North Point High SchoolCollege & Career Center Newsletter

Anna Grow – College & Career Advisor September 2018 agrow@ccboe.com Follow me on Twitter @NPHS_CCC 301-753-1759

Welcome to a new and exciting year at North Point High School. The College & Career Center has great things to share with all students throughout the school year. For our North Point seniors - this year each of you will make one of the biggest decisions of your life. Deciding what to do following high school graduation is an important one. The Counseling Department and the College & Career Center are here to help you and your parents every step of the way.

Visit the College & Career Center often, listen for announcements and read this monthly newsletter for up-to-date information that will relate to you. This newsletter is posted monthly on the North Point website. Printed copies are also available in the College & Career Center. Share this information with your parents who will help and support you through this decision making process.

Seniors ENJOY your last high school year and continue to be a positive influence for those students following you at North Point High School.

Upcoming Local Events

College Fair of Charles County hosted by the CCPS is Monday, September 17, 2018 at North Point High School, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and open to the public 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Over 100 colleges will be attending. Financial Aid Workshops are scheduled at 6:15 pm and 7:15 pm. The College Fair presents an opportunity for juniors, seniors and their parents to talk with representatives from colleges, universities and trade schools. Juniors and seniors that turn in a permission slip can attend the day session 9:00 am to 9:40 am. The deadline to turn in the college fair permission slip to Mrs. Grow is Wednesday, September 12, 2018.

SENIOR STUDENT/PARENT INFORMATION NIGHT and FINANCIAL AID NIGHT October 4 th seniors and their parents should plan to attend the NPHS Senior/Parent Information Night/Financial Aid on Oct. 4, 6:30 pm in the auditorium. You will receive information on the 12th grade plan, SAT/ACT test information, College & Career Center, college application process, and financial aid.

Keys to College Fair Success

College fairs are in full force this time of year. Many students have never been to a college fair and are uncertain of what to ask college representatives. Students are wondering if their parents should go to the college fair with them. The individual situations will vary, but one thing all students have in common is that they want to know what to ask at the college fair.

Some general tips to consider: Dress professionally. Do your research ahead of time and look at the school websites of those that you are interested in. Write down your questions before the fair so that you remember what you want to ask. It gets a little intimidating if you go to a college fair unprepared.Questions for a College FairA good way to start is by introducing yourself, your field of interest and your high school/grade level. That great opener makes a good impression. Also, consider the following questions:

What type of student organizations and clubs are there for students?

1. When are the enrollment deadlines and do you require a certain SAT score?2. Can I get a list of majors to take with me?3. Will you be reviewing admission applications, if so what do you look for?4. Can the enrollment fees be waived?5. What does your school consider for admissions? (i.e. activities, grades, sat scores, experience, interests, etc.)6. Can you tell me about the safety history of the college and possible the community it is in?7. What percentage of your students go on to graduate school?8. What is the placement rate for those seeking employment?

9. What accommodations do you offer for students with physical disabilities or learning differences?10. What are the retention rates of incoming students at your school?11. Is tutoring available for all students, if so, is it free?12. What is the biggest student complaint you hear currently?13. What is your typical class size look like?14. Can I have a business card with your direct phone number? (in case you have further questions)15. What is the parking situation like?16. Do you offer student housing, if so, for how long?17. What kind of financial aid does your school offer?18. What is the cost of going to school there annually? (i.e. tuition, room and board, etc.) 19. Does your school allow double majors or a change of major?20. Is the campus wireless?21. Can I work on campus?22. Does your school offer scholarships or grants for incoming students? How can I be considered?23. What percentage of students return for their second year?

Visit a College like an Expert

It is hard to figure out if a college is a good fit without spending time on the campus and talking to students who have been there a year or more. Even if the college is local or a community college, visit the campus. If your family cannot travel to a college, consider that many colleges now offer virtual tours. To help you prepare for a visit to a college campus, there are some key things to keep in mind.Plan Ahead:A campus visit goes quickly, so you and your parents should have a plan for the visit. Here are some things to consider:

Visit websites for information about tours and open houses, as well as campus maps, and parking information. Ask about visiting a class or two. Ask which ones are open to visitors, when they are open, and how to go about getting into the

class for a visit. Look at the college website and catalog. Think about what you want to learn on campus and try to figure out where you can find

that information while on campus. Fit in additional activities that will give you a better sense of campus life, such as eating in the cafeteria and reading a copy of the

student newspaper. Watch how students interact with one another and think about if this were an environment you would feel comfortable.

Schedule enough time to see and do all you want to do on campus and in the area. It may be easier to visit a college during the summer or winter break, but try to go when school is in session. It will give you a better feel for campus life.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes – campuses can be spread out, and you may be walking for a long time. Layered clothing – some buildings may be well air-conditioned and some may not. Pen, paper, and a list of questions to ask. Anything the college may have asked you to bring. Money for lunch, parking, and other incidental expenses.

Questions To Ask During a Campus VisitA college guide will tell you some, but not all, of the things you need to know. Always go prepared to ask the admissions office staff and students on campus questions. Here are a few questions to get you started:

For Students Are you happy here? What do you like best? What would you change if you could? What kind of extracurricular activities are available to students? Did you have trouble getting the classes you wanted? Is this dorm room we’re seeing typical for a first-year dorm room? Do you know how big a typical first-year dorm room is?

For the Admissions Office What percentage of first-year students return for their second year of college? What is the graduation rate for students here? How much does that rate vary if students are… low-income? African American?

Latino? What is the average amount of time it takes students to graduate? What is the average size of general education courses here? For how many years are students guaranteed campus housing?

Research and Compare Colleges

Arrow Collegiate Tour www.arrowcollegiatetour.com, Nov. 14-18 – 7 Historically Black Colleges and University Tour

College Visits Tours. Tours are led and supervised by trained staff and high school counselors. Complete list www.college-visits.com. Tours are set up across the United States and Canada. Register online and call 843-853-8149 for details

CappexConnect Online at http://www.cappex.com connect with colleges, faculty and admissions, watch live presentations from a

variety of institutions on your computers, learn more about specific colleges

Career Cruising: Interest and Skills Assessments - Career Profiles - Multimedia Interviews - College and Financial Aid Information - Electronic Career Portfolio - Resume Builder www.careercruising.com, Username: nphs, password: eagles, student’s account: Username: cc08-000 and student’s ID number, Password: student’s birthdate two-digit month, two-digit day and four-digit year. Student should then create their password

College Majors 101 Students learn about majors, students get recruited by Universities for them www.majors101.com

What can I do with this major? Go to www.collegemajors101.com or http://whatcanidowiththismajor.com/majors

College Navigator from the US Dept. of Education, Find the right college for you: www.nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator

College Week Live Virtual College Info free and available online www.CollegeWeekLive.com

Common Application - Over 500 schools accept this application: www.commonapp.org

EDU, Inc. Common Black College Application: 32 member institutions, one $35.00 application fee- www.eduinconline.com

Login: 2018 Password: Apps18 (case sensitive) Free Information: All students at NPHS have access to www.getin2college.com/protected/websource.html information on college admissions, grade level planning calendars, checklists, SAT and ACT college testing, links to the Maryland college system websites, over 600 other web links. Info for student athlete Division I and II collegiate sports. Access this from the above icon.

Maryland Resources

MDgo4it is a valuable resource for juniors and seniors. It includes deadline dates for State financial assistance, tips on preparing for postsecondary education, college admission information, and resources on careers. www.MDgo4it.org

College 411 – A Student Guide to Higher Education & Financial Aid in Maryland – go to www.mhec.state.md.us/preparing/College411/College411Home.asp

Academic Common Market tuition savings program for college students who live in the 16 states that are members of the Southern Regional Education Board and want to pursue a degree not available in your home state yet pay in-state rates. www.mhec.state.md.us click on Academic Common Market under the red column for parents and students.

ARTSYS Articulation system for transferring courses from one Maryland University or College to another, http://artweb.usmd.edu

Coalition for Access, Affordability, and Success www.mycoalition.org, online college application system that allows high school students, grades 9-12 to set up an account and begin learning about the application and financial aid processes, over 95 public and private universities across the U.S. that comprise the Coalition for Access, Affordability, and Success. http://www.coalitionforcollegeaccess.org/alert.html

Research Jobs & Careers

BrainTrack’s Career Guide http://www.braintrack.com/colleges-by-career This guide offers in-depth career profiles as well as degree and wage statistics for over 300 occupations that commonly require college or university education.

Career Coach: www.csmd.emsicareercoach.com

Career Cruising: Interest and Skills Assessments - Career Profiles - Multimedia Interviews - Electronic Career Portfolio - Resume Builder www.careercruising.com

Careers in the Electrical Industry Students can see Mr. Gascon, NPHS Electrical Construction instructor for Apprenticeship opportunities for high school graduates with IBEW. First-year students earn approximately $51,000 while participating in the tuition-free program. The graduates of the program earn up to $84,800 per year plus benefits once they become journeyman electricians.

Career One Stop- sponsored by the US Dept. of Labor www.careeronestop.com

Dental Assistant Training contact Dr. Coleman, 703-963-8969

Divers Academy International Career opportunities in commercial diving and underwater welding, hands-on learning, comprehensive certifications, 5 month program, career assistance, high job placement, high income potential, www.diversacademy.edu

DOD Website to Help Youth Explore Pathways for Their Future: http://www.myfuture.com

Employment Information: The Maryland Job Service: 175 Post Office Road in Waldorf, Maryland. Office hours for Job Service referrals are from 8:00 am-3:00 pm daily. Maryland Job Service: 301-645-8712 or www.careernet.state.md.us Federal Government Jobs – Opportunities for jobs with the Federal Government: www.USAJOBS.gov

Lundeberg Maryland Seamanship School, Inc. A vocational school dedicated to preparing students for successful careers as U.S. merchant mariners. Tuition-free training, no prior experience necessary, www.seafarers.org Located on the campus of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, 45353 St. Georges Ave., Piney Point, MD 20674

Marine Trades Association of Maryland Career in the boating industry, www.mtam.org

Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program -Apprenticeships combine supervised, structured, paid on-the-job training and related technical instruction to teach apprentices the skills necessary to succeed in a specific occupation. The apprentice works full time and receives training from the sponsoring organization. http://www.dllr.state.md.us/labor/approcc/approcclinks.shtml

Maryland Apprenticeships websites: http://steamfitters-602.org www.washdcjatc.org www.causegmw.org www.ua.org www.iuoelocal77.com www.local5plumbers.org Electrical Industry www.getchargedup.org

Maryland Dental Assistant School 10 weeks, entry-level dental assistant program, Dr. Evelyn Leach, 888-401-4555, fax 240-253-2673, 15638 Livingston Road Unit 9, Accokeek, MD 20607

Maryland Natural Resources Police Natural Resource Cadet, high school graduate, men and women between ages of 18 and 20, full-time position, to apply: www.dnr.state.md.us/nrp

Maryland Workforce Exchange Specifically designed for job seekers, students, case managers, employers, training providers, workforce professionals, and others seeking benefits and services. The system provides fast access to a complete set of employment tools in one website: https://mwejobs.maryland.gov/vosnet/Default.aspx

O*NET OnLine –Career exploration and job analysis, detailed descriptions of the world of work http://www.onetonline.org/

Plumbers and Gasfitters Apprenticeship sponsored by Washington, DC Plumbers & Gasfitters Local No. 5, , 8509 Ardwick-Ardmore Rd, Landover, MD 20785, 301-322-8810, info in the Career Center

Plumbers and Pipefitters Apprenticeship 5000 Forbes Blvd., Lanham, MD 20706, $50 application fee. More info 301-552-3505

Security Professional Development Institute training and development of security practitioners for the security industry, training academy information: www.spdtraining.com Snagajob – America’s largest hourly employment network for job seekers and employers. Browse jobs that are available in a certain area and/or use their resources to learn some tips to help you when you are finding a job. Go to: www.snagajob.com

Southern Maryland Job Source Provides a variety of employment and support resources to assist job seekers in achieving their employment goals. https://www.dllr.state.md.us/county/smd/

Steamfitters, Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, Process Piping & Environmental Systems Field Apprenticeships: trade school located at 8509 Ardwick-Ardmore Road, Landover, Maryland 20785. Be sure to bring your birth certificate or passport and a valid driver’s license or valid state issued identification card. You must be 18 years of age to apply. Call 301-341-1555 for more information.

STEMjob.com - Discover your career, do what you love, go to www.STEMjobs.com click on “Find Your STEM Type, take quiz and get results, see which jobs match your type

United States Intelligence Community Intelligence Careers –Offers students a wide variety of excellent programs to get a jumpstart on a career in intelligence. Choose your agency, education level, field of study and the type of opportunity you are looking for, and match your needs to theirs. For more information go to: https://www.intelligencecareers.gov/icstudents.html?Agency=NSA

Opportunities

Charles County Children’s Aid Society Volunteer opportunity for students to give back to the community, volunteers are needed on a daily basis, http://childrens-aid-society.org/ contact the volunteer coordinator 301-645-1561

MARYLAND GENERAL ASSEMBLY PAGE PROGRAM Seniors — would you like to become a page for the Maryland General Assembly? You could be one of a select group of high school seniors who will go to the State capitol in Annapolis to work as a page during the 2019 Legislative Session. See Mrs. Newton, room 2307 for more information. Deadline date to apply is September 28.

MIT Get to know Information session in the area, September 6, 7:00 pm, Woodrow Wilson High School, Washington, DC and September 8, 7:00 pm, Forest Park High School, Woodbridge, VA for more info: mitadmissions.org/visit/travel

Rensselear Star Program Science, Technology Arts, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY October 25-27, experience life as a Rensselaer student, apply: http://admissions.rpi.edu/STAR/ Deadline: September 24

National College Fairs These free college fairs are held in 55 US cities each year. More than 300 colleges will attend these fairs.

Washington, DC National College Fair Nov. 3, 2 pm – 5 pm Walter E. Washington Convention Center

Washington, DC Performing and Visual Arts College Fair Nov. 4, 1 pm-3:30 pm Ronald Reagan Bldg. and International Trade Center for more information, visit: www.nationalcollegefairs.org.

Four-Year “At-a Glance” Planner

Freshman Year or Before• Think about careers and college majors. What interests you?• Set goals for yourself. Will you be trying for a top tier (most selective) college?• Participate in activities (sports, clubs, and hobbies) that interest you with an eye toward leadership.• Keep up your grades and take the most challenging schedule you can (and get A’s and B’s).• Plan a challenging sophomore curriculum. Can you take one or more AP classes?• Don’t waste your summer. Do something that will enhance your future college applications.

Sophomore Year• Take challenging classes and keep your grades up. This is one of the most important years.• Try the PSAT test early for practice and to see how you do. Use it to project your SAT scores.• Take a career assessment test. Are you getting some career ideas?• Keep up the activities. Add some community service and volunteer work, and/or a paid job.• Start to develop a preliminary list of target schools that you might consider.• Plan a challenging junior curriculum. Can you take one or more AP classes?• Should you take any SAT Subject Tests this year? (Are you completing/peaking in any subject?)• Begin to develop a resume so you can identify where there might be some weaknesses.• Plan a productive summer that will shore up some aspect of your future applications.

Junior Year• Take challenging classes and keep your grades up. This is the other most important year.• Take the PSAT test and see how you do. Use it to project your SAT scores.• Develop a plan for your standardized testing and how you will prepare.• Keep up the activities. Add some community service and volunteer work, or a paid job.• Think about what type of college feels right to you. What are your requirements?• Have you thought about what you might major in? This can help you select colleges.• Plan some college visits, at least to nearby ones. Do additional research on the internet.• Refine your list of target schools and be sure they span the range of “sure” to “reach”.• Discuss with your parents whether there will be financial considerations and aid required.• Organize a folder of any awards, honors, articles, experiences, etc. that you’ve had or received.• Refine your resume and think about bolstering weak areas. Keep your activities going.• What SAT’s, ACTs, SAT Subject Tests and AP tests are appropriate for this year and when?• Plan a productive summer that will shore up some aspect of your future applications.

Senior Year• Take challenging classes and keep your grades up. You can’t afford to get Senioritis!• Finalize your list of colleges and be sure you are in their database. • Demonstrate interest. Attend open houses, request information, and ask for an interview.• Finish up any remaining standardized testing. This is your last chance to improve your scores.• Ask teachers for letters of recommendations as needed. Not all schools take them.• Finalize your resume. It will help you with your applications. • Download copies of your colleges’ applications. Practice filling them out.• Have your transcript sent to those schools that want it. • Work on your college essays and try some drafts. Have others critique them.• Get your college applications in as early as you can. Consider early decision/action etc.• Preferably set up on-campus interviews, but interview somehow if they are offered at all.• Prepare for interviews by looking at common questions and doing mock interviews with others.• Write thank you notes to anyone who has helped you. (those who wrote letters, interviewers etc.)• Have mid-year reports sent to any colleges that require them. Make sure all materials are in.• Fill out financial aid forms such as FAFSA, PROFILE etc. as needed.• Respond to all colleges that admitted you, either accepting or declining their offers.• Pay attention to housing, meal plan and other important information and deadlines.• Have your transcript sent to the school you will be attending.• If waitlisted at your first choice, accept somewhere else but write them an enthusiastic letter.• If rejected at your first choice, appeal only if you have something compelling & new to send them.

Grade Level Monthly Reminders

Freshman Planning Guide (freshman year DOES count!)

September Begin and continue a thorough self-examination of your abilities and interests. Study hard and get good grades. Set your academic goals now. Think about careers. Use your CareerCruising.com program to research careers. Visit the Career Center. Try a sport, club or other activity. (the more unique the better – but something you enjoy) Begin your resume. Your history reviewed by college reps and scholarship committees starts now. Read! Get to know your Counselor and College & Career Advisor in the Career Center. Set up your account with the “Coalition for Access, Affordability and Success” www.mycoalition.org

Sophomore Planning Guide

September Prepare for the PSAT. (Good practice for next year when you will be eligible for the National Merit Scholarship competition)

Update your career assessment test on CareerCruising.com. Check the Career Center for updated information. Be sure your course selections are preparing you to reach college admissions standards. Start or continue your “brag sheet” or resume. Maintain good grades; READ! (Sophomore and Junior grades almost always count the most) Set up your account with the “Coalition for Access, Affordability and Success” www.mycoalition.org

Junior Planning Guide

September Register for PSAT. Continue refining your list of target schools. Research schools on the internet or via books and visits. Use CareerCruising.com for research. Attend college fairs in your area. Charles County Public Schools’ College Fair is September 18. Check the Career Center for college reps visiting your high school. Research scholarship opportunities using the internet, books, and Career Center resources. Update your resume with any new information. Plan next two years’ extra-curricular and community service activities. Think about when to take the SAT or ACT tests – develop your tentative “test plan.” Set up your account with the “Coalition for Access, Affordability and Success” www.mycoalition.org

Senior Planning Guide

September Get a file “bin” and set up a file for each target school. Attend all high school college-related meetings. Attend college fairs. Meet with counselor and ask questions. Identify all the application deadlines for your schools and fill out checklist. Get your school’s CEEB code and have it handy along with your SS#. Finalize your resume. Research scholarship opportunities from prospective colleges, some require nominations from your counselor. Prep for final SAT/ACT testing and register. Ask teachers for letters of recommendation if your colleges want them. Request interviews at privates whenever they are available. Print practice apps for all your schools even if you will be doing them online. Visit the Career Center and begin researching local scholarship opportunities that are available. Set up your account with the “Coalition for Access, Affordability and Success” www.mycoalition.org

Scholarships

September Deadline:

QuestBridgeEligible: SeniorsCriteria: For low-income students who have excelled academically, top 5-10% of your class, SAT 1310 or ACT 28, eligible for free or reduced price lunchAward: Four-year scholarshipsDeadline: 9/27, www.questbridge.org

United States Senate Youth Program 2018– 2019Eligible: Junior or senior serving in any of the following elected positions: Student body president, vice president, secretary or treasurer; Class president, vice president, secretary or treasurer; Student council representative & Student representative to district, regional or state-level civic or educational organizationCriteria: For outstanding high school student leaders interested in political science.Award: $10,000 & all-expense paid one-week program in Washington D.C. in MarchDeadline: Nomination required, interested students must submit a resume to Mrs. Grow by 9/12

October Deadline:

AES Engineering Scholarship Eligible: You are NOT required to be taking Engineering course to be eligible. Students must submit an essay of between 500 and 1000 words in answer to the following question: When you look back on your life in 30 years, what would it take for you to consider your life successful? What relationships or accomplishments will be important on this journey? Criteria: submit the essay to: scholarships@aesengineers.comAward: $500 Deadline: 10/6 http://www.aesengineers.com/scholarships.htm

BYF Human Resources Construction CouncilEligible: senior, planning to attend a technical school or approved craft training program in any discipline of constructionCriteria: min GPA 2.0Award: $500Deadline: 10/31, http://www.byf.org/get-involved/scholarships/

Coca-Cola Scholars Program Eligible: U. S. Citizen, high school senior, planning to attend an accredited post-secondary institution Criteria: Demonstrated leadership, commitment to community, academic achievement, employmentAward: $10,000 - $20,000 Deadline: 10/31 students apply on-line www.coca-colascholars.org

Hispanic Heritage Foundation/Youth Awards Eligible: Senior, Hispanic heritage, enroll at an accredited higher education institution in 2019-2020Criteria: GPA 3.0 min. unweighted, community involvementAward: up to $3500 Deadline: 10/15, apply on-line www.hhfyouthawards.com

Horatio Alger Association AwardsEligible: Seniors graduating in 2017Criteria: GPA 2.0+, students must demonstrate integrity, hard work, academic achievement, participation in their community, and plan to pursue bachelor’s degree, also demonstrates financial need. Award: various Deadline: 10/25, apply online at http://scholars.horatioalger.org

UMBC Meyerhoff Scholarship ProgramEligible: High School Seniors

Criteria: Minimum 600 Math SAT, GPA 3.0+ and aspire to obtain Ph.D. or MD/Ph.D. in Math, Science, Computer Science, or Engineering. Displayed commitment to Community Service,

Award: tuition, mandatory fees, room & board for up to four years. Deadline: Students interested in being considered for nomination must see Mrs. Grow by 10/12

Wendy’s High School Heisman AwardEligible: Seniors Criteria: Students with a B average and who participate in a school sport and are dedicated to being school role modelsAward: Heisman Patch, Bronze Medal, up to 10,000 for students High SchoolDeadline: 10/17 apply online at www.wendyshighschoolheisman.com

November Deadline:

Prudential Spirit of Community Award Eligible: Students in grades 5 - 12 Criteria: has engaged in a volunteer activity that occurred within the past year, school nomination required Award: $1,000, medallion & all-expense paid trip to Washington, D. C. with parent in May 2019. Deadline: 11/6 application due to Mrs. Grow, College & Career Advisor at your school; http://spirit.prudential.com

February Deadline:

National Society DAR Scholarships Multiple scholarships, pursuit of degrees in diverse disciplines including history, law, nursing, and education. For information and applications: http://dar.org/natsociety/edout_scholar.cfm Deadline: 2/15

Ongoing:

Kids’ Chance of Maryland, Inc. Eligible: Student with a parent or guardian who has suffered a catastrophic or fatal accidental injury or occupational disease while working for a Maryland employer Award: Varies, depending on need and educational expenses, covers tuition and books, may also include housing and meals

SCHOLARSHIP and COLLEGE Information on-line

www.mhec.state.md.us www.finaid.comwww.fastweb.com www.blackstudents.blacknews.comwww.studentaid.ed.gov www.meritaid.comwww.MDgo4it.org www.federalstudentaid.ed.govwww.mapccs.org www.going2college.orghttps://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/ www.collegecost.ed.gov http://www.chegg.com/schools http://www.chegg.com/scholarships http://superscholar.org/50-great-college-scholarships/

Career One Stop Search more than 7,000 scholarships, fellowships, loans, and other financial aid opportunities: www.careerinfonet.org/ScholarshipSearch.

Central Scholarship Bureau seniors planning to attend college full time who meet other eligibility requirements may apply for scholarships and loans through this Maryland agency. www.centralsb.org

College Affordability and Transparency Center This website by the U.S. Department of Education helps students find information about how much it costs to attend different colleges. www.collegecost.ed.gov Below is a list of links available:

College Scorecard - Helps you search for a college that is a good fit. College Navigator - Helps you search for and compare colleges based on all sorts of criteria (costs, majors offered, size of

school, campus safety, graduation rates, admission, retention, and financial aid). Net Price Calculator Center – Allows you to find links to colleges’ net price calculators. Net price calculators help you

estimate how much colleges cost after scholarships and grants.• College Affordability and Transparency List – You can find information about tuition and net prices at postsecondary

institutions.

Free Scholarship Searches More than 70 no-cost scholarship websites, information which includes an instant GPA calculator, contact info for every college in the U.S., a list of colleges which offer comprehensive programs for students with learning disabilities, lists of Christian, Catholic, and woman's colleges, a list of HBCU's, and links to more than 2,500 career schools, online degree programs, and colleges. www.college-scholarships.com/free-scholarship-searches/ GI Transferability Bill Post 9/11 GI Bill family transfer option allows service members to shift their benefits to their families. For more information, see www.defenselink.mil. U.S. Senate approved a new benefit for student veterans and their families. The proposal would require public universities that want to continue receiving GI Bill benefits to offer recent veterans in-state tuition. Veterans’ spouses and dependents are also being eligible for the benefit.

Hispanic Scholarship Fund senior, citizens or legal permanent residents, GPA min 3.0 cumulative, plan to enroll in college full time in the Fall, apply online: www.HSF.net/scholarships , applications close in December

Medical Condition Scholarships Scholarships that are offered for students with specific medical conditions or some for students who have a parent or a family member with a specific diagnosis. Most can be used at any school. Some cover one specific condition, while others cover whole types of diagnoses (such as all types of cancers) or even all chronic diseases. How to Search for Scholarships: The scholarships are sorted several ways: By Medical Condition/Diagnosis (specific conditions such as brain cancer or general categories like cancer) By Non-Medical Condition (social, emotional, psychological or educational issues and disabilities. This includes such categories

as bereavement, bullying victims, family issues and children whose family has or is in the Armed Forces). By All Conditions By Residency of Applicant By Scholarship Name

http://www.needymeds.org/scholarships.taf

Merit ScholarshipsSeniors should contact the Financial Aid Office of their prospective colleges to see if separate applications for aid are due this fall. Some scholarships require a counselor or principal nomination. Ask your prospective colleges' financial aid office for merit scholarship applications. For additional information visit: www.meritaid.com (Scroll down to the Merit Aid information.)

“My College Dollars”Launched by MTV, Get Schooled, and the College Board - Connects students with targeted financial aid opportunities. Visit: http://mycollegedollars.hyfnrsx1.com/scholarships/search.

Student Scholarships.org Maryland scholarship database, quality & depth information, huge time saver, free newsletter option, privacy policy www.studentscholarships.org

United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Scholarships UNCF manages various scholarship programs and each program has its own eligibility criteria, open/close dates and required documentation. To apply for a UNCF scholarship, you must apply through the on-line application process. For more information about deadlines and the award amounts, go to: https://scholarships.uncf.org/

By SchoolTo be eligible for scholarships offered by individual schools, the student must apply and be planning to attend that particular college or university.

“CALL ME MISTER” program is offered by four historical black colleges in South Carolina: Benedict College, Claflin University, Morris College and South Carolina State University. For more information, go to: https://www.clemson.edu/education/callmemister/ for details online or call 1-800-6402657.

Child Care Career and Professional Development Fund MSDE tuition assistance program for child care providers to obtain a college education at participating colleges/universities in Maryland. Funding is available in the following areas: Early Childhood Education,

Child Development, Elementary Education, Special Education. For additional information: Southern Tri-County (Calvert, Charles and St Mary’s Counties) 41670 Courthouse Dr., Leonardtown, MD 20650, (301) 475-3770, (800) 874-6797http://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org/funding-opportunities/family-child-care-provider-grant-program

FIDM Scholarships Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, including eligibility requirement: http://fidm.edu/go/fidmscholarships

Harvard University is offering free tuition to families of HONOR STUDENTS if their income is less than $60,000 per year. Visit www.fao.fas.harvard.edu or call 617-495-1581.

McDaniel College, Educator’s Legacy Scholarship Children of current K-12 educators (any service in school qualifies) who have at least 4 years of continuous full-time employment in a school setting are eligible to receive a scholarship valued at up to $25,000 per year, www.mcdaniel.edu/EduLegacyScholarship

National YoungArts Foundation Artist between the ages of 15 and 18 or grades 10 to 12, YoungArts has recognized more than 20,000 young artists and facilitated more than $60 million in scholarships in the past two years. Applications accepted in Cinematic Arts, Dance, Design Arts, Jazz, Music, Photography, Theater, Visual Arts, Voice, Writing, and Spoken Word. DEADLINE: 10/12/18; www.youngarts.org/apply

University of North Carolina Charlotte Levine Scholars Program 4 years of full tuition, room and board, a new laptop computer, an $8,000 service grant and 4 summers of experiences to incoming freshmen, seeks extraordinary seniors who hold an excellent academic record, demonstrate a commitment to community service and possess a capacity for ethical leadership, unweighted GPA of 3.9 – 4.0 and score 1350-1400 on the three combined sections of the SAT or 29 – 33 on the ACT composite (writing is required). See Mrs. Grow in the Career Center, Deadline: 10/8

Towson UTeach Kahlert Foundation Scholarship for incoming freshmen planning to pursue a career in secondary school mathematics or science, up to $1000 per year for up to four years, www.towson.edu/uteach, deadline 12/1

UMBC Meyerhoff Scholarship Program Seniors with minimum 600 Math SAT, GPA 3.0+ and aspire to obtain Ph.D. or MD/Ph.D. in Math, Science, Computer Science, or Engineering, displayed commitment to Community Service, award includes tuition, mandatory fees, room & board for up to four years, to be considered for nomination must see Mrs. Grow by 10/13

Washington College (MD) National Honor Society High school senior who is a member of the National Honor Society, $12,500- $50,000 scholarship, for information call 800-422-1782x7700.

Gordon Croft Scholarships

To be eligible for the Croft Scholarship awards, students must reside in Southern Charles County, south of Route 225 from La Plata to Indian Head and south of Route 6 from La Plata to the St. Mary’s County line, as well as students residing in La Plata and Indian Head towns. Students who reside in this defined area and who demonstrate financial need are eligible to apply

University of Maryland (College Park, MD) A. James Clark School of Engineering is offering 3 renewable scholarships: The Carol Croft Linde, The Kent Gordon Croft and The Russell Gordon Croft Southern Charles County Scholarships for students, engineering major, financial needWashington and Lee University- Russell Croft ’96 Scholarship provides tuition scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need and who physically attend the Lexington, VA campus. The scholarship awards up to $9,000 per year.Randolph College - Jane Aurell Croft Scholarship provides tuition scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need. The scholarship awards up to $8,000 per year. The scholarship is awarded by the Director of Financial Planning and Assistance.Johns Hopkins University- Russell Gordon Croft Southern Charles County Scholarship provides a tuition scholarship to students who demonstrate financial need. The scholarship awards up to $12,000 per year.Dartmouth College - Croft Scholarship Award provides a tuition scholarship to students at Dartmouth who demonstrate financial need. The scholarship awards up to $10,000 per year. Contact the Dartmouth Financial Aid office for details.

Military News

What is the ASVAB? The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multi-aptitude test battery. It consists of eight short individual tests covering General Science, Arithmetic Reasoning, Word Knowledge, Paragraph Comprehension, Mathematics Knowledge, Electronics information, Auto and Shop Information, and Mechanical Comprehension. Not only do you receive scores on each of these individual tests, you also receive career exploration scores. These scores are the results of individual tests combined to yield three career exploration scores: Verbal Skills, Math Skills, and Science and Technical Skills.

What is the relationship between the ASVAB and the Military? ASVAB participants are not under any obligation to the Military as a result of taking the ASVAB. But a junior or senior can use their scores from the ASVAB to enlist in the Military after graduation. The scores are good for two years. Many students take the ASVAB for career exploration and have no interest in military occupations. Visit the website at www.asvabprogram.com. Did you know?

75% of young adults aged 17 – 24 cannot qualify for military service 13.3% of participating students express interest in a military career Only 2.5% of participating students use a high school ASVAB score to join the military

Your decision to enter college, technical or vocational school, military service or the civilian world of work after high school is an important one. The ASVAB Career Exploration Program can help you take steps now toward finding a career that’s right for you.

The test will be administered here at NPHS in October. All interested juniors and seniors can see Mrs. Grow in the Career Center for the date and to sign up. Test study and practice at: www.asvabprogram.com, and http://www.march2success.com www.4test.com, www.math.com, http://INEEDaPencil.ck12.org www.asvabtutor.com.

Registering with the Selective Service

If you are not registered with Selective Service, you must do so within 30 days of turning 18. You MUST register. This is not a school requirement, it’s the law. If you fail to register, it will affect your ability to receive Federal college loans, grants and student aid. In addition, it will affect your ability to receive job training or to gain citizenship. It will even curtail opportunities to get many good jobs in the future. Register online at www.sss.gov. Or fill out a registration card at any U.S. Post Office.

College Representative Visits Various representatives from colleges, the armed services, technical schools and apprenticeship programs will be in the Career Center throughout the year. In order to hear these representatives, you must sign up in the Career Center before the presentation.

Please sign up early! Also, check in the Career Center for an updated list. College reps call frequently to schedule appointments. Sign up in the College & Career Center and have your agenda book signed by Mrs. Grow. This is your pass to attend. All visits take place in the College & Career Center.

Tuesday, September 18Johns Hopkins University 2:00 4B

Wednesday, September 19Seton Hill University 9:30 2AUniversity of New Haven 1:30 4AMount St. Mary’s University 1:45 4ARandolph-Macon College, VA 2:15 4A

Friday, September 21 Lincoln University 9:30 2A

University of North Carolina-Greensboro 10:00 2AMarymount University 10:30 2AUniversity of Maryland College Park 1:00 3A

Tuesday, September 25Washington College 9:00 1AHood College 1:00 3A

Tuesday, October 2Albright College 1:00 3B

Wednesday, October 3Towson University, MD 10:30 2A

Thursday, October 11Southern University and A&M College 8:30 1B“Provisionally Admitted upon Review”St. Mary’s College of Maryland 10:30 2B

Wednesday, October 17Mary Baldwin College 10:30 2B

Tuesday, October 23Stevenson University 9:00 1B

Monday, October 29University of Maryland Baltimore County 9:00 1B

Wednesday, November 7Seton Hall University 8:30 1B

Financial Aid information

There are four main types of Financial Assistance:

Scholarships – Usually merit based. For example, student may receive a scholarship based on academic performance, athletic ability, or artistic talent. Some scholarships are also based on financial need.

Scholarships may come from the colleges, State or Federal Government, private parties, corporations, clubs and organizations.

Grants – Are usually awarded based on financial need, but may also have other criteria.

Grants may come from the State or Federal Government, private parties, corporations, clubs and organizations.

Loans – Must be repaid.

Subsidized student loans – do not require the borrowers to pay interest while in school (the Federal government pays the interest while the student is in school.)

Unsubsidized student loans – requires the borrowers to pay interest while in school or have it capitalized.

Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to apply for student loans.

Work-Study – A federal program that provides funds to students through jobs arranged by the college. Students work and earn money however these earnings do not affect the FAFSA results.

Work-study is applied for on the FAFSA.

Who should apply and when?

Seniors should be looking for scholarships now through the end of their time in college. I recommend that seniors stop in and see their College and Career Advisor at least once a week. Also, check the scholarship section of this newsletter monthly.

Parents of juniors and seniors may want to check out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Forecaster at www.fAFSA4caster.ed.gov. FAFSA4caster will help you understand your options for paying for college. This year you can apply to FAFSA October 1st of the student’s senior year. Also, remember that you must complete the FAFSA if you are interested in student loans and many schools will not qualify your student for even merit aid if you have not submitted your FAFSA.

Freshman, sophomores and juniors should be looking for scholarships as well. There are scholarships out there for younger students. A great place to look is www.fastweb.com. You should stop in to the Career Center from time to time to see if there are any scholarships for which you are eligible. A great reason to start looking now is searching for scholarships can be time consuming. So get a jumpstart on the search now. In addition, if you know that you want to apply for a scholarships your senior year you can see what types of things scholarship committees are looking for, such as GPA and community service. You cannot go back in time to get a better GPA or work more volunteer hours. Find out what will make you a better candidate and start working toward your goal today!

WAYS TO PAY FOR COLLEGEAiring live – Thursday, September 20, 2018 at 7:00 PM

What career path lies ahead for you? There are countless great jobs out there, but for many of them you’ll need a college degree, and the cost of higher education can cause sticker shock. So how do you plan to pay your college bills?

Join host Mario Armstrong as he guides you through the many twists and turns of finding money for college. Meet financial pros and watch several student success stories as you consider careers and which school is right for you. What fits your budget? Do the financial aid numbers add up? And can you avoid going into debt with student loans?

WATCH this live presentation by clicking on: http://www.mpt.org/college/

College Entrance Testing

As you prepare for college, you will encounter at least one of the following college entrance exams:

What is the SAT and ACT? The SAT and ACT are standardized college admission tests. The test measures the same thing in the same way for everyone who takes it. The results of the tests help colleges determine how well prepared you are for college-level work. Most four-year colleges require that students submit SAT or ACT scores. Some colleges ask applicants to take the optional essay portion of the test and/or the SAT Subject Tests so be sure to check on the college’s website to find out what test scores they accept and what tests they require.

When should you take the SAT, ACT and SAT Subject Tests? Most students take the SAT or ACT for the first time in the spring of junior year. Students who choose to take the SAT or ACT a second time typically do so in the fall of senior year. SAT Subject Tests are best taken directly following relevant courses, while the material from class is still fresh in your mind. However, you can take them at any time during high school.

Resources to help you prepare to take the SAT or ACT: The best thing you can do is take time to prepare and get familiar with the test format before you take the test and PRACTICE! There are many resources out there to help you prepare for either the SAT or ACT. Some resources require a fee, while many others are completely FREE! Students are also welcome to visit the Career Center to find additional resources or to use the computers to start preparing for the tests!

The websites below have FREE practice questions, study guides, articles, flashcards, quizzes, formulas, exam strategies, punctuation rules, grammar rules and more! You have no more excuses…it is time for YOU to get started!

College Board: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat (online registration and information for SAT), https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/practice ACT: www.actstudent.org (online registration and information for ACT), www.actstudent.org/testprep

FairTest: This list includes institutions that are “test optional”, “test flexible” or otherwise de-emphasize the use of standardized tests by making admissions decisions about substantial numbers of applicants who recently graduated from U.S. high schools without using the SAT or ACT. www.fairtest.org/university/optional

SAT PREP from Khan AcademyFor the first time ever, the creators of the SAT have given Khan Academy exclusive access and advice to build a personalized practice program for any students anywhere to practice for the SAT. These tools are FREE and available now for every student to take ownership of their learning and their future! SAT Prep for REDESIGNED SAT – Go to: www.khanacademy.org/sat

SAT/ACT NAVIGATION CLASS Extreme Academic Performance, www.extremeacademicperformance.com, 301-535-0444, email: eaptutoringnow@gmail.com

Studio 531 Tutoring SAT, ACT, & ASVAB TEST PREP, www.studio531tutoringand homework.com 301-632-5437

NCAA Eligibility Center InformationWhat is the NCAA Eligibility Center?The NCAA Eligibility Center certifies the academic and amateur credentials of all college-bound student-athletes who wish to compete in NCAA Division I or II athletics. To assist with this process, the NCAA Eligibility Center staff is eager to foster a cooperative environment of education and partnership with high schools, high school coaches and college-bound student-athletes. Ultimately, the individual student-athlete is responsible for achieving and protecting his or her eligibility status.How to find answers to your questionsThe answers to most questions can be found in the student-athlete guide or by:

• Accessing the NCAA Eligibility Center's resource page on its website at www.eligibilitycenter.org, clicking on “Resources” and then selecting the type of student you are (U.S., International or home school). You can then navigate through the resources to find helpful information.

• Contacting the NCAA Eligibility Center at the phone number below.In addition, if you are sending transcripts or additional information to the NCAA Eligibility Center or have questions, please use the following contact information. NCAA Eligibility Center: Certification Processing, P.O. Box 7136, Indianapolis, IN 46207-7136 (toll free): 877/262-1492 Fax: 317/968-5100Steps to Achieving Your Eligibility:Freshmen and Sophomores

Start planning now! Work hard to get the best grades possible. Take classes that match your high school’s List of NCAA Courses. The NCAA Eligibility Center will use only approved core courses to

certify your initial eligibility. You can access and print your high school’s List of NCAA Courses at www.eligibilitycenter.org. Click the NCAA College-Bound

Student-Athlete link to enter and then navigate to the “Resources” tab and select “U.S. Students” where you will find the link for the List of NCAA Courses.

At the beginning of your sophomore year, complete your online registration at www.eligibilitycenter.org. If you fall behind, do not take short cuts. Classes you take must be four-year college preparatory and must meet NCAA

requirements.Juniors

• Register to take the ACT, SAT or both and use the NCAA Eligibility Center code “9999” as a score recipient. Doing this sends your official score directly to the NCAA Eligibility Center.

• Continue to take college preparatory courses. Double check to make sure the courses you have taken match your school’s List of NCAA Courses.

• Ask your high school counselor to send an official transcript to the NCAA Eligibility Center after completing your junior year. If you have attended more than one high school, the NCAA Eligibility Center will need official transcripts from all high schools attended. (The NCAA Eligibility Center does NOT accept faxed or emailed transcripts/test scores.) The NCAA Eligibility Center does accept transcripts electronically through Docufide/Parchment, e-Scrip Safe, ConnectEdu, National Transcript Center and Xap.

• Before registering for classes for your senior year, check with your high school counselor to determine the number of core courses that you need to complete your senior year.

Seniors • Take the ACT and/or SAT again, if necessary. The NCAA Eligibility Center will use the best scores from each section of the ACT or

SAT to determine your best cumulative score• Continue to take college-preparatory courses.• Check the courses you have taken to match your school’s List of NCAA Courses. • Review your amateurism responses and request final amateurism certification on or after April 1 (for fall enrollees) or October 1

(for spring enrollees). • Continue to work hard to get the best grades possible. • Graduate on time (in eight academic semesters). • After graduation, ask your high school counselor to send your final transcript to the NCAA Eligibility Center with proof of

graduation. The NCAA Eligibility Center accepts transcripts electronically through Docufide/Parchment, e-Scrip Safe, ConnectEdu, National Transcript Center and Xap.

Visit the Career Center to view more information on Career Center activities, important notices on upcoming events, and scholarships. These programs and scholarships are provided as a courtesy. Charles County Public Schools and North Point High School do not rate the quality or value of any of these. For more information, please see Mrs. Grow in the Career Center.

Nondiscrimination statement The Charles County public school system does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or disability in its programs, activities or employment practices. For inquiries, please contact Kathy Kiessling, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (students) or Nikial M. Majors, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 coordinator (employees/ adults), at Charles County Public Schools, Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building, P.O. Box 2770, La Plata, MD 20646; 301-932-6610/301-870-3814. For special accommodations call 301-934-7230 or TDD 1-800-735-2258 two weeks prior to the event.