lodging
Managers, Farm & Home Management Advisors
Architecture & Construction Architectural & Civil Drafters, Carpenters, Derrick
Operators, Oil & Gas, Interior Designers
Human Services Child Care, Fashion Designers, Health Care Social
Workers, Political Scientists, Social Worker
Arts, Audio/Video Technology & Communications Actors, Desktop Publishers, Historians
Proofreaders & Copy Markers
Information Technology Computer & Information Systems Managers, Computer Programmers, Graphic Designers
Business Management & Administration Accountants, Chief Executives, Court Clerks
Training & Development Managers
Law, Public Safely, Corrections & Security Correctional Officers, Lawyers, Police Detectives, Paralegals & Legal Assistants, Forest Firefighters
Education & Training Athletic Coaches & Scouts, Interpreters &
Translators, Teachers, Judges
Manufacturing Automotive Technician, Electrical Engineer Tech,
Engine Assemblers, Welders & Cutters, Railcar Repair
Finance Budget Analysts, Financial Managers, Sales Agents,
Personal Financial Advisors
Marketing Advertising Manager, Models, Real Estate Broker,
Telemarketers
Government & Public Administration
Accountants & Auditors, Emergency Management Directors, Legislators, Urban & Regional Planners
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics Aerospace Engineers, Chemists, Geoscientists,
Microbiologists, Statisticians
Health Science Ambulance Drivers, Dietitians & Nutritionists,
Doctors, Massage Therapists
Transportation, Distribution, & Logistics Air Traffic Controllers, Commercial Pilots & Flight
Attendants, Shipping & Receiving
Have a better idea now of which Cluster your future career of interest falls under? If not, log into your
Naviance account to discover more about each cluster. Keep in mind to browse through the related skills
needed for each job and begin matching those skills with your own abilities. Remember, the above list is
just a sample. You can explore hundreds of related careers for each cluster through your Naviance Family
Connection account. Follow these easy steps to navigate Career Clusters in Naviance.
You can access the Naviance log-in website through your campus main web page.
SPRING BRANCH ISD 6
Click on the “Career” tab and follow any link under “explore careers” or “what are my interests.”
You can look for a specific career with the search and browse tools. You can even save your Career interests
and preferences under “My Careers.”
SPRING BRANCH ISD 7
After you explore the Career Clusters and find a potential career of interest, be sure to navigate the
“Credentials” tab. This will give you a better idea of whether or not your goals for education after high
school are on target.
Not sure what future career is your best fit? Don’t worry many students aren’t sure and need to explore
their interests. Your Naviance account has a few tools to help. On the same “Careers” tab, click on Do
What You Are, Cluster Finder or Cluster Interest Profiler to identify a top career cluster based on your
interests.
Keep in mind that most people change careers anywhere between 5-7 times in their lifetime. At this stage,
you are looking for somewhere to start, not determining your entire life. But remember, graduation is
coming soon, so you do have to start somewhere. Explore, explore, explore!
If you tried the “Do What You Are” or “Cluster Interest Profiler” to…
learn more about your interests, what did you discover?
learn more about required education for your career of interest, what did you discover?
My interest results were right on target with my career interests and job aspirations
My higher education goals are right on target with my career interests and job aspirations
My interest results showed me additional fields that might be a good fit for me
My higher education goals are higher than the minimum education required for my career interests and job aspirations
My interest results were very different from my initial career interests and job aspirations; I need to explore this information further
My higher education goals are lower than the minimum education required for my career interests and job aspirations
MORE EXPLORATION TOOLS
Here’s another way to research your future career interests. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has a nifty tool
like Naviance. You can look up the careers you think you’re interested in and navigate information like
median pay, typical education needed, and even discover the future job outlook for that type of position.
Take a look and let’s see what you think.
Visit www.bls.gov/k12/, click on Student Resources, and then click on the Career Exploration box. Now click
on any Career/Job of interest from the list to learn more.
SPRING BRANCH ISD 8
Pick one of the jobs you’re interested in and complete the questions below. Let’s explore how your initial
thoughts about this career match with what you learned from the career exploration tools.
MY ANTICIPATED FUTURE CAREER/JOB: ____________________________
JOB DUTIES- What do you think about the duties required for this job?
DUTIES I LIKE… DUTIES I DISLIKE… DUTIES THAT SURPRISED ME…
WORK ENVIRONMENT- What do you think about the work environment(s) for this job?
ENVIRONMENT ELEMENTS I
LIKE…
ENVIRONMENT ELEMENTS I
DISLIKE…
ENVIRONMENT ELEMENTS THAT
SURPRISED ME…
QUALITIES AND SKILLS- How do your current abilities stack up with what’s required?
TOP QUALITIES & SKILLS REQUIRED Needs
Improvement In
Development Well
Developed
EDUCATION- What do you think about the education required for this job?
How much education is required for this job? __________________________________________________
WHAT I EXPECTED… NOT WHAT I EXPECTED…
PAY & JOB OUTLOOK- What do you think of potential earnings and future outlook?
What is the median pay per year? $ __________________________
What is the projected outlook? ___________________%
What is the job projection? (# of jobs)
______________________
AS EXPTECTED EXPECTED MORE EXPECTED LESS
SPRING BRANCH ISD 9
Take into consideration all the information you’ve just learned. In summary, what do you think about this
career/job interest?
What I learned is what I expected. I think this is the right
career/job field for me!
Some of what I learned was a surprise and I may have to adjust
some of my expectations, but I still think I am on the right track
with this career/job field or something similar.
What I learned is very different from what I expected. I think I
need to consider a different career/job field.
Here are some questions to help you explore what action you may need to take next.
CURRENT EDUCATION FUTURE EDUCATION EXPECTATIONS
-What classes might I need to take to prepare for my future career? -Do the classes I do well in align
with my future career of interest?
-What level of higher education should I aim to achieve?
-Am I willing to commit time to complete this level of education?
-Do I need to adjust my salary or educational expectations?
-Do I need to be willing to work harder than I originally expected?
Did you find the Naviance and/or Bureau of Labor tools helpful? Still not sure about a career path?
Try the activity below to learn more about yourself and what career(s) might be your best fit:
Interview adults and peers in your life to learn more about how others see you. Talk to as many people
as you can and try asking these questions:
o What do you think I’m good at?
o What have you seen me get excited about?
o What are some of my natural abilities that you’ve observed?
o What types of careers do you think I’d thrive in?
o What are my strengths?
o What are my weaknesses?
Interview adults in your life about their careers. Talk to your parents, family members, family friends,
your friend’s parents, adults at school, and professionals in the community. Talk to as many people as
you can and try asking these questions:
o What do you do on a daily basis?
o What do you like about job?
o What is challenging about your job?
o How much higher education did you have to pursue to secure and keep your job?
o What skills did you bring to the job?
o What skills did you have to develop on the job?
o What are your professional aspirations and how is this job helping you achieve those goals?
NOTES & QUESTIONS:
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
SPRING BRANCH ISD 10
“High achievement always takes place in the framework of high
expectation.” –Charles Kettering
2) T-2-4 POSSIBILITIES & MY T-2-4 PROFILE
Now that you’ve explored your interests and possible careers, let’s think about the different types of higher
education you can pursue. Not sure exactly what your T-2-4 options are? Let’s have a look at the
possibilities.
Remember, in today’s world, nearly every job requires some type of training and/or higher education.
“T” (Trade Training or Technical Certificate) Credentials in the “T” category are commonly offered at community colleges. Students electing this path of higher education are prepared for the workforce with training in a specific trade career and/or certification in a technical field of study. Credentials in this category typically require anywhere from 14 weeks to 18 months of study and/or hands-on training. With a few exceptions, credits earned in this category are not typically transferable to a 4-year college or university. Examples of training/certificate programs include:
Heating, Ventilating, & A/C Technician
Computer Aided Drafting
Basic Firefighting Certified Nurse Aide
Cyber Security Desktop Support &
Networking Specialist EKG Technician Electrician Technician
Machining Paralegal Truck Driving Welding
Accounting Payroll Specialist
Basic Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
Light Automotive Maintenance Tech
General Drafting
Electrical Helper Machining Technology Medical Coding PC Support
Plumbing Helper Plumbing Technology Infant & Toddler
Teacher Basic Welding Helper
*You may already be taking classes at the Guthrie Center or any of the colleges listed below that are preparing you for some type(s) of certification.
SPRING BRANCH ISD 11
“2” (2-Year Associate Degree) Degrees in the “2” category are commonly offered at community colleges. Students electing this path of higher education are prepared for careers in a wide range of industry fields or use this as a starting point for transfer to a 4-year college or university. Credentials in this category typically require at least 2 years of study. Degree seekers must meet certain academic standards to earn credit for their coursework toward degree completion and must verify the transferability of coursework if planning for a 4-year degree. Examples of 2-year degree programs include:
Accounting Automotive Technician Biology Business
Computer Programming Cosmetology Criminal Justice Culinary Arts
Dental Hygiene Digital Gaming Engineering Licensed Vocational
Nurse
Physical Therapist Assistant
Respiratory Therapist Surgical Technology Teacher Education
*You may already be taking classes at the Guthrie Center or any of the colleges listed above that are preparing you for some type(s) of certification.
“4” (4-Year Bachelor’s Degree) Degrees in the “4” category are commonly offered at public and private 4-year colleges and universities. Students electing this path of higher education are prepared for careers in a wide range of fields as well as for continuing study for Master’s and Doctoral degrees. Credentials in this category typically require at least 4 years of study. Prospective students seeking a 4-year degree must meet certain admission criteria before enrolling in a college or university. Admission standards vary greatly among institutions across the nation. Most colleges and universities offer hundreds of degrees with the opportunity to choose from and combine different majors and minors of study. Examples of 4-year degree programs include:
Marketing Dance Languages Genetics
International Studies Kinesiology Business Psychology
Sports Management Leadership Studies Zoology Mathematics
Music Construction Science Engineering Art
SPRING BRANCH ISD 12
“M” (Military Training)
Included in the T-2-4 options are various pathways to military training. Examples of military options include:
Direct Enlistment Military Academies ROTC Programs Reserves
Students may enlist in the military at 17 with parental consent or at
18 years of age without consent. Branches of the military include
Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marine
Corps. Many branches require at least a GED for enlistment. The
average service time is 4 years and most branches
encourage enlisted members to continue their education while
enlisted and even after being discharged from
service.
The most competitive and rigorous route to the
military. Students earn a 4-year degree upon
completion. Applicants must be recommended to
attend and must follow strict timelines to apply.
Federal Service Academies require
students to enter military service upon graduating
from an Academy. (US Air Force Academy,
US Coast Guard Academy, US Merchant
Marine Academy, US Military Academy- West
Point, US Naval Academy)
ROTC programs provide students with tuition scholarships for the
pursuit of a 2-year or 4-year degree while also
taking ROTC courses. Students must be eligible
for admission to the college/university in
addition to being admitted to the ROTC
program. Upon graduation from the
college/university students will be required
to enter active duty service for a minimum
number of years as designated by the military
branch.
Reserve programs offer part-time employment, training, and financial
and educational benefits. A majority of
those serving in the Reserves have other full-
time careers or are continuing their
education.
LET’S PUT TOGETHER WHAT YOU’VE LEARNED SO FAR…
1. What I’m good at...what
I’m interested in…
2. The type of career or job
that fits what I’m good at
and interested in…
3. The Career Clusters that
my career/job of interest
falls under…
4. The T-2-4 option(s) that
offer education in these
Career Clusters…
Now, in the next section
we’re going to explore
more about which options
fit best with your
academic profile. Keep
working through the next
pages!
SPRING BRANCH ISD 13
T-2-4 POSSIBILITIES & MY T-2-4 PROFILE
There are a wide range of requirements associated with every T-2-4 option. It is important to know what those are and how your work in high school has prepared you to meet those requirements. Let’s take a look at general requirements:
T (Trade/Training)
High school diploma or GED required
No minimum TSI scores required to enroll
2-Year (Associate)
High school diploma or GED required
Test scores at or above TSI “College Ready” levels or exemption from TSI through SAT/ACT scores required to enroll in credit bearing courses **Not meeting minimum
scores requires students to take remedial courses for
which students have to pay but receive no credit toward
their degree plan.**
4-Year (Bachelor’s)
High school diploma or GED required
Test at or above TSI “College Ready” levels The following can be considered in varying
levels at 4-year colleges/universities:
Academic rigor, GPA & class rank
SAT/ACT Scores Extracurricular
activities & work/life experiences
Recommendations
Military
High school diploma or GED required The following can be considered in varying levels depending on
preferred military path: Academic
performance Extracurricular
activities Work & life
experiences Recommendations
MORE ON THE “4” While the “T” and “2” programs do not have minimum entrance requirements and are what we call “Open Admission” the “4” options do publicize grade and test score ranges that applicants should aim to meet. Keep in mind these are general ranges for these types of colleges/universities and you should check each institution’s website for more information. The varying degrees of “competitive” refer to the academic profiles of students typically securing admission to schools in each category. **GPAs are on a 4.0 scale**
Most to Extremely Competitive
Top 1-5% of graduating class
GPA= 4.1-4.2+ (on 4.0) SAT=1300-1400+ ACT=30-32+ SAT Subject Test=650-
700+ AP Test=3-4+
Highly to Very Competitive
Top 6-10% of graduating class
GPA= 3.8-4.09+ (on 4.0) SAT=1100-1200+ ACT=23-27+ SAT Subject Test=530-
600+ AP Test=3+
Competitive GPA= 3.7-3.79+ (on 4.0) SAT=<1100 ACT=<23 SAT Subject Test=<530 AP Test= 2-3+
Less Competitive GPA range= <3.5 (on 4.0) SAT=<1000 ACT=<20
Not Competitive GPA= <3.0 (on 4.0) SAT= <900 ACT= <19
Some colleges and universities in the Most Competitive to Competitive categories are test optional and/or flexible, meaning more emphasis is placed on other factors besides test scores.
Mostly Competitive to Competitive schools place a stronger emphasis on: Did you take advantage of the most challenging classes offered at your school? What do your teachers say about you as a student? Were you successful over time in high school or does your transcript show fluctuations
in your performance? If there are fluctuations, is there a particular reason why? Do you show academic promise (the ability to succeed in college level courses)? Did you exhibit leadership in your community and extracurricular involvement? Have you experienced some life hardship or disadvantage?
SPRING BRANCH ISD 14
RESEARCHING 2 & 4 OPTIONS
By this point, you likely have a better idea of whether or not you’re interested in the “2” or “4” options. If so, you’ll want to spend some time discovering which schools have what you’re looking for. Use the Super Match College Search feature in your Naviance Family Connection Account. Click on the “colleges” tab, then click on the Super Match College Search link.
Here, you can input your academic profile and the search feature will give you a list of schools you may want to consider based on the information you provided.
Input your preferences and
information in as many of the
categories from the orange
drop down list to the left of the
screen. Start broad to begin.
For example, if you want to
stay in Texas, just select Texas
and enter your test scores and
major. Then based on the
results you can continue to
narrow your search from there.
Don’t pass up school names you
don’t recognize. You never
know, that school might be
your best fit school
academically & financially!
SPRING BRANCH ISD 15
You can also explore bigfuture.collegeboard.org for a similar search and match experience. Log in to this
site to save your search and access your previous testing information.
You can start anywhere on this
page to begin your search.
Type in a specific school you
want to learn more about, or
start with the statements on
the left hand side.
You can also click on Search to
navigate directly to the College
Search page.
SPRING BRANCH ISD 16
Similar to the Naviance Super Match feature, you can enter your preferences and your academic profile here and navigate the results to find your best fit.
After your research, what schools made your list? Why?
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
NOTES & QUESTIONS:
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
Log in to the left to save
your info & search!
SPRING BRANCH ISD 17
WHAT’S SPECIAL ABOUT TEXAS?
Texas offers students who graduate in the top 10% of their high school class the opportunity to be offered admission on an “automatic” basis to any Texas public college or university. Here are examples of additional Automatic and Assured Admission programs around the state:
Assured Admission for… Website…
University of Texas, Austin Top 7% only www.utexas.edu
University of Houston-Downtown Top 25% www.uhd.edu
Sam Houston State University Top 25% www.shsu.edu
University of Texas, San Antonio Top 25% www.utsa.edu
University of Texas, Arlington Top 25% www.uta.edu
*Remember, if you graduate in the top 10% you can be automatically admitted to any Texas public 4-year institution*
Based on your class rank would you qualify for any Automatic or Assured Admission programs? If
so, in which ones are you most interested?
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
COLLEGE & UNIVERSITY COMPARISON CHART
Use this chart to help you rate each school of interest based on what is important to you. On a scale of 1-5 rate each factor; 1=Not so great, 5=Amazing. You decide what rating each category receives. It’s your preference. Write the name of each school at the top of each column.
SAMPLE College 1 Name College 2 Name College 3 Name College 4 Name
CHARACTERISTIC Univ. of Utown
School Size 4
Location 4
Distance from Home 2
Academic Programs 4
Student Life 4
Diversity of Students 3
Housing Options 2
Athletics 2
Cost 3
Financial Aid Offered 5
Facilities 3
Campus Safety 4
Overall Impression 3.5
Total Rating 43.5
SPRING BRANCH ISD 18
MY T-2-4 PROFILE ANALYSIS
Now that you’ve had a look at all the possibilities, it’s time to take a look at your T-2-4 Profile and begin finalizing your game plan for your “best fit” T-2-4 options. Remember, success looks different for everyone depending on a variety of factors. There is a path to any goal and aspiration you have; you’ll just need a plan to achieve those goals and aspirations.
Your Credit Checklist and T-2-4 Plan Worksheet summarize your successes and challenges in the
classroom during your time as a student. You may feel this record accurately represents your academic work and investment. Or, you may feel you did not maximize your potential in the classroom and your record clearly shows that to be true. Whatever your story, this is your opportunity to decide how to move forward.
Use and review the Credit Checklist with your Counselor to be sure every class you’ve taken is accounted for
and every grade you’ve earned is accurately reflected.
Use and review the T-2-4 Plan Worksheet with a Counselor or Academic Advisor to better understand your
current academic standings and how those standings influence and impact your T-2-4 options.
NOTES & QUESTIONS: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
SPRING BRANCH ISD 19
MY T-2-4 PROFILE ANALYSIS - AM I ON TRACK?
What is my graduation plan?
What T-2-4 options will this graduation plan allow me to access?
T (Trade/Training)
2-YEAR
4-YEAR
MILITARY
Am I on track to earn the required credits to graduate?
YES
NO
If no, what ACTION can I take to get back on track?
Night School
Summer School
CBEs
Virtual School
Retake at my home campus
Who are the right people to help me take this action?
In what Quartile am I ranked? 1ST 3RD
2ND 4TH
Does my Quartile rank qualify me for any automatic admissions program?
YES
NO
What is my college GPA? (on a 4.0 scale)
What T-2-4 options are available to me with this GPA?
T (Trade/Training)
2-YEAR
4-YEAR
MILITARY
What advanced courses have I taken and what were my grades? (Pre AP, AP, IB)
What Dual Credit courses have I taken and what were my grades?
What has been my grade trend in high school?
Grade trend inclining
Grade trend declining
Grade trend steady
SPRING BRANCH ISD 20
How could my course selection be described?
Most Rigorous
Rigorous
Less Rigorous
Not Rigorous
Have I taken an SAT? YES
NO
If yes, what are my highest scores?
Have I taken an ACT? YES
NO
If yes, what are my highest scores?
Am I exempt from the TSI test? YES
NO
If not, have I taken the test? YES
NO
If no, when should I plan to take the test?
DATE:
TIME:
LOCATION:
If I haven’t taken the test, and do not plan to take it, why?
Is this reason supported by my Counselor/Advisor?
YES
NO
Has someone explained to me why achieving the minimum scores on the TSI test is important?
YES
NO
Based on my goals and the scholarships I hope to compete for, should I plan to retest (SAT or ACT)?
YES
NO
Have I used Khan Academy/Shmoop to study for the SAT?
YES
NO
If not, do I need someone to show me how to access this tool?
YES
NO
Now that you have analyzed your current academic standings, later in this workbook you will be able to make a “game plan” for the year.
SPRING BRANCH ISD 21
MY T-2-4 PROFILE REFLECTIONS
Now you’ve seen all of your grades and test scores. You’ve determined if you’re on the right track or if you have some course correcting to do. So how do you feel right now about what you’ve reviewed?
What are your initial reflections about your academic profile?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
What have been your greatest challenges in school?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
What have been your greatest successes?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________ ___
_____________________________________________________________________
What behaviors, either positive or negative, led to the results of your current academic record?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________ ___
_____________________________________________________________________
If the behaviors you’ve described are not positive, what can you begin to do differently?
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
SPRING BRANCH ISD 22
BEYOND THE NUMBERS
Now that you’ve had a look at the many careers and the academic background needed for the various T-2-4 options, it’s time to think outside of the classroom. So, what’s special about YOU?
If I could spend more time outside of class I would like to spend that time…
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
If asked to describe my family and cultural background, I would say… _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
One challenge I’ve faced in my life is…
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I am most proud of…
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Describe in your own words the non-academic attributes about yourself that are not represented
in your academic profile?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
NOTES:
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
SPRING BRANCH ISD 23
“Goals are dreams with deadlines.” –Diane Scharf Hunt
3) CHOOSING MY FUTURE
Take some time to consider what exactly you hope to achieve this year, after high school, in the next few
years, and in life. You are encouraged to dream as big as you possibly can. From those dreams you can set
goals, identify your support team, and finally, design your own “game-plan” to help you achieve your goals
and accomplish your dreams. Let’s get started!
Define My Dreams: What do I want to do & who do I want to become?
Declare My Goals: What accomplishments will get me closer to achieving my dreams?
Dream #1: Goals Dream #2: Goals Dream #3: Goals
1. 2. 3.
1. 2. 3.
1. 2. 3.
It’s likely that at least one of these goals will require you to do something immediately after high school.
We’ve discussed many different options in the previous sections. Declare your T-2-4 intentions now.
What is your goal immediately after high school? Enroll in a Technical Trade or Certificate program
Enroll in a 2-year Degree program
Enroll in a 4-year Degree program
Enroll in a “Gap-Year” program
Immediately enter the workforce
Enlist in the Military (or enter an ROTC program or Military Academy)
Take a semester or year off
Dream #1 Dream #2 Dream #3
SPRING BRANCH ISD 24
Develop My Support Team: Who are the people that I can count on to support me?
Remember to include on your support team at least one person who has achieved what you hope to
achieve. Many people can encourage you, but having access to someone who can share their experiences
with you will help maintain focus on your dreams.
Is there anyone who could possibly distract you from accomplishing your goals this year or in the future?
Does this person have similar goals as you? Think about how you might handle this relationship this year as
you focus on taking action to accomplish your goals.
PEOPLE AT HOME PEOPLE AT SCHOOL
FRIENDS & MENTORS OTHER PEOPLE
SPRING BRANCH ISD 25
“Infuse your life with action. Don’t wait for it to happen. Make it happen. Make your own future. Make your own hope. –Bradley Whitford
4) TAKING ACTION: MY CHECKLISTS & TIMELINES
Design My Plan: What action steps should I take?
To accomplish your goals and achieve your dreams you MUST have a plan. You took your dreams and
identified smaller goals that would get you closer to achieving your big dream. Now take your goals and
identify the smaller action steps you must take to accomplish those goals. Let’s start with your T-2-4 goal.
This goal will determine your personal action plan. Based on your intended path, take a look at some
information you will need to gather and a few check points to keep in mind.
T 2 4 M
Decide which Trade/Certificate to pursue
Research which schools offer the program
Visit each schools’ website or call the admission office to learn:
1. How to apply (can I use Apply Texas?)
2. If the school offers financial aid and if so how to apply
3. When the program starts and ends
4. What I need to do to officially enroll in the program
5. If any courses can be taken while I’m still in high school
Create your personal checklist and timeline including the required actions to pursue this path
Decide which 2-year program to pursue
Research which schools offer the program
Visit each schools’ website or call the admission office to learn:
1. How to apply (can I use Apply Texas?)
2. What credentials I need to enroll in the program
3. What tests I need to take
4. What materials I need to submit
5. How to apply for financial aid and scholarships
If you plan to transfer to a 4-year school check with the school for the best classes to take at the 2-year school and what GPA you should plan to earn
Create your personal checklist and timeline including the required actions to pursue this path
Decide which 4-year program to pursue
Research which schools offer the program
Visit each schools’ website or call each school’s admission office to learn:
1. How to apply (can I use Apply Texas or Common App?)
2. What are the application deadlines
3. What are Admission requirements
4. Are SAT Subject Tests required
5. What materials I need to submit (essays, letters of recommendation, test scores, transcript, application fee, etc.)
6. How to apply for financial aid and scholarships and by what deadlines
Create your personal checklist and timeline including the required actions to pursue this path
Decide which route to the Military to pursue (Direct enlistment, ROTC, Military Academies)
Make contact with the branch or program to learn:
1. Requirements for enrollment
2. Timeline for enlisting, enrolling, or applying
3. What materials I need to submit
4. What will be offered financially and academically by the program or branch
Create your personal checklist and timeline including the required actions to pursue this path
MY T-2-4 GOAL
SPRING BRANCH ISD 26
MILESTONES Keep in mind, not all milestones will apply to you based on your T-2-4 path of choice. Use these milestones to build your personalized ACTION PLAN.
SUMMER (JUNE-JULY)
Discuss ideas about future
with parent(s) or guardian(s)
or another influential adult
Meet with a Counselor or
Advisor to discuss ideas about
what to do after high school
Work through this workbook
Research programs and
schools of interest
Practice writing college essays
Work on a resume
Research scholarships
Study for SAT or ACT tests
Make a list of teachers and
mentors to ask for letters of
recommendation
Visit colleges and universities
even if you don’t plan to
attend immediately after high
school
Use Naviance and other tools
in this workbook to explore
Careers
Use FAFSA Forecaster and Net
Price Calculators to estimate
college costs
Work on your personalized
ACTION PLAN for this year
FALL (AUG-DEC)
Meet with a Counselor or Advisor
to finalize plans and check-in
about ACTION PLAN
Review transcript before sending
it to schools and make sure
everything is correct
Create Apply Texas and/or
Common App accounts
Begin and submit college
applications by Dec. 1 (or earlier
if required by the school)
Link Common App to Naviance
account (if applicable) (See Counselor or Advisor for fee
waiver if you qualify)
Ask to have applications reviewed
to make sure all responses are
correct
Update Naviance “Colleges I’m
Applying To” list
Gather your parents and your tax
information (if biological parents
tax info is inaccessible talk to a
Counselor or Advisor)
Begin and submit a FAFSA/ TASFA
or CSS Profile (or all if applicable)
Register and study for SAT/ACT
test and/or prepare to take the
TSI (if applicable)
Get feedback on college essays &
resume
Apply for scholarships
Ask teachers/mentors for letters
of recommendation
Share admission decisions with
Counselor & Advisor as you
receive them
Complete Rank decision form Visit colleges and universities
Finalize ACTION PLAN for this
year
SPRING (JAN-MAY)
Meet with a Counselor or
Advisor to check-in about
ACTION PLAN
Update personalized ACTION
PLAN for this year
Continue and submit any
outstanding college
applications
Ask to have applications
reviewed to make sure all
responses are correct
Set up and regularly check
student portal accounts for
the colleges to which you
applied
Continue applying for
scholarships
Check on FAFSA status and
complete Verification
paperwork (if required)
Check on TASFA status (if
applicable)
Check AP Exam Registration
dates and take Exams
Schedule a time to review ALL
financial aid award letters with
a Counselor or Advisor
Keep grades up- many schools
look at senior grades
Commit to academic and
financial best fit school by May
1st (Deposit may be required)
Sign-up for housing
Sign-up for orientation
Submit shot records
(Meningitis shot required)
SPRING BRANCH ISD 27
HELPFUL VIDEOS & WEBSITES
These videos can help walk you through important steps to various parts of your T-2-4 process.
Bring Your Application to Life https://zeemee.com
Creating an Apply Texas Account https://youtu.be/n53mT30cOPc
CommonAppMedia Channel https://goo.gl/V1n3Ql
College Board Big Future Channel https://goo.gl/kEbz7s
College Board SAT Channel https://goo.gl/m4SzTW
Khan Academy SAT Channel https://goo.gl/T6CHof
Federal Student Aid Channel https://goo.gl/gXv8TE
TASFA Application https://youtu.be/j94zx8ojbic
CSS Profile Tutorials https://youtu.be/QC2ylWT9Wek
Earn Micro-Scholarships https://raise.com
United We Dream (DACA Info) https://goo.gl/X6rPSO
Virtual College Campus Tours http://youvisit.com
Shmoop Test Prep https://cms.springbranchisd.com/shmoop/
Planning Video https://www.collegeweeklive.com/
Did you find other videos that were helpful? Keep track of them here:
SPRING BRANCH ISD 28
5) MY IMPORTANT INFORMATION
WEBSITES, PORTALS & LOG-INS Sites with a * can be accessed by navigating to your high school webpage, clicking the Naviance icon and
logging in to your Naviance Family Access account.
Make note of the email address you plan to use for all your T-2-4 applications and communications. Make
sure it’s professional. Using your first and last name and a number is always a good idea.
My Email: My Email Password:
Naviance Access link through HS site Username: Password:
*Skyward Family Access Login ID: Password:
*SAT (College Board & Big Future)
student.collegeboard.org Username: Password:
*ACT www.act.org User ID: Password:
*Apply Texas applytexas.org Username: Password:
*Common App commonapp.org Email: Password:
FAFSA fafsa.ed.gov FAFSA FSA Username and Password should be kept in a safe
place. This is your official signature for the FAFSA application. We recommend saving it somewhere safe.
TASFA collegeforalltexans.com No log-in required No password required
If you apply to a college or university they will likely assign you a Student Portal account. Keep track of all your portal accounts here. Make sure you keep this page safe!
SPRING BRANCH ISD 29
MY T-2-4 TARGET INTERESTS & REQUIREMENTS
List your programs and/or colleges/universities of interest & make note of their admission requirements.
You can find this information on their admission websites.
Program/College or University Admission Requirements
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
SPRING BRANCH ISD 30
6) FINANCIAL AID & BEYOND
Continuing your education after high school is an important part of you achieving your goals and dreams.
Cost is not a reason to not pursue higher education or training. Here is an introduction to basic financial aid
and scholarship info. Financial aid describes any funding you receive to pay for educational expenses.
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) The Department of Education through the Federal Student Aid FAFSA awards billions of dollars to students every
year in the form of grants, scholarships, and low-interest loans. U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, and eligible
Non-Citizens can submit a FAFSA using their 2015 taxes beginning on October 1, 2016 to compete for funding for
the 2017-2018 academic year. The FAFSA does not require a minimum income nor does it have an income
maximum to apply and compete for aid. The application is FREE and can be submitted electronically.
TAFSA (Texas Application for State Aid) The State of Texas through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board awards eligible Non-Citizens and
DACA students state financial aid through the TASFA application. Students must have lived in Texas for 36
consecutive months leading up to graduating from a Texas high school and must live in Texas for 12 months prior
to attending a Texas college or university. The TASFA requires submission of a notarized Residency Affidavit
(which can be notarized on campus), a tax transcript, proof of registration for selective service (males only), and
a statement of cash earnings if taxes are not filed. The application is FREE and cannot be submitted
electronically but must be delivered to each institution via their preferred method of delivery.
CSS/Financial Aid Profile
The College Board, in cooperation with colleges and universities across the nation, utilizes the CSS/Financial Aid
Profile to award students institutional aid using similar information as is required on the FAFSA. This form is not
used to award federal financial aid. There is a fee to submit the application. Students qualifying for a submission
fee waiver will be notified once they have entered all necessary information and arrive at the payment page for
the application.
FAFSA4caster & Net Price Calculator
These tools are designed to assist students and families with determining the potential cost of higher education.
The FAFSA main page contains a link for the 4caster and every college and university is now required to have a
Net Price Calculator on their financial aid webpage.
uAspire In partnership with this college affordability organization, SBISD students have access to cutting edge financial
aid information and with their families can receive assistance with interpreting financial aid award letters and
making the best financially fit decision for continuing their education.
SPRING BRANCH ISD 31
SCHOLARSHIP RESOURCES *The following resources require students to create an account/profile for each site. Please read Terms of Use
and Privacy Policies on each site before completing sign up.
Naviance Family Connection Family Connection includes a scholarship directory that students can browse to find scholarships and also
includes a “scholarship match” link on the College tab to will assist students with finding scholarships that match
their profile. Please keep in mind, scholarships on the “scholarship list” are updated by SBISD and may not reflect the
most recent information or due dates for each scholarship. Students are encouraged to visit company/organization
websites for the most updated information.
Raise.me As early as freshman year students can begin earning “micro-scholarships” to pay for their higher education.
Students earn scholarships dollars from colleges & universities across the nation for their high school
accomplishments like taking certain classes, earning certain grades, and participating in certain activities.
Raise.me is completely free to students.
redkite
Red Kite Matching Engine searches through $20 billion in scholarships to find the opportunities that best fit a
student’s profile. The site also allows students to compare costs between college and universities and track their
scholarship and loan applications.
**As you apply for and receive scholarship awards please see your Counselor or Academic Advisor for
instructions on how to update you campuses scholarships registry. **
SPRING BRANCH ISD 32
APPENDIX A: MY CHECKLIST & TIMELINE - MONTH: __________ DATES: _______
What I need to do… By when… Help/Resources I need… Did I complete this task?
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
SPRING BRANCH ISD 33
APPENDIX B: ESSAY PROMPTS
APPLY TEXAS ESSAY PROMPTS Essay A: What was the environment in which you were raised? Describe your family, home, neighborhood, or
community, and explain how it has shaped you as a person.
Essay B: Some students have an identity, an interest, or a talent that defines them in an essential way. If you are one of
these students, then tell us about yourself.
Essay C: You’ve got a ticket in your hand - Where will you go? What will you do? What will happen when you get there?
COMMON APPLICATION ESSAY PROMPTS Essay 1: Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their
application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
Essay 2: The lessons we take from failure can be fundamental to later success. Recount an incident or time when you
experienced failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?
Essay 3: Reflect on a time when you challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you to act? Would you make the same
decision again?
Essay 4: Describe a problem you’ve solved or a problem you’d like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a
research query, an ethical dilemma - anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its
significance to you and what steps you took or could be taken to identify a solution.
Essay 5: Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, which marked your transition from childhood to
adulthood within your culture, community, or family.
SPRING BRANCH ISD 34
APPENDIX C1: ESSAY WRITING BRAINSTORMING EXERCISE
What is your
family story?
Meaningfulness &
why?
Unique aspects? First in family to
go to college
graduate high
school or go to
college?
Significant cultural
influences?
How did you
realize you
were a leader?
Lessons learned
from
experiences?
How have you
demonstrated it? How have you
grown as a result?
MY STORY
Leadership
Background
Hardships/other
life experiences?
How will they help
expand your
opportunities?
How have you put
them to work?
How will they
help build your
future?
What are they &
why?
Interests Significant impact on
character/development
Something not on
your resume
Specific skills
acquired?
Activities
SPRING BRANCH ISD 35
How does this differentiate
you from other applicants?
APPENDIX C2: ESSAY WRITING BRAINSTORMING EXERCISE
Changes in
attitude?
What stands out?
Provide context!
How did it alter
your future
opportunities?
Significant
incident or
decision that
brought great
consequences?
How would you advise others
in the same situation?
Did anyone help
you overcome?
Describe the
struggle- what
was it like?
How have you
grown as a result? Why was it
significant?
MY STORY
Challenges
Overcome
Lesson
Learned
How have you
grown as a result?
Obligations
preventing you
from being
involved at the
same level as
your peers?
Impact of these
circumstances on
you?
Extenuating
circumstances?
Special
Situations
Impact on
your personal
perspective
Connection between
your life & the lives
impacted?
Describe the
significance of
the experiences
Service
Projects
SPRING BRANCH ISD 36
APPENDIX D: NAVIANCE COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS
_____Complete the Common Application at www.commonapp.org or Apply Texas Application at www.applytexas.org
Check your Family Connection Account information before setting up your Common App account to ensure you are
using the same name
_____Complete the Initial Common App Tasks before matching your account in Naviance Family Connection (Common App only)
Complete the education section
Add at least one college to My Colleges list
Read and sign the FERPA release authorization
_____Match your Common Application in Naviance Family Connection (Common App only)
Your name must match your Family Connection profile and Your Common App account
You must enter the same email address you used for your Common App
Your date of birth must match your Family Connection profile and your Common App account
_____Add Colleges to the “Colleges I’m Applying to List” in Naviance Family Connection
These colleges are the ones to which you have serious intentions of actually applying
_____Request Transcript in Naviance Family Connection
Submit the class rank decision form before any requests are processed Request transcripts (follow the required process for your campus) Complete a records request form and have your parent sign it if you are under 18 Specify how you want the records delivered
a. Naviance (including Common Application) b. Printed and sealed for student pick-up
_____Personally visit each teacher you want to write you a letter of recommendation
Choose a teacher who knows the best quality of your work and provide him/her with your resume (if requested) If the teacher agrees, tell him/her that you will send them a teacher recommendation request in Naviance Remind them to complete the teacher evaluation form provided for them in Naviance
_____Request Teacher Letter of Recommendations in Naviance Family Connection
If you are seeking a letter of recommendation from a non-SBISD teacher or mentor the letter cannot be submitted
through Naviance (must mail their letter directly to the college)
_____Obtain and mail Fee Waiver to the college (if applicable)
_____Obtain and mail Affidavit (if applicable)
_____Constantly monitor your application process
_____Maintain constant communication with teachers, counselors, staff and the college you are applying to
Pay close attention to all deadlines. If you miss one deadline, you could put your entire college career in jeopardy.