College Education - What You Need To Know

Transcription

1 The Road To College: College/Career Planning Night Navigating the high school years Mrs. Marci Guevara, Rincon Valley Christian School (17 th year and 35 years in Education) October 10, 2013

2 Counselor s Credentials BA Biola College in Physical Education and Camp Administration; minor in Bible CA Life Single Subject Teaching Cred K-12 in Physical Education from SJSU MA in Counseling from Santa Clara University CA PPS Credential (Pupil Personnel Services: School Counseling) ACSI Life Professional Credential Bible and PE Biblical Counseling Certificate: Waverly Bible Institute, Farnham, England 2

3 Guests Important college admissions information Santa Rosa Junior College: Connie Gozzarino EMPIRE COLLEGE REPRESENTATIVE: Mrs. Gay Kimmel *Optional educational opportunities 3

4 Welcome! Congratulations! You have taken your first step towards college planning for your student. As a counselor, I am a resource person. I can provide information to you, but I cannot make the numerous of decisions you will be required to make. If you have any questions please let me know; I am here to help you. 4

5 Options After High School Two (?)Year College Four Year College Public: UC, CSU Private: Bible, LA, Non - religious Business School Trade/Vocational School Military Work YWAM Gap-Year 5

6 Gap Year: What is it? Article in ACSI magazine CSE (Christian School Educators Volume 15 #3 Titled The Gap-Year Phenomenon. It is a unique opportunity following high school graduation before pursuing higher education or working. See article Some possibilities for a gap-year: travel, YRAM, shortterm missions, Bible school before going on to a secular university, This plan is not for every school learner. The choice is a matter of wisdom. 6

7 Check It Out: More Education = More Money Median Annual Income $80,000 $70,000 $60,000 $50,000 $40,000 $30,000 $20,000 $10,000 $0 H.S. Dropout H.S. Grad Associate's Deg Bach. Deg Master's Deg 7

8 Education after high school is Necessary. 8

9 Post High School Based on the previous two slides it is important for students to have some education and/or training based on your student s interests, abilities, and personality style 9

10 Defined: Soft Skills are people skills Social and communication skills Character traits Self-management behaviors Relates attitudes and outlooks on life Learned as we grow up Often not directly taught in schools Difficult to explain, but we know when we see effective soft skills 10

11 Soft versus Hard Skills 1. Soft skills make us teachable Able to work and share with others Ready to learn & work 2. Hard skills let us get things done Performance based Focus is on accomplishments We need BOTH soft and hard skills! 11

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13 More Education Doesn t just Mean a 4 Year University With today s changing economy and the emphasis on a college education to compete in today s global academia, America has swung too far in the opposite direction. Many vocational jobs earn as much or more than jobs for college graduates. Right now, college grads are finding it hard to find jobs. Mechanics and plumbers and electricians, etc. make a good hourly wage. 13

14 How Long Will It Take To Graduate From College? -Public institution: Publically calling CSU 6 year education -California would need to build 10 Calif. State Universities in the next 10 yrs to handle the influx of entering freshman in the next 10 yrs. It takes longer to complete an education. A news story two years ago stated that by the time babies that year get to college age, a four year college education could cost up to $200,000.Budget cuts, classes cut making it more difficult to get into classes of choice. However, CSU and UC, as of 2011, are cutting # of students and making other cuts so as not to allow for students to graduate in 4-4 ½. 14

15 Technical Programs/On-line Programs On line universities: Varies with program and diligence of student DeVry Institute: 2 ½ to 3 year programs for B.S. in Technology or Business. 15

16 Private Universities Private Christian institution: 4-4 ½ years -Advantage of a private school often is that they have enough classes so students can finish school in 4 to 4 ½ to five years depending upon Bible requirements. This puts them in the working world 2 years before their public institution peers. 16

17 Community Colleges Junior College: 2 ½ to 3 years to transfer. Lots of budget cuts at JC, Doyle Scholarship coming back on limited basis. They won t know how much $ will be available until January. 17

18 Interesting Quote From An Admissions Director At A Private Christian University Recently I read a letter from a disheartened parent who felt she had lost her child at a state college. She wrote: What we thought was a fine college ruined our daughter. A course in religion destroyed her faith in the Bible, a course in philosophy destroyed her faith in God, a course in psychology destroyed her faith in her parents, a course in biology destroyed her faith in divine creation, and a course in political science destroyed her faith in the American way of life. I m not saying that public universities won t work but please encourage your students to get involved in church and/or a Christian on campus organization asap after arriving on campus. They will have a chance of surviving the secular humanistic teaching. Summit Ministries also prepares students to handle the secular campus teachings. 18

19 Which Is The Best School? It is important to keep in mind that there is no BEST school. There is only what school is best for your son/daughter that will fit your budget. ****Where does God want your child? 19

20 Factors To Keep in Mind College is the time in your life when you will probably determine your mission in life. What does God want you to do with your life? In what role will you serve him? College is a tremendous opportunity to find out who will be the master of your life. Being away from home, your parents, and your church while at the same time, often being faced with professors, students and courses which challenge your belief is a real faith builder. You will be forced to decide if your faith in Christ is genuine and if Christ is the Lord of your life. 20

21 Factors to Keep in Mind It is a very expensive decision. These costs demand that you choose carefully and wisely. Think for yourself. The decisions is too major to just go where your friends are going. Realize what is right choice for your friends may not be the right choice for you. 21

22 Basics Of College Planning: Questions To Discuss With Your Child What size school do you prefer: small (less than 2,000 students), medium (2,000 to 5,000), large (5,000, to 12,000) or very large (more than 12,000 students)? Do you want to be in an urban, suburban, or rural area? What part of the country would you prefer: northeast, south, midwest, or west? If you already have an idea of what your major will be, does the college offer a strong program, including vocational programs. 22

23 Basics Questions to ask (con t.) Would you prefer a small, liberal arts program? A comprehensive program with liberal arts and preprofessional majors? Or a university with lots of colleges and a graduate program? Are you looking for a place with a big name and high percentage of job placement? Are there certain things that are important to you such as: a diverse student body, study abroad programs, internships in your major field, fraternity/sorority options, athletics (competitive or intramural), Christian organizations, particular student activities. 23

24 Questions to Ask Continued What are the student/faculty ratios? What is the average class size? What is the number of PhD s on the faculty? Philosophy or religious foundation of school. 24

25 4 Sources Of Information To Aid You In Your Decision Your guidance counselor! -Form a relationship with your counselor as early as possible. It is up to you to make sure your counselor knows enough about you to help guide you toward appropriate colleges. Talk with former graduates of colleges you are interested in attending. Individual College websites Visits to college campuses. Allows you to get a feel for the college atmosphere. Ask yourself: Do I feel comfortable here? Is this a good fit for me? *Search engines:

26 Visit Your Top Choices: 7 Tips Contact college: Confirm tour, visit, and interview where suggested. Book your travel first: Shop around for the best rates on airline tickets, hotel rooms. Can you stay in the dorm with a friend? Be prompt (especially if you have an interview). Get immersed: talk to students, attend a class, eat in the cafeteria. Arrange a visit when students are in session. Some schools give tuition credit if enroll Allow enough time and take good notes. 26

27 Academic Requirements for a 4 Year College 4 years of English, (P) 3 years of Math, (P) Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 11 (4 encouraged) Science with labs (2 years), (P) Foreign Language (minimum 2 years same language), (P) 2-3 years of History (P) Keyboarding Visual or performing arts (1 year) Other challenging, college prep classes/electives ex trigonometry, physics, AP classes, yearbook, news writing See RVCS 4 year plan handout 27

28 How To Use The JC During High School You may take a class at the JC if it is not offered at your designated school. If you fail a class you may make it up at the JC, or other alternatives (see your counselor!). If the designated class does not fit in your schedule. To get ahead on college track. Colleges weight JC courses (honors, too)on high school transcripts when recalculating GPA 28

29 C.L.E.P. for information. Testing out of basic college courses for college credit. SRJC is looking into allow students to CLEP out of GE courses which would be a way for students to shorten their time a the JC and get credit that will transfer to universities that do not accept CLEP. 29

30 Quote: THAT You Go To College Is More Important Than WHERE You Go. Skills learned in a college prep course program of study in high school prepare students for college. These are the same skills that also prepare students for LIFE so are a great help even if student opts for a vocational post high school training route. 30

31 College Campuses and Local Churches: SRBC Elders and Deacons Ideally we would love to see our graduates attend a Christian University and find a local church that exists to glorify, honor, represent, and know Jesus Christ. Loves the gospel and teachers salvation through God s grace alone through faith in Jesus alone. Committed to preaching, teaching, and studying the infallible Word of God. Committed to the student s growth in his walk with Christ 31

32 Con t Committed to making disciples of Jesus and advancing His kingdom for His glory. Committed to local and global missions. Believes in the Sovereign Creator and Sustainer of all things as Genesis 1 describes. Committed to the student s being a part of local churches where they can worship, grow, learn, minister and be ministered to for God s glory and their good. 32

33 UC A-G Requirements A History/Social Science: 2 years required B English: 4 years C Mathematics: 3 years required, 4 years recommended D Laboratory Science:2 years required, 3 years recommended E Foreign Language: 2 years required, 3 years recommended (note: must be the same language) F Visual/Performing Arts: 1 year required Classes chosen from the following: dance, drama/theater, music, or visual art. G College Preparatory Electives: Choose from the following areas: visual/performing arts, history, social science, English, Math, laboratory science, and foreign language. Never earn below a C- in any of the above courses!!!! 33

34 UC Requirements SAT Reasoning which includes writing or ACT with writing scores are required. Accepted by CSU/UC up to Dec. of Senior year. Require original scores sent from Collegeboard; no copies. Some CSU s say Dec. scores may not reach them on time for priority admissions. (Cal Poly SLO) SAT Subject Tests: As of 2012 all subject exams have been eliminated as a requirement for admission to UC. 34

35 UC Requirements (con t.) Some online programs have been UC Approved. List available at their website. (most of SevenStar Academy have been UC Approved) Even with ELC apply to several UC campuses and other colleges. UC Campuses are being asked to slow growth to bring enrollment in line with resources so expect a reduction in number of offers made for fall admission. Choice of major is not considered in selection w/exception of a few popular majors. UCLA has the most impacted majors. Application available Nov. 1st on line with deadline Nov. 30 th (midnight) 35

36 UC Updates 2012 Goal: Maintain Quality/Access Affordability by not lessoning student # s so can graduate in 4 years and still offer full range of services. Cuts are in office hours, staffing, and looking for technical solutions. Increase in tuition of 9.6% based on Fall 2011 conference information NO TUITION INCREASE FOR 2013/14 due to passing of Prop 30 Committed to a Financial Aid program. Full price that non-residents (enrolled to fill unfilled capacity) pay, the extra money goes back in to provide more core courses. 36

37 Updates for Fall 2014 Online College Courses can satisfy VPA and Lab Science requirement 2015 application opening date will be August 1 (now it is Oct. 1) but submission dates will still be November 1-30 Each campus makes its own decision per individual applicant..not based on any other campus decision. Comprehensive review Middle Income scholarship program (Blue and Gold) for UC/CSU for families who make $80,000 orlless. 37

38 Fall 2011 Statistics CA freshmen applicants grew 3.6% 61,345 CA residents offered admission 6 campuses turned away 40% of applicants. Average across campuses in coming freshmen academic profile (higher than minimum requirements for freshman admission GPA 1782 SAT 26 ACT 38

39 Comprehensive Review Some campuses rely on a comprehensive review process not just eligibility index number. Want to see students who are well-rounded, take rigorous courses (strong senior year), marked improvement, community service, promise for leadership (student gov t.), special skills or talents so will consider these factors in their decision making process. Freshman year not figured in GPA. Acceptance only good for fall you apply. Take a year off, must begin all over. 39

40 College Entrance Tests SRJC has Math and English Placement tests which can be taken more than once. These indicate which level Math/English you will take. Goal is to qualify to take College level Math and English classes right away. SAT or ACT or both UC will accept Algebra 1 in 8 th grade if put on transcript but the reality is that they want to still see 4 years in high school. They figure if a student took Alg 1 in 8 th that it is because they will be taking through calculus 40

41 Register Online For Tests SAT: ACT: RVCS s school code:

42 Online Student Score Reports- SAT *Scores released 16 days after each administration. hnew score could be maximum 800 x 3. Private school still using 800 x 2. CSU doesn t use writing for admission but could use it for enrollment (English placement) haverage score is now 500 x 3 adding writing section. hfor UC purposes good score is 600 x 3 (minimum). hfor CSU due to competitiveness the higher the better. Scores should be looked at separately. This a better measure of readiness/skill in each area. UC still looks at the best sitting. CSU requires minimum SAT score or students need remedial work before being accepted. 42

43 SAT/ACT Security Enhancements: Student photo and high school code required at registration. Changes accepted up to 2 wks prior to test day; wait list status available until 5 days before test day. Photo ID and Admission Ticket required for entry. Staff have photo with name and required ID checks when collecting answer sheets. 43

44 ACT Established College Readiness Benchmarks College English Composition: at least an 19 on ACT English Test College Algebra: at least a 22 on ACT Mathematics Test College Biology: at least a 24 on ACT Science Test 44

45 California State University Subject Requirements CSU website: A History/Social Science: 2 years required B English: 4 years required C Math: 3 years required (Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II), 4 years recommended D Laboratory Science: 1 year required (grades 10, 11, or 12) E Foreign Language: 2 years same language required, 3 years recommended (if you don t want to take two semesters in college) F Visual and Performing Arts: 1 year NEVER earn below a C- in any of the above courses second semester or whole year is unacceptable. A D first semester accepted if final grade is more. 45

46 Graduation new Focus Graduation as opposed to retention. Half of 56% of students nationally who enter a 4 year university complete Bachelor s degree with in 6 yrs. Financial Aid Dilemna: Lifetime Pell Grant reduced from 9 yrs. to 6 yrs. Gal Grant reductions, state universities limited to 1 st 150 units earned. Must show satisfactory academic progress Greater dependence on student loans. 46

47 Answer? CSU System wide Initiative Raise graduation rate by 8% by 2015 If on academic probation end of first year, enter a special program. Students often take classes to fulfill financial aid requirement as opposed to viable ones that count toward graduation. Either on purpose or didn t get class. Ends up graduating w/ way > units than needed. 47

48 Answer (con. t) Focus on early preparation for academic success down through elementary and middle school year. Recommend rigorous math through senior year, using planners for organizational skills, strong English skills to navigate college materia. 48

49 MANY CSU CAMPUSES ARE IMPACTED *Due to Budget cuts and no Budget : The sooner you apply the sooner you will hear re: acceptance. Admission to CSU is more complicated, more competitive, and more confusing due to cuts and lack of budget. CSU manages enrollment through IMPACTION. *NEW: CSU is mandated to accept students from service areas. Eligible students have top priority for freshmen and transferable juniors spots. Outside of service area students will need a higher eligibility index. (based on SAT or ACT scores, GPA, courses, etc) 49

50 What is Impaction This is when a campus receives more eligible applicants than they can deal with and must be able to demonstrate impactiveness. Most CSU s have at least one impacted program (major). If applying for one, you must put down an alternate, non impacted major or undeclared when applying. Have to meet impacted criteria which will be higher than non impacted majors. 50

51 CSU Acceptance is based on self reported information to be confirmed based on final transcript. Acceptance can be rescinded if final transcript doesn t meet criteria so FINISH WELL by taking full load of college prep courses. * MATH, MATH, MATH, MATH 4 years emphasized throughout conference seminars. 51

52 CSU Exam Requirements SAT Reasoning or ACT CSU does not require writing for admissions purposes but will use it to help with English Placement 52

53 Early Assessment Program EAP is an academic preparation program to help high school students meet college readiness standards in English and math before admission to a CSU campus or participating CCC. Determined in 11 th grade in public school with STAR testing, for RVCS through SAT/ACT scores. (Math 550 or >: CR 500 or >; ACT 22 or >; 3 or > AP test score. 53

54 Website for more information. If do not meet minimum scores, must take EPT (English), ELM (Math) tests to meet minimum requirement. If still do not meet minimum, will need remedial. If fail remedial no longer eligible for CSU. Register for EPT/ELM on-line. Student must release results to CSU/CCC 54

55 EARLY START/SMART START Must do this program if you are not exempt through AP/SAT/or ACT. This is done the summer before enrollment. Available at service campus (SSU) or through destination campus..on-line where offered. Choose 1or 3 unit course $182 per unit + $2 for campus fee..may be eligible for Early Start fee waiver. When complete Early Start, results sent ot campus 55

56 Applying If applying and failed to participate in Early Start (E)S you are blocked from registering for fall classes, could be put on academic probation, and given two semester to comply. 56

57 Resources CSU Mentor: Apply on-line Early Start Program: better prepared I Math/English before first fall semester. Degrees.calstate.edu: research majors offered on campuses csusuccess.org www/calstate/edu/sas www/calstate/edu/college 57

58 Private And Out Of State University Requirements School requirements vary; it is the students responsibility to consult college websites. History/Social Science: 3 years English: 4 years Math: 3 years (some require 4) Laboratory Science: 1-3 years Foreign Language: 2 years (some require 3 and more in college if don t have 4 in high school) 58

59 Private College/University Exam Requirements SAT Reasoning or ACT Writing is not required. 59

60 Importance Of The PSAT * The PSAT/NMSQT lets you: Practice for the SAT Enter the National Merit Scholarship Corporation competitions for recognition and scholarships as a junior. Assess your skills in critical reading, mathematical reasoning, and writing Through a question-byquestion review of answers students will be able to see which answers they got right or wrong/copy of test book Get specific suggestions on how to improve your skills Compare your academic skills with those of other college bound students Ask colleges to send you information Get information about college majors and careers Access to on-line information from My Road & QuickStart 60

61 Who Should Take The PSAT/NMSQT? Typically, students take the PSAT/NMSQT in their junior year of high school. Multiple PSAT tests improves chances of doing well on the SAT. Students take the test to get a head start on improving academic skills needed for success in college and to access program helps like My Road and QuickStart which is the new SAT Study Plan. It offers personalized list of colleges, majors, and careers based on PSAT scores. 61

62 New IN 2005: QuickStart Online Career, Major, and College Planning Tool Free For All High School PSAT/NMSQT Test-Takers Features include: Personality Profiler: the online assessment students take to learn about their personality type and receive major career suggestions In depth profiles of academic fields/majors Articles covering over 450 occupations Personal planner to chart the path to college. Student uses their ID # (In Gold) from the PSAT score report to access information Student can access Quick Start throughout their entire high school career 62

63 BIG FUTURE Collegeboard s new free Step-by Step Guide to College Planning (don t have to take the PSAT to access this program. Go to to create an account. Highlights: videos (> 300), new College Search tool, college profiles, personalized action plan for each students, simple getting started tools 63

64 Calendar For High School Counseling: Junior Class PSAT College search prep ASVAB information/testing Begin portfolio with filling out Junior Questionnaire Career Interest Inventory Meet with Juniors one on one beginning in January to go over portfolio and college resource search and information. College and career fair in spring (Sonoma State University). Encouraged to take SAT/ACT in the spring 64

65 Calendar For High School Counseling: Senior Class Seniors are encouraged to meet with counselor for help on application process. Take final entrance test (if still needed). Scholarship information References College essays Meetings with JC representatives: -application process -Doyle Scholarship -Counseling 370 class -FAFSA 65

66 What Are Colleges Really Looking For? College prep Course Work Finish STRONG Grades/GPA College Entrance Scores Class Rank Recommendations Extra Curricular Activities Personal Interview 66

67 Financial Aid Can Be Daunting 67

68 College Costs Can Be Scary 68

69 Financial Help For College Financial Aid defined: financial aid is monies made available by the federal government, state governments, colleges, universities, and corporations and private foundations to help families pay for educational costs. Most aid is based upon financial need and or academics (merit). 69

70 Invest Wisely 70

71 What Type Of Financial Aid Is Available? Grants-GPA Verification Scholarships Wonderful options because you don t have to pay them back!!! Work- study job at university: allows you to work and earn money for expenses while you attend college but don t have to claim on FAFSA as income earned by student. Student Loans: Subsidized (federal government pays interest while you are in college) and Unsubsidized (interest accrues while you are in college) These you must pay back)! 71

72 Determining Financial Need-FAFSA Basically, a standard formula is used to determine what you and your family can contribute to your education. (EFC) Cost of Attendance EFC = Need Costs include tuition, fees, room and board, transportation to and from college, books, supplies, and personal expenses. Formula used to calculate these costs considers your family s income and assets, the number of family members who will attend college the same time as you, and other important factors. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is used to collect this information. 72

73 FAFSA Information The FAFSA is a financial aid application made available by the United States federal government and used by all colleges and universities. CASH for COLLEGE Apply after January 1, Website: Warning: Do not google or will get websites reguiring you to pay. Senior meeting in January, resource person available 73

74 A Quick Word About Scholarship Scams: Warning Signs h For a fee, we provide a comprehensive list of scholarships. Don t spend money on a fee-based matching services. h Billions of dollars of award monies going unclaimed. Statements are simply untrue. If funds are available, students will compete for them. h We need your credit card or bank account number No legitimate scholarship should require this! h We will do all the work" To receive a scholarship students must complete the applications and essays themselves. h We have a money-back guarantee. Legitimate scholarships are always competitive. No one can guarantee that you will win a scholarship. 74

75 Other Useful Websites

76 The Light At The End Of The Tunnel 76

77 Thank you! Questions Or Comments? HANDOUTS PROVIDED 77