Student Services Bulletin
Volume 30, Issue 6
Student Services Bulletin
Inside this issue:
Welcome Class of 2019 2 National Merit Finalists and Naviance 3 Counselor of the Year and NHRHS Scholarship Fund Application
College Admission Panel
University of Miami
North Carolina Schools 11 Koth’s Corner 12 March Calendar Dates
Northern Highlands Regional High School
March 2015
Each incoming ninth grade student and his/her parents will have
an opportunity for a scheduled personal conference with a
Northern Highlands school counselor. During the conference,
our counselors will review the Northern Highlands curriculum
offerings, discuss current course recommendations, and plan a
program of study for next year. Please be aware that the coun-
selor with whom you meet may not necessarily be your child’s
assigned counselor in the fall. To avoid delays, please do your
best to be on time for your appointment. You should preview
the Curriculum Guide on the Northern Highlands website.
Ho-Ho-Kus March 9th and 10th
Brookside March 16th, 17th, 18th and 19th
Cavallini March 23th, 24th, 25th and 26th
Welcome Class of 2019 !!
We would like to welcome our incoming Highlands
students and families. This bulletin is published monthly
and it is full of important information relevant to college
and career counseling, as well as other school counsel-
ing happenings. Past and future issues of the Student
Services Bulletin are available on the Northern High-
lands website. Current members of the Highlands
community also receive email notifications each
month when the bulletin is ready to be viewed.
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Northern Highlands 2015 National Merit Finalists
We are delighted to announce our National Merit Finalists:
Thomas Hart
Augustine Kang
Jacob Shulman
Amanda Weiss
Got Naviance??
For Scholarship and Summer Enrichment Opportunities, please
consult Naviance. Scholarships and Summer Enrichment Programs
are added regularly, so check back often.
Want more School Counseling Information?
Check out the School Counseling page on the school website.
www.northernhighlands.org
3 Student Services Bulletin
Do YOU think YOU have the best school counselor?
Many times a counselor is one of the best assets you have in the school system. Your
counselor wears many hats, but one of them is the student advocate that assists you in
finding your appropriate path into life after high school.
You can nominate YOUR counselor for Counselor of the Year through the Bergen Coun-
ty School Counselors Association. Please submit a one page letter stating why your
counselor should be considered for the Counselor of the Year Award. If your counselor
wins, you and your counselor will be invited to an awards dinner in early June.
Deadline for nominations: April 15th.
Please email your letter to Ms. Peterfriend, Supervisor of School Counseling
THE NHRHS SCHOLARSHIP FUND INC. APPLICATION IS NOW AVAILABLE ON SCHOOL WIRES
The primary qualifications for scholarship aid is the need for financial assistance. Other considerations are scholar-
ship, leadership, service, extracurricular activities and character.
1. WHO MAY APPLY?
All seniors who are enrolled at Northern Highlands Regional High School who plan to continue their formal
education may apply for scholarship aid for the purpose of financing further education, regardless of race,
color, creed, or town of residence.
2. WHAT ARE THE CRITERIA?
Financial need, scholarship, leadership, service, extracurricular activities, and character.
3. WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE TO BE FOLLOWED?
a. Have your parents complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), 2015-2016 school year
(available on the web: www.FAFSA.ed.gov). The United States Department of Education will send you a
Student Aid Report (SAR). Please print the entire SAR report (usually about 5 pages), in addition to the cover
sheet.
b. Complete the application on the back of this sheet, including both parent and student signatures.
c. Submit the scholarship application and SAR to Mrs. Karpinecz in the Guidance office on or before May 1,
2015 (no later). NOTE: NHRHS Scholarship Fund Inc. application forms are also available in the School
Counseling Office and on the website.
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College Admission Panel
On April 9th at 7:00 PM in the High School Auditorium, the
School Counseling Department will be presenting a college panel.
This is a great program for both students and parents of all
grades. The following colleges/universities will be joining us for the
evening:
Franklin & Marshall College
Indiana University, Bloomington
Princeton University
Rutgers University
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University of Miami (visited by Jennifer Ferentz, School Counselor)
Visiting the University of Miami’s campus this past January was a wonderful experience. I learned
about the U of Miami’s competitive and diverse academic programs ranging from architecture to marine sci-
ence directly from extraordinary faculty, student panels, and from admissions counselors who attended the
university. The passion for “The U” on campus and throughout Coral Gables is evident and contagious. The
sunny, 75 degree weather only adds to the positive vibe on campus. A beautiful lake and fountain are the
focal point on campus, surrounded by a wide range of seating options outside the student union for students
to eat, study and collaborate. The athletic facilities available to students are outstanding: there are 4 levels
of various workout equipment and exercise classes offered all day long. Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
are used by students year-round. Famous alumni, including Alex Rodriguez, Gloria Estefan and Ben Folds
have been known to donate and speak at the University on special occasions.
The University of Miami is a private research university with about 10,500 undergraduate students.
Half of the incoming freshmen were ranked within the top 5% of their graduating class, and about 66% were
in the top 10% of their high school class. The average SAT score was 1320. There are twelve schools for stu-
dents to choose to study within: School of Architecture, College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business Ad-
ministration, School of Communication, School of Education and Human Development, College of Engineer-
ing, School of Law, Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, Miller School of Medicine, Frost
School of Music, School of Nursing and Health Studies, The Graduate School. Following are some highlights
about particular schools:
The College of Arts and Sciences offers the personalized learning of a small liberal-arts school with
the research expertise of a large university. As a result, students at every level can apply their coursework to
important research. This hands-on approach to undergraduate education has helped attract exceptional stu-
dents and earned the University a top-tier ranking.
The College of Engineering (COE) is housed in the McArthur Engineering building, a 120,000-square-
foot complex with state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities, which is comprised of five departments that
offer BS, MS, PhD and executive education programs in Biomedical Engineering; Civil, Architectural and Envi-
ronmental Engineering; Electrical and Computer Engineering; Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering; and
Industrial Engineering.
Marine Science has been part of the academic curriculum at the University of Miami since 1949,
when the Marine Laboratory, now known as the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science
(RSMAS), initiated a program of studies leading to the Master of Science degree. RSMAS is now one of the
largest oceanographic institutes in the country with a faculty of over 90 scientists who conduct sponsored
research and engage in academic training. The curriculum is designed to take full advantage of the Universi-
ty's subtropical location, with year-round access to a variety of marine environments including the deep
ocean waters offshore, the coral reef tracts of the Florida Keys, and the estuarine sea grass beds and man-
grove shoreline of South Florida.
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The School of Architecture offers a five-year, accredited professional program leading to the Bache-
lor of Architecture degree. The Bachelor of Architecture fulfills the educational requirements for profession-
al registration and offers specialized architectural study through upper-level studios and architecture elec-
tives, as well as opportunities for the study of liberal arts through the elective sequence leading to a minor.
As part of the graduation requirements, and in an effort to ensure that they receive a rounded liberal arts
education, all students must complete a selected minor in any field of their choice outside of the School of
Architecture.
A world-class business education must teach you to think innovatively, capitalize on opportunities
and create solutions to meet the challenges you’ll face during your business career. At the UM School of
Business Administration, you’ll find a curriculum that does all this and more, preparing and positioning you
to achieve your career and life goals.
The School of Communication (SOC) at the University of Miami has grown to 1,150 undergraduate
and 130 graduate students. SOC offers nine undergraduate degree majors and six graduate degrees. The
SOC is committed to developing forward-thinking, analytical, and ethical communication professionals for
success in a technological and global society. Students are provided with quality undergraduate and gradu-
ate programs in communication that emphasize the relationship between theory and practice.
At the Frost School of Music, old teaching methodologies have been replaced by the Experiential
Music Curriculum. This hands-on, interactive approach to music making at the undergraduate level is far
superior to the performance-only, rote-teaching styles and large lecture classes that are so prevalent at
conservatories and other institutions of higher education. Created by the faculty of the Frost School of Mu-
sic, the Experiential Music Curriculum is a carefully planned and tested program of training “internal musi-
cians” rather than rote learners by fully integrating performance, music history, ear training, music theory
and composition in four hours of weekly chamber music and small-group sessions.
The School of Education offers majors and minors such as elementary education, secondary educa-
tion, and specific subject education (Biology, Chemistry, Math, English and Social Studies). Additionally, psy-
chological studies such as human and social development can be explored. Finally, Athletic training, exer-
cise physiology, sport administration and sport medicine can be studied.
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North Carolina Colleges (visited by Jennifer Kuo, School Counselor)
Located approximately one mile from downtown Raleigh, NC State University is located in the state’s bustling cap-
ital city. As part of the “research triangle” that includes both Duke University and UNC- Chapel Hill, NC State tends
to be the lesser known institution amongst the three schools. After two full days touring and learning about the
university, I walked away feeling both impressed with the academic offerings and diverse student body as well as
smitten by the southern hospitality and sense of camaraderie. It was easy to see the pride that comes along with
being part of the Wolf Pack! The campus itself is beautiful, mixing old southern charm on the main campus with
newer, updated buildings on Centennial Campus.
As the “research triangle” location suggests, the university places a heavy emphasis on research particularly in the
STEM area. Engineering, life and environmental sciences, and agriculture are amongst some of the top programs
offered. In addition to majors in STEM, NC State’s more popular majors include psychology, management, design,
and the veterinary medicine program is ranked one of the best in the country. I was lucky enough to tour the Col-
lege of Textiles, which was fascinating to see in person. With majors ranging from fashion design to textile engi-
neering, the college combines creativity with science. Housing state of the art machinery and passionate, knowl-
edgeable professors, the College of Textiles offers a unique program that is one of the few offered in the country.
The College of Natural Resources is another rare and impressive find at the university. With majors like Parks, Rec-
reation and Tourism Management, Golf Management, and Sport Management (to name a few), NC State manages
its very own forest, where students receive real world, hands-on experience in the field.
What stood out to me the most about all of the colleges within NC State was the focus on helping students make
the most informed choice when selecting a major. For those who are undecided, there is First-Year College, which
allows students to explore all academic programs and declare a major after the first year. Every individual college
offers a first-year course that is mandatory for all students. This course helps with the transition to college as well
as explores all of the majors available. Thus, students are exposed to a range of majors and educated about all of
the potential career paths, some of which may have been unknown to the student before. Regardless of major,
every student is encouraged to study abroad, and there are plenty of opportunities for internships both locally and
nationwide. It is clear that NC State wants students to leave the university well-rounded, ready to take on new
challenges, and fully prepared to enter into a diverse and complex world. With a large student body of 24,000 stu-
dents, the university is successfully able to make a big school feel like a tight knit community.
One of the highlights of my visit was seeing the school’s state of the art library. It is ranked as one of the best in the
world, and it features the “book bot,” which basically means library patrons never have to peruse the stacks in
search of their books. Students type the book they would like into the computer, and the robot searches the over 2
million books housed in their facility. The book is then delivered to the patron waiting at the circulation desk! The
enormous and beautifully constructed library contains high tech features like numerous touch screens around the
building and colorful artwork and furniture throughout.
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Beyond academics, NC State students are active in the community. A great example of this is the Krispy Kreme
Challenge, which occurred while I was on campus. What began as a silly food challenge amongst NC State Hon-
ors students many years ago has turned into a community event with proceeds going to the North Carolina Chil-
dren’s Hospital in Raleigh. Runners are challenged to run 2.5 miles to the local Krispy Kreme, eat a dozen donuts,
and run 2.5 miles back to the finish all in under an hour. The annual race is organized by NC State students each
year, and it attracts competitive runners (and eaters) as well as energized students in full costume. One thing is
certainly clear- NC State students know how to have fun while giving back to the community at the same time! In
addition to this gastrointestinal thrill run, NC State boasts 23 Division I athletics, two recreation complexes, and
an Outdoor Adventure program that takes full advantage of North Carolina’s scenic mountains and trails.
At this point, I have hopefully sold you on all of the great opportunities NC State has to offer. Now the next
question is, “How do I get in?” Since students apply to a specific college, it depends on which major you are in-
terested in. On average, most incoming students have around a 3.6 grade point average, and an SAT score of
1834 or ACT of a 28. NC State does super score.
With the upcoming spring season, many families start to tour colleges, and the state of North Carolina has be-
come an increasingly popular state to visit. My recommendation would be that if you are already in the area
looking at Wake Forest, Elon, or any of the number of schools nearby, it would be to your benefit to check out
NC State. While all of the schools in the area are top notch, NC State is truly a hidden gem. Go Wolf Pack!
I took my own advice and toured the rest of the area around Raleigh after leaving NC State. My first stop was
Elon University, where I was lucky enough to meet with our regional admissions representative, Scott Chris-
topherson. He gave me a nice overview and tour of the school. The campus felt like the perfect size- small
enough to walk from one end to the other but large enough to not feel claustrophobic. The buildings are similar
architecturally to those typically found in the southern states—beautiful brick buildings with white columns and
ivy covering the older buildings. Academically, Scott highlighted the 3+2 engineering program and listed comput-
er science and music production as two majors that the school is hoping to grow. The performing arts depart-
ment is also a stand out. There is currently an Elon graduate participating in every popular Broadway musical
running right now. Students are strongly encouraged to study abroad. Elon even offers a winter term study
abroad option where students can take a 3-credit course in three weeks and only pay for the travel costs.
From an admissions standpoint, Elon typically accepts students with around a 3.7 grade point average and
around 1850 SAT score or 28 ACT score on average. Scott gave some helpful tips for students applying to Elon.
The university places a strong emphasis on community service, and thus applicants are encouraged to choose an
essay topic that centers on volunteering or an extracurricular activity that he/she feels passionately about. In
addition, demonstrated interest is considered, and students should only contact admissions via their student
portal.
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One of the buildings on campus I was impressed with was the multi-faith community center. It was not only aes-
thetically beautiful but also fosters an open-minded, accepting place for students to gather regardless of what reli-
gion is followed. Elon students have many opportunities to grow as students and as global citizens through study
abroad and internship opportunities. With approximately 5600 students, the university feels manageable in size
yet big in its connection to the outside world. Elon University has become very popular with Highlands students,
and it was obvious after my visit why that is.
The next two schools on my list to visit were Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill. Both schools are in no need of an intro-
duction. Highly competitive and offering a stellar education, many students strive to list either of these prestigious
institutions on their application list. Duke’s campus is stunning with its dramatic Gothic architecture and beautifully
landscaped campus. Some of the most popular majors include Biology, Public Policy, Economics, Psychology, and
Biomedical Engineering. Duke is highly regarded as one of the top medical programs with Duke University Hospital
right on campus. In addition, the Duke Forest and Marine Laboratory each offers students the hands-on experi-
ence needed to learn and explore. Beyond academics, Duke is also well known for its competitive athletic pro-
grams. With 26 Division I sports, the Blue Devils consistently win national championships each year in various
sports. University of North Carolina, located in Chapel Hill, NC, has been named as one of the best college towns in
the country. With a picturesque downtown full of plenty of hangout spots for college students, UNC is about more
than just its location. They were ranked as the top public school for its value by The Princeton Review and listed as
32nd out of 500 research universities. Popular majors include Communications, Business, Economics, and Psycholo-
gy. Their medical school and MBA programs have consistently been ranked as amongst the best in the country.
Across the country, UNC is also known for their stellar athletics. With 28 Division I sports teams, a large part of the
student experience includes showing off Tar Heels pride at various school events. Both Duke and UNC offer a top
notch education and exciting, fun undergraduate experience.
My last stop was Wake Forest where I was treated to a personal tour by a former Highlands student. Similar to all
of the schools that I visited on my trip, Wake Forest’s campus was lovely and inviting. If North Carolina had not
been in the midst of a massive cold spell, I could imagine students playing frisbee on the lawn or meandering
around the beautifully landscaped campus. My student tour guide expressed feeling very happy about his decision
to attend Wake Forest. He described classes as being challenging, but he felt that Highlands truly prepared him to
succeed at the college level. Greek life is a large part of the student experience at Wake Forest although my guide
felt that one could still find ways to be social and involved if not in a fraternity or sorority. The Division I sports
teams also bring a strong level of school pride and sense of community to the school. Students do not venture
into the town of Winston-Salem too often because there’s plenty to do on campus, but there are opportunities for
getting involved with the surrounding community if desired.
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With regard to admissions, Wake Forest is competitive especially due to the increase in popularity amongst High-
landers. On average, accepted students have a 3.9 grade point average, SAT score of 2000, and ACT score of 29.
Popular majors include the Social Sciences, Journalism, Communications, and Business. After spending the after-
noon touring the campus and trying the food (which was very good, by the way), it was easy to see why so many
of our students have fallen in love with Wake Forest!
All of the colleges I visited were unique in their own way, but each one offers a stellar education and an exciting
undergraduate experience. With its warmer climate and “far but not too far” distance from home, the state of
North Carolina has become a desirable location for many Highlanders. I highly recommend adding any of the
above schools to your college visit list.
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From the desk of the Assistant Principal
As you may be aware, public schools in the State of New Jersey are required to conduct one school security drill per month. Each time we do this, students and staff members have an opportunity to improve their re-sponse to an emergency situation. However, matters of security are not limited to students and staff; as par-ents, you play a larger role in keeping our school safe than you may think.
In fact, parents can play an important role in school security. You use your instincts and experience to sense when danger might be on the horizon. If there ever is a time that you notice someone or something suspi-cious, please report this to an administrator as soon as you can. It might be a stranger you’ve never seen, it might be something posted on the internet, or an object that appears odd and out of place – whatever it may be, make a report.
For those who feel uncomfortable being identified but still feel the need to report something of concern, call:
NORTHERN HIGHLANDS CONFIDENTIAL HOTLINE
(201) 327-8700, ext. 333.
Whatever information you share will remain strictly confidential and you will remain anonymous. This exten-sion is checked twice every school day so feel free to call at any time.
This line is not reserved only for security concerns, but concerns of all types. We have learned that often times victims fear retribution for reporting an ongoing situation at school. Be advised you may also use this as an anonymous means of reporting any suspected acts of Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying, essentially removing that fear from the equation.
In all, the Confidential Hotline is another means to help us maintain the positive school climate we have all worked very hard to establish. Again, if you find something or someone to be a threat or not meeting the ex-pectations set by our school community, make a report. Thank you for your continued contributions to mak-ing Northern Highlands a safer place.
IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING
Northern Highlands Regional High School – (201) 327-8700
Confidential Hotline, ext. 333
Mr. Joseph Occhino – Principal, ext. 202
Mr. Michael Koth – Assistant Principal, ext. 201
12 Student Services Bulletin
March Calendar Dates
March 2 ASPIRE Registration Deadline—10th Grade Only
March 13 Registration Deadline for April 18th ACT
March 14 SAT Test Administration
March 27 Late Registration Deadline for April 18th ACT
Early April Calendar Dates
April 6 Registration Deadline for May 2nd SAT Administration
April 9 College Admission Panel
April 11 ASPIRE Administration—10th Grade Only
April 18 ACT Test Administration