THE COLLEGE APPLICATION HANDBOOK

Transcription

1 THE COLLEGE APPLICATION HANDBOOK A resource guide to help students plan and prepare for the college application and admission process El Cerrito High School 540 Ashbury Avenue El Cerrito, CA (510) ECHS Website: elcerritogauchos.net College Board CEEB School Code for ECHS is:

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction To The Handbook...3 Choosing A College.4-7 Graduation Requirements...8 A-G Requirements....9 Understanding Higher Education in California: The Four Segments The University of California (U.C.) System Campuses of the CSU (California State Universities) Community Colleges in California Applying to Private/Independent Colleges and Universities: The Common Application California Private Colleges and Universities: A Selected List..23 Decision Plans: Breaking Down the Various Application Decision Plan Options Testing: College Entrance Tests The Personal Statement Essay College Recommendations: Teacher, Counselor, Other, and Etiquette Senior Profile for the Common Application.35 Resume Template: Academic and Extracurricular 36 Financial Aid and Scholarship Information and Resources Intercollegiate Sports Attending College with a Learning Difference or Physical or Emotional Challenges Freshman Preparation and Checklist.47 Sophomore Preparation and Checklist Junior Preparation and Checklist Senior Preparation and Checklist Selected Resources for Students Applying to College Historically Black Colleges: A Selected List...62 Colleges Offering Strong Programs in the Arts: A Selected List Selected California Colleges for Dance: Tips for Applying to Dance Programs...65 Colleges With Strong Engineering Programs: A Selected List...66 Transcript Request Form This handbook drew inspiration from a variety of college-application handbooks from high schools throughout California. The 2014 El Cerrito High School handbook was developed by ECHS parent and college advising consultant, Leslie Cohen, with invaluable support and input from a dedicated group of individuals: Principal, David Luongo, Counselors Mallory Martin-Neuman and Celia Alaniz, College and Career Counselor Bobbi Griggs, IT Academy Teacher Melody Shah, and numerous members of the ECHS staff.! 2!

3 AN INTRODUCTION TO THE HANDBOOK Dear Students: Welcome to the ECHS College Application Handbook! This handbook was created in response to a growing need from our school community for accessible information and helpful advice about the often complex college application process. This handbook is not intended to replace the many college guides on the market. Instead, it contains a synthesized version of the key steps, advice and resources to help make the application and admission process more accessible to students and families. The handbook, in its entirety, can also be viewed and downloaded on the ECHS website at Approaching the college application process for the first time may seem overwhelming. The process requires planning and research. However, if you take the necessary steps to prepare and organize your steps, the experience will be much more manageable. Additionally, don t feel as if you are alone in this process. ECHS has experienced counselors, a fully resourced College and Career Center as well as dedicated teachers, administrators and volunteers, each of whom want you to be successful in achieving your goals. Our school is fortunate to offer junior/senior college information nights, financial aid workshops, standardized test review sessions, afterschool tutoring, and many visits by individual college representatives. College-related information is also posted on the ECHS website, on the E-tree and in flyers in the Career Center. Another important thing to understand is that even though you do not have control over which college or university may offer acceptance, you do have a great deal of control over the application and admission process. You control where you will apply, what kind of high school academic path you want to pursue, what extracurricular activities you want to be involved with, and how much effort you put into preparing for standardized tests. And, once a school accepts you, you have control over which college you want to attend. The creation of this handbook was a collective effort by a dedicated group of individuals including: Counselors, Celia Alaniz and Mallory Martin-Neuman, Career Center Director, Bobbi Griggs, IT Academy teacher Melody Shah, and ECHS parent and college advising consultant, Leslie Cohen. Going to college is an important step in your adult life. It not only opens up a new world of ideas and interests but it also prepares you for our rapidly changing job market and economy. You will have the opportunity to engage with people from all around the world, develop skills and obtain knowledge that will enable you to broaden your experience and make your mark upon the world. I hope this handbook helps to make your college application process an enjoyable and satisfying experience. Go Gauchos! David Luongo, Principal El Cerrito High School, 2014! 3!

4 CHOOSING A COLLEGE Choosing to go to college is an important decision! It is key to think about the following criteria while you create your college list and work towards finding schools that best fit and match your academic, social and emotional needs. ACADEMICS What colleges offer the kind of education or training that interest you? If you do not know what you want to study, does the school offer a wide range of academic choices? Are there required core classes or are there more options to create your own course schedule? How academically challenging is the school? Will you be satisfied with the level of rigor? What is the average class size? Do professors and/or graduate student teachers teach classes? Are my GPA, test scores and academic profile in line with acceptance rates at these colleges? Are undergraduates able to become involved with research opportunities? Internships? What are the graduation rates at schools you are interested in? SIZE Colleges range in size from ,000 students. Think about where you might feel most comfortable. What percentage of classes will have fewer than 50 students? What is the student-to-faculty ratio? Do you prefer larger lecture style classes or smaller seminar style classes? Do you want to be at a school with only undergraduate programs or at a university with both undergraduate and graduate offerings? Are you the type of person that likes to be in a small, medium or large setting? ATMOSPHERE & STUDENT BODY Do you want to have access to a variety of clubs and activities? How serious about academics are students at various institutions? Do I want a single sex or co-ed college? Religious-based? An historically Black college? What are the housing, dining, health, and athletic offerings at the school? Are fraternities or sororities important to you? What cultural and community options are available (concerts, museums, festivals, volunteering, etc.)? What are the study abroad opportunities? What career advising options are available to students? Is work-study available? LOCATION: How close---or sometimes more importantly how far away from home do you want to be? How important is the climate and the weather? Do I want to be in an urban, suburban or rural setting? Small town or big city? COST A major factor to be considered is the cost of attending college. Find out early on: How much can my family and I afford for a college education? The total cost for a year as computed by the college financial aid office, includes: tuition, fees, room-and-board, books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. While cost is important, DO NOT limit your choice of colleges to only those you can afford without financial assistance. MANY of the more expensive private colleges have extensive! 4!

5 financial aid programs, which may cover anywhere from 20% to the full cost, depending on your need. Often, private colleges can beat the costs of attending public universities. Do your research and look at individual college websites financial aid sections. Contact individual financial aid offices at colleges that interest you---they are eager to help you. Also, many college websites have financial aid calculators where you can plug in financial numbers and come away with a fairly good idea of what kind of financial award you may qualify for. Fin-Aid is a very helpful website for financial aid information: Do additional research on finding scholarships to help offset college costs. The Career Center and your Counselor have a lot of information on scholarship opportunities. Also, consult the Financial Aid and Scholarship section of this manual for further resources. Attend a WCCUSD-sponsored Cash- For-College Financial Aid Information Night for assistance with FAFSA forms. DO YOUR RESEARCH: Creating a college list takes time and thoughtful research. The more information you have, the better decisions you will make about what colleges are right for YOU! There are over 3,000 colleges and universities in the United States and more than one of these is bound to have what you are looking for. Do not focus on where your friends are applying, or which colleges have the highest ranking or buzz. Instead, spend the time to find the right schools that match your interests, needs, and qualifications and ones where you will be happy and thrive. Here are some tips to begin the search: TALK to your counselor about your academic profile, your interests, and future goals and get some feedback about what kinds of schools to look at. Go over your course selections and make sure you are on-track for graduation and for college acceptance requirements. Consider the rigor of your academic plan and decide if you are challenging yourself enough. Talk to your teachers, ECHS alumni, family and friends and find out what they know about particular colleges or what college they are attending or have attended. Talk to your parents or guardians about finances and what your family will be able to afford and what you may need to look for in terms of financial aid or scholarships. Do not wait until the last minute for this discussion---it is important to know what is feasible and available to you. CONSULT one or more of the suggested guidebooks listed in the Resource section of this handbook. Research colleges, in books and online, that interest you and compare their offerings and requirements with your own interests and academic profile. College websites are filled with information about academics, student life, admissions, and financial aid. Visit the ECHS College and Career Center and take advantage of its many helpful resources, including: college handbooks, college brochures, scholarship materials, schedules of college visits and much more. ATTEND a college fair during sophomore, junior and senior year. These free fairs are a great way to find out about a wide variety of colleges in one place. See the Resource section of this manual for local college fair information and to get on their mailing lists and look for college fair announcements from the ECHS College and Career Center. At a college fair, you can pick up brochures, meet admissions representatives, and get your name on college mailing lists (so they will mail you additional information about their school). VISIT one or more college campuses. There is no better way to find out if a college is a good fit than physically being on a college campus. Try to visit a few colleges---of varying sizes, locations, and focuses. There are many colleges within 10 minutes-to-2 hours of ECHS that can be accessed by car,! 5!

6 bus or train. If you go on vacation with your family, find out if there are colleges in the area and set up a campus tour. Visits, tours and information sessions are FREE, but often require advanced registration (online or by phone). Go to a particular school s website and find their visit section. Find a date that works for your schedule and sign up for a campus tour and information session. Tours are usually led by current students and are informal in nature. Tour leaders are great sources of information about their campus so come prepared with questions. Information sessions are often led by an Admissions Counselor and will involve an overview of the college, their admission requirements, what they look for in an applicant. Often, there is time to ask questions at the end of the session. Make sure to get the full name or business card of the person who leads the information session so that you can them with any follow-up questions. If you cannot visit a college, make sure to visit college websites. Most colleges offer virtual tours and YouTube videos on a wide range of topics such as: residential life, campus involvement, and academic offerings. Spend time researching not only the admissions information but also the sections on Campus Life, Financial Aid and Academics. If you have a specific academic interest, search for course offerings and faculty information. Through the websites you can also contact admissions counselors with questions about a particular school. BUILDING A COLLEGE LIST Building a list of colleges is much like building a house. You need to make sure you have a strong foundation to support you (these are your safety or good-bet schools), and then build your walls (these are your match or likely schools) and finally, add that roof (these are your reach or wildcard schools). If you want to end up with a variety of options in March and April, you should be both thoughtful and thorough in your research. To create a balanced list, you should have at least 3-4 safety/good-bet schools, perhaps 1-2 reaches/wildcards, and 3-4 match/likely schools. Applying to 6-10 colleges is a good number to consider (the UCs and CSUs all count as one because the application is unified, but make sure to check off a range of options among those systems as well). Your college list could also include at least one non-binding early admissions or rolling admissions college that is either a good bet or likely school for you. Locking in an acceptance early in the application process will help you relax a bit while you wait for results from other colleges in the spring. When you create your college list, make sure that EACH school on your list is somewhere you would like to attend for four years and which you feel would be a good fit academically, socially, and financially. When should I begin creating a college list? During your sophomore and junior years, you should begin to research colleges, visit campuses (either in-person or online), attend information sessions and college fairs, and begin to ask yourself what you are looking for in a college experience. You should have a balanced preliminary menu of schools by the summer after junior year. This list may change a bit, but it is good to begin your senior year with a well thought out list of options. How can I determine if a college is a safety (sure bet), match (likely) or reach (wild card)? Refer to college websites and college guides to familiarize yourself with national admission data from colleges current freshman. Pay particular attention to: a) The SAT or ACT score ranges for the middle 50% of accepted freshman. This means that some who were accepted had lower or higher scores but the middle range is what they release. How do your scores mesh with a particular school? If your scores are in range then that school is a potential match for you. However, scores are only one piece of the fit puzzle. Consider all aspects of each school s admission data before adding it to your list, including:! 6!

7 b) The percentage of admitted students with your GPA (unweighted) and scores. c) The admit rate (the percentage of applicants admitted in a given year). d) Colleges, on their websites, often post the admissions data of the current freshman class. This is a good gauge to refer to when considering if you will be an academic match for a particular college. Additional Criteria: SAFETY (Good Bet): If an applicant s scores exceed the mid-range (50%) of scores and the GPA for the prior year s freshman class AND the college s admit rates were above 50%, these colleges can be considered a safety (good bet). This means that this school seldom rejects candidates with your credentials and is a solid choice. You should have at least 3-4 safety or sure-bet schools on your list. MATCH (Likely): This means that if your scores and GPA fall into range but the school has a lower admit percentage (50% or lower) than your chances of acceptance into this more selective school are considered probable or a likely match, but not as solid as a safety or good-bet option. You may opt to have 3-4 match or likely schools on your list. REACH (Wild Card): This is a school where your chances of being rejected are higher than your chances of being accepted. Most of these colleges have admitted rates of less than 20%. For example, Stanford, MIT or Harvard generally accepts 6-8% of applicants each year. No matter what your qualifications, these schools would go in the reach or wildcard column for all applicants. You may opt to include 1 or 2 reach or wildcard options.! 7!

8 GRADUATION REQUIRMENTS: Required Credits for High School Graduation Requirement Required Credits History/Social Science Social Science World History United States History American Government 5.00 English Math Laboratory Science Life Science Physical Science Foreign Language Visual/Performing Arts Other Economics Physical Education Electives a. Students must accumulate a total of at least 225 credits in the required subject areas in order to graduate. b. If a student fails a class, that student must make up that credit deficiency in order to graduate on time. c. Make sure to check subject requirements and course recommendations from each college and college system (U.C. and CSU) that you are applying to. Some colleges want additional courses in particular subjects, which go beyond the WCCUSD/ECHS graduation requirements. d. Be aware that grades below a C may preclude you from applying to UC & CSU schools. *If you have any questions about any of the above information, please contact your Counselor in Student Services or them through the school website.! 8!

9 A G REQUIREMENTS For the University of California (U.C.) and California State University (CSU) systems: History/ Social Science ( a ): Two years required of history/social science, including one year of world history, cultures and historical geography, and one year of U.S. history, and one-half year of American Government or civics. English ( b ): Four years required of college preparatory English, that includes frequent and regular writing, reading of classic and modern literature, and practice listening and speaking. Can include not more than one year of ESL/ELD courses. Mathematics ( c ): Three years required of college-preparatory mathematics (algebra I and II, and geometry). Four years recommended. Laboratory Science ( d ): Two years required of laboratory science providing fundamental knowledge in at least two of the three core disciplines of biology, chemistry, and physics. Three or four years recommended. Language Other Than English ( e ): Two years required of the same language other than English or equivalent to the second-level of high school instruction. Three-four years recommended. Visual & Performing Arts ( f ): One year required, including dance, drama/theater, music or visual arts. College Preparatory Elective ( g ): One year chosen from the a-f courses beyond those used to satisfy the requirements above, or courses that have been approved solely for use as g electives. Important Considerations: a. In order to be a competitive candidate, use the above guidelines to plan your high school academic plan. You should also consider taking an additional course in foreign language, science, math and/or social sciences/history. b. You must have a grade of C or above in each of your sophomore and junior A-G courses in order to apply to U.C. and CSU campuses. c. Meet the examination requirement by taking the SAT Reasoning Test or the ACT Plus Writing by December of your senior year. The U.C. system does not require the SAT Subject Tests, but certain programs on some campuses recommend them. Do your research. d. If you are a state resident who has met the minimum requirements and are not admitted to any U.C. campus to which you apply, you will be offered a spot at another campus if space is available if: -You rank in the top 9% of California high school students, according to the U.C. admissions index (grades and ACT Plus Writing or SAT Reasoning Test scores) OR -You rank in the top 9% of your graduating class at a participating high school. This is know as Eligible in the Local Context or ELC. e. As the number of applicants to U.C. and CSU continue to increase, students should consider going beyond the minimum requirements.! 9!

10 UNDERSTANDING HIGHER EDUCATION IN CALIFORNIA: THE PRIMARY DIFFERENCES AMONG THE FOUR SEGMENTS Colleges and universities in California are organized into four different segments (excluding the forprofit colleges). Three of these segments are public----that is, they are supported by public tax money distributed by the California Legislature. The three public segments are: a. California Community College System b. California State University System c. University of California (U.C.) System The fourth segment consists of private colleges or universities within California. These private institutions often prefer to be called Independent colleges/universities because they are independent from public funding. Each independent college establishes its own minimum admission requirements, admission policy and application procedures. d. Independent (or private) colleges and universities in the state. These four segments of California higher education differ in two major ways. The first of these is admission policy. That is, the percent of the state s high school graduates that a particular segment admits, as specified in the California Master Plan for Higher Education. The University of California, for example, has admission requirements that are designed to yield the top 9% of the state s high school graduates. The California State University System (Cal State) accepts the top 33.3%. California community colleges have an open enrollment policy, which specifies that anyone who is a high school graduate, who has passed the GED, or who is 18 years of age, may attend. Independent colleges and universities do not set admission policies in the same way that the three public segments do and they vary in their degree of selectivity. The most competitive independent colleges---for example, Stanford, California Institute of Technology, Pomona College are highly selective, while many of the other independents admit a larger percentage of their applicants. The second major difference is cost. California community colleges have the highest degree of Legislative financial support of the public systems and remain relatively low cost to students. The California State University System is also strongly supported by the Legislature but not the same degree as community colleges. The U.C. system has the lowest proportion of public funding from the state, so its fees are approximately double those of the CSU system. The independent colleges and universities receive no public funding. Because they depend heavily on tuition for their operating budgets, they are much more expensive than even the most expensive segment of the public system. Note: consult the Financial Aid and Scholarship section in the Resources Section of this handbook for information on financing your education.! 10!

11 Naming: How to Determine Which College Belongs to Which System Figuring out the differences among these four segments is often easier than figuring out what college belongs to which system. These naming rules will help clarify the confusion. California Community Colleges Most of the 112 California community colleges originally called themselves junior colleges. Some years ago, City College or Community College in their official names replaced that phrase. Now, most California community colleges use only the word College in their official names, for example: College of Marin Laney College Santa Monica College Diablo Valley College There are, however, some holdovers from earlier practice: City College of San Francisco Glendale Community College Modesto Junior College Los Angeles City College Riverside Community College Santa Rosa Junior College California State Universities (CSU) In general, the names of twenty-three California State University campuses begin with California State University, followed by the name of the city where the campus is located. California State University is often shortened ( Cal State ) or abbreviated ( CSU ): Cal State East Bay Cal State Long Beach In the case of long established and well-know campuses, the name of the city is followed by State or, more properly, State University : Chico State University San Diego State University San Francisco State University San Jose State University Exceptions: California State Polytechnic University at San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) California State Polytechnic University at Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona) California Maritime Academy Humboldt State University (named for its county rather than its city). University of California The ten University of California campuses all begin with University of California in their official names (usually abbreviated UC ) followed by the name of the city where they are located: UC Berkeley (or Cal) UC Davis UC Irvine UC Los Angeles (UCLA) UC Merced UC Riverside UC San Diego UC Santa Barbara (UCSB) UC Santa Cruz (UCSC) **Note: UCSF is a graduate medical center and, in general, does not admit undergraduates.! 11!

12 Independent Colleges and Universities: Independent colleges and universities almost always say University of XXXX, or XXXX University, or XXXX College in their titles. You can also identify them by default: They do not say City College, CSU or UC in their titles: University of Redlands Stanford University Occidental College University of the Pacific Loyola Marymount University Mills College University of San Francisco Whittier College Claremont McKenna College Pepperdine University Pitzer College University of San Diego Santa Clara University Chapman College Pomona College! 12!

13 THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA (U.C.) SYSTEM Application Dates: November 1 to November 30 The Application: The application to the U.C. system becomes available each fall, usually in early October and applications are available online at Each student submits one application to the University of California, checking off which campus or campuses for which they wish to be considered and then pay a fee for each campus. Once you submit your application, it is electronically sent to the campuses that you have indicated on your application. You do not need to send separate applications to each U.C. campus. It is recommended to file your application as soon as possible during the open filing period of November 1 to 30. The computer system often gets overloaded during the last few days or November. Testing: Make sure to complete all SAT or ACT with writing and SAT Subject tests (if required by a particular department or major) by the December test date of your senior year. It is YOUR responsibility to have all of your test scores sent to the U.C. You can have them sent via the or websites where you have your account. You can have a score report sent to one campus and it will be shared with all the campuses to which you apply. SAT Subject Tests are not required for admission. However, you may submit scores if you want to show proficiency in a particular subject and/or if you plan to apply for competitive majors (check specific campuses and majors for requirements). All testing must be completed by December of your senior year. Transcripts: Transcripts are not required at the time you apply to the U.C. system. If accepted and if you commit to attend a U.C. campus, you will be asked to submit a final transcript at the end of your senior year. Recommendations are not required for the U.C. system. Special Programs Requirements: Some departments have additional application requirements (art, theater, dance, etc.) so make sure to consult the departmental requirements at each of the campuses you are applying to. Fee Waivers: U.C. will waive application fees for up to four campuses for qualified students. You can apply for a fee waiver within the online application and be notified immediately whether you have qualified. Web Addresses for the Nine Undergraduate U.C. Campuses: UC Berkeley: UC Davis: UC Irvine: UC Los Angeles: UC Merced: UC Riverside: UC San Diego: UC Santa Barbara: UC Santa Cruz: 13!

14 U.C. Resources for High School Students: For more information about academic preparation, pathways to the U.C. system, costs, and tips about the application process, the following link is an excellent resource: U.C. Application Tip: Although you cannot officially submit your application until the filing period begins, November 1-30, you can begin to fill out the application---make sure to save as you go and do not attempt to submit before the filing period begins. You can also get a head start on your U.C. Personal Statement essays. The two prompts stay the same from year-to-year. Refer to The Essay section of this handbook for more information about the prompts and tips on writing the essays. **Note: Please refer to the A-G Requirements section of this handbook (page 9) for a detailed breakdown of requirements needed for entrance into the U.C. system.! 14!

15 CAMPUSES OF THE CSU CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITIES The California State University system is the largest state university system in the country, containing 23 campuses and serving 426,534 students. Each campus is unique and has distinct student populations and programs. The CSU campuses are: Northern California: a. Humboldt b. Chico c. Sonoma d. Sacramento e. Maritime Academy f. San Francisco g. East Bay h. San Jose i. Stanislaus j. Monterey Bay Central California: a. San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) b. Bakersfield c. Fresno Southern California: a. Northridge b. Channel Islands c. Los Angeles d. Dominguez Hills e. San Bernardino f. Fullerton g. Long Beach h. Pomona (Cal Poly) i. San Marcos j. San Diego CSU Resources: each campus is unique in size, location, student population, course offerings, and majors. Use the following online resources to research CSU campuses: Preparation is Key! CSU Tips: -Explore and research campuses via the web and take a virtual tour of the campuses that interest you. Some campuses have impacted majors (engineering, computer science, math, etc.), which may require higher admission standards. The CSU website at has the most up-todate campus information and recommendations for students. Visit campus preview days in 10 th and 11 th grade and Fall Open Houses in 12 th grade.! 15!

16 -Complete the minimum 15 A-G courses with a grade of C or higher. Review A-G Requirements on page 9 of this handbook. To be a more competitive candidate, it is suggested to take additional courses than the minimum fifteen. -The CSU uses a calculation called an eligibility index that combines your weighted high school GPA (10 th and 11 th grades) with the composite score you earn on the ACT or the SAT Reasoning (Critical Reading + Math) scores. -Many CSU campuses utilize local admission guarantee policies for students who graduate from high schools and community colleges that are historically served by a CSU campus in that region. -Many CSU campuses have higher standards for particular majors or for students who live outside the local admission area. Because of the number of students who apply, several campuses may require supplementary admission criteria for all applicants. Do your research. -Apply as early as Oct 1 st. The application period is Oct 1-November 30. Keep in mind that it is advised to submit prior to the final date of November 30, as the computer system can get overloaded. -Research ways to pay for college and attend a Cash-for-College-Workshop with your parents or guardians during your senior year. These are usually offered in January or February at ECHS and throughout the WCCUSD. -Submit ACT/SAT/AP test scores to all campuses you apply to. You can indicate the CSU Mentor Code 3594 to have your SAT/ACT scores sent to any CSU. All CSU campuses will be able to access your scores through CSU Mentor. Be aware that many CSU campuses require that all SAT/ACT testing be completed no later than the October test date of your senior year. -You do NOT need a teacher recommendation for CSU -Remember that when you are admitted it is PROVISIONAL---you must continue to do well in your ENTIRE senior year to meet the admissions requirements! At a minimum, you must maintain at C- or above grade point average in order to keep your admission to CSU. Costs of Attending a CSU Estimated Budgets: Keep in mind that CSU maintains one of the lowest fee structures among comparable institutions. Nearly 3.6 billion dollars is distributed in financial aid and more than 70% of the student population receives some form of financial aid. To qualify for aid, make sure to file a FAFSA during the priority filing period, between January 1-March ,2014!Estimated!Budget! Live!at!Home!! Live!on!Campus! Live!Off!! Fees!!!!! $6,611!! $6,611!! $6,611! Books/Supplies!!! $1,678!! $1,678!! $1,678! Room/Board!!!! $4,453!! $11,695!! $11,798! Transportation!!! $1,348!! $1,184!! $1,338! TOTALS!!!! $15,428!! $22,506!! $22,792!! 16!

17 COMMUNITY COLLEGES IN CALIFORNIA and Comprised of 72 districts and 112 colleges, the California Community Colleges make up the largest higher education system in the nation providing a gateway to higher education for nearly 3 million students per year. Community colleges offer associate's degrees, prepare students for transfer to four-year institutions, provide opportunities for lifelong learning, and train the workforce that sustains California s economy. ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR THE COMMUNITY COLLEGE SYSTEM -You need to be a high school graduate OR -Have passed the GED (General Educational Development) test or California High School Proficiency Test (CAHSEE) OR -Be at least 18 years of age. Note: There are special requirements for certain two-year career programs. Testing and personal interviews are the prerequisites for programs such as dental assistance, marketing management, nursing, auto mechanics, etc. If you meet the requirements above, you are eligible to attend any of the 112 community colleges in California. Community College is a Good Choice If: a. You wish to attend, for one or two years, a college that will give you training needed to enter a vocation. b. You wish to begin college while remaining in your home community. c. You are not sure of the academic field you wish to pursue and want to explore varied subject areas. d. A four-year college is too costly. Community colleges are much less expensive than 4-year or CSU. e. You plan to complete a 4-year college program; however, for financial or other reasons you plan to live at home for the first to years. f. You want to attend a 4-year college, but your grades and/or subjects you took in high school do not qualify you for admission without further preparation. Transfer Programs: Community Colleges offer a full range of academic courses, covering the first two years of college, that enable a student to prepare for transfer to a UC or CSU campus or to a private college. Transfer students who plan carefully can enter a four-year college as a junior. Each community college has Transfer Admission Agreements with specific UC and CSU campuses and private colleges. Check with community college counseling offices or with the ECG representative at ECHS to determine which programs have the best transfer track records. Otherwise, a community college counselor will help you organize your program so that it will be accepted, especially by a UC or CSU campus, and you will not lose credits when you transfer. Information about California community college courses that do receive transfer credit is available at 17!

18 Note: When applying to the UC and CSU systems, students from California community colleges have admissions priority over all other prospective transfer students, including those from 4-year colleges. If you plan well and stay on track, this is a great way to go! Vocational-Technical: An Associate of Arts (AA) degree is awarded in many two-year, vocational-technical programs. A one-year certificate program is also available in certain fields. Students receive training in skills that qualify them for employment in semi-professional and technical areas. Examples of vocationaltechnical programs leading to an AA degree are: accounting, automotive mechanics, banking and finance, data processing, electronics, technology, real estate, and travel industry. Check the community college you are interested in for availability and course offerings. Admission Tests: No college admission tests (SAT, SAT Subject Tests, ACT, etc.) are required. If, however, you are considering transferring to a four-year college, it is highly recommended that you take your SAT/ACT tests in high school. Additionally, a high enough score on your ACT or SAT can sometimes qualify you to skip the first level English or Math requirements. Online Information: Learn more about the California Community College system at Applications to Community Colleges: Application Dates: April onwards for summer or fall entry for general courses Applications for admission to community colleges are available online at California residents may attend any community college in the state. All California community colleges are open to all students who are at least 18 or have a high school diploma or a GED. Contra Costa College (CCC) counselors often come to ECHS to explain registration procedures. Ask in the Career Center for dates that CCC representatives will be on campus and the date(s) when the community college assessment test will be given at ECHS. NOTE: If you wish to enter a special career program, there are special requirements and earlier application dates. Make an appointment in November of your senior year to see a community college counselor if you are interested in two-year programs such as: dental assisting, marketing management, nursing, x-ray technology, law enforcement, and auto mechanic. Financial aid is available at the community college level. You must complete the FAFSA (the federal government form) and the GPA verification form available in the College and Career Center in January. Check with the Financial Aid Office of the community college in which you are interested for further information. Consult the Financial Aid and Resource sections in this handbook for more information on financial aid/scholarships. Community College Application Process: 1. Get application online at or at the specific community college website. 2. Complete and submit application online Other Steps: 1. Take placement tests before registering for Math, English, ESL and Chemistry IA courses at the Community College. 2. Visit the Career Center and your ECHS Guidance Counselor to make sure you are on-track with your course requirements and graduation timetable.! 18!

19 California Community Colleges Campus Locations 19!

20 California Community Colleges: Facts and Figures Note: This information was taken from: The largest system of higher education in the country California Community Colleges have the highest rate of public attendance of all community college systems in the nation. One-quarter of all community college students nationwide are enrolled in a California Community College. Three out of every ten Californians age are currently enrolled in a community college. The primary gateway to higher education, serving all Californians Over 60 percent of community college students are people of diverse ethnic backgrounds and over 55 percent are female. Community Colleges enroll the state s lowest-income students. Full-time students have an annual median income of $16,223, with one-fourth having incomes of less than $5,544 per year. Over half of California veterans receiving GI Bill educational benefits attend a Community College. Over half of community college students are age 25 or older and are already working adults. California s largest workforce training provider Serving nearly 3 million students annually, California Community Colleges offer more than 175 degree and certificate programs at 112 colleges in every area of the state. Community colleges train 80 percent of all California firefighters, law enforcement officers, and emergency medical technicians. Thirty-nine colleges have police academies and 64 colleges train firefighters. Seventy percent of California nurses received their education at a community college. Nursing programs are offered at 74 colleges, which graduate 7,700 nurses a year. Approximately 25,000 apprentices are educated by 35 Community Colleges offering 160 apprenticeship programs. California Community Colleges offer 160 employee professional development programs that increase the knowledge and skills of 25,000 working Californians each year. Over 80 percent of community college students work, many attending college for retraining, skills upgrades, and license retention and renewal. A pathway to four-year universities Almost 60 percent of graduates of the California State University system and 30 percent of the University of California system transferred from a California Community College. When community college students transfer, they earn grade point averages equal to or better than students who started out as freshmen at the same four-year universities. Community colleges are a cost-effective alternative for students who cannot afford to go to a four-year university all four years. Two-thirds of California s first-time higher education students begin their academic careers at a community college.! 20!

21 APPLYING TO PRIVATE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES The Common Application Many private (or independent) colleges and universities, and some public universities, use the Common Application. Over 500 schools utilize the Common Application; see for a complete list. It is important to check each school s website to find out if they require applying through the Common Application, or if they use an alternate application process, such as the Universal Application (universalcollegeapp.com). Additionally, some colleges have their own individual applications, such as Georgetown and University of Oregon. The Common Application is a one-stop clearinghouse for applying to many colleges. It allows students to submit and track components of their application such as: essays, supplements, payments, school forms, and recommenders. In order to apply to colleges using the Common Application, students will need to set up a free online account at Use the professional that you want colleges to see and which you will use throughout the college application and financial aid process. Create an such as: johndoe2014@gmail and not liketoparty@gmail. Once your account and password are set, you may research colleges through the site, find out each school s application requirements and deadlines, add schools-of-interest to your own personal dashboard of schools. The dashboard is a helpful tool as it shows you what schools you are applying to, reminds you when an application deadline is coming up, checks off when a recommender has sent in his/her letter on your behalf, and checks off when your application is complete. The Common Application is also where you will fill out the general application requirements (personal, family, educational, academic, extra-curricular, awards, etc.) and where you will be asked to write a personal statement of up to 650 words from one of the five prompts offered. *Please refer to the Common Application site and the Personal Statement Essay section of this handbook for essay-writing tips and prompts. This part of the application and essay prompt is what will be sent to each of the schools on your personal dashboard, with the same information going to each. Once the application has been submitted to a college online, it cannot be changed for that particular school; the student must contact the college directly if they need to correct an error or request to provide more information. Many schools also require supplementary application information and writing components from students. These requirements will show up when you click on each school you have listed on your dashboard. The supplementary portions have to be submitted electronically, only after you have electronically submitted (and paid) for the general application portion of the Common Application. You will be asked to pay, by credit card, for each submission and each school has its own set application fee (they often range from $ per application). Payments can be done securely through the website and you will receive an confirmation of payment. If you have a fee-waiver, follow the prompts within the application for instructions on how to submit. Students will also be able to, electronically, invite counselors and teachers to write and submit a recommendation on their behalf. It is, however, up to you to determine how many recommendations are required for each school and to invite your recommenders in a timely and courteous manner. Remember, counselors and teachers are asked to write many letters of recommendation so make sure to request and invite with plenty of advance notice. Refer to the Recommendations Section of this handbook for tips on requesting and managing recommendations.! 21!

22 COUNSELOR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE COMMON APPLICATION: Counselor recommendations are part of the School Report. Counselor letters and the School Report explain your transcript, your role in the ECHS community, as well as highlighting your involvement with on-campus and extracurricular activities. Because each ECHS counselor oversees more than 600 students, it is important for students to take the initiative to meet with their counselors, at least several times each year, them with questions, drop by to check in with them about how things are going with their courses and the application process. When it comes time for them to write a counselor recommendation, students are asked to complete a Senior Profile (a template can be found in this handbook or from their counselor). The Senior Profile asks the student to elaborate on activities they have been involved in, give words that describe their character and personality, offer examples of academic successes, and descriptions of obstacles they have been faced with. The more detail you provide, the easier it will be for your counselor to compose a detailed recommendation. Counselors are also asked to input information about your GPA and class rank, the rigor of your course selections, any disciplinary issues, etc. If you are applying Early Action or Early Decision, it is suggested that seniors turn in their Senior Profile by mid-september and for Regular or Rolling Admission, by the beginning of October. NOTE: Students must turn in their Senior Profiles and invite their counselor to submit a Counselor Recommendation on their behalf with ample lead-time. All requests for recommendations should be submitted well before the winter break! Helpful Tip: Try to complete your Senior Profile the summer before senior year begins. Having the time to think about thoughtful and thorough responses will result in a more complete and comprehensive product for your counselor. Copies of the Senior Profile can be found in this handbook, in the College and Career Center, from your counselor and on the ECHS website. If you have questions as to how to use or complete the Common Application, go to the website, where you can search the Help section or view one of the video tutorials. Your counselor and the College and Career Center are also available to you for assistance with the application process.! 22!

23 CALIFORNIA PRIVATE COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES This is a selected list of private (or independent) California colleges and universities. Visit the websites for the schools you are interested in and learn more about California private colleges and at American Jewish University, Los Angeles Antioch University Los Angeles Art Center College of Design, Pasadena Biola University, La Mirada California College of the Arts, Oakland California Institute of Technology (Cal Tech), Pasadena California Institute of the Arts (Cal Arts), Valencia California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks Chapman University, Orange Claremont McKenna College, Claremont * Dominican University of California, San Rafael Harvey Mudd College, Claremont* Holy Names University, Oakland Laguna College of Art and Design, Laguna Beach Loma Linda University, Loma Linda Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles Marymount California University, Rancho Palos Verdes Menlo College, Atherton Mills College, Oakland Mount St. Mary s College, Los Angeles Notre Dame de Namur University, Belmont Occidental College, Los Angeles Otis College of Art and Design, Los Angeles Pepperdine University, Malibu Pitzer College, Claremont* Pomona College, Claremont* Saint Mary s College of California, Moraga San Francisco Art Institute, San Francisco San Francisco Conservatory of Music, San Francisco Santa Clara University, Santa Clara Scripps College, Claremont* Stanford University, Palo Alto University of Redlands, Redlands University of San Diego, San Diego University of San Francisco, San Francisco University of Southern California, Los Angeles University of the Pacific, Stockton Westmont College, Santa Barbara Whittier College, Whittier **Claremont McKenna, Harvey Mudd, Pitzer, Pomona and Scripps are part of the Claremont College Five- College Consortium in Claremont, CA.! 23!

24 DECISION PLANS: Breaking Down the Various Application Decision Plan Options Students not only have to decide which colleges to which they will apply but they also have to consider what type of decision plan they wish to pursue. There are basically five types of admission: regular, rolling, early action, restrictive early action and early decision. Each of the plans will be discussed below but make sure to check the specific admissions options at each of the colleges on your list, as details often vary from year to year. Regular Decision (RD): This is what most students think about when applying to college and most students apply through this path. Students submit their application materials sometime in late winter and usually hear a decision by late-march or early-april. Remember to check EACH school s application instructions and make note of specific due-dates. There are three possible outcomes for RD: acceptance, denial, or waitlist. If accepted, students have until the May 1 st National Candidates Reply Date to make their decisions. If waitlisted, students should check the waitlist policy for each school and follow their instructions. Often if a student wants to remain on the waitlist, they have to notify the school directly. Unless you have a compelling reason to apply under a school s early plan, RD is the application path you will follow. Rolling Admission (RA): Colleges offering rolling admission use RA exclusively. This means there is no set deadline to apply. As soon as the application for a particular year is available, schools using RA begin accepting applications. Typically, they review applications as they arrive and either notify students within a few weeks or at specifically prescribed dates. Applications continue to be accepted until all the spaces are filled. A possible advantage to applying on the earlier side at an RA school is there may be more options to access scholarships, financial aid, housing or special academic programs. There are two outcomes for RA applicants: acceptance or denial. Occasionally, an RA school may defer your decision until your mid-year grade reports become available. Early Action (EA): Under this plan, students apply by an early deadline (often in November) and hear a response by an early notification date (often in early winter). EA plans are nonbinding and students may also apply to the other schools on their list. Note: double check the websites of each school on your list to make note of any specific requirements. With EA, students have until the May 1 st deadline to make their final decision. There are three possible outcomes with EA: acceptance, denial and sometimes deferral. With acceptance, students have the benefit of having a college choice early in the application process this takes some of the pressure off just knowing that you have gotten in to a school. With denial, you are no longer in the application pool of the school. With deferral, your application moves to the regular application pool and you will have to wait until the spring notification date as to your status. If deferred, you will want to send the college updated information including first semester grades, updated test scores (if available) and any additional achievements (academic or extra-curricular). Some schools offer more than one round of EA again check college websites for specifics. Restrictive Early Action (REA): Although this is a nonbinding plan, there are restrictions in this type of application process. As in EA, students apply early to a first-choice school, receive an early decision, and have until May 1 st to decide. NOTE: it is very important to read the fine print of the! 24!

25 REA school to which you are applying. Some allow you to apply early to another school, only if it is not a similar type (private or public) and some ask students to not apply early anywhere else. There are three outcomes for REA: acceptance, denial and deferral. If accepted, the student has until May 1 st to decide. If deferred, the student s application is moved to the regular decision group for later decision. If deferred, you should make sure to send in updated transcripts (fall grades), updated test scores (if available), and any updates in academics or extra-curricular activities. If denied, you may not reapply for regular decision. Early Decision (ED): This approach involves careful thought and consideration by students. ED is a binding contract between the student applicant and the ED school to which they are applying. If you apply ED, you are saying that a particular school is your first choice and if accepted you agree to A) attend that school and B) withdraw all applications to all other schools which were on your list. You must be positive that the school is where you want to enroll and which is the right fit for you. There are three outcomes in ED: acceptance, denial or deferral. If accepted, you must agree to enroll at that school and immediately withdraw all other applications. If deferred, your application will roll into the regular decision pool and you will find out in early spring. If you are denied, your application will not be reconsidered. An ED path is a great path for students who know, without a doubt, that a particular school is their first choice option. If accepted, you will know in the early winter, have your decision made, and you can relax and enjoy the remainder of your senior year without any further application worries. The problem lies with the fact that many teens do not know definitively what they may truly want in a college, and often students change their minds several times during the course of their senior year. For example, some who thought they wanted a big school in California change their minds mid-year to wanting a smaller school on the east coast Note: During the 2013 application cycle, there was a rising trend towards applying early to colleges and many colleges accepted higher percentages of students in the ED or EA pools than in the RD cycles. Whether that trend continues remains to be seen.! 25!

26 TESTING: COLLEGE ENTRANCE TESTS Many colleges require college admission tests as part of the application process. They are often used in financial aid and scholarship decisions. These tests are seen as helpful to the admissions committee in demonstrating aptitude in academic areas and may give a guide as to how well a student might succeed at a particular institution. It is important to remember that standardized tests are only one part of your application. Your GPA, the rigor of your high school course selection, extra-curricular activities, recommendations, and your personal statement are all extremely important in the application process. It is advised that students check the testing requirements for each school to which they plan to apply as changes happen regularly. Some colleges do not require any tests (see for a complete list, and some schools offer testing as an option. Do your research! IMPORTANT GENERAL TEST INFORMATION: 1. The school code for El Cerrito High, also known as CEEB is: You will need this when you register for the tests. 2. You may register online at or Both sites have information about registering, setting up a free account, letting you know what to bring to the tests, when your scores will be available online, as well as offering free test prep and tools to succeed. These sites also offer tools to research various colleges and list schools that require Subject Tests. 3. Remember to register with the professional you have established for all of your collegerelated documents: testing, financial aid, and applications. Be consistent. 4. The above websites also list the dates each test is offered. ECHS is a testing site so if you register early enough, you can opt to take the test at ECHS. 5. You cannot take the SAT and SAT Subject tests on the same day, but you may take up to three SAT Subject Tests at one time. 6. The PSAT does not require students to register individually as it is offered for free, once per year, at ECHS in the fall (usually in October) of sophomore and junior years. 7. You will need to bring a valid picture ID on the day of the test and make sure the name on your ID matches exactly with the name you registered under for the test. Bring two or more #2 pencils and you may bring a calculator for math and some science tests. No cell phones are allowed in the testing area. Also, make sure to bring a snack and drink. 8. If you require testing accommodations, make sure to speak with your special education teacher at least three months prior to the tests regular registration deadline! 9. If you think you qualify for a fee waiver, go to the Career Center for more information. Please be aware that the only way to receive a fee-waiver from ECHS is to apply online at for the free or reduced lunch program at the beginning of each new school year. Scroll down the district website and click on lunch application. You cannot receive an SAT or ACT fee waiver without FIRST applying to the lunch program---no exceptions. Once you receive your letter of eligibility make sure to keep this letter in order to receive your waiver. PSAT: Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test is offered to both sophomores and juniors each October. Registration is handled by ECHS and there is no fee for students. The PSAT gives students an opportunity to see what kinds of questions one will see on the SAT. The scores are usually available in late winter and will give students an idea of where their strengths and weaknesses are in testing and also what types of schools one might begin considering. If you are unhappy with your scores, consider signing up for an SAT/ACT prep course (both free and fee-based courses and tutors are available) and/or begin your own preparations. See the Resource Guide at the end of this book for more information. While the PSAT! 26!

27 scores DO NOT count for college, those who place high enough can qualify for consideration as a National Merit Scholar, which can lead to monetary scholarships for college. SAT: This test measures Critical Reading, Math, and Writing Skills. You must pre-register for this test and there is a fee. The University of California (UC), the California State Universities (CSU) and many private and public universities use it as an entrance requirement, although check each college website for specific recommendations. The test takes approximately hours to complete. The test is based on a total score of 2400 points, with each of the three sections worth 800 points each. When you receive your scores, you will see a total score and a score from each of the three sections (Critical Reading, Math and Writing). It is advisable to take the SAT during your junior year. By taking the test during your junior year, you will gauge how you do on the test with enough time to decide if you will re-take it in the fall of senior year. Colleges have different requirements for your scores: some allow Score Choice, whereby only your top scores in each section are considered, and other schools want to see all of your testing scores. In order for scores to be sent to colleges, YOU need to have them sent from the site. Test dates are found online at the site, in the ECHS College & Career Center, and are announced on the E-tree. SAT SUBJECT TESTS: These tests measure students knowledge and college readiness in a particular subject. They are one-hour multiple-choice tests and are entrance requirements for many (not all) colleges---make sure to check what particular schools require. The Subject Tests are scored like the SAT tests, from Students can sign up to take 1-3 tests at one sitting. Students are encouraged to take these tests after they have completed relevant classes. For instance, when you have completed AP U.S. History, Literature, Physics, Chemistry, or Algebra 2/Trig, you could plan to take one or more of these subject tests while the material is still fresh in your mind. Many schools prefer you to take the Math 2 and another test of your choice. However, if you are going into the sciences or math fields, they may require additional tests. Do your research and know what schools require. ACT (American College Test): Tests your ability in English, math, reading and science reasoning. The ACT Writing Test is also offered as a supplement to the main test. The ACT is a college entrance test that is an accepted alternative to the SAT for almost all colleges, including the UC and Cal State systems. Check each college website to see if they accept the ACT and if they also require you to take the writing portion. The test is scored on a 1-36 scale, with 36 being the highest score. Check score ranges at colleges that you are interested in to see if your scores are in range for a particular school. It is recommended that juniors take the ACT during the spring of junior year and, if needed, in the fall of senior year. You must preregister for this test and there is a fee. ECHS is a testing site for the ACT. Go to for more information Note: Take challenging courses throughout high school. Studies have shown that one of the top predictors of SAT/ACT success is a rigorous high school curriculum. Take advantage of the Honors and AP-level courses offered at ECHS.! 27!

28 THE BIG QUESTION: WHICH TEST SHOULD I TAKE? While most colleges in the U.S. accept both the SAT and the ACT as a qualification for admission, there are major differences between these two tests. It is advised to think carefully about which test to take so that you can most effectively prepare yourself to do your best. Both the College Board, which administers the SAT ( and the ACT, which administers the ACT test ( offer full-length practice tests and practice questions so you may want to try out each of the sample tests to gauge how you do on one or the other. You may also purchase one of the many testing guides on the market, such as Kaplan or Princeton Review, each of which have numerous sample tests and test-taking strategies. These guides are also available to students in the ECHS College and Career Center. Whichever test you choose to take, make time to study and prepare. Make sure to practice testing in a timed setting. Many students are not used to testing within time limits, so it is important to give yourself some practice with this before test day. Use your microwave timer, an egg timer, cell-phone alarm, whatever you need to signal that time is up. And, while it is fine to take both tests, it is advised to choose one and focus your preparation on that type of test. Below are some things to consider when deciding between the two tests. These are suggestions for you to think about. The best way for you to decide is to try out a sample SAT and ACT test and see how you do and which test format you feel most comfortable with. Thank you to Dr. Raymond Barglow of U.C. Berkeley for the following tips: The ACT may be the better test for you if: a. You like to read and you read quickly with good comprehension. Even the science section of the ACT relies mainly upon reading and reasoning skills, and requires little knowledge beyond that provided by the questions themselves. So even if your science knowledge is more limited, you can do well on the ACT science section. b. You do well in school. The ACT is more curriculum-based, and the ACT questions tend to be more straightforward than SAT questions. c. You do better in your English, history and social studies classes than in your math classes. ACT math is not as difficult as SAT math. There is some advanced math content (logarithms, trigonometry, matrices, imaginary numbers) on the ACT, but that additional content is more basic. d. You prefer to write essays that deal in a common-sense way with tangible, everyday policy issues, such as those that arise in a high school setting. The SAT may be the better test for you if: a. You like solving math puzzles and playing computer games. SAT math involves reasoning tricks and requires that you go beyond the basic formulas and exercises that you have encountered in your school classes. b. You have a strong vocabulary and do well in school. c. You find it easier to write essays on abstract, philosophical issues than about policy matters. Free Practice Tests and Test Preparation Resources --ACT Sample Tests at --SAT College Board Practice Tests at --Number2: Free online test prep for ACT/SAT at ECHS College & Career Center: Check for free SAT prep classes, test prep books, fee waivers, etc.! 28!

29 THE PERSONAL STATEMENT ESSAY When you apply to many colleges and universities, the admissions office puts together a folder of information about you that will be used to make an admissions decision. Much of the information that is collected is a lot of facts: names, high school, rank, contact information, classes taken, grade point average, test scores, lists of extra-curricular activities, etc. These factual pieces give the admissions committee an indication as to your readiness and preparedness for college. There is an additional piece of the application that goes beyond the numbers and lists and is the main place where your personality, voice, and point of view can be expressed. That is the personal essay or personal statement section of the application and it is a key element that helps the admissions officer learn more about you as a person, how you think and write about your experiences. The essay can offer the admissions committee a fuller picture of your experiences, what has shaped you as a person, what is important to you, and what you could contribute to a college or university campus. This is the section of the application that is not a descriptive list of your accomplishments (there are plenty of places on the application to list those) but is where you will get the opportunity to paint a vivid picture of yourself, your life, your experiences, and what makes you unique and interesting! START EARLY: It cannot be stressed enough that students should begin thinking about and writing drafts of their essays before the start of their senior year. The summer before senior year is a great time to begin brainstorming, thinking about and drafting your essays. Remember, the essay writing process is just that, a process. Your essay should go through a number of drafts before you have reached the final product. Taking time to ponder, compose and refine will help you to generate a stronger, more compelling essay. Once senior year begins, it is a very busy time for students so the more you complete over the summer, the more prepared you will be as deadlines draw near. Refer to the Brainstorm section below for tips on getting started. General Essay Tips and Advice: a) Answer the Question! Make sure to read each question or prompt and be clear as to what they are asking. Many applications offer a choice of prompts so read them all and choose one you feel comfortable writing about. b) Comply with word counts, spacing and formatting instructions before beginning. Each application has its own requirements. c) Do not type directly onto the application. Compose your essay in a word processing program and copy and paste your essay onto application. Make sure to repeatedly save your essays as you go! d) Proofread your essay and have others proofread it as well. Spell-check does not catch errors of syntax, homonyms, and other areas of grammar! e) Have others (teachers, parents, friends) read your essay and ask them if it reflects who you are? Ask the readers, Does this essay sound like me? f) Read your essay out loud. Does it sound like you? You should write in your own voice. g) You must write your essay! Your parents, teachers and friends can offer advice and thoughts about your essay, but it must be your writing and your voice that comes through. The admissions officers can tell if a student does not write an essay! h) Don t discount your personal experiences. You may think that caring for your younger sibling, working at a summer job, being part of a school club, or volunteering in your community is not a scintillating topic but your involvement with any of these experiences can offer revealing insight into you and what is important to you. What did your involvement with your job,! 29!

30 activity, and internship, or classroom experience teach you? Did you learn something about yourself or your abilities? Has your involvement sparked an interest or passion that you might like to pursue in college? Write about what you know. i) Make sure you are sending the correct essay with the correct application! j) Submit the essay and application on time! k) Keep a copy of your essay and your entire application for your files! Types of Application Essays: a) The U.C. Essays- Go to for specific details regarding the admission process and helpful hints and suggestions about the personal statement requirements. Notes from the UC application for Fall 2013 admission (two essays are required): Your personal statement should be exactly that-personal. This is your opportunity to tell us about yourself- your hopes, ambitions, life experiences, inspirations. We encourage you to take your time on this assignment. Be open, Be reflective, Find your individual voice and express it honestly present your information and ideas in a focused, deliberate and meaningful manner. Provide specific, concrete examples to support your point. A personal statement that is simply a list of qualities or accomplishments usually is not persuasive. Directions for U.C. prompts: applicants must respond to two essay prompts. Your responses to your two prompts must be a maximum of 1,000 words total. You may allocate the word count as you wish. If you choose to respond to one prompt at greater length, we suggest your shorter answer be no less than 250 words Essay Prompts for Freshman: Describe the world you come from---for example, your family, community or school, and tell us how your world has shaped your dreams and aspirations Prompt for All Applicants: Tell us about a personal quality, talent, accomplishment, contribution or experience that is important to you. What about this quality or accomplishment makes you proud and how does it relate to the person you are? b) The Common Application: Notes from the Common Application: The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice. What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores? Choose the option that best helps you answer that question and write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response. Remember: 650 words is your limit, not your goal. Use the full range if you need it, but don t feel obligated to do so. Note: the application won t accept a response shorter than 250 words.! 30!

31 2014 Common Application Essay Prompts (choose one): 1. Some students have a background or story that is so central to their identity that they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story. 2. Recount an incident or time when you experienced failure. How did it affect you, and what lessons did you learn? 3. Reflect on a time when you challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you to act? Would you make the same decision again? 4. Describe a place or environment where you are perfectly content. What do you do or experience there, and why is it meaningful to you? 5. Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, hat marked your transition form childhood to adulthood within your culture, community, or family. c) Supplements: Some private colleges and universities require applicants to complete a school-specific supplementary essay or short answer section in addition to the required essay on the Common Application. While some of these supplements want to know why you want to attend their school, others are may be more creative (see the supplementary prompts from the University of Chicago, Tufts, or Occidental College). They may ask you to write a letter to your freshman roommate, analyze a joke, talk about your favorite word, write about a book that you have read, talk about a person who has influenced you, etc. Helpful Tip: Once you have set up your dashboard of colleges on the Common Application site, you can gain access to the supplements. In a separate Word document, cut-and-paste each college s supplements. It is not only helpful to have them all in one place but you may notice that there are overlaps. Often you can use one response or parts of one response for one or more schools. BRAINSTORMING: Before You Begin Writing: The Brainstorming Session! It may feel quite daunting to write about YOU. Brainstorming often helps generate ideas and points of view. Here are some ways to get started: a) Make a list of adjectives that describe you (for example: athletic, leader, innovator, creative, loyal, witty, entrepreneurial, first generation, imaginative, diligent, etc.). Pick one or more of them and spend a few minutes writing about that aspect of you. Write descriptive examples. b) Spend several minutes writing an answer to the following sentence: My best friend always says that I? c) What do you consider one of your strengths? Write a few sentences about these strengths. d) Write a letter to your new college roommate; include meaningful ways to describe yourself. e) Make a list of things that are important to you. f) What is distinctive about your life story? What special circumstances exist in your family? g) Have you overcome any obstacles in your life? Describe. What did you learn about yourself through the process? h) What inspires you? i) How have your life experiences and activities shaped who you are? j) Come up with a list of songs, books, paintings or movie titles that characterize your life. k) If you had a free weekend, how would you spend your time? l) Have you had any experiences in the classroom that had an impact on your learning process, ability to work with others, or allowed you to demonstrate a talent or skill?! 31!

32 Taking the time to brainstorm, think and write about your ideas should help you to begin to formulate your application essays. Students should look at the Personal Statement as their personal interview with a college or university. Keep asking yourself, What would I want a college to know about me? Make sure to use I statements about your accomplishments, learning experiences and or personal stories. Show the reader, don t just Tell ; you want your story and personality to jump off the page to the reader of your application. Essays that work demonstrate growth and learning as a result of new perspectives about him/herself and the world. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: The following are excellent examples of first-person essays: David Sedaris: Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim Amy Tan: The Opposite of Fate Annie Lamott: Bird by Bird: Instructions on Writing and Life and Operating Instructions Julia Alvarez: Something to Declare Calvin Trillin: Feeding a Yen and Family Man The New York Times Modern Love or Private Lives columns. 32!

33 COLLEGE RECOMMENDATIONS Letters of recommendation are an important component in the admissions decision. Most private colleges and universities as well as a growing number of public universities require one or more recommendations from teachers and counselors. Just as the personal statement allows the admissions committee to get a clearer picture of who you are and how you think, the recommendations help to inform admissions committees on who you are in the academic and school setting. Teachers and counselors can share details about what kind of student you are, how you work in the classroom, and your level of motivation, your character and intellect. These details give the application reader a broader picture of you than simply your grades or list of activities. It is your responsibility to find out what the recommendation requirements are for each school to which you are applying. IMPORTANT RECOMMENDATION TIP: Waive your access to the recommendations! The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects access to student records. On the Common Application (and other applications), you will be asked if you are willing to waive your right to view the recommendations that will be written on your behalf. You should check the box that you will waive your right. You want to do this because you want your teachers and counselor to share their feelings and observations about you in an honest and open manner and if you do not waive access, colleges may wonder if your teachers or counselor were being cautious or less forthcoming in their recommendation. Waiving your right allows your recommenders to speak in confidence about you. TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS: Students should approach the teachers they are going to request recommendation letters from before the end of their junior year or at the very beginning of senior year. Teacher recommendations can provide information about what you are like as a student, person and thinker as well as offer details about your work habits, classroom contribution, your intellectual point of view, as well as your attitude and motivation. Here are some helpful tips to guide you in your selection of teachers to request a recommendation: a. Choose teachers from core subjects (math, science, English, social science or foreign language). Many colleges want recommendations from teachers who have taught you in two different disciplines (not two math teachers, for example). However, some specialized majors may, in fact, require recommenders to have taught you in specific subjects. Check the websites of the colleges on your list for recommendation requirements. b. Choose teachers who have taught you in the 10 th, 11 th or 12 th grades. c. Choose teachers who have taught you in challenging classes, in which you demonstrated a strong effort. This does not mean you had to have gotten a top grade, but it does mean that this was a class in which you put forth your best efforts and attitude. d. Choose teachers who you know well and who like you. Once you have secured the teachers who will write your recommendations, it is important to meet with them and ask them what information, if any, they might like you to provide them to help them write their recommendation. Some teachers may ask for a copy of your Senior Profile, or a copy of! 33!

34 your transcript, some may ask you to provide a list of your extra-curricular activities or note what your future goals might be. Others may want copies of assignments that you completed in their classes or a brief summary of what you learned in their courses. Once you have completed their requests, type up a list of the schools to which you are applying, along with the dates that each application is due. Put everything in a folder along with a thank you note and give to your teachers in a timely manner. COUNSELOR RECOMMENDATIONS: Counselor recommendations are part of the School Report. Counselor letters and the School Report explain your transcript, your role in the ECHS community, as well as highlighting your involvement with on-campus and extracurricular activities. Because each ECHS counselor oversees more than 600 students, it is important for students to take the initiative to meet with their counselors, at least several times each year, them with questions, drop by to check in with them about how things are going with the application process. When it comes time for them to write a counselor recommendation, students are asked to complete a Senior Profile. The Senior Profile asks the student to elaborate on activities they have been involved in, give words that describe their character and personality, offer examples of academic successes, and descriptions of obstacles they have been faced with. The more detail you provide, the easier it will be for your counselor to compose a recommendation. Counselors are also asked to input information about your GPA and class rank, the rigor of your course selections, any disciplinary issues, etc. If you are applying Early Action or Early Decision, it is suggested that seniors turn in their Senior Profile by mid-september and for Regular or Rolling Admission, by the beginning of October. NOTE: Students must turn in their Senior Profiles and invite their counselor to submit a Counselor Recommendation on their behalf with ample leadtime. All requests for recommendations should be submitted well before the winter break! Helpful Tip: Try to complete your Senior Profile the summer before senior year begins. Having the time to think about thoughtful responses will result in a more complete and comprehensive product for your counselor. Note: copies of the Senior Profile can be found in this handbook, in the College and Career Center, from your counselor and on the ECHS website. OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS: Some colleges allow you to send one or more additional letters of recommendation. Students should research the policy of additional recommendations at each of the colleges to which they are applying. Often, these letters are from a coach (sports or academic), a mentor, or a teacher in a noncore subject (art, drama, music, etc.). These letters should be able to shed new light or detailed information about you that is not seen in the rest of your application. RECOMMENDATION ETIQUETTE: Students, it is important that you take the time to personally thank each person who writes a recommendation letter on your behalf. Say thank you when. -A teacher or counselor agrees to write you a recommendation! -When you drop off any requested materials, such as a transcript or senior profile! -When you check-in with your teacher or counselor to make sure your recommendation was sent! -When you get your notification from a college, go to your teacher and counselor and tell them the good news! -At the end of the application process, write a handwritten thank you note to each of your recommenders!! 34!

35 NAME COUNSELOR SENIOR PROFILE For the Common Application NOTE: This form is for students who need counselor recommendations for college admissions. They are typically required for private/independent colleges and universities. The following questions will help your counselor prepare your recommendation. Colleges are looking for specific information, examples, and anecdotes, so please provide as many of these as possible. Please answer these questions on a separate page (or pages). Make a copy for yourself and hand the original to your guidance counselor in Student Services, or it to your counselor through the ECHS Website. Please type. Please return the completed Senior Profile to your counselor by the end of September for Early Action/Decision or by early-october for Regular Decision. If you are applying Rolling Admission, ask your counselor when they will need to receive your profile. If you are behind schedule, contact your counselor directly. Be aware that counselors write many recommendations so be considerate and turn in your profile as early as possible. 1. What are your test scores thus far? (SAT, SAT SUBJECT, ACT, AP, etc.) 2. Give 3 to 5 words that best describe you. Provide specific examples for each of these words. 3. Educational and career goals and dreams. It is okay to be unsure about these answers. a. What majors and careers are you considering? b. What academic subjects interest you most? c. What academic and intellectual achievements are you especially proud of? 4. Describe in detail your activities and community or school service including: student government or leadership, clubs and organizations, writing for or editing a publication (newspaper, yearbook, etc.), participation in visual or performing arts, volunteer activities/community service, sports or outdoor activities, research or independent study, summer programs, jobs/employment, family responsibilities, or other interests or passions. Please describe exactly what you did, rather than simply listing your job title or the name of the activity or club. Be sure to include: a. Length of time you participated; how long have you been involved with this activity? How many hours per week/month do you participate in this job, sport, service or activity? b. Specific role or position in these activities, including any leadership positions held. c. Accomplishments, awards and/or how you contributed. 5. Describe your family and background and how it has influenced you, your interests, and your education. Give specific examples, anecdotes and stories. 6. What obstacles have you encountered in your life and how have you handled them? What have you learned from dealing with these challenges or difficulties? Again, provide examples and stories. 7. What are you most proud of? What do you like best about yourself? What else would you like colleges to know about you? Provide any additional information you feel would be useful. 8. If you would like, ask your parent or guardian to write a recommendation about you. It will help give another view of yourself, which will help counselors know you better and write a better recommendation for you. 9. Include a list of schools to which you are applying and include the following information: a. Name of School(s) b. Application deadlines b. Make note if you are applying Early Decision or Early Action and when those dates are.! 35!

36 RESUME TEMPLATE Academic and Extracurricular FULL NAME Class of 201 Street Address City, State, Zip Code Home Telephone Number with Area Code and Cell Phone Number Address (the professional one you will use for all college applications) PERSONAL: Your birth date and birthplace Parent(s)/Guardian(s): Names, Telephone Numbers Sibling(s): Name(s) and ages EDUCATIONAL: Name(s) of all high schools, addresses, telephone numbers, website addresses College Codes of all high schools attended (ECHS code is ) Name of Principal, Counselor, with direct telephone numbers, and addresses SCHOLASTIC: Grade point Average (designate weighted or unweighted) Junior Year Courses (list all) Senior Year Courses (list all, current and planned) Honors, AP, College courses (taken and planned) SAT Reasoning Score: Total, Reading, Math, Writing, and SAT Subject Tests ACT Score: Composite, English/Writing, Writing (essay) AP Scores Honor Roll, CSF, Other Scholastic Honors or Awards SCHOOL ACTIVITIES (Positions, Awards, Recognitions): Clubs, Student Government Athletics, Dance, Drama, Art, Music, Forensics, Mock Trial, Journalism, Yearbook School Service: Tutoring, PTSA/SAF representation COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES AND COMMUNITY SERVICE: Positions, Awards, Recognitions, Dates of Involvement WORK EXPERIENCE: dates and brief description INTERESTS: hobbies EDUCATIONAL GOALS: (example: B.A. degree in History, J.D. in Law or B.S. in Biology) CAREER GOALS: If known ***It is advised to keep this resume/academic profile to one page. Utilize outline format, smaller font, wider margins, etc. ***Make sure to update your information each semester.! 36!

37 FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIP RESOURCES The high cost of a college education is a top concern for nearly every student and his/her family. It is extremely important to begin discussing what your family can afford with regards to a college education as soon as you begin looking at college options. Once the financial conversation has begun, you can begin to assess what types of financial assistance are available and what types you may qualify for. In order to best serve ECHS students, this section is a synthesis of some of the best and most reputable financial aid and scholarship resources. Take some time with your parent(s) or guardian(s) and find out: a) what is available to help finance your education, b) what you are eligible for, c) what documentation you will need to gather in order to apply for aid. Common Myths About Financial Aid: a) Assuming you will not qualify for aid. Unless you apply, you will never know if you qualify for aid. Filling out the FAFSA and CSS profiles or other aid applications are not difficult. Take the time to apply. b) All colleges have the same aid. False! Each college s financial aid office addresses their aid packages differently, so do not assume that what one college does applies to all the schools to which you are applying. Contact financial aid offices at colleges and ask questions about how they provide aid. c) I can t apply to private/independent colleges because they are too expensive. While it is true that private colleges often cost much more than public universities in California, private colleges often offer much greater aid packages and can often make the cost of attending equal or less than attending a public, in-state college. Do your research! Types of Financial Aid: 1. Need-Based Aid: This type of aid is based on your family s financial resources and is calculated through sources such as FAFSA or CSS. This type of aid includes Federal, State and College- Funded grants as well as student loans or work-study. 2. Merit-Based Aid: Some colleges offer financial scholarships for students who have special academic, athletic or other skills (forensics, music, art, etc.). These types of awards can be: college funded, state funded, or given by private organizations. Please note that these types of awards often require additional applications and/or earlier submission deadlines. 3. Reward-Based Scholarships: these are often awarded without regard to GPA and are given for volunteer or other special acts by the student. Selected and Recommended Resources on Financial Aid and Scholarships: a) b) The College Board (for the CSS Profile) at c) FinAid at has financial aid calculators and helpful financial aid tips, including a tool for comparing financial aid award letters. d) Fastweb.com at is a terrific scholarship and aid clearinghouse. e) The U.S. Department of Education at f) Middle Class Scholarship: g) California Dream Act Information: h) Cal Grant Information: i) For information about federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): or 37!

38 j) ECHS College and Career Center generates a detailed list of local, regional and national scholarship opportunities. Stop by the Career Center, pick up a flyer and find out about scholarship opportunities for you! k) Your counselor l) Each year, the Ed Fund offers college scholarships to low-income graduation seniors. Go to the website for more information. m) WCCUSD sponsored Cash For College Nights offered in high schools throughout the district in January and February each year will help students and families complete the FAFSA. n) is a comprehensive website where you can search for colleges and universities that offer merit awards. Includes community colleges as well. BEWARE! Never ever pay a fee for aid information!!!!! There are organizations that advertise their services and say they will guarantee aid for you. DO NOT use these organizations or websites---they are often scams. COLLEGE COST BREAKDOWN: Each college lists the costs of attending their school on their website and in published materials. Anticipate an increase in costs each year. The Cost of Attendance (COA) at a specific college is comprised of the following line items: a. Tuition b. Room and Board c. Fees (student health, etc.) d. Books and Supplies e. Personal Expenses f. Travel (to and from college) and parking (if applicable). BEFORE YOU BEGIN FILLING OUT YOUR FINANCIAL AID APPLICATIONS MAKE SURE THE FOLLOWING MATCH-UP: a. The name on your school records (your transcript) should be the same as the name on your FAFSA, CSS and Cal Grant forms. b. The name on your transcript should be the same as the name on your Social Security Card. c. The name to be printed on your diploma should be the same as the name you will use on your college applications and your college correspondence. d. The name on your school identification card, your passport and your driver s license should all match-up. e. Your address must be consistent on your transcript, college applications, college correspondence, financial aid forms, and your high school diploma. If you move, make sure to inform the ECHS registrar. If you move after you have already applied to college, contact the schools directly to make the necessary corrections. It is your responsibility to do this. ***If there are discrepancies in how your name is shown on any of the above, talk to your counselor and the ECHS registrar to help you make the necessary corrections on your transcript. If your names do not match-up on your transcript, your financial aid applications, and/or your college applications, there can be significant delays on your applications.! 38!

39 FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): The FAFSA is required for financial aid at all public and private colleges. All students applying for financial aid should complete the FAFSA and there is no charge to apply. You may begin filing the application January 2 nd of the year you are applying to college and many colleges require that the FAFSA be submitted by February 15 in order to increase your chances of receiving an official financial aid offer letter in early April. The very last date that FAFSA can be filed is March 2 nd. NOTE: Do not sign, date, or mail the FAFSA before January 1 st. Once you submit your FAFSA, you should receive a SAR (Student Aid Report) via within 3-5 days after submitting the forms online. The SAR will provide a summary of the information you gave on your FAFSA application and will let you know what your EFC (Expected Family Contribution) will be. This same SAR report is also sent electronically to the schools to which you applied and the financial aid offices at these colleges will determine an EFC and subtract that amount from the cost of attending their particular school; the result being your financial need for that school. Be aware that if your EFC equals or is more than the cost of attendance, you are not eligible for need-based aid and you will have to look for alternative funding sources such as loans or merit scholarships. To create an account and complete your FAFSA application, go to Helpful Tip: When getting ready to fill out the FAFSA, it is advised to have the following information handy: a. social security number b. driver s license c. student and parent W-2 forms and other records of earned income. d. Student federal tax return. e. Parent federal income tax return if you are a dependent. f. Untaxed income records (child support, workers comp, veteran s benefits, etc.) g. Current bank statements. h. Current investment information, mortgage records, business records, stocks/bonds/other investment records, retirement account information. Plan to attend a WCCUSD-sponsored Cash-for-College Night to get learn more about the FAFSA. El Cerrito hosts an evening each January or February. ECHS staff and volunteers are on hand and assist families in completing the FAFSA application. CSS PROFILE: More than 300 private colleges require this financial aid application form to determine eligibility for institutional aid awards. The CSS is filled out in addition to the FAFSA. The CSS, although a financial aid application like the FAFSA, analyzes additional pieces of information including: home ownership, cost of living in various geographic areas, K-12 private tuition, and larger medical expenses. Your financial aid award may be quite different through the CSS than through the FAFSA. Note: Make sure to check the due dates for the CSS at each of the colleges to which you are applying. Also, you may begin filing your CSS application as early as October 1 of the year you are applying to college. Go to for help filling out the application, or [email protected] Cost: Unlike the FAFSA, which is free, the CSS charges a fee for filing. There is an initial $25 fee for the application and program report and additional reports are $16 each. Fee waivers are granted automatically based on information entered on the profile section of the application. NOTE: Many public and private California colleges and universities require that you apply for a Cal Grant if you are applying for any financial aid (see below for Cal Grant information). Carefully review the requirements and due dates at each college to which you are applying.! 39!

40 When getting ready to fill out the CSS, it is advised to have the following information handy: a. social security number b. driver s license c. student and parent W-2 forms and other records of earned income. d. Student federal income tax return e. Parent federal income tax return if you are a dependent. f. Untaxed income records (child support, workers compensation, veterans benefits, etc. g. Current bank statements h. Current investment information, mortgage records, business records, stocks/bonds/other investment records, retirement account information. i. Your parents housing status (own, rent, etc.) j. If your parents receive TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) or SSI (Supplemental Security Income) have that information available. CAL GRANTS: Cal Grants are financial grants funded by the State of California and administered by the California Student Aid Commission. Go to for detailed information and helpful tips about the application process. Students can be awarded up to $12,192 a year to pay for college expenses at any qualifying California college, university or career or technical school. Depending on which Cal Grant you receive (A, B, or C), the money can be used for tuition, room and board, even books and school supplies. In order to apply and to be considered for a Cal Grant, you must submit the FAFSA between January 2 nd and March 2 nd and submit a verified Cal Grant GPA. Beginning in 2013, WCCUSD became one of the few school districts in California to upload GPAs for all of their graduating seniors. Check with the College and Career Center to verify that your GPA has been properly uploaded. File the FAFSA + GPA Verification Form by the March 2 nd deadline! You should receive notification by April 30. If you do not hear by that time, call **Important: To be competitive for the most Cal Grant funds, be aware that it is your GPA at the end of your junior year which determines (should you qualify for funds) your Cal Grant award. GPA s below 2.0 do not qualify. AB540 Students: The California Dream Act allows certain students to apply and receive state financial aid at California public and private colleges and private scholarships from California public colleges. Go to or call CA-GRANT for more information and application details. See below for additional resources and websites. For Help With the Cal Grant, Go To: -Your counselor -The College and Career Center -Attend a Cash-For-College Workshop at ECHS or at another WCCUSD high school. Find workshop locations and dates at -For information on the federal Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): or - [email protected] or call ! 40!

41 INTERCOLLEGIATE SPORTS For intercollegiate sports, colleges are divided into four categories: NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) Division I, Division II, Division III, and NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics). Division I and many Division II schools offer athletic scholarships to recruited athletes. (Note: Ivy League Colleges do not offer athletic scholarships, but being a recruited athlete can be a significant advantage in the admission process.) These scholarships may pay part or all of the total cost of attending. If an NCAA Division I, II, or III college is recruiting you then the process of becoming a college athlete is already underway. It is very important that you read carefully the NCAA s Guide for the College-Bound A Student-Athlete, which is available in the counseling office or from the address given below) to understand the general recruiting requirements. For example, if a prospective student-athlete receives cash, clothing, cars, gifts, or loans to encourage him/her to sign a National Letter of Intent or attend a NCAA college, he/she become instantly ineligible to participate in that college s sports program. Become very familiar with all the rules and regulations that apply to student-athletes. All prospective and aspiring Division I and II student-athletes must be certified by the NCAA Initial- Eligibility Clearinghouse which determines the initial eligibility status for incoming college freshmen. Filling out the NCAA s Student Release Form is critical. Make note that Division III colleges do not have core course requirements or test score requirements like those required in Division I and II colleges, nor do they require Clearinghouse certification. There is, however, a specific set of recruiting requirements for Division III schools, which are set out in the NCAA guide, and can be obtained from the following addresses: NCAA Guide for the College-Bound Student-Athlete Initial Eligibility Clearinghouse P.O. Box 4044 Iowa City, IA Phone: 319/ ; Fax: 319/ NCAA s home page: NCAA Eligibility Information: Official website for the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics: To be certified by the Clearinghouse, you must fill out the Student Release Form either online or in paper at the end of your junior year in high school, and send it along with the required fee. The Clearinghouse will issue a preliminary certification report after all of your materials are submitted (freshman, sophomore, and junior transcripts, ACT or SAT I scores, the Student Release Form and fee). Always check with your coach about eligibility information. The following are some key requirements from the NCAA website for eligibility for Division I or II intercollegiate athletics: Academic Standards The NCAA Eligibility Center verifies the academic and amateur status of all student-athletes who wish to compete in Division I or II athletics. College-bound student-athletes, who want to practice, compete and receive athletically related financial aid during their first year at a Division I or II school need to meet the following requirements:! 41!

42 Graduate from high school. Complete a minimum of 16 core courses for Division I or II. Check with your counselor and coach to verify that you have taken or will take the required core courses. Earn a minimum required grade-point average in core courses. Earn a qualifying test score on either the ACT or SAT. Request final amateurism certification from the NCAA Eligibility Center. For Division I student-athletes who will enroll August 1, 2016 and later, the requirements to compete in the first year will change. In addition to the above standards, students must: Earn at least a 2.3 grade-point average in core courses. Meet an increased sliding-scale standard (for example, an SAT score of 820 requires a 2.5 high school core course GPA) Successfully complete 10 of the 16 total required core courses before the start of their seventh semester in high school. Seven of the 10 courses must be successfully completed in English, math and science. -Students that earn at least a 2.0 GPA but not a 2.3 GPA and meet the current sliding scale standard (for example, an SAT score of 1,010 requires a high school core course GPA) will be eligible for practice in the first term and athletically related financial aid the entire year, but not competition. Freshmen who are academically successful in the first term will earn the ability to continue to practice for the remainder of the year. Division III colleges and universities set their own admission standards. The NCAA does not set initial eligibility requirements in Division III. 1. For more detail about academic requirements visit the Eligibility Center. 2. Talk to your athletic coach about student-athlete requirements and support. 3. IF you are having difficulties in any of your classes, seek help from your teacher, the James Morehouse Project, your counselor, or coach. 4. If several schools are recruiting you, do your research on each school to see what kinds of programs (academic, residential, social, etc.) they have to offer. Research the location of the school and ask yourself if you would be happy living and going to school there. College websites are great resources for all of this kind of information. Sample Student-Athlete Timetable: a. At the end of your sophomore year: send a letter to colleges you find interesting. Include your stats (height, weight, GPA, test scores, high school sports stats, newspaper clippings). Talk to your coach to find out what other contacts you should make. b. Beginning of junior year: send your high school game schedule and/or club schedule. c. End of junior year: send Clearinghouse information, SAT scores, a sports resume including your accomplishments, awards, stats, highlight reel, etc. and a summer sports schedule or club schedule. d. Consult with your coach and guidance counselor to make sure you are on-track for graduation and eligibility.! 42!

43 NCAA Divisions I and II: Initial Eligibility Requirements Core Courses NCAA Division I requires 16 core courses. NCAA Division II currently requires 14 core courses. Division II will require 16 core courses for students enrolling on or after August 1, See the charts below. NCAA Division I will require 10 core courses to be completed prior to the seventh semester (seven of the 10 must be a combination of English, math or natural or physical science that meet the distribution requirements below). These 10 courses become "locked in" at the seventh semester and cannot be retaken for grade improvement. o Beginning August 1, 2016, it will be possible for a Division I college-bound student-athlete to still receive athletics aid and the ability to practice with the team if he or she fails to meet the 10 course requirement, but would not be able to compete. Test Scores Division I uses a sliding scale to match test scores and core grade-point averages (GPA). The sliding scale for those requirements is shown on Page No. 2 of this sheet. Division II requires a minimum SAT score of 820 or an ACT sum score of 68. The SAT score used for NCAA purposes includes only the critical reading and math sections. The writing section of the SAT is not used. The ACT score used for NCAA purposes is a sum of the following four sections: English, mathematics, reading and science. When you register for the SAT or ACT, use the NCAA Eligibility Center code of 9999 to ensure all SAT and ACT scores are reported directly to the NCAA Eligibility Center from the testing agency. Test scores that appear on transcripts will not be used. Grade-Point Average Be sure to consult your high school s List of NCAA Courses on the NCAA Eligibility Center's website ( Only courses that appear on your school's List of NCAA Courses will be used in the calculation of the core GPA. Use the list as a guide. Division I students enrolling full time before August 1, 2016, should use Sliding Scale A to determine eligibility to receive athletics aid, practice and competition during the first year. Division I GPA required to receive athletics aid and practice on or after August 1, 2016, is (corresponding test-score requirements are listed on Sliding Scale B on Page No. 2 of this sheet). Division I GPA required to be eligible for competition on or after August 1, 2016, is (corresponding test-score requirements are listed on Sliding Scale B on Page No. 2 of this sheet). The Division II core GPA requirement is a minimum of Remember, the NCAA GPA is calculated using NCAA core courses only.! 43!

44 DIVISION I: 16 Core Courses 4 years of English. 3 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher). 2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high school). 1 year of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science. 2 years of social science. 4 years of additional courses (from any area above, or foreign language or comparative religion/philosophy). DIVISION II: 14 Core Courses 3 years of English. 2 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher). 2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high school). 2 years of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science. 2 years of social science. 3 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or comparative religion/philosophy). DIVISION II: 16 Core Courses (2013 and After) 3 years of English. 2 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher). 2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high school). 3 years of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science. 2 years of social science. 4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or comparative religion/philosophy). NOTE: Student athletes should confirm the above requirements each year with their counselor and coach.! 44!

45 ATTENDING COLLEGE WITH A LEARNING DIFFERENCE or PHYSICAL OR EMOTIONAL CHALLENGES The notion of fit is of particular importance for students with learning differences or physical or emotional challenges. When putting together a college list, take the time to research support services available at each college that interests you. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) governs all schools but each school has its own policies and programs. Take a look at college websites, particularly under Student Services, Academic Services, Accessible Education or Disability Services. When visiting college campuses, find out what is available to students and connect with current students to get feedback on support services. If you can visit each college, you should try to visit the office that oversees assistance. If you cannot visit the colleges to which you are applying, or call the office that oversees assistance to find out what services are available to students. If you cannot find enough information on a college s website, the following is a list of questions you could ask each college about available services. Learning Differences: a. What kinds of services are available for students with learning differences? b. What technologies, equipment, and support do you have available for students with learning differences? c. Is there a learning resource center on campus? d. Can students with learning differences get assistance with registration and course selection? e. What tutoring services are available? Are tutors students or professional staff? f. Are there fees for services? Physical Challenges: a. How many physically challenged students attend the school? b. What technologies, equipment, and support do you have available for physically challenged students? c. Are classrooms accessible for the physically challenged? How many? d. Describe the types of living arrangements available for physically challenged students? Emotional Health: a. What kind of mental health staff and services are available through the student health center? b. Is individual counseling available? Are there fees for service? c. How easy is it to schedule appointments? Testing Accommodations: Both the ACT and the SAT provide accommodations for students with learning differences or physical or emotional challenges. Go to or for specific information and required documentation needed to apply for testing accommodations. Students should follow-up with the ECHS librarian regarding your required accommodations.! 45!

46 Selected Resource Guides, Books and Websites for Students with a Learning Differences and/or Physical or Emotional Challenges: a. K&W Guide to Colleges for Students with Learning Disabilities or Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder by Marybeth Kravets and Imy Wax b. The College Sourcebook for Students with Learning and Developmental Differences by Midge Lipkin c. The College Handbook, issued by the College Board d. Your Child s Strengths, by Jennifer Fox M.Ed. e. Guiding Teens with Learning Disabilities, by Arly Roffman, Ph.D. f. Cool Colleges for the Hyper-Intelligent, Self-Directed, Late Blooming, and Just Plain Different, by Donald Asher g. Association on Higher Education and Disability: h. Council for Learning Disabilities: i. A resource for youth and adults with LD and ADD: j. Clearinghouse on Post-secondary Education: 46!

47 FRESHMAN PREPARATION CHECKLIST: Fall and Winter: Create a professional student account (no nicknames) that you can use throughout high school and for college applications. Most colleges maintain contact with prospective students via . Plan to keep this for all four years of high school and check it regularly. Example: johnsmith2015@... Or sarahgarcia@... Meet with your counselor to discuss A-G course requirements. Create a four-year plan that meets both ECHS and A-G College entrance requirements. Explore and participate in extra-curricular activities. There are many options at ECHS and in your community. Consider joining a school club, leadership, debate team, yearbook, or the student newspaper. Try out for an athletic team. Participate in community service projects. If you need ideas or additional information, speak with your counselor, teachers and friends. Maintain good grades. Most colleges (including UC and CSU) expect grades of C or higher. Assess your academic strengths and weaknesses and consider tutoring at school or in your community to strengthen areas where you might be struggling. Visit the JMP (James Morehouse Project) on the 2 nd floor of Building A to find out what tutoring options and support services are available. Talk with your teachers and guidance counselor. Help is available----just ask! Visit the College and Career Center, located on the 2 nd floor of Building A. Explore what college and career resources are available to you throughout high school. CHECKLIST: Spring and Summer: Meet with your counselor to discuss a plan for your sophomore year. Consider challenging yourself with honors and/or AP courses. Remember, sophomore and junior year courses and grades are the most scrutinized in college admissions. Continue to maintain good grades. Seek help if you are struggling or in need of additional academic support. If you have not gotten involved with extra-curricular activities, do so now. Attend a club meeting, find out when athletic tryouts begin, or take part in community service projects. Explore summer enrichment opportunities. Look for an academic course to take at a local community college, take an online course, apply for an internship, volunteer opportunity or summer job. Consider those that develop leadership skills or further an academic or personal interest. Consult with your counselor and with the College and Career Center for resources and suggestions. Visit to learn about the PSAT (you will take this during the fall of your sophomore and junior years). You can try out practice questions and even begin to do a bit of preparation. Although the PSAT is seen as the practice SAT, those who score in the highest percentile can qualify for monetary National Merit College Scholarship consideration. READ!! Create a summer reading list----ask your teachers or local librarian for suggestions. It is a known fact that students who read, do better on the SAT and ACT standardized tests.! 47!

48 SOPHOMORE PREPARATION CHECKLIST: Fall and Winter: Create a professional student account (if you have not already). Most colleges maintain contact with prospective students via . Plan to keep this for all four years of high school and check it regularly. Example: johnsmith2015@... or sarahgarcia@... Meet with your counselor to make sure you are on track with your course selections and fulfillment of college requirements. Seek help with subjects that are challenging. Consult with individual teachers for extra help and/or take advantage of on campus tutoring. Remember, sophomore and junior year grades count most in college admissions so try your best, maintain good grades, and seek help if needed. Begin and/or continue involvement with extra-curricular activities. Consider leadership positions within these activities. If you have not yet become involved with extra-curricular activities, talk to your friends, counselor, teachers, or parent/guardian to help you identify activities that mesh with your own interests. Colleges want to see that students are engaged and involved beyond the classroom. Take the PSAT (offered free to students at ECHS) in the fall. When your scores become available, review the report and identify areas where improvement is needed. This will help you target what you need to work on in order to prepare for the SAT or ACT, which you will take in your junior and/or senior year. Visit the and websites and take a free practice test or try out a few questions to see where you need more preparation. Attend a college fair in your area. WCCUSD hosts a college fair each fall; look for announcements. St. Mary s College hosts a large college fair each spring; look for announcements from the College and Career Center about specific dates. During the summer, the Colleges That Change Lives organization (ctcl.org) hosts a terrific college fair in the Bay Area that focuses on smaller liberal arts colleges. Note: attendance at college fairs is free and is a great way to meet with admissions counselors, collect brochures and information about colleges that are of interest to you, get your name on colleges contact lists, and they are an opportunity for you to begin to learn about what colleges have to offer. Visit one or more college campuses. There are many colleges within ten minutes-to-twohours from ECHS. Campus visits are great ways to get a feel for a college, find out what life is like as a student, what academic offerings there are, etc. Note: campus tours and information sessions are free but often require advance registration, which can be done online or by telephone. Also, if you go on vacation, check to see if there is a college campus in the area you will be travelling and try to visit that campus. The more knowledge you have, the better able you will be to create a college list that is the right fit for you.! 48!

49 CHECKLIST: Spring and Summer: Continue to do your best in your classes. If you are struggling, ask for help! Meet with your counselor to discuss junior year course selection, and consider including AP/Honors courses. Explore summer jobs, academic enrichment, and volunteer or job opportunities. Consult with your counselor and the College and Career Center for suggestions. Purchase a college guide and begin to familiarize yourself with colleges and entrance requirements. Plan to begin prepping for the SAT/ACT tests that you will be taking. Take one of the free online test prep courses, purchase a test prep book, or register for a test prep class (free test prep classes are offered for ECHS students contact the College and Career Center and the JMP (James Morehouse Project) for dates and signup information). Test prep guides are also available to students in the ECHS College and Career Center and at your local library. Refer to the Testing section of this handbook for more tips and resources. Visit one or more college campuses to get a feel for a variety of campuses. Attend a free college fair. Have a conversation with your parent(s)/guardian(s) about what your family can afford for college. Having this conversation early on in the process will help you with planning your college list, and the kinds of research you will have to do for financial aid/scholarship opportunities. Have your parent or guardian check out the financial aid calculator, a great tool that gives you a sense of the financial aid package for which you might qualify. READ!!! Ask your teachers and/or local librarian for a summer reading list. Read fiction, nonfiction, periodicals, and/or newspapers. Reading expands your mind, develops your vocabulary and it is a known fact that students who read perform better on standardized tests.! 49!

50 JUNIOR PREPARATION One consistent piece of advice heard from college freshman is that they wish they had started the college research and application process earlier. Junior year is an important time to become invested in the college admissions process. Juniors do not need to have anything finalized in terms of a college list or major, but the following tips and timelines will help you to stay on top of your path-to-college. QUICK REFERENCE LIST: Testing: Juniors will take the PSAT (ECHS offers this test for free) in October. While colleges will not see these scores, a strong score can translate into potential scholarship money, since the PSAT is the National Merit Qualifying test. Since this is considered a practice SAT, there is no need to spend a great deal of time studying for it; however, visit the website for practice tests and testing tips. Use the PSAT as a benchmark. Your score will allow you to see where you need to spend time studying and reviewing to better prepare for the SAT or ACT tests. It is a good idea to plan to take an SAT, ACT and/or SAT Subject Test(s) in the spring of your junior year. Register at or ECHS is an official testing site but often fills up quickly. Course Selection: Academic rigor is important to colleges. They want to see that you are challenging yourself in your courses and performing to the best of your ability in the classroom. Meet with your guidance counselor to determine what courses would best demonstrate a balanced and challenging course load for you. Remember, sophomore and junior year grades and academic course choices are the ones colleges look at very closely. Consider Honors/AP courses. Grades: Maintain good grades. Try your best in your classes and seek help if you are struggling in any of your subjects. Note: If you are considering applying Early Action or Early Decision, colleges will only see your grades through the end of junior year. Make those grades and course choices count! Foreign Language: Make sure to check the websites of a variety of colleges to see what they recommend for foreign language requirements. Follow the advice of the colleges suggested requirements or recommendations and consider going beyond the two-year minimum set forth by WCCUSD. Leadership: In school, out of school, in your community, on a job, seeking out leadership roles looks great on a college application. Colleges are looking for students who are involved and who will make a contribution to their campus community. Campus Visits: Visit a few college campuses this year. Try to see and evaluate colleges of varying sizes and focuses: large/small, public/private, urban/rural. The President s Week break and Spring Break are great times to schedule campus visits. Create (if you have not already done so) a professional account. You will use this for standardized testing registration, college communications, college applications (next year), financial aid forms, etc. Examples: johnsmith2015@... Or Sarahgarcia@... Your Name: Be consistent with your official name and use the same one for transcripts, test registration, college applications (next year), scholarships, social security card, etc.! 50!

51 Maintain a balanced lifestyle! Make sure you set aside time to relax, be with friends and family, and take part in activities that you enjoy. Junior year can be stressful so it is important to maintain balance so that you can feel proud of your accomplishments and enjoy your high school experience! JUNIOR YEAR TIMELINE Fall and Winter Checklist Meet with your counselor to look over your course schedule and to make sure that you are meeting graduation requirements. Junior year is often the most academically challenging year. Keep organized and try your best in your classes. If you are struggling, ask early for help! Keep in mind that junior year (and sophomore) year grades are the ones most scrutinized by colleges. Junior year is an opportunity to show colleges that you can improve and/or maintain your grades and that you can handle a challenging academic schedule. If you are taking AP courses, consider purchasing an AP study guide for your particular subject and use it as a resource for AP test preparation (AP tests are usually taken in May). Since ECHS is on the block schedule, if you take an AP course in the fall, you will not have had the course for a number of months. Use test prep guides to help with review of the material. Also, plan to attend review sessions, generously provided by many of ECHS AP teachers. If you have not participated in activities outside of class, now is the time to get involved. Consider school clubs, team sports, leadership, yearbook, community service, local internships or jobs. Once you find an extra-curricular activity that you enjoy, stick with it. Colleges like to see consistency in student involvement beyond the classroom. Don t pad your resume with activities you think colleges will like. Instead become involved with things you have an interest in. If you need advice on what to do or where to look, ask your counselor or go to the Career Center. Take the PSAT. ECHS offers the test for free in October each year. Scores become available in December-January. Once you have received your scores, review them to learn more about your strengths and weaknesses. Consider joining an SAT or ACT review course (free and low-cost review programs are often offered to ECHS students check in the Career Center or the JMP). Free practice tests and study tips can be found at and at or Make sure you have set up your free account with the College Board or the ACT websites. Once you have created a profile and account, you can register for upcoming tests, retrieve your scores, take practice tests, search for college information, and have scores sent to schools on your list. Make a testing plan!!! Consider taking either the SAT or ACT (with writing) during the winter or spring of your junior year. If you are taking the SAT, also plan to take 2 SAT Subject Tests. It is advised to take a subject test soon after you have completed a particular course. For example: if you are taking AP U.S. History, consider taking the Subject Test after completion of the course while the material is still fresh in your mind. Taking the SAT/ACT for the first time during your junior year allows you to assess your scores and decide whether you will take the test(s) again during the fall of your senior year. Many students take the test more than once. Fee waivers for standardized tests are available. Visit the College and Career Center for waiver information and eligibility.! 51!

52 Attend a college fair and college presentations. Listen for announcements regarding college visits at ECHS or in the area, visit the College and Career Center to pick up the monthly College Visit bulletin, and visit college websites to find out if and when they will be in the Bay Area. Attending college fairs and college presentations is free but registration is often required. WCCUSD and the Ed Fund sponsor a college fair in the fall, St. Mary s College in Moraga hosts an extensive college fair in the spring, and Colleges That Change Lives hosts an excellent fair during the summer in both Marin and San Jose (see for dates). College fairs and presentations are great ways for students to learn more about colleges and to have an opportunity to meet with admissions personnel. The more information you have, the better able you will be to make informed choices about colleges that may be a good fit for you. Visit one or more college campuses. There are many campuses within ten minutes-to-twohours from ECHS. Tours and Information Sessions are free but advance registration (either online or by phone) is often required. There is no better way to find out if a particular campus or type of campus is right for you than physically being on a college campus. The more campuses you visit the more you will be able to get a sense of what you want in a college: size, location, academic focus, campus involvement, residence life, etc. Helpful tip: bring a small notebook to write down observations about your visit, the campus, information you learned. This information will be helpful when you create your college list. Use the February President s Week break and the April Spring Break to schedule college visits. Research colleges. Read several college guides and visit college websites. College guides are available in the College and Career Center, at local libraries and bookstores. Each college also has its own website, each with extensive information about admission, academics, campus life, financial aid, etc. Go beyond the homepage and delve into academic departments that interest you. Do they offer courses that you would want to take? What is the faculty-student ratio? How many professors are in particular departments? Are research or internship opportunities available for undergraduates? Do they offer study abroad programs? What are the residential options for students? There are often virtual tours offered on many college websites, which can give you a sense of the campus and college offerings. Do your research and begin to make some notes about your likes and dislikes. If a college is of interest to you, get your name on their mailing list. You will then receive and mail information about these schools. Remember to use your professional address, the one you will ultimately use for the college application process during senior year. If you are planning on playing sports in college, make sure to talk to your guidance counselor and coach, contact college athletic departments to get information about their programs. Read the Intercollegiate Sports and NCAA sections of this handbook and go to for eligibility information and athlete registration. If you are planning on applying to pursue the arts in college, talk with your counselor and arts teacher to get guidance on portfolios, audition tapes and other specialized materials that may be required for admission to arts programs. See the Resource section of this handbook for more information. Start or continue the conversation about finances with your family! It is extremely important to be clear what your family can contribute towards your college education and also how to begin to research financial aid and other scholarship opportunities. Have your parent or! 52!

53 guardian take an initial look at the FAFSA or CSS Profile financial aid forms, which will be filled out during your senior year. Spring and Summer Checklist: Continue to do your best in your courses. Get help if needed. Meet with your counselor to discuss your senior year schedule. Although it is tempting to take the minimum amount of classes (especially if you have reached the graduation credit requirement), make note that colleges will look at your senior schedule and assess whether you continue to challenge yourself academically. Additionally, maintain good grades, as your fall grades will be submitted (to private colleges) as part of the mid-year report (sent by your guidance counselor in February or March). Also note that it is important to keep your grades above a C, particularly for CSU and UC admissions. If your grades fall below, you risk having an acceptance revoked. Take the SAT/ACT (with writing) and SAT Subject tests (if needed). Think about lining up a summer internship, academic course, job or volunteer opportunity. Talk with your teachers, counselor and visit the College and Career Center for ideas and resources. During the February President s Week break and the April Spring Break, plan to visit college campuses. If you are going on vacation, check to see if there are colleges in the area and make a point to visit one or more. Make sure to register (online or by phone) for a free campus tour and information session. If offered, consider signing up for an on-campus interview. If you are considering applying to private colleges, you will need two teacher recommendations. Approach two teachers (in core subjects) who have taught you during your junior (preferably) or sophomore years and politely ask if they would be willing to write a recommendation on your behalf. Ask teachers who really know you and who can speak about you as a student and contributor to the classroom environment as well as speak to your intellectual abilities. Some teachers place a limit on the number of recommendations they will write so ask early. Also, refer to the Recommendation section of this handbook for more tips on recommendations. Request (from the ECHS Registrar/Main Office) a copy of your complete ECHS transcript. Look it over carefully and make sure all of the information, including your name, is accurate. If there are any mistakes, go to your counselor and have corrections made. Before the end of your Junior year ask your counselor for a copy of the Senior Profile or copy it from this manual. Over the summer, begin to think about how you might answer the questions. This profile is what your counselor will use to write your counselor recommendation for colleges (private). The more specific and detailed you are in answering the questions, the more information your counselor will have to write about you. Try to complete a draft of the profile over the summer. Over the summer, create a preliminary list of colleges to which you will apply. Remember to create a balanced list with schools that are good bet (safety), likely (match) and reach (wild card) options. Refer to the Choosing a College section of the handbook, college guides, and college websites.! 53!

54 If you are planning on applying to UC or to private colleges, you will be required to write application essays. Although the applications do not open for enrollment until August 1 st (for the Common Application) and October 1 st (for UC), you CAN get a head start on drafting your essays. Refer to the Essay section of this handbook for more detailed information on tackling the application essay. The more you complete the summer before your senior year, the less stressful the process will be. Begin filling out the Common Application form. Get organized. Over the summer, set up a file box, with a folder for each college you plan to apply to. Create a preliminary calendar of due dates for applications, financial aid, interviews, etc. READ! READ! READ! Ask your teachers, parents, friends, and librarian for suggestions. Maintain a balanced lifestyle! Make sure you set aside time to relax, be with friends and family, and take part in activities that you enjoy. Junior year can be stressful so it is important to maintain balance so that you can feel proud of your accomplishments and enjoy your high school experience!! 54!

55 12 th GRADE: SENIOR PREPARATION & CHECKLIST HELPFUL TIP: GET ORGANIZED! Getting organized will help you manage your busy senior year. Here are some ways to help you keep track of deadlines and details: -Purchase a file box and create a file folder for each college to which you are applying. Keep college information, brochures, correspondence, and, very important, copies of all your submitted applications in labeled folders. Also, create folders for financial aid and scholarship information, senior profile, school transcript, academic resume, test scores, etc. -Purchase or make a large wall calendar and mark it with due-dates for applications and scholarships/financial aid. Check each college website and note relevant due dates. Not all schools have the same deadlines. It is up to you to keep track of these deadlines! -As you calendar your deadlines, try to set a goal for yourself to submit applications one-to-two weeks ahead of each deadline. Often, as deadlines draw near, application websites (UC, CSU, Common Application) become overloaded and submission takes longer. Submitting a week or more before a deadline will give you piece of mind and help you avoid the stress of busy submission dates. FALL AND WINTER CHECKLIST: Finalize your list of 6-10 schools to which you will apply. Review your list with you counselor and family members. Make sure you have selected a variety of schools that mesh with your academic profile (grades, test scores, and extracurricular activities) It is okay to apply to several reach/wildcard schools but make sure that you have a larger portion of schools which are sure bets or will likely accept you. You want to have options come decision time! Decide if you will be applying Early Action, Early Decision, or Rolling Admission to any of the schools on your list. If you are, make sure to let your teachers and counselor, who are writing your recommendations, know of these earlier due dates (refer to the Recommendations section of this handbook for additional information). Also refer to the Decision Plan section of this handbook for more information. Create folders for the teachers who are writing recommendations for you. They should include: a list of the colleges to which you are applying, deadlines for the recommendations, required forms, pre-addressed and stamped (two stamps for each) envelopes (if not submitting online), a copy of your senior profile and/or resume, and any other information that the teachers request. Include a handwritten note of thanks to your teachers and do not forget to give them a sincere thank you note after they have completed and submitted the recommendation for you. Refer to the Recommendation section of this handbook for more information. Turn in your completed Senior Profile to your counselor (copies can be found in this manual and in the Career Center or your counselor s office). If you are applying early to any schools, turn in your Profile in early September so that your counselor will have enough time to write you the Counselor Report. If you are applying Regular Decision, complete and submit the Profile no later than October 31 st. If you need assistance with your Profile, discuss this with your counselor. Note: If you are behind schedule with your Profile, make an appointment with your Counselor to discuss your situation. Attend college visits in the College and Career Center. Throughout the fall, many colleges come to ECHS, either during lunch or in the evening, to present their school and talk with! 55!

56 students. This is a great opportunity for you to talk with college admissions representatives, learn about academics, campus life and for you to ask questions. The College and Career Center posts weekly college visit announcements on the e-tree, over the daily morning announcements and on a printed sheet in the College and Career Center. Visit the College and Career Center each week to learn about and get assistance with: applications, essays, financial aid, scholarships and much more! Consider scheduling interviews with some of the colleges at the top of your list. You can set up an interview on the college s website. Interviews are not always required or offered and sometimes cannot be scheduled until an application has been submitted. Take the SAT/ACT. Make sure of the last possible test date accepted at the colleges you are applying to (these are usually October, November or December but check each college website for confirmation). Take SAT Subject tests if required by the colleges on your list. Submit your test scores for the SAT, ACT and AP tests to schools. You are responsible for sending scores. Fee waivers are available for qualified students check with the Career Center for information. Finish your college essays and have a teacher, counselor, friend or family member look at them before you send them in. Get feedback from your readers but make sure the essay stays true to who you are and which reflects your voice! Review the Essay section of this handbook for tips and guidance. Fill out your college applications: The Common Application goes live in August and submissions can happen anytime thereafter. The UC and CSU applications are available October 1 st but cannot be submitted until November 1 st. UC and CSU are due November 30! If you apply early or regular admission, check the specific deadlines for each college!!!! Print out and save a copy of each application. Keep copies of all records, test scores, essays, and applications. Check with your counselor to confirm that your Counselor Recommendation/Report has been submitted. At the end of the first semester, follow-up with your counselor regarding the submission of your Mid-Year report to private colleges. This includes your fall transcript and any other updates or additions to your academic profile. Apply for EOP and each UC/CSU EOP office of interest to check deadlines for the EOP application. Register for CSS PROFILE in early fall if you are applying for financial aid at Begin gathering (with your family) the necessary documents for the FAFSA form that will need to be filled out in January. Go to for more information and due dates. Make a list of due dates for the CSS Profile and FAFSA for each college as they often vary. Apply for a Cal Grant. IMPORTANT: Make sure to use the exact name on your transcript and social security card for your financial aid, scholarship and college applications!! Refer to the Financial Aid section of this handbook for additional information and resources.! 56!

57 Attend a Cash-For-College Financial Aid/Scholarship Night at ECHS! This informative meeting will help you and your parent/guardian know how to complete financial aid forms and where to look for scholarships. This event takes place in January or February of each year and is free. Parents & Guardians: Get your taxes done early so your student can submit his/her aid forms early! Keep copies of all forms and if you mail documents from the post office, make sure to get a certificate of delivery for your records. Research scholarships and write for applications if needed. Refer to the Financial Aid/Scholarship section of the handbook for additional resources and visit the College and Career Center for weekly scholarship updates. Many scholarships become available between February and April. Keep up your grades! Do not let senioritis get the best of you. Senior grades count to colleges and acceptances are contingent on your senior grades. If you are struggling in any of your classes, make sure to get support! IMPORTANT: If you are considering dropping a course, make sure to consider how the drop will look to colleges to which you are applying. Colleges want to see students continually challenging themselves. While it is tempting to opt for a lighter load, especially in the spring semester of your senior year, you should try to maintain a challenging (yet manageable) and full schedule of classes and activities. If you end up dropping a class after you have submitted your applications, it is up to you to inform each college about the change in your schedule. SPRING CHECKLIST: The FAFSA is due by March 2 nd! Double check all submission dates for the CSS Profile. Apply for scholarships. Visit the Career Center and refer to the Financial Aid/Scholarship section of this handbook for additional resources. IMPORTANT: Check your daily for updates from the colleges you applied to. Admissions notifications usually come out in late-march and early-to-mid April for private colleges and some UC s. State universities usually notify between March-May or on a rolling basis. Acceptance and denial notices continue through July. IF you are wait-listed, make sure to see what steps need to be taken. Some schools require you to let them know if you want to remain on the wait-list. Keep in touch with the Admissions Offices at the school(s) to which you are waitlisted to check your status and demonstrate your interest. Important: wait-listed students may not find out if they have been accepted from the wait-list until after the May 1 st national admission deadline. Please note: It is highly recommended that a student also submit a Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) to another school where admitted, in case the wait list does not clear, as in most cases colleges do not admit from wait lists until after the May 1 st SIR deadline. If the wait-list does clear, and you wish to change schools, you will most likely lose your original deposit from the school to which you accepted an SIR. It is also important to ask a wait-list school if there will be financial aid and housing available to you should you be accepted from the wait-list. Do your homework.! 57!

58 If you DID NOT get accepted into any of your college choices, check with your counselor or the Career Center for colleges and universities that have Rolling Admission or which did not fill their freshman class for the upcoming year. Some schools have spots for students yearround, until the class is filled. Do not despair. There are many colleges that have rolling admissions and some who have not filled their freshman classes. Financial Aid award packages and Cal Grant notifications are announced in the spring. Once you have your award packages, sit down with your family and discuss your options. Create a side-by-side comparison of costs and work together to figure out what you and your family can afford. If you are deciding between a few colleges, contact them directly to see if they can increase your award or suggest alternate financing options. Keep up your grades! Over spring break, take time to visit or re-visit schools to which you have been accepted. Many colleges have accepted students days and these are a great time to refresh your memory about a particular school. Also, spend some time creating a pro and con list for each school to see if you can narrow your choices to find the right fit for you. MAY 1 st is the official Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) date for most colleges. You will most likely have to put down a financial deposit at this time. Apply for housing at your college. Request, from the Main Office, that your final transcript be sent to the college of your choice before the end of school. This is the student s responsibility. Fill out the Transcript Request Form at the end of this handbook or fill one out in the Main Office. If you are going to attend Community College, apply in the spring, take the necessary assessment tests, register for classes, and get ahead by taking summer school courses. Consider writing thank you notes to teachers, counselor and staff that helped and supported you throughout high school. Make sure to let your teachers know where you were accepted and where you will be attending college in the fall. Mark your calendars for Senior Awards Night. Submit required documentation to the College and Career Center for proper recording and recognition. CONGRATULATIONS! ENJOY GRADUATION! ENJOY YOUR SUMMER!! 58!

59 SELECTED RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS APPLYING TO COLLEGE Objective Reference Guides: College Handbook, The College Board Four-Year Colleges, Peterson s Subjective Reference Guides and Websites: Fiske Guide to Colleges, Edward B. Fiske Colleges That Change lives: 40 Schools That Will change the Way You Think About Colleges, Loren Pope -Consult the accompanying website for additional information on these 40 unique colleges and for dates of their free college fairs (they come to the Bay Area each year). The Best Colleges, Princeton Review The College Finder, by Steven Antonoff. Includes over 600 lists of colleges divided by category. Unigo at College Prowler at General Admission Information Websites: College Board at The Common Application at Advanced Placement at College Fairs Online at College Navigator: NACAC National College Fairs at Exploring College Options at California State University Information: University Of California Admissions Information: California Community College Information: Black College Expo: Virtual college campus tours: Testing Information: ACT at SAT and SAT Subject Tests at Fair Test at provides a list of schools that do not require SAT/ACT tests! 59!

60 Free Practice Tests and Test Preparation ACT Sample Test at Number2 at SAT College Board Practice Test at sat.collegeboard.org/practice/sat-practice-test ECHS College & Career Center: Check for free SAT prep classes, fee waivers, etc. Materials & Websites About The Admission Process College Admission: From Application To Acceptance, Step By Step, Robin Mamlet & Christine Vandevelde -Consult the accompanying website for additional information and downloadable planning worksheets. College Match: A Blueprint for Choosing the Best School for You, by Steven R. Antonoff, 11 th edition. -Includes helpful worksheets, self-surveys and assessments to help students find and choose the best school for them. Worksheets are also available at The Gatekeepers, Jacques Steinberg. An inside look at the admissions process. Crazy U: One Dad s Crash Course in Getting His Kid Into College, by Andrew Ferguson -A humorous account of one parent s experiences as his son applies to college. Harvard Schmarvard: Getting Beyond the Ivy League to the College that is Best for You, by Jay Matthews. Less Stress, More Success: A New Approach to Guiding Your Teen Through College, by Marilee Jones and Kenneth Ginsburg and offer college resources for African- American Students. offers college resources for Hispanic/Latino students. by the Women s College Coalition Financial Aid Resources: -FAFSA at -CSS Financial Aid Profile: -Fastweb at -College Board (for CSS Profile) at -FinAid at -Federal Student Aid at -California Student Aid Commission (Cal Grant): -I Can Afford College: This website from the California Community - Colleges offers resources to help with college affordability. -To research colleges that offer merit aid, go to -ECHS College & Career Center: Visit frequently and pick-up the weekly scholarship bulletin and schedules for financial aid workshops.! 60!

61 Special Interests Resources and Websites: Learning Differences: K&W Guide To Colleges for Students with Learning Disabilities or ADHD, Marybeth Kravets and Imy Wax Association on Higher Education and Disability at The College Sourcebook for Students with Learning and Developmental Differences, Midge Lipkin Gap Year: Before You go: The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Gap Year, Tom Griffiths Gap Year Guidebook, Wendy Bosberry-Scott Americorps at Global Volunteers at Global Citizen Year at American Gap Association at The Arts: College Guide for Performing Arts Majors 2009: The Real-World Admission Guide for Dance, Music, and Theater Majors, by Carole Everett National Portfolio Day at Creative Colleges: A Guide for Student Actors, Artists, Dancers, Musicians and Writers, by Elaina Loveland Athletics: The National Directory of College Athletics, by Collegiate Directories, Inc. NCAA at The NAIA Eligibility Center at !

62 HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES This is a selected list of historically black colleges and universities across the country. Visit each school s website for detailed information about academics, student life, financial aid and admission. Also consult the following websites that provide college resources for African-American students: and Note: historically black colleges admit students from all social, ethnic and economic backgrounds. Spellman College Morehouse College Howard University Fisk University Tuskegee University Xavier University Claflin University North Carolina A&T State University Clark Atlanta University Coppin State Delaware State University Florida A&M University Dillard University North Carolina Central University Johnson C. Smith University Tennessee State University Tougaloo College Winston-Salem State University Elizabeth City State University Morgan State University Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University (A&M) Lincoln University Bennett College Oakwood University South Carolina State University Bowie State University Virginia State University University of Maryland Eastern Shore Norfolk State University Fayetteville State University Jackson State University Kentucky State University Alcorn State University Alabama State University The Bay Area is host to the Black College Expo ( every January. Many Historically Black Colleges send Admissions Officers to talk with students. Check with the College and Career Center for dates and locations.! 62!

63 Selected Colleges That Offer Strong Programs in Fine Arts, Design, Music and/or Theater West: Academy of Art University (San Francisco, CA) Arizona State University (AZ) Art Center College of Design (Pasadena, CA) Art Institute of Portland (Portland, OR) Art Institute of Seattle (Seattle, WA) Brooks Institute (Santa Barbara, CA) California College of the Arts (Oakland, CA) California Institute of the Arts (Valencia, CA) Chapman University (CA) University of Colorado, Boulder (CO) Mills College (Oakland, CA) Occidental College (Los Angeles, CA) Otis College of Art and Design (Los Angeles, CA) Pacific Northwest College of Art (Portland, OR) Pomona College (Claremont, CA) San Francisco Art Institute (San Francisco, CA) San Francisco Conservatory of Music (San Francisco, CA) Santa Clara University (CA) Scripps College (Claremont, CA) UC Santa Barbara (CA) Stanford University (CA) UCLA (Los Angeles, CA) University of Oregon (OR) USC (CA) Whitman College (WA) Willamette University (OR) Midwest: School of the Art Institute of Chicago (IL) Beloit College (WI) Case Western Reserve (OH) Cleveland Institute of Art (Cleveland, OH) Cleveland Institute of Music (Cleveland, OH) Kenyon College (OH) Lawrence University (WI) Minneapolis College of Art and Design (Minneapolis, MN) University of Michigan (MI) Northwestern University (IL) Oberlin College (OH) Washington University (MO) South: University of North Carolina School of the Arts (Winston-Salem, NC) Rice University (TX) Savannah College of Art and Design (Savannah, GA) Vanderbilt University (TN)! 63!

64 Northeast: Amherst College (MA) American University (Washington D.C.) School of Visual Arts (NY) Bard College (NY) Barnard College (NY) Berklee College of Music (MA) Boston University (Boston, MA) Boston College (MA) Boston Conservatory (MA) Brown University (RI) Brandeis University (MA) Bryn Mawr College (PA) Carnegie Mellon University (PA) Columbia University (NY) Cornell University (NY) Cooper Union, (NY) Emerson College (MA) Fordham University (NY) Goucher College (MD) Harvard University (MA) Julliard School (NY) Macalester College (MN) Middlebury College (VT) New England Conservatory of Music (MA) New York University (NY) Parsons School of Design (New York) Pratt Institute (New York) Pennsylvania College of Art and Design (Lancaster, PA) Rhode Island School of Design (Providence, RI) Sarah Lawrence College (NY) Skidmore College (NY) Smith College (MA) Tufts University (MA) Vassar College (NY) Wesleyan University (CT) Yale University (CT) Resources and Websites for the Arts: --College Guide for Performing Arts Majors 2009: The Real-World Admission Guide for Dance, Music, and Theater Majors, by Carole Everett National Portfolio Day at --Creative Colleges: A Guide for Student Actors, Artists, Dancers, Musicians and Writers, by Elaina Loveland --Consult with your ECHS dance, art, theater and music teacher for additional insight and resources.! 64!

65 Selected California Colleges & Universities for Dance California Institute for the Arts (Cal Arts) University of California, Irvine University of California, Berkeley University of California, Santa Cruz University of California, Davis San Jose State University San Francisco State University Cal State Fullerton Cal State Long Beach Cal State East Bay Chapman University Mills College Pitzer College Pomona College Saint Mary s College Santa Clara University Scripps College University of San Francisco (USF) University of Southern California (USC) Local Community Colleges with UC-Aligned AA Degrees in Dance: Laney College College of Marin Tips on Applying to University Dance Programs: Jessica Kronenberg, Director of ECHS Dance Program provided the following guidelines for students applying to university dance programs. -Dance students should research dance programs by browsing college websites. a dance professor or department head at the schools you are interested in with specific questions; this is also a good way for you to demonstrate interest in a particular school. -Determine what is most important to you in a dance program: size of program, focus on specific genres, and/or the proximity to performing arts hubs (such as New York City, Los Angeles, or Chicago). -Make a calendar of audition dates and deadlines for video portfolio and application submissions. Deadlines can be earlier than regular college application dates. -Clarify video audition requirements for each school. These requirements can be very different from school-to-school, however in many cases a video made for one portfolio can be used for more than one school if the requirements are similar. -Use the ECHS Dance Program as a resource for making your video portfolio for auditions; students enrolled in Dance can use the dance studio to rehearse and film their dance audition submissions. Be sure to plan ahead and give yourself enough time to compile and edit your video files. -Maintain an updated Dance Resume (separate from your Academic Resume) that includes: your background in dance training, performances, choreography, and other activities in dance (workshops attended, informal performances, leadership roles in dance).! 65!

66 SCHOOLS WITH STRONG ENGINEERING PROGRAMS Schools in California: A Selected List (There are many other colleges in California offering engineering) University of California, Berkeley (UCB) University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) University of California, San Diego (UCSD) University of California, Davis (UCD) University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) California Institute of Technology (Cal Tech) Harvey Mudd College Cal Poly Pomona Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Cal State Long Beach Cal State Northridge San Diego State University Santa Clara University Sonoma State University University of Redlands University of the Pacific (UOP) Stanford University University of Southern California (USC) Schools Outside of California: A Selected List (There are many other colleges with engineering programs): Arizona State University, AZ University of Arizona, AZ Brown University, Providence, RI Case Western Reserve, Cleveland, OH Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA Colorado School of Mines, CO Columbia University, NY Cooper Union, NY Cornell University, Ithaca, NY Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH Duke University, Durham, NC Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering, Needham, MA George Washington University, Washington, DC Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA Gonzaga University, WA Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MA Northwestern University, Evanston, IL Oregon State University, OR University of Oregon, OR University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA Rice University, Houston, TX Seattle University, WA Tufts University, MA Washington University in St. Louis, MO University of Washington, WA! 66!

67 El Cerrito High School TRANSCRIPT REQUEST FORM Please write legibly! OWES PAID DATE Current students are entitled to two (2) FREE transcripts per school year; thereafter there is a $2.00 fee per transcript. Former students: transcripts are $ 5.00 EACH and $ 2.00 for each additional transcript. ** SAME DAY TRANSCRIPTS COST $6.00 EACH NO EXCEPTIONS! **OTHERWISE 3-5 DAYS** ***TRANSCRIPTS WILL NOT BE SENT UNTIL THE TRANSCRIPT FEE HAS BEEN PAID AND ALL UNPAID SCHOOL FINES HAVE BEEN CLEARED. *** Name (while attending school) LAST FIRST Birth Date Year You Will Graduate Complete Home Address Phone Number How many transcripts? Check One Check One Pick Up (In main office) Mail/Fax Directly (Put Address Below) Official (Sealed Envelope) Unofficial (Unsealed Envelope) Destination: (Fill out ONLY if transcript is being sent somewhere!). Make sure to include the address EXACTLY how it should appear on the envelope. Print or type legibly! Signature:! 67!

68 NOTES:! 68!