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College Information Session. Glen Allen High School School Counseling Department. What? Where? When?. Searching for colleges can be an overwhelming experience! Before you begin, there are some very important things to consider: - Size -Cost -Distance -Program/Interests -Family -Grades
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College InformationSession Glen Allen High School School Counseling Department
What? Where? When? Searching for colleges can be an overwhelming experience! Before you begin, there are some very important things to consider: - Size -Cost -Distance -Program/Interests -Family -Grades -SAT/ACT scores
Planning College Visits *Where? *When? *How? Check Undergraduate Admissions Websites for Open House dates Utilize online resources Call a college/university representative PLAN AHEAD
Helpful Tools • There are many websites available to aid you in your college search! • Visit with your School Counselor • College Board Resource Books- (available in the School Counseling Office) • Online Resources and Interest Inventories • Application in Virginia Wizard: • https://www.vawizard.org/vccs/CollegeSearch.action • GREAT website on College Board to compare colleges! • http://collegesearch.collegeboard.com/search/index.jsp
What were your Results? • Write down your results! • Do further research on those schools • Talk to parents, friends, counselors, teachers about schools • Use written or online resources to find the following: • Cost • Size • GPA/SAT/ACT requirements • Programs of Interest • Helpful College Comparison Worksheet http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/college-comparison-worksheet-TC001018311.aspx?AxInstalled=1&c=0
College Entrance Exams • Research your university/college of choice prior to registering for the ACT or SAT. • www.collegeboard.com • It is YOUR responsibility to register and be aware of registration dates for the SAT and ACT examinations.
ACT vs. SAT • http://www.inlikeme.com/test/sat-vs-act-comparison-chart.html • What is the difference? The SAT and ACT are significantly different tests, and in many ways, they measure different skills. Depending on one’s particular strengths and weaknesses, the student may perform much better on one test than the other. As a result, many students embarking on the admissions process are now considering both the SAT and ACT in order to determine which test provides a better showcase for their abilities.
SAT/ACT Score Reports • How do you send SAT/ACT score reports? • http://www.collegeboard.com/html/SCTutorial/index.html • This tutorial will help you better understand the score reporting process
The Application Process • MOST colleges and universities only accept online applications. • Ensure that you are logged onto a computer with clear and reliable internet access • Keep a notebook or record log for usernames and passwords • Print verification forms when available • Take your time! Proofread! • Have a reliable friend or parent double check college essays • Utilize your resources at school (i.e. the Writing Center)
The Common Application • https://www.commonapp.org/CommonApp/Default.aspx This is a standardized first-year application form that you can use to apply to many colleges. There are both online and print versions available. More than 400 colleges currently accept the Common Application. Some of the colleges may also request additional materials when you apply.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities • Use a Common Application to apply to all 35 schools! • http://www.eduinconline.com/pdfs/eduinc_app_2011.pdf • ONE TIME FEE of $35.00!
Common App Tutorial • https://www.commonapp.org/CommonApp/FAQ.aspx Let’s briefly watch this tutorial to better understand the Common App process
GRASP Advisor • Beginning in January 2012, Glen Allen HS will have its own GRASP advisor! • You will be able to set up personal and private appointments with the advisor on WEDNESDAYS in the School Counseling Career Center. • The GRASP advisor will be able to discuss financial aid and all of the processes and information involved in both applying for and receiving aid!
Transcripts • For scholarships and college applications, transcripts must be requested in advance of the due date to allow processing time. • First TWO transcripts are FREE. • All other transcripts are $5.00 EACH. • Please allow processing time and complete the necessary forms available in the School Counseling Office in order to place a timely transcript order.
Organization • It is IMPERATIVE that you are organized in your approach to the college search and application process. • It is helpful to keep an application log or spreadsheet for applications. • Keeping an up to date log of college criteria that you are looking for will also be useful. • The more organized you are, the easier the process.
Procrastination • Procrastination is not acceptable during the college application process. • Ensure that you allow those writing recommendations for you PLENTY of advance notice and time. • Plan ahead and allow time to complete online applications in order to avoid any computer issues. • Computer issues will NOT be excuses for late application entries. Colleges abide by strict dates and deadlines.
REMEMBER: • Do your research! • Don’t procrastinate! • Plan ahead! • Use resources! • Ask questions! • Meet with your School Counselor with any questions!
“Success doesn’t come to you. You go to it.” Marva Collins