Weston High School 115 School Road Weston, CT 06883

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1 Weston High School 115 School Road Weston, CT To Our Students and Parents: Welcome to a very exciting time in your lives! As you to begin to explore the many options available to you following graduation, be assured that your guidance counselors and the staff of the College and Career Center (CCC) are here to support you and help you through this process. Through your studies and extracurricular activities you have learned how dedication and perseverance are important if you want to succeed. This same type of commitment will enable you to reach a decision concerning your post high school plans. At times the process can seem overwhelming, like a roller coaster ride with its peaks and valleys. Be assured, it is possible to enjoy the ride. It does require, however, that you are pro-active in gathering and evaluating information that will help you in the decision making process. The College and Future Planning Handbook is your guide and the CCC is your home base for exploring your future plans. In the CCC, information and resources are constantly updated and are readily available. Here you will find computer programs that offer comprehensive search lists, information on colleges, the military, thirteenth year options, vocational and technical programs, and visual and performing arts programs. As you become aware of what educational options are available, you will begin to identify those factors that are most important to you. The friendly, knowledgeable staff in the CCC is here to assist and guide you in your search. The College and Future Planning Handbook provides you with an overview of factors that must be considered as you plan for your future. Used wisely, this handbook will serve as a foundation on which you will build your future plans and will supplement your most valuable resources; other family members, your guidance counselors and the CCC staff. Review this guide often and use it as your personal road map to an exciting future. We can assure each of you that there are many schools where you will be happy and that want you to be part of their community. We look forward to having the privilege of assisting you in this exciting process. Sincerely, Marilyn D. Moks Marilyn D. Moks, Director, College and Career Center

2 Weston High School 115 School Road Weston, CT Dear Students and Parents: Each time we have the opportunity to work with students and families in the college search and selection process, we are reminded of the special responsibilities we share. No less than the next generation of learners and contributors is at stake, as decisions are made regarding post-secondary schooling, and planning gets underway preparing for a future profession. At Weston High School, we have assembled an experienced and eager team to assist our students in realizing their goals. Given the breadth and depth of the information available and the unique needs and interests of each student, it is necessary to assemble critical components, update and coordinate a complicated process and monitor progress toward a specific goal. The guidance counselor, registrar, secretary and dedicated volunteer has the same objective in sight; help the student match his/her dream with an individual set of interests and abilities and then complete a process that fulfills those high aspirations. This College and Future Planning Handbook has been compiled with careful attention to the priorities of the research and selection process. Hours of editing and rewriting have resulted in a handbook that we believe will be of invaluable help as students and families work through the cycle. Special thanks go out to Marilyn Moks, Director of the CCC as well as to the many volunteers who have helped produce this handbook. The Process offers many rewarding opportunities for family discussion and travel. To the students and families beginning this important effort, I wish you a successful and satisfying result. Regards, Meredith Starzyk Meredith Starzyk, Director of School Counseling 1

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS WHS COLLEGE AND FUTURE PLANNING 6 Group Seminars Group Seminar Topics College and Future Planning Calendar Junior Year Senior Year POST HIGH SCHOOL OPTIONS...14 Types of Colleges Two-Year Colleges Four-Year Colleges and Universities Technological Schools Art Schools U.S. Military Academies Other Options 13 th Year Programs Gap Year Vocational/Technical Schools Armed Services Students with Learning Differences Facts and Myths About Colleges What Does College Do for You? EVALUATE YOURSELF.22 Prioritizing Your Values College Attributes Rank Order Survey In What Type of School Environment Do You See Yourself? ASSESSING YOUR CREDENTIALS...27 Course Choice and Academic Rigor Grades GPA (Grade Point Average) Admissions Testing ACT PSAT 2

4 SAT I SAT II A.P. (Advanced Placement) Notification of Test Results Reporting Scores to Colleges Extracurricular Activities Work Experience Other Factors Legacy Minority Status Athletic Recruitment GATHERING INFORMATION...33 Introduction to Investigating Colleges and Other Future Plans College and Career Center (CCC) Gathering Information Resources Available in the CCC Sample Letter Requesting Information HOW TO NARROW YOUR LIST...37 Read Visit Trust Your Instincts and Feelings The College Visit Planning the Visit Things to Do Before and During Your Visit Questions to Consider Asking While on Your Visit College Evaluation Sheet APPLYING FOR ADMISSION.42 Obtaining and Completing Applications The College Essay/Personal Statement Sample Essay Questions & Topics From Recent College Applications The Interview Preparing for the Interview During the Interview Questions Frequently Asked During the Interview Alumni Interview 3

5 PROCESSING YOUR APPLICATION AT WESTON HIGH SCHOOL...49 Recommendations Putting Together Your College Application Packet WHICH DECISION PLAN IS RIGHT FOR YOU?...52 Admission Decisions Pros and Cons of Early Decision THE COLLEGES DECISION MAKING PROCESS How Colleges Evaluate Your Application Decisions Colleges Can Offer Appeals Transfers WAYS TO FUND YOUR COLLEGE EDUCATION.56 Financial Aid Pre-payment of Tuition Forms FAFSA CSS Profile Financial Aid Package Grant Loan Work-Study Scholarships Merit Need-based Capitol Scholarship Weston High School Scholarship Athletic ROTC The New England Regional Student Program (Apple) Tuition Savings Other Options to Defray the High Cost of Education Community College Acceleration Co-Op Programs Financial Aid Glossary LIFE BEYOND WHS..64 4

6 COLLEGES THAT ADMITTED OUR STUDENTS.65 RESOURCES..70 Internet Sites GLOSSARY.71 Revised

7 WHS COLLEGE AND FUTURE PLANNING Group Seminars The School Counseling Department assists students in researching and developing their college and future plans. During the spring semester all junior students are required to attend small group seminars that provide the following information: Outline of the planning process including methods for setting personal goals and career decision-making Overview of the college research and application process Review of students academic and non-academic credentials Orientation to the College and Career Center (CCC) resources Assistance, direction and continued communication throughout the process In addition, students may have individual appointments in the CCC to explore post high school options. The director of the CCC and the staff will work with the students using the computer programs, as well as the numerous resources available, to aid in this process. 6

8 Group Seminar Topics Student credential review (includes transcript accuracy, check and review graduation requirements, completion of all forms, and the activity sheet) Student calculation of GPA Discussion of post high school plans and options (including two and four year colleges, technical schools, etc.) Testing for college admissions; SAT, ACT (which to take and why) College visits, procedures and policies, interviews and recommendations Discussion on how to target interests, values, priorities and abilities (as related to college and future planning search activities) Orientation to the College and Career Center (CCC) Introduction to the college research process The application process and opportunity to meet the registrar How to make the best use of your counselor and the resources available Discussions on writing your college essay How to use the results from The Personality Profile and the Interest Inventory Test Questions and answers Individual Appointments An individual meeting with your School Counselor is scheduled to continue the exploration of college and future planning options. Individual appointments may be made with personnel in the CCC to assist you in the college and future planning search process. All the resources available in the CCC will be used. 7

9 COLLEGE AND FUTURE PLANNING CALENDAR First Semester Junior Year College representatives visit the CCC throughout the fall. These sessions are open to all juniors and seniors. Students must sign up in advance on Naviance. The date and time of each college visit is posted throughout WHS and on Naviance. This listing is updated frequently. Attend local college fairs held around the area. The biggest one is at the Danbury Mall in mid October. Sign up for the PSAT review course sponsored by the PTO, given at Weston High School, in the beginning of October. Take the PSAT test in mid-october at WHS. PSAT results are returned in December. Review the results with your school counselor. Plan to visit colleges as your schedule permits. Attend Student and Parents Early College Planning Night Plan your Junior/Senior Test taking calendar. Review course registration and test dates for SAT I, SAT II and ACT found in the CCC. Remember the best way to register is on-line. Register for January SAT or February ACT during December. Note: We have not listed all of the possible dates to take these tests throughout this calendar. The choice to take a specific test is a highly individual decision. SAT/ACT testing is most commonly completed January through June of your junior year and September through December of your senior year. January Parents should attend the evening program at WHS on Financing a College Education. Take SAT if registered. Plan your winter break college visits. If possible, try to take the organized tour and information session. Some schools require reservations, so make sure you call in advance. Remember to pick up appropriate materials (view book, applications, etc.) when visiting a school. 8

10 Junior Year continued February Register for SAT review course sponsored by the PTO held at WHS in April. Individual appointments may be made by juniors/parents to come to the CCC and explore colleges or other post graduate options. Take ACT if registered. Register for March SAT I. SAT II is not offered in March. Register for April ACT. Visit colleges during winter break. Schedule courses for senior year with emphasis on a challenging senior schedule. Consult with your school counselor. March Check the Summer Opportunities/Programs in the CCC. Register for May SAT. Start planning college visits for Spring Vacation. April Take SAT/ACT if registered. Visit colleges. Prepare preliminary application to the Military Service Academies. Register for June SAT. May/June Attend Junior Group Session in CCC to discuss future plans. Take the A.P. test if qualified and registered. Register for June ACT. Take SAT/ACT if registered. Request letters of recommendation from two teachers. Plan your summer college visits. Senior packet is handed out to students. July/August Register for September ACT. Read to improve verbal skills for SAT/ACT. Review college information. Visit colleges to get a feel for campus styles (Keep notes about colleges visited). 9

11 Junior Year continued Begin to narrow college list with parents and counselor. Plan fall college visits and schedule interviews (if required/recommended). Start brainstorming ideas for college essay; check individual essay topics on college applications, see sample topic in this planning guide. Athletes planning on playing a varsity sport in college need to obtain the NCAA Application from the WHS Registrar or on-line. Senior Year DEADLINES ARE IMPORTANT: Keep a list of all your college application deadlines, as well as the WHS mailing deadlines for completed applications. The WHS Registrar includes the WHS mailing deadline list together with the parental release of records form in the senior packet. The senior packet is handed out the end of junior year. September/October/November Students may meet with college representatives in the CCC. Check the College Visit Schedule frequently on Naviance, and sign up for any visits you plan on attending. Visit colleges, have interviews, if required, and file applications. September Request letters of recommendation from two teachers. Register for October SAT/ACT and November SAT. Check out scholarships in CCC. Visit colleges. Begin writing a college application personal essay. Consider working on applications to schools that have rolling admissions. It is best to get these in as early as possible. Finalize Early Decision/Early Action plans. Continue to narrow your list of prospective school choices. Check CCC Bulletin Board and Naviance for dates of college representatives visits to WHS. Sign up on Naviance to attend these sessions. 10

12 Senior Year continued Make an appointment with your school counselor to review the progress you have made regarding your college and future plans. October Check CCC Bulletin Board and Naviance for dates of college representatives visits to WHS. Don t forget to sign up to attend. Finalize Early Decision/Early Action plans, complete application and request test scores to be forwarded to the college. Take October SAT/ACT if registered. Register for December SAT. Attend local College Fairs (the largest one is at the Danbury Mall). Visit colleges. Work on College Applications and the essay for regular decision. CSS Profile (financial aid form discussed in Ways to Fund Your College Education ); complete this form for certain colleges. Check out scholarships in the CCC. November Check CCC Bulletin Board and Naviance for dates of college representatives visits to WHS. Sign up to attend these sessions. Visit colleges. Register for December ACT. Take November SAT. Early Decision/Early Action applications are due; deadlines vary, so check each school. IMPORTANT: First quarter grades will be automatically sent only for Early Decision/Early Action applications. Remember that for all other regular decision applications, first quarter grades are sent by students special request only. Finalize your college list; continue to work on the applications and essay. December FAFSA financial aid forms available online and in CCC. Register for January SAT. Take the December SAT/ACT. 11

13 Senior Year continued Parents should attend the evening program at WHS on Financing a College Education. Note the deadlines on WHS mailing calendar for timely submission of college applications, especially colleges with early January deadline. Notification of Early Decision/Early Action candidates. Notify the WHS Registrar of the decision. January FAFSA must be submitted after January 1. Note the deadlines on WHS mailing calendar for timely submission of college applications. February Mid-year semester grade reports automatically sent by the guidance office to all colleges to which students have applied. Don t fall into a SENIOR SLUMP!. Note the deadlines on WHS mailing calendar for timely submission of college applications. March/April Notification of acceptance and financial aid. Please inform the registrar immediately of all notifications received. Re-visit colleges offering admission in order to finalize your decision. Inform registrar of post high school plans. May Notify the School you plan to attend by May 1. Notify those colleges you do not plan to attend. Inform the registrar of post high school plans. 12

14 Senior Year continued Take the A.P. test if qualified and registered. WHS Scholarship need-based, deadline is May 31. June Year-end transcripts are automatically sent by the WHS Guidance Office to the college the students will be attending. Inform the WHS registrar of post high school plans. GRADUATION. You made it! Congratulations! Best of luck! 13

15 POST HIGH SCHOOL OPTIONS Senior year arrives more quickly than you may realize. Start your investigation by answering the self-evaluation survey (See Appendix of Forms), and then take the personality profiler found in the computer search program. This will give you more insight into who you are, what you like, your strengths and your weaknesses. The more you learn about yourself and your post high school options, the better prepared you will be to make decisions that are right for you. Consider the following options: Types of Colleges Two-Year College After satisfactory completion of a prescribed program you will earn an Associate Degree. At this point you will be qualified to meet the specific demands of many careers in business, health, technology, and public service fields. Alternatively, you can transfer into a four-year Bachelor Degree program for an additional two years, provided that you have completed the requisite courses and have the required grades for admission. Community Colleges, Junior Colleges and some Technical/Vocational Schools are examples of two-year colleges. Four-year Colleges and Universities After satisfactory completion of a four-year program you will earn a Bachelor Degree. It can be earned at a college that has majors in many disciplines, or at a university, which is made up of many colleges. Schools / Institutes of Technology These institutions specialize in mathematics, computer science, information science, the physical sciences, and engineering programs. Some have majors in business and liberal arts. Arts Colleges These schools offer degrees in many creative disciplines such as art, music, graphic arts, dance, drama, etc. Most are four-year programs, awarding a Bachelor Degree upon completion of required courses. Be sure to check for national accreditation. Some schools may offer 1 or 2 year certification programs in addition to a Bachelor Degree. 14

16 U.S. Military Academies There are five schools representing the various branches of service: U.S. Military Academy at West Point, NY U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, MD U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, CO U.S. Coast Guard Academy at New London, CT U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, NY The application process needs to be started early; spring of your sophomore year or the fall of your junior year. In addition to meeting the academic requirements of each of the academies, a nomination from either your U.S. Senator, U.S. Representative or the Vice President of the United States is required, except for the Coast Guard Academy that uses a point system. Contact their individual office to apply for these nominations. The education is free, but a service commitment after graduation is required. Other Options 13 th Year Programs/Post Graduate For many reasons students may choose to enroll in an additional year of secondary school. These programs will help you improve the quality and content of your transcript, develop the skills and/or maturity required for a successful academic experience in college, or provide you with extra time to develop the skills necessary for a particular sport, instrument or other activity. Gap Year Students might choose to take a year off between high school and college for personal growth through travel, internship, work experience, and/or community service. Information regarding some of these opportunities can be found in the CCC. Vocational/Technical School These schools provide programs to develop special skills needed for various occupations. The length of the program can vary from 3 months to 2 years. 15

17 Armed Services Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, National Guard, and Navy offer many options for high school graduates such as opportunities in a wide area of skills that later transfer into jobs and careers in civilian life. Alternatively, it is possible to make the Armed Services a life career. Information regarding some of these opportunities can be found in the CCC or discussed with a recruiter. Weigh carefully the options and commitments. Students With Learning Differences Each College and University must accommodate students with special needs by law. Programs and services vary greatly from school to school. Several publications listing colleges and universities with strong support programs can be found in the CCC. 16

18 FACTS AND MYTHS ABOUT COLLEGE College catalogs, guides and view books tell you everything you need to know about the schools. Myth: Although college catalogs, etc. provide a wealth of information, they can t give you a feel for the school; only a visit can do that. Some college publications make noble and grand statements. Believe them only after you see the place for yourself. Trust your instincts. Colleges think high school grades/transcripts are important. Fact: Grades are important to colleges because they predict future success better than any other factor. Your final grade is the only grade colleges will see. The more selective colleges want you to be challenged by taking the most rigorous courses possible. For these selective schools, it is better to get a B in an honors course rather than an A in a regular course. Your entrance test scores are the most important things in deciding college admission. Myth: Test scores are usually the third criterion in determining admission. The first criterion is your transcript (courses taken and your grades). The second criterion is your G.P.A. (grade point average). The fourth and fifth criteria are essays and recommendations. Essay/Personal Statement in the application is not very important. Myth: Your writing shows a lot about you, your mastery of composition and your insight into your thoughts and feelings. This is a great opportunity to tell the colleges something about you that they cannot see from grades and test results. Make it your voice they hear. Keep it short, simple, and to the point. Remember, admissions officers are reading thousands of essays. Revise and edit until you are satisfied that the essay is your best effort. Ask someone to check the draft for errors before writing the final copy. Remember to proofread for spelling and grammar. If you have incorporated a college name in your essay and plan to use this essay for other schools, change the name to reflect where the essay is being sent. 17

19 Teacher/counselor recommendations are important in the college admissions process. Fact: Recommendations give colleges a more complete picture of you. Academic records and test scores only tell part of the picture. Your relationships with teachers and counselors will leave an impression that will be recalled later when you ask them to write college recommendations. Be sure the impression you leave is the one you want to make. It is important to request teacher recommendations early. Consider asking teachers at the end of your junior year and follow up with a request in writing. You must make a definite major/ career decision before entering college. Myth: Few people know exactly what they want to do for a career when entering college. In fact, the career-decision process is a life-long one that starts in kindergarten and continues long after graduate school. Most people change careers several times in their lifetime. Do not be too concerned if you cannot decide on a career right now. Attending college may help you do that. During the first two years of college, most students take a core curriculum of common courses. Then, during the last two years, students are asked to declare a major and begin specializing. Most college applications come in two parts. Fact: One part usually asks for a student s personal history, work experience, extracurricular involvement, area of study and references. You should complete this part. The other part usually asks for school records and recommendations and is filled out by your teachers and counselor. Many colleges use the Common Application as the first part of the application. In addition there may be a supplement to the Common Application asking for more information, a question and/or an essay. Colleges you have never heard of can be just as good as those whose names are easily recognized. Fact: Though some schools have established names and reputations for themselves, schools you have never heard of can be just as good or even better. These less well-known schools often have nationally ranked departments in many disciplines. Due to increased competition especially in the Northeast, it is wise to consider schools outside of this region. The most important thing when choosing a school is to make sure it is the right fit for you. 18

20 If you are in the top of your class, you belong in an Ivy League school. Myth: The eight Ivy League schools enroll about 10,000 freshmen. There are approximately 38,000 valedictorians every year. Do not choose a school just because it is an Ivy League ; choose a school that matches your interests, values, needs and abilities. Another option for academically strong students is an honors program at a university or college. Bigger colleges are better than smaller ones and visa versa. Myth: It is strictly a matter of personal choice. Large schools generally offer more majors, courses, and provide greater opportunities for meeting people. Smaller schools generally offer closer association with instructors, smaller classes and more personal attention. Colleges are easy to rate. The better schools are more expensive and more selective. Myth: College cost is determined by the budgetary needs and philosophy of the institution as well as the type (public or private). There is little or no correlation between the quality of education received and cost. For example, some of the most prestigious universities in the country such as the University of California at Berkeley and the University of Michigan cost far less than private schools of comparable quality. When comparing quality of schools with similar levels of selectivity, wide variations can be found in specific programs and sometimes in the overall rating of the college. You cannot have a satisfactory social life without belonging to a fraternity or sorority. Myth: Fraternities and sororities may play an important role in the social life of some schools, but you can still enjoy extracurricular activities without joining them. Joining depends on your preferences and your finances. 19

21 Junior colleges are not as good as four-year schools. Myth: Junior colleges offer a variety of programs for different students needs: vocational training, transfer programs, remedial instruction and non-credit continuing education. Some have an open door admissions policy and will take everyone who applies, even those with lower academic records. Junior or community colleges generally have lower tuition costs than four-year colleges. If you are planning to start at a community college, be sure the four-year college to which you plan on transferring will accept your credits. Generally, most community college credits are transferable, but some four-year schools put a limit on how many credits they will accept. 20

22 WHAT DOES COLLEGE DO FOR YOU College opens up many opportunities. During the years spent at college there will be significant changes in your life. Some reasons for attending college are: The depth and breadth of learning that will come from a college education is usually impossible to foresee while in high school. You will be able to choose from a vast array of courses, some of which will be totally new to you. Additional courses in a familiar subject will bring the realization that, no matter how good your high school courses were, you have only scratched the surface. College provides a transitional separation from the family. You will be largely on your own without having to take on the responsibility of supporting yourself. You will have an opportunity to be independent, make your own decisions, and manage your own time. It is a time for personal growth with the benefit of some safety nets. Contacts with people who may be influential in your life, both professionally and socially, are frequently made in college. 21

23 EVALUATE YOURSELF A thorough self-examination will help you determine what avenue you will pursue for your post high school plans. To assist you in this process, your answers to the following questions will help you to focus on factors to be considered as you undertake the college selection and future planning process. Knowing yourself as a unique individual is the most important first step to your future destination. This process is an ongoing one; so don t limit your self-evaluation to a one-time activity. Your continual growth and change may result in different answers to the following questions. What are your academic interests and career goals? Which courses have you enjoyed the most? Which courses have been most challenging for you? Do you prefer diversity; cultural, ethnic, liberal, conservative? What events or experiences have shaped your growth and way of thinking? How much academic challenge do you want? Do you want to feel that it is necessary to spend all of your time studying, or do you want a balanced social and academic life? What values are most important to you? Do you want an honor code? How important is religious affiliation to you? Have you worked up to your potential in high school? Is your academic record an accurate measure of your ability and potential? Do you believe that your SAT/ACT scores accurately reflect your ability? Are there any outside circumstances that have interfered with your academic performance? Consider such factors as: after school job, home responsibilities or difficulties, excessive school activities, illness or emotional stress, parental pressure, English not spoken at home, problems of course scheduling or other factors which are unique to your experience or background What activities do you most enjoy outside the daily routine of school and other responsibilities? Which activities have meant the most to you? Do you need these activities at college? What do your parents and friends expect of you? How have their expectations influenced the goals and standards you set for yourself? What pressures have you felt to conform? 22

24 Prioritizing Your Values Listed below are factors that should be considered in determining the colleges that may be of interest to you. This is the time to evaluate your self-knowledge, to identify your interests, and to learn about your options. Below is a list of values. Study the list carefully, then arrange them in order of their importance to you. Place a 1 next to the value which is most important to you, a 2 next to the value which is second most important to you, and so on. Work slowly and think carefully. If you change your mind, change your answers. Advancement Adventure Competence Creativity Getting ahead Doing something new, different or exciting Doing a good job; mastering a task; being skillful Designing something new, arranging or performing artistically, finding new solutions to a problem Duty Honesty Independence Doing what you know needs to be done Being frank and genuinely yourself with others Being free from constraints, able to make your own choices Interest Doing something just because you like to do it for its own sake Leadership Directing or showing others what or how to do something Material Comfort Power Security Enjoying money and possessions, economic security Having control, authority, or influence over others Being sure about your surroundings, feeling safe, having basic needs met 23

25 Service to Others Social Approval Socializing Doing something helpful for other people Gaining prestige, praise, approval from others Interacting with people you like, meeting new people Other 24

26 COLLEGE ATTRIBUTES RANK ORDER SURVEY Choosing a college is not an easy decision. It is important for parents to recognize their own expectations as well as those of their child. Students should be clear on communicating with their parents the sort of college experience that they envision for themselves. As you begin the process of selecting the right college, many factors come to mind relating to this difficult and significant decision. In order to gain an overall perspective, take a moment to rank the following factors, according to preferences. Rank each item from 1 to 5, with 1 as the most important. Listed below are factors to consider when selecting a college: Cost Location Status, reputation Size Composition of the student body (coeducational, religious affiliation, etc.) Course of study or major Financial aid Special athletic or extra curricular activities Testing requirements Special features (i.e., freshmen required to live on campus, ROTC, special needs programs) 25

27 IN WHAT TYPE OF SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT DO YOU SEE YOURSELF? Take a minute, close your eyes and envision your ideal college campus. Do I want to commute or live on campus? Do I want a campus or urban setting? What area of the country would I prefer? Do I want to be able to drive or fly home? What size college appeals to me? Small (<2,000); Medium (2,000-5,000); Large (5,000-15,000); Very Large (>15,000)? What kind of weather do I prefer? Would I prefer a single-sex or co-ed school? What type of dorm environment do I want: single vs. double/triple rooms? Suites? Coed bath/single sex bath? Do I want to participate in extra-curricular activities? Do I want to be able to attend sporting events and enjoy a spirited environment? Do I want an extensive athletic program with high involvement in intramurals? How much academic challenge do I want? Do I want to spend all of my time studying, or do I want a balanced social and academic life? Do I need a highly structured academic framework or can I work with a curriculum that allows for independent projects? Do I want a liberal arts or a professional curriculum (business, engineering, architecture, communication, nursing, teaching etc.)? Do my career interests require specialized facilities? Would I want to participate in an off-campus internship related to my field of study? Will my family be able to support my college costs, even at a more expensive private college? Do I plan to work part-time while I attend college? Am I looking for a coop situation where I can attend class part-time and work at job/internship? Traditionally, this situation may extend your total time in college by a semester or a year. Do I want an opportunity to participate in a foreign study program? Do I want a school that offers Greek life? Do I want a college campus where most people know me, or would I prefer more anonymity? Do I want a self-contained campus with all the cultural and social activities revolving around the campus? Or, do I prefer to find my cultural and social activities on my own? 26

28 ASSESSING YOUR CREDENTIALS Course Choice and Academic Rigor Colleges will look at the courses you have taken to see how far you have progressed in the five academic subject areas: English, Mathematics, Social Sciences, Laboratory Sciences and World Languages. In other words, they will look to see if you have taken 4 years of English, History, and Math, up to level 3 of a Language, 3 years of Science (if you plan on any majors related to science, 4 years is advisable), and electives that reflect your interests and potential major. Those interested in the Creative Arts should also have depth in those areas; portfolios or auditions are extremely important in the admissions process. Have you started to work on these? Primarily, colleges want to see consistency and challenging classes that reflect your ability throughout all four years. Seriously consider honors or Advanced Placement classes if you are qualified. Review the course book carefully, examining the many classes/options available. Plan your schedule with these suggestions in mind. We cannot over emphasize how important your senior year is. Have YOU chosen a full and challenging course of study that continues through your senior year? It is acceptable to have one free period, but not two. See your school counselor to discuss your course selection. Grades Your Weston High School transcript includes all the courses you have taken for credit. Only the final grade you received for each course is on the final transcript. Bear in mind that many colleges will recalculate your average grade by omitting non-academic courses. However, colleges evaluate creative art majors differently; a strong emphasis is placed on portfolios and auditions, as well as courses in those disciplines. Note: Weston High School does not rank students. 27

29 GPA - Grade Point Average Many colleges do not publish the average GPA of admitted students, but when they evaluate an applicant, it is a very important criterion. So how do you honestly assess your chance of gaining admission to a college? By using the WHS Statistical Report, found in the CCC. There is a statistical report for every graduating class. It contains information about schools applied to; if admitted, deferred, or denied, GPA and test results. This will enable you to see what your chance of admission would be, based on previous WHS students profiles, if you applied to a particular college. Admissions Testing Check each college carefully for their testing requirement; which tests to take and deadlines for submitting scores. Most colleges require either the SAT I or ACT. The SAT II is required or recommended by many of the more selective colleges. More and more colleges require just the ACT in lieu of SAT I and SAT II. Check with each individual college for its requirements by calling, using its web site or when visiting. These tests may be taken junior year and/or fall of the senior year. Preparation is highly recommended; which method you choose is a personal decision. The options are test books (10 Real SAT s, 3 Real ACT s), computer programs, test preparation centers, and personal tutors. Registration materials and bulletins are available in the CCC. These materials will help you keep track of registration dates, understanding the format of the test, and interpreting scores. The easiest way to register for a college entrance examination is by using the Internet and visiting the respective website (see Resources in this guide). Be sure to be consistent in the way you register your name. If you insert a middle initial one time, but fail to do it the second time around, the computer could view you as two different students. WHS code to be included on the registration form is ACT American College Testing Program. This test is just as widely accepted at colleges as the SAT I. It is administered six times nation-wide Check the bulletin for dates. This test is similar to the SAT II in that it measures actual knowledge in specific content areas. The test has four sections English, Math, Social Studies and Natural Sciences, plus an optional Writing Section which may be required by some colleges. Many colleges are accepting the ACT in lieu of submitting the SAT I and SAT II, so be sure to check with each of the schools you are considering applying to for their testing requirements. Score Choice is an option. College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) is the organization which sponsors one of the widely accepted tests for college admission, the SAT I and SAT II. These tests cannot be taken on the same day. 28

30 PSAT/NMSQT Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (CEEB) is given in October at WHS to high school sophomores and juniors. The format of this test is very similar to the SAT I and is useful as an indicator of SAT I scores. It is the basis for some Merit Scholarships for juniors. The results of this test, taken by any student, are not officially reported to the colleges. SAT I is a three-hour forty-five minute examination. SAT now consists of a mathematics section, a critical reading section and a writing section. This test is designed to measure your ability to understand the English language, to interpret mathematical problems, to evaluate your reasoning ability and to assess writing skills. The SAT I is administered seven times a year. For an extra charge, students may obtain a copy of the test that they have taken. This will include test questions, the correct answers, and their answer sheet (check the bulletin for test dates these services are available). Score Choice is optional. SAT II Subject Achievement Tests (CEEB) measure actual knowledge in specific content areas. These tests are one hour in length and are given in fifteen different subjects. Up to three tests may be taken during one test session. It is not wise to take an achievement test until you have completed a subject, or have sufficiently advanced in it. Score choice is an option. Consult with your subject teacher and/or counselor as to the advisability of taking the SAT II, which tests to take, and when to take them. Many schools do not require SAT II tests at all. The most common tests required are Math 1 and/or 2, American History and/or a subject of your choice. If you plan to major in a science, then take one of the science tests. All the SAT II tests are part of one booklet, which you are given at the test center. When you actually sit down to take the test, you have the option of changing how many tests you take and in what subject areas. A.P. Advanced Placement Tests are three-hour examinations based on a full-year of college level study in high school. These tests are used for college credit and/or placement. You register and take these tests through WHS. 29

31 Notification of Test Results An American Testing Program (ATP) report containing your current test scores, along with previous SAT I and SAT II test scores, will be mailed to you and WHS. An explanatory booklet, Your Student Report, accompanies the report. Because all scores are not mailed to students simultaneously, you may receive yours later than some other students. In addition, the colleges and scholarship programs that you designated will receive your report as well. Each time you take an SAT I or SAT II it will become part of a cumulative report. ACT scores will be mailed to you and WHS (if you provided the code). Reporting Scores to Colleges Always check the latest SAT bulletin for Score Choice reporting. If you use Score Choice, only those scores from the test dates you choose will be sent. If you do not select Score Choice, all available scores will be sent. You cannot separate and select scores only for the critical reading, mathematics, or writing sections. Note the information below from the College Board Website April 2009: Designed to reduce student stress and improve the test-day experience, Score Choice is a new score-reporting feature that gives students the option to choose the SAT scores by test date and SAT Subject Test scores by individual test that they send to colleges, in accordance with each institution's individual score-use practice. This allows students to put their best foot forward on test day by giving them more flexibility in score reporting. Score Choice is optional, and if students choose not to use it, all scores will be sent automatically ( Remember, it is your responsibility to request that the testing program send your test scores to the colleges to which you plan to apply. At the time of registration for the SATs and ACTs you can request four colleges to be notified without any additional cost. If you need more than four reports, there will be an additional fee. After the test date you will be charged for all reports you request. You can make requests online, by mail, or by phone. 30

32 Extracurricular Activities Colleges look at how you spend your time. You can have a job, play sports, be involved in artistic pursuits, or be involved in community service; there is no one correct formula. Your extracurricular activities should be a reflection of your interests. Colleges are looking to admit students who will not only succeed academically, but will also contribute to the campus community outside of the classroom. They want a class of students who will enhance the quality of life and social atmosphere in addition to being academically qualified. Admission officers look more favorably upon a few activities that show a depth of commitment over time as opposed to many activities crammed in during junior and senior years. When listing these activities, begin with the ones that are most important to you. Be sure to emphasize leadership roles or contributions that you have made to your school and/or community. If you are an artist or musician, be prepared to submit a portfolio or a tape of your work. Athletes may want to submit a videotape showing highlights of the games which demonstrate your playing ability. Work Experience Jobs that you have held in high school or during summer vacations should also be included. Provide a brief description of positions held and job responsibilities. Other Factors Legacy If you have a parent, sibling or a grandparent that has attended a school to which you are applying, then you have legacy status. Many schools will give priority to a student with legacy than to a similarly qualified student with no prior family connections. Minority Status This refers to under represented minorities such as African Americans, Hispanics and Native Americans. Asian Americans are not considered an under represented minority. However, a school looking to increase the diversity of its student body may take this into consideration. 31

33 Athletic Recruitment If you have outstanding athletic ability and are considering playing in college, start this process early. Contact the coaches at the colleges to which you plan to apply. These coaches will give you a realistic assessment of your opportunities for playing on their varsity team. Division I and II schools are more competitive than Division III schools and have stricter NCAA requirements. In the summer between your junior and senior year, register for Division I & II schools with the NCAA. Registrations can be obtained through the WHS Registrar or online. Note: You do not have to be a recruited athlete to play sports in college. Many universities have walk-ons (non recruited athletes) as well as club teams. 32

34 GATHERING INFORMATION Introduction to Investigating Colleges and Other Future Plans There are numerous resources available to facilitate your college and future planning search, including online sources (see Resource Internet Sites in this guide), the College and Career Center (CCC), college web pages, guide books, view books, college and career fairs, and campus visits. These are just a few of the tools at your disposal. The more information that you gather, the more informed decisions you will make. College and Career Center The College and Career Center (CCC) is a library dedicated to providing current information and resources to assist students in making choices regarding their future after Weston High School. The CCC is staffed by a director and trained volunteers who provide a warm and inviting atmosphere for students and parents alike. They will explain the resources available in the center and assist you in gathering information. Gathering Information The first step in the future planning process is the gathering of information. The following suggestions will help you get started: This book is your future-planning handbook. Read it carefully. Visit the CCC often. Make an appointment for an individual meeting. The resources available here are listed on the following page. Students should attend fall information sessions with college representatives in the CCC. Representatives hold open discussions with juniors and seniors interested in obtaining more information about their schools. These representatives are often the first readers of your applications; they keep track of and encourage follow up communication with interested students. College representative visits, dates and times are posted in the following locations: 1. Naviance Computer Program; this is where students must sign up to attend these college sessions. 2. Weekly Updated List available in the CCC. 3. Bulletin Board opposite School Counseling Office in the Front Lobby. 4. Bulletin Board in the hall. 33

35 It is the student s responsibility to secure permission from the teacher of any class he/she may miss to attend these sessions. Attend local College Fairs. The largest fair is at the Danbury Mall in mid October. Make an appointment to visit with your school counselor to discuss future options available to you. Frequent communication and a close working relationship will allow for the most accurate, insightful and supportive assessment possible. Your counselor is required to provide a school recommendation for you and complete the school assessment portion of each application. The responsibility for building this relationship is shared by student and counselor. Resources Available in the CCC Computers: Naviance is the college program used in the CCC to assist students in developing their plans for their future. The program has a college search, a detailed profile of colleges, financial aid information, resume writing and a personal portfolio. The college search enables you to put in specific criteria; location, enrollment size, majors, student life, academic requirements, and sports. It then provides a list of schools that match your criteria. Remember, this is just the beginning of your search. The more time and effort you put into this, the more satisfying your end result will be Testing Information and Materials: Registration booklets for SAT I & II ACT, and testing guides College catalogs College view books Guides and files: o 4 Year & 2 Year college guidebooks o Art, dance, theatre and culinary schools o Trade, technical and vocational schools o Military academies and service information o Admission process getting in o Majors o Careers o Learning disability programs o Summer opportunities/study abroad/exchange programs o Postgraduate year options o Community service opportunities o Information for the student athlete o Canadian schools 34