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Senior Post-Secondary Planning Guide 2013-2014 Global Experience Magnet School 44 Griffin Road Bloomfield, CT 06002
Senior Post-Secondary Planning Guide
2013-2014
Global Experience Magnet School
44 Griffin Road
Bloomfield, CT
06002
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Pages: 3.) Letter to students, parents4.) Senior year expectations5-7.) Senior Planning Checklist8.) Senioritis!9.) College Planning- Get Organized!10-11.) How Do I Select A College? Things To Consider…12-13.) Steps To Finding The Right College For You…14.) College Information Request Letter Format15.) Touring A College Campus-Things To Consider 16.) Questions You Should Ask At A College Interview/Tour 17.) Questions You May Be Asked During A College Interview
18.) Sample Thank You Note 19) Filling Out and Submitting the
Application 20-21.) Writing A Successful College Essay 21.) Sample Thank You Note 22.) Tips For Taking The SAT 23-24.) Tracking Your Admissions Process 25.) Transcript Request Form 26.) Estimating Your College Budget
27-28). Financial Aid Information 29.) College Application
Checklist 30.) Transcript Request Form 31.) Sample Request For Recommendation Letter 32-33.) Senior Information Profile
34.) Parent Questionnaire
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Dear Student and Parent/Guardian,
Congratulations! You have made it to senior year. Whether your post-
secondary plans include college, work, or the military—the information in this
packet will be beneficial to you in some way. Included in this packet is
information on the SAT’s, college applications, college tours, organizational
tools for various deadlines, senior expectations, college essay tips, financial
aid information, and much more. This packet was put together to help guide
and support you through all the responsibilities that go along with senior
year.
Senior year can be stressful, but it does not have to be. With
preparation and organization, the college application process can go very
smoothly. Start early and do your research! Parents- sit down with your
student and discuss what they are looking for in a college. Do they want a
small school or a large school? Do they want to live on campus, or live at
home? What do they want to major in and what schools offer that major?
Next, students should request college information from schools that interest
them, attend area college fairs, go on college campus visits, and ask
questions! College admissions counselors are more than happy to sit with
you and answer any questions you may have about their school. Each of
these steps will help your student narrow down their list of schools that they
want to apply for.
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The staff at GEMS is here to assist and support you in any way
possible. We hope that you will find this guide helpful, and we welcome you
into Senior Year!
Sincerely,
Ashley Barton
Ashley Barton, School Counselor
Senior Year Expectations
All of the 12th grade expectations and:
Successful complete two courses at Capital Community College or Goodwin College.
Meet all Capstone requirements and deadlines. Prepare for and take the SAT in September if you have
not yet taken it at least twice. Visit and interview with at least two colleges or other
post-secondary placement options of interest. Apply for financial aid, if necessary. Present your work and reflection at a graduation
exhibition.
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Senior Planning Checklist-Plan for Success!
“Success is where preparation and opportunity meet.
September
1.) Attend College Fairs.2.) Meet with counselor to explore options.3.) Make a final list of your six top college choices.4.) Register to take/retake the SAT and/or ACT.5.) Request that test scores be sent to those colleges which you are applying to.6.) Meet with college representatives to schedule interviews at the colleges that you
are interested in.7.) Begin scholarship search. 8.) Edit rough drafts of college essays.9.) Check dates and locations of college fairs and parent nights in your area.10.) Decide which teachers and other people that you would like to ask to write
letters of recommendation for you.11.) Fill out “Senior Information Profile” and give to teacher/individual that you are
requesting a recommendation from. Also, have parent fill out the “Parent Questionnaire” as an additional resource for those individuals writing your recommendations.
October & November
1.) Take or retake the SAT and/or ACT.2.) Edit rough drafts of college essays.
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3.) Attend college fairs.4.) Send early decision and early action applications.5.) Finalize application packets.6.) Request transcripts from GEMS, Capital, and Goodwin7.) Make note of ALL deadlines!
December
1.) Continue to submit applications.2.) Continue search for scholarships.3.) Attend financial aid night.
January:
1.) Request transcripts of first trimester grades to be sent to select colleges/universities.
2.) Apply for scholarships.3.) Start FAFSA as soon as possible.
February:
1.) Verify that schools have received all application materials.
2.) See if midyear transcripts have been sent.
3.) Submit the FAFSA by the Connecticut priority deadline.
4.) Begin to save money for your security deposit to the College/University that
you select to enroll in.
March & April:
1.) Review all acceptance packages carefully.2.) Make final visits to schools that have sent acceptance letters to make a final
decision.
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3.) Select the school that you plan to attend and send a deposit by the specified deadline.
4.) Notify schools of your decision.5.) Send thank you notes to those individuals who wrote you a recommendation.6.) Continue to save money for your deposit to the college/university of your choice.
May & June:
1.) Pay your deposit to your choice school by May 1st2.) Request that your final transcripts be sent to the college that you have selected.3.) Consider summer educational opportunities.
July & August:
1.) Finalize your college budget.2.) Note deadlines for tuition and room & board payments.3.) Apply for student loans if necessary.4.) Attend freshman orientation.
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“Senioritis” n.
The quality or state of being totally uninterested in the academic portion of high school, typically suffered by graduating seniors who have been accepted to college.
Kaplan’s 5 steps to avoid the senior slide…
1.) TALK TO YOUR COUNSELOR. He or she can clue you into dual enrollment programs, internships, and research projects that are a surefire bet to curb senior slacking.
2.) STAY ON COURSE. Continue to take challenging courses that will prepare you or college coursework.
3.) STAY IN THE GAME. If you’ve been involved in school and community service activities, don’t stop now!
4.) GET READY FOR GOING. Get a head start on planning and packing for college.
5.) READ! You will most likely be required to read some classic literature in your freshman year. Why not get a jump on it?
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**DON’T FORGET!!*
If your grades drop dramatically by quarter 4, colleges have the right to revoke admission and scholarships. Don’t let this happen to you! **
College Planning: Get Organized!
When preparing to start your college planning, if you are organized and stay focused on your goal, the process will be less stressful and easier to manage.
Create a folder for each school on your list and file brochures, catalogs, correspondence, forms and notes.
- File scholarship information, correspondence, and applications in a separate folder.
- Organize your files in a file folder, box, or cabinet.- Designate one calendar for noting application, financial aid,
and scholarship deadlines and other important dates.- Keep copies of everything you submit!
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How Do I Select A College?? Things to Consider…
Major/Areas of Study:
Does this school offer courses/majors that interest me? Will the program of study in my area of interest help me achieve my
personal goal? How long does it take to earn a certificate or degree? What percentage of the students graduate in four years? What is the overall graduation rate?
Type of School:
1.) Community Colleges offer education or training programs that are no more than two years in length and lead to a license, a certificate, or an associate degree. After completing their studies here, many students then transfer to a four year college or university to continue their education.
2.) Vocational, technical, professional, and trade schools offer programs to prepare students for specific careers and may last weeks, months, or years, depending on the career requirements. At these schools, students can receive a license, a certificate, or an associate degree.
3.) Four year colleges and universities offer bachelor’s degrees and sometimes graduate and professional degrees.
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Private vs. Public
Public: Being tax supported, these schools are usually less expensive. As a general rule, students seldom pay more than 30% of the actual cost of their education with the state paying the balance. Public schools have two fee structures: a lower one for taxpaying state residents and a higher one for nonresidents.
Private: These schools are often innovative in developing attractive college financing plans and tuition assistance programs. They are not tax-supported and provide their own funding, allowing flexibility to customize financial aid award packages.
Size of the School:
Would I like to attend a small school? Would I be happier at a large college or university with bigger
classes?
Small Under 3,000 students
MediumBetween 3,000 and 10,000 students
Large Between 10,000 and 20,000 students
Largest Over 20,000 students
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Steps To Finding The Right College For You!
Step One: Know yourself and your reasons for wanting to attend college
Identify your strengths and weaknesses Analyze your interests and values Analyze your reasons for attending college
- To achieve a personal goal- To increase your earning power- To prepare for a career and expand learning- For extracurricular activities and social life- Because of the influence of family and friends
Step Two: Consider college characteristics
Majors and educational programs Type of school and degrees offered Admission policy Location and size Costs and availability of financial aid College affiliation and accreditation Campus activities Academic reputation
Step Three: List, compare and visit colleges Compile information from several sources
- College catalogs, bulletins, and videos- College representatives and college fairs- Counselors and teachers- Parents, students and alumni- Directories and online information
Prepare a college comparison checklist Weigh advantages and disadvantages
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Contact the admissions office for a visit to the campus
Step Four: Apply for admission and observe deadlines Narrow your choices to a list of four colleges
1.) One college that is a “sure thing”- you are overqualified and will definitely be admitted2.) Two colleges that are more “realistic choices” or “middle of the road” (you meet the qualifications for admission)3.) One college that you would consider a “long shot” or a “stretch” – (you would really like to attend this college, but you may have a lower GPA, SAT score or class rank than is required)
Review college admission test requirements (SAT, ACT, TOEFL) Know application fees and deadlines Submit application materials
- Completed application for admission- Application fee (or application fee waiver if applicable)- High school transcript- Recommendations- Admissions test results
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College Information Request Letter
Date:
Director of Admissions
University of Connecticut
Storrs, CT 06269
Dear Director of Admissions:
I am entering my senior year at Global Experience Magnet School in Bloomfield, CT. and will graduate in June 2014.
Please send me an application, current catalog, and any other materials that will help me plan for my education after high school.
Please also let me know if a representative of the University of Connecticut will be visiting my area in the near future. I would be very interested in learning more about your institution.
Thank you for your assistance:
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Sincerely,
Name:_______________________
Address:______________________
Touring A College Campus
While you are on campus, ask students their opinions about the school:
- What do they like best? What do they like least?- Are there things they would change?- How are the professors and the courses?- Is it easy to get the classes you need as a freshman?- Are they involved in extracurricular activities?- What do they do on the weekends?- Would they recommend the school?
While you are on campus you should:
- Attend an information session and take a campus tour- Read the school newspaper and try to find out the important or
burning issues- Scan the bulletin boards; the announcements, and messages that can
reveal a lot about the tone of the school.- Sample the food in the cafeteria. Notice if there is a variety of
selections.- Take a walk or a drive through the area surrounding the school
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Questions You Should Ask During A College Interview/Tour
1.) From what states and countries do your students come?
2.) Can I take courses for credit at nearby colleges?
3.) Are there ample opportunities on campus to earn money?
4.) What is the average class size for freshman? What is the largest class size?
5.) What kind of academic support is available?
6.) What is the availability of computers for student use on campus?
7.) What are my chances of being accepted?
8.) Can I choose the dormitory that I prefer? Are the dorms co-ed or single sex? If co-ed, is this by floor or by rooms? Can I select my roommate for freshman year?
9.) Is cable hook-up available in the rooms?
10.) Do most students remain on campus on the weekends?
11.) What facilities are available for transportation home?
12.) How long are classes? Do they meet every day of the week?
13.) Is the library open every day? What are its hours during exam week?
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Questions You May Be Asked During A College Interview
1.) Did you enjoy your four years in high school?
2.) Do you feel you have done the best scholastic work of which you are capable?
3.) What courses did you like best? Least? Why?
4.) Which of your high school years or subjects were the most difficult? Why?
5.) How did you spend your vacations while in school?
6.) What do you know about our institution?
7.) Tell me about yourself
8.) What types of books have you read?
9.) What interests you about our institution?
10.) How do you spend your weekends?
11.) Are you interested in research?
12.) Would you prefer a large or a small school? Why?
13.) What is your major strength? Weakness?
14.) How do you use your spare time?
15.) What jobs have you held? How were they obtained and why did you leave?
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SAMPLE THANK YOU NOTE
January 2, 2014
(Interviewers name)
University of Connecticut
1275 Hillside Road
Storrs, CT 06001
Dear (interviewer’s name):
Thank you very much for taking the time to interview me yesterday for admission to your university. I enjoyed meeting you and learning more about your school and all it has to offer.
The interview strengthened my enthusiasm for the University of Connecticut. I believe my educational and social experiences would allow me to fit nicely with the environment that your school provides. I am certain I would receive an outstanding education, and make a significant contribution to the University of Connecticut environment.
I would like to reiterate my strong interest in your school. The University of Connecticut provides the kind of opportunity that I am seeking. Please contact me at the telephone number listed above if I can provide you with any additional information.
Again, thank you for the interview and for your consideration.
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Sincerely,
________________________________________
Filling Out and Submitting the Application
Tips to Consider:
If you are applying online, carefully check for typos; do not rely on spell
check.
Make sure your name and address are on each piece of correspondence
you send to the college/university, and that it appears the same on each
page.
Review the application instructions/requirements and be sure that you
have included all required documentation.
For paper applications, prepare a cover letter to the Director of
Admissions that indicates exactly what your package includes.
Make copies of all materials sent and place into a binder.
*This is important so that you have evidence of exactly what was sent out
to the college/university that you are applying to!*
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Writing A Successful College Essay
COLLEGE ESSAY WRITING TIPS FROM COLLEGEBOARD
A great application essay will present a vivid, personal, and compelling view of you to the admissions staff. It will round out the rest of your application and help you stand out from the other applicants. The essay is one of the only parts of your application over which you have complete control, so take the time to do a good job on it. Check out these tips before you begin.
DOSKeep Your Focus Narrow and PersonalYour essay must prove a single point or thesis. The reader must be able to find your main idea and follow it from beginning to end. Essays that try to be too comprehensive end up sounding watered-down. Remember, it's not about telling the committee what you've done—they can pick that up from your list of activities—instead, it's about showing them who you are.
Prove It!Include vivid and specific facts, events, quotations, examples, and reasons. There's a big difference between simply stating a point of view and letting an idea unfold in the details:
Okay: "I like to be surrounded by people with a variety of backgrounds and interests" Better: "During that night, I sang the theme song from Casablanca with a baseball coach who
thinks he's Bogie, discussed Marxism with a little old lady, and heard more than I ever wanted to know about some woman's gall bladder operation."
Be Specific!Avoid clichéd, generic, and predictable writing by using vivid and specific details.
Okay: "I want to help people. I have gotten so much out of life through the love and guidance of my family, I feel that many individuals have not been as fortunate; therefore, I would like to expand the lives of others."
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Better: "My Mom and Dad stood on plenty of sidelines 'til their shoes filled with water or their fingers turned white, or somebody's golden retriever signed his name on their coats in mud. I think that kind of commitment is what I'd like to bring to working with fourth-graders."
DON'TSDon't Tell Them What You Think They Want to HearMost admissions officers read plenty of essays about the charms of their university, the evils of terrorism, and the personal commitment involved in being a doctor. Bring something new to the table, not just what you think they want to hear.
Don't Write a ResumeDon't include information that is found elsewhere in the application. Your essay will end up sounding like an autobiography, travelogue, or laundry list.
Don't Use 50 Words When Five Will DoEliminate unnecessary words.
Okay: "Over the years it has been pointed out to me by my parents, friends, and teachers—and I have even noticed this about myself, as well—that I am not the neatest person in the world."
Better: "I'm a slob."
Proofread!Typos and spelling or grammatical errors can be interpreted as carelessness or just bad writing. Don't rely on your computer's spell check. Proofread your essay, and ask a second person do the same!
This article is based on information found in The College Application Essay, by Sarah Myers McGinty.
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Tips For Taking The SAT
Get a good night’s sleep two nights before and the night before the test.
Get up early enough to be alert by test time. Eat a good breakfast. Dress comfortably. Bring identification, two number 2 pencils with good erasers, a
calculator, and water/snacks for break time. Arrive at the test center at least 15 minutes early. Use the restroom before the test starts. Make sure you understand when and how long the breaks are so
you can plan your snack and another trip to the restroom if necessary.
Think positive! Try to stay calm. Read all directions carefully. Read each question carefully. Watch the clock, pace yourself. Limit your time on each question. Pay careful attention to the language of the question. Omit questions where you cannot eliminate any wrong answers. Mark your answer sheet carefully and check it regularly. Visit www.kaptest.com to find and register for free practice tests
in your area!
For more information on standardized tests, you can visit the following websites:
www.collegeboard.com www.act.org
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www.kaplan.com www.princetonreview.com
School: _______________________________________
Admission Deadline: ______________ Request School catalog / /
Request Application Forms / /
Request Financial Aid Forms / /
Schedule Campus Tour and Interview / /
Complete Campus Tour and Interview / /
Request Letters of Recommendation / /
1.2.3.
Request SAT Scores / /
Request ACT Scores / /
Request High School Transcripts / /
Track Admissions Progress
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Finalize Admissions Essay / /
Give Forms To Your Counselor / /
Submit Application / /
Verification phone call that all materials have been received: Yes: ___ No __
Name of individual you spoke with: _______________________ / /
Receive Acceptance/Rejection Letter / /
Respond To Acceptance/Rejection Letter / /
Receive Award Letter / /
Respond To Award Letter / /
Notes
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Estimating Your College Budget
Assets Amount
Personal savings……………………………………………….. $__________
Student’s earnings……………………………………………. $__________
Scholarships, grants………………………………………….. $__________
Aid from parents and/or other relatives……………. $__________
Veterans benefits………………………. $___________
Stocks, bonds…………………………….. $___________
Other resources………………………… $___________
Total………………………………………….. $___________
Figuring Out Your Estimated Budget
1.) Add your monthly income and/or assets available.2.) Subtract your estimated monthly expenses (from college and family expenses
worksheet)3.) Calculate remaining funds available or amount of deficit.
Ways to reduce your college tuition and other costs:
1.) Consider living at home2.) Employment-Most students choose to work part-time while in school. 3.) Summer opportunities- make the most of summer opportunities to work and save
money for the next year’s expenses.4.) Buy used textbooks or buy through sites such as amazon.com or eBay!5.) Leave your car at home if you can-the cost of parking, maintenance, and insurance
can add up!6.) Try not to eat out often.
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7.) Check out free entertainment and recreation on campus.
TYPES OF FINANCIAL AID
The following information is only an overview of financial aid. Please attend our financial aid night for more detailed information on the financial aid process!
Federal Stafford Loans:Under the Federal Stafford Loan program, students attending at least half-time
can borrow at a low, fixed rate. Repayment of the loan begins six months after the student leaves school or drops below half time status.
A Subsidized Stafford Loan is provided to students based on financial need. In order to determine eligibility for a Subsidized Stafford Loan, students must complete a FAFSA. For those students who do qualify, the federal government will pay all accruing interest while the student is attending college on at least a half time basis and during the authorized six month grace period. The government will also pay the interest during authorized periods of deferment.
An Unsubsidized Stafford Loan is not based on financial need. Any student who completes a FAFSA is eligible for this loan. The loan principle does not have to be repaid until the student leaves school or falls below half time status, however interest is charged as soon as the disbursements are made.
The interest rate for Unsubsidized Stafford Loans is fixed at 6.8%. The interest rate for Subsidized Stafford loans is at a fixed rate of 6%.
First Year Student- Maximum loan = $5,500Sophomore- $6,500Junior- $7,500Senior- $7,500
Federal Perkins Loans:This loan program is a low interest loan for undergraduate students who show exceptional financial need. Eligible students can qualify for up to $4,000 annually. Payments are deferred while the student is in school and during a nine month grace period after the student leaves or drops down below half time status. Pell Grants and Supplemental Educational Grants: Pell Grants and SEOG’s are distributed tostudents based solely on need as determined by the FAFSA. The college financial aid officedetermines the amount received for Pell and SEOG.
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Work-Study: Work-Study is a federally funded program that allows students to work on campus tohelp defray the costs of education. This program is organized by the school’s financial aid office.
Parents Loan For Undergraduate Students (PLUS): Through this program parents may borrow the entire cost of their students’ education, less financial aid. Repayment of PLUS loans must begin within 60 days of disbursement. Bank approval of a PLUS loan hinges on examination of the family’s credit history. The low interest rates on PLUS loans make these an attractive option for families who plan to finance educational costs.
How Is Financial Aid Determined?
Cost of Attendance:- When a school computes its cost of attendance it takes into account its fixed costs such as tuition, fees, and room and board. They also include a budget for unfixed costs such as books & supplies, personal expenses, travel, and commuting costs if applicable.
EFC & the FAFSA:-In order to determine the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and a student’s eligibility for federal aid, a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) must be completed and submitted to the Federal Processing Center. Once the application is reviewed, the student will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) which lists the Expected Family Contribution. This is the monetary amount that the family will be expected to contribute towards their student’s education. Your EFC is determined by a formula that takes into account parent and student income, parent and student assets, family size, state of residence, and the age of the older parent. If you would like calculate your EFC before January of your student’s senior year, you can go to www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov to receive an estimated EFC and a sample award letter.
Cost of Attendance- Expected Family Contribution (EFC =Financial Need
Frequently Asked Questions About The FAFSA
What information is required?- Social Security Numbers of the student and the parent-W2 or end of the year pay stub-Tax Return
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-Untaxed Income Records-Current business, real estate, farm, stocks, bonds and other investment records-Personal identification Number (PIN)
Who should complete the FAFSA?The FAFSA should be completed by the student and the student’s natural or adoptive parents. In the case of divorced or separated parents, the parent with whom the child has resided for most of the previous 12 months is considered to be the “custodial parent” and should complete the form.
When do I have to submit the FAFSA?The FAFSA should be submitted as early as January 1st of the year that your student will be applying to colleges, and no later than June 30th of that year. Keep in mind that most schools set their own deadlines for FAFSA completion. Also keep in mind that the FAFSA must be completed for every year that your student attends college and wishes to receive some form of federal aid.
How should the FAFSA be completed?You may submit the FAFSA electronically through the Department of Education’s website (www.fafsa.ed.gov). Online applications are usually processed within two weeks of submission.
What is a PIN?A PIN is a four digit number that is used on the electronic FAFSA in place of the student’s and parent’s signature. To apply for a pin, you can go to www.pin.ed.gov and complete the online application.
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Compiled from the Connecticut Student Loan Foundation, “Parent Guide to Financial Aid.” For more information go to www.cslf.com
College Application Checklist
Student:
Address for the College/University:
Date sent out:
School Profile
GEMS Transcript/ Capital or Goodwin Transcript
Resume/Essay
SAT scores sent
Recommendations from:
1. ____________________________2. ____________________________
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Online application complete & submitted?
________________________ _______
Student Signature Date
Transcript Request Form- College/Scholarship Applications
(To be completed and turned into Ashley at least 48 hours in advance)
Student name: ___________________________
Date of request: ___________________________
Number of transcripts needed: __________________________
Transcript Request Form- College/Scholarship Applications
(To be completed and turned into Ashley at least 48 hours in advance)
Student name: ___________________________
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Date of request: ___________________________
Number of transcripts needed: __________________________
Sample Request for Letter (s) of Recommendation
Date:
Dear: _________________________________
I am applying for __________________________________. I am required to submit ________ letter (s) of recommendation. Would you consider writing a letter for me? I have attached the instructions for the letter. My deadline is ________________; therefore, I will pick up your letter by ___________________. You may put it in a sealed envelope if you prefer. Thank you so much. I really appreciate your taking time to do this for me.
Sincerely,
(name of student)
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Senior Information Profile
Name: ______________________________
Phone: ______________________________
Post-Secondary Plans:
__________ College _______________ Four Year __________________Two Year
__________ Job _______________ Military __________________Vocational training
1.) List two academic strengths and give specific examples to document or support each.
2.) List two personal strengths and give specific examples to document or support each.
3.) What are your present career/college major goals? Why?
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4.) What is the most satisfying course you have taken or project that you have completed? Why?
5.) If your counselor were to meet 1,000 seniors, how would he/she remember you?
6.) List any extracurricular activities you are involved with, including any leadership positions held.
7.) Are there any other areas you would like emphasized on the recommendation?
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Parent Questionnaire
1.) List three adjectives that describe your child:
2.) Please describe your child’s strengths, accomplishments, preferences, work habits, personality, etc.
3.) Please indicate which colleges you think would be a good match for your child. Why?
4.) Are there limitations or special considerations that will affect where your child attends college?
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5.) Are there any unusual personal circumstances that have affected your child’s educational experiences or personal development? Please explain.
