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1940 South Figueroa Street | Los Angeles, CA 90007 | 213 943-4930 | FAX: 213 943-4931 | www.laalliance.org

PLANNING TOGETHER FOR COLLEGE ANd CAREERS

Printing and distribution partially supported by JPMorgan Chase and Gayle Miller. This publication was made possible through partnership between the Alliance College-Ready Public Schools and Families In Schools.

Preparing forCollege and Careers

A Gu ide TO L i f e LOnG SucceSS fOr S TudenTS And fAmi L i eS

Dear students and families:

Success in school and life is every parent’s hope for his/her child. Success in school leads

to better social economic opportunities and an improved quality of life. By 2018, most

occupations will require schooling beyond high school and in most cases a college degree.

In the next two decades, California will need 3.2 million new college-educated workers –

nurses, teachers, engineers and others to remain competitive in a global economy and

replace the retiring “Baby Boom” generation. The demands of the 21st century require

that tomorrow’s workforce – today’s students are prepared as lifelong learners capable of

adapting to rapid technological advances and an unpredictable economy.

A college education is the best insurance for our children’s future success. When youth

go to college, everyone wins – our children win; our families win; and our communities win.

The Alliance College-Ready Public Schools has been successfully preparing students to

excel in school and graduate from college. We are proud that our charter schools rank

among the best schools in all of Los Angeles and each year our students are accepted to

world- class four-year universities and colleges.

It is our goal to equip students with the academic skills and knowledge to succeed, among

college students from all over the world. We are also committed to working in partnership

with Alliance parents/guardians and building their capacity to support their child’s pathway

to college.

The Alliance in partnership with Families In Schools, supports parents and their children in

navigating the road to college, meaningful careers, and lifelong success. Young adults

need guidance through the college and career preparation process. Parents play a

central role in helping their children navigate the complex pathway to college and careers.

We offer this resource guide to assist Alliance middle and high school children and their

parents/guardians understand the steps that must be taken to gain college admission,

apply for financial aid, and prepare for careers. Together, we will build a better future for

our children and our country.

Sincerely,

Judy BurtonJudy Burton

President and CEO

2010 Unemployment Rates2010 Median Weekly Earnings

Benefits of Higher Education

14.9%

$ 444

Less than aHS Diploma

10.3%

$ 626

High SchoolGraduate

9.2%

$ 712

Some College,No Degree

7.0%

$ 767

AssociateDegree

5.4%

$ 1,0

38

Bachelor’sDegree

4.0%

$ 1,2

72

Master’sDegree

2.4%

$ 1,6

10

ProfessionalDegree

1.9%

$ 1,5

50

DoctoralDegree

Índice de Desempleo en el 2010 (por ciento)Ingresos medios semanales en el 2010 (dólares)

Nivel de Educación Obtenida

Sin diploma de preparatoria

Diploma (Preparatoria)

Colegio (sin diploma)

Título Asociado (AA)

Licenciatura (BA)

Maestría(MA)

Experto profesional

Doctorado

14.9%

$ 444 10.3%

$ 626

9.2%

$ 712

7.0%

$ 767

5.4%

$ 1,0

38

4.0%

$ 1,2

72

2.4%

$ 1,6

10

1.9%

$ 1,5

50

Note: Data are 2010 annual averages for persons age 25 and over. Earnings are for full-time wage and salary workers. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Population Survey.

F a m i l i e s

THE FAMILY’S ROLE

in middle school…

Meet with your child’s teachers to discuss your child’s academic progress.

Attend school-sponsored activities regarding college preparation.

Help your child maintain a high Grade Point Average (GPA), especially in English, mathematics, and in science.

Encourage your child to participate in academic enrichment and extracurricular activities.

Ensure your child takes the ACT Explore, a practice admission exam, to prepare them for later tests.

Explore Alliance high school options that best suit your child’s needs and interests.

Visit your child’s future high school and meet with the school counselor before she/he begins high school.

Encourage your child to ask questions and seek help from teachers if they struggle in class. Take advantage of after-school tutoring if your child needs additional help.

Begin exploring colleges and scholarship options.

in High school...

Meet often with school counselor(s) and teachers to discuss your child’s academic progress.

Encourage your child to maintain a 3.0+ GPA in college preparatory (A-G) classes. (See Preparing for College)

Ensure your 9th grader enrolls in an Alliance Summer Bridge program to smoothly transition into high school.

Explore financial aid options and Expected Family Contribution (EFC) by using the FAFSA 4Caster (www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov).

Attend workshops to learn about financial aid and the college- and career-preparation process.

Encourage your child to participate in enrichment and extracurricular activities (i.e. summer programs, college classes, volunteer opportunities, etc.).

Encourage your child to use Naviance – an online tool for tracking applications, scholarships, colleges, and career exploration.

Work with your child and school counselor to identify a variety of colleges to apply to (public, private, in- and out-of-state).

Senior year, complete the necessary financial aid applications.

Visit college campuses on weekends, during the summer, and/or holiday breaks, and encourage your child to keep all options open. Contact admission’s to schedule a guided tour.

Help your child select a college that best meets his/her interests and career goals.

Set high expectations with your child. Include college as a goal!

Monitor your child’s progress in

school.

Take steps with your child to

prepare him/her for college.

1 32 “ The best thing I can do to ensure my child’s future is to help my child stay focused and study hard. There are many opportunities for her, and it is possible to reach high goals.”

– Alliance Parent

COLLEGEPLANNINGRESOuRCESCalifornia Colleges www.californiacolleges.edu

KnowHow2Gowww.knowhow2gocalifornia.org

College Boardwww.collegeboard.com

Center for student Opportunitywww.csopportunity.org

Black excel: The College Help Networkwww.blackexcel.org

Historically Black Colleges and Universities mentor www.hbcumentor.org

s T U d e N T s

THE STudENT’S ROLE

in middle school… Begin exploring colleges and careers. It’s never too early to get started.

Develop strong time management and study skills.

Get A and B grades, especially in your English, math, and science classes.

Join clubs or programs that can develop your skills.

Build a network of friends that support your college-going goals.

Participate in programs that enable you to visit colleges, take college classes, and experience college life.

If eligible, take Algebra I with a C or better.

Take the ACT Explore exam in 8th grade.

Explore a variety of Alliance high school options and programs. Choose one that suits your interests and academic needs.

Read for pleasure to boost your comprehension and vocabulary skills.

in High school…

Take the ACT Explore in 9th grade and the ACT Plan in 10th grade.

Work with your school counselor to ensure you are taking academically challenging classes.

Seek academic support and tutoring to help you maintain a 3.0 GPA or better.

Get involved in extracurricular activities at school or in the community.

Pass the CAHSEE and all your classes with a C or better. Repeat classes where you received NP (Not Proficient).

If eligible, take community college classes.

Register for Naviance, your online college/career exploration tool. Explore different college and career options and update your account frequently.

Research and apply for scholarships on a monthly basis.

Do not wait to be a senior to begin working on college essays.

in 11th grade…

Take the PSAT to qualify for the National Merit® Scholarship Program.

Register to take the SAT Reasoning, SAT Subject Exams and ACT+ writing exams during the spring.

Refer to Naviance for a list of exams, applications, and financial aid deadlines for senior year.

Visit college campuses in person and/or virtually. Check if colleges will offer free travel opportunities.

Complete mock college applications, finalize your admissions’ essay, update your resume, and complete your Brag Sheet.

in 12th grade…

Submit college applications during the fall semester. Pay attention to details and deadlines.

Submit a FAFSA application by March 2 of senior year. Don’t miss deadlines!

Submit a CSS profile application for private schools requiring this document. Deadlines vary by institution.

Be patient. Colleges will notify you of their acceptance decisions in late spring.

Select a college that fits your wants and needs by the May 1st commitment deadline.

1 32Set goals for college and

careers. dream big!

Know what you need to

do to prepare for college

and careers.

Seek support to reach your

goals.

“ You have to believe in yourself to reach your dreams and you have to plan for college because it is possible to get there.”

– Alliance Student

COLLEGEPLANNINGRESOuRCESCalifornia Colleges www.californiacolleges.edu

KnowHow2Gowww.knowhow2gocalifornia.org

College Boardwww.collegeboard.com

Center for student Opportunitywww.csopportunity.org

Black excel: The College Help Networkwww.blackexcel.org

Historically Black Colleges and Universities mentor www.hbcumentor.org

Congratulations, you made it!

UC/CsU a-G Recommended Requirements Subject Requirement Recommended

A 2 years History/Social Science 3 years

B 4 years English 4 years

C 3 years Math: Algebra 1, 4 years Geometry and Algebra 2

d 2 years Science with Lab 3 or more years 1 year physical science 1 year biological science

E 2 years Language other than English* 3 or more years Must be the same language

F 1 year Visual/Performing Arts 1 year

G 1 year College Prep Electives 1 year

PREPARING FOR COLLEGE

exams matter! Colleges require students to take entrance exams like the SAT and ACT. To prepare for these exams, enroll in a variety of challenging academic classes, read a wide selection of authors and themes, and use available exam study materials. Contact your counselor to explore how to pay for exam fees.

a-G Classes matter! All Alliance students take A-G classes in order to be accepted to California’s four-year colleges.

GPa Pointsa = 4 pointsB = 3 pointsC = 2 pointsNP = Not

Proficient

Grade Point average matters!Students must earn a minimum grade of C or better to earn high school credits in all of their classes. When determining admissions, colleges consider grades as one of the most important factors. Do your very best to earn the highest grades that you can.

extracurricular activities matter!Colleges seek to admit students with a variety of interests and backgrounds. The best way to diversify and develop your talents is by getting involved, so get active! Join a school club or sports team, volunteer in the community, or get involved in a local youth organization.

Type of exam When should i take the exam? Which colleges will accept my scores?

California University of Independent/ State University California Private Colleges

(Scores are not reported to colleges)ACT Explore ACT Plan PSAT exam

AP Exams(Recommended)

SAT Reasoning exam or ACT exam with Writing (Required)

SAT Subject exam**Check with colleges for required subjects.

9th grade10th grade11th grade

End of the school year in which the class is taken

11th grade (Spring semester)12th grade (Fall semester)

End of the school year in which the class is taken

scholarshare College savings Plan www.scholarshare.com

California student aid Commission www.csac.ca.gov

Federal student aid Commission www.fafsa.ed.gov

Us department of education http://studentaid.ed.gov/

Fast Web www.fastweb.com

latino College dollars www.latinocollegedollars.org

College Board www.collegeboard.com

save me a spot in College www.collegecampaign.org

i Can afford College www.icanaffordcollege.com

Futuros (AB540 Information)www.futuros-california.org

maldeF (AB540 Information) www.maldef.org

scholarships.com www.scholarships.com

Hispanic scholarship Fund www.hsf.net

United Negro College Fund www.uncf.org

Thurgood marshall College Fund http://www.thurgoodmarshallfund.net/ student/scholarshipprograms

FINANCIAL AId RESOuRCES

PLANNING TOGETHER TO PAY FOR COLLEGE

WHaT is FiNaNCial aid?

Financial aid helps students and their families pay for college. It may be in the form of:

• Grants: Aid from the state or federal government that does not have to be repaid (unless, for example, you withdraw from school).

• Scholarships: Aid from a university or private organization that does not have to be repaid.

• Work-Study: A federal program that allows students to work a part-time job (on-campus or off-campus) to earn money for college.

• Loans: Borrowed money that must be repaid. Student loans have low interest rates and are paid back beginning 6 months after college graduation. Parent loans, with slightly higher interest rates, must be paid while students are in school.

HOW dO i GeT FiNaNCial aid?

The financial aid application process occurs during the spring semester of 12th grade year. The priority filing period (the best time to apply to ensure you will receive financial aid) is between January 1 and march 2 each year.

*Students applying Early Decision or Early Action should inquire to see if any financial aid paperwork should be submitted fall of senior year.

imPORTaNT FiNaNCial aid aPPliCaTiONs aNd FORms

Free application for Federal student aid (FaFsa): Fill out the FAFSA to receive federal and state financial aid. The application provides critical information about your ability to pay for college (called your Estimated Family Contribution), which determines how much and what types of financial aid you are eligible to receive.

Cal Grant GPA Verification Form: Complete this form to qualify for California grants.

scholarships: Many private organizations and colleges offer merit-based or need-based aid to students. Research scholarship opportunities through your high school’s college office and the internet, and start applying as soon as possible.

CSS Profile: Some independent colleges encourage students to file this form to receive additional financial support. Deadlines vary by college.

AB540 & CA dREAM ACTCalifornia legislation (AB540)

allows qualified students to pay in-state tuition regardless of family residency.

The California Dream Act of 2011 allows AB540 students to become eligible to apply for state funded financial aid. Students who meet AB 540 criteria can apply for and receive non-state funded scholarships for public colleges and universities. In addition, they can apply and receive state-funded institutional grants, community college fee waivers, Cal Grants and Chafee Grants.

For criteria and more details visit: http://www.csac.ca.gov/dream_act.asp

$ FINANCIAL AId and EARLY PLANNING can make college affordable. Financial aid and early planning can help offset college expenses.

1

3

2

4

Apply early for financial aid.

Invest in the future by starting a savings plan early.

Ask for financial advice from a professional at a bank or other financial institution.

Students should apply to scholarships throughout middle and high school.

University of California (UC system)www.universityofcalifornia.edu

California state University (CsU system)www.csumentor.org

California Community Collegeswww.cccapply.org

association of independent California Colleges and Universitieswww.aiccu.edu

Exploring Careers from the U.s. Bureau of laborwww.bls.gov/k12/index.htm

Campus Tours: “Tour” Colleges Campuses from at Home! www.campustours.com

High school Naviance WebsiteVisit your Alliance high school website and click on your “colleges” or “careers” tabs.

COLLEGE ANd CAREERRESOuRCES

Four-year College(Bachelor’s Degree)

AccountantComputer systems analystDietitianDiplomatEditorEngineerFBI agentGraphic designerInsurance agentInvestment bankerJournalistRegistered Nurse PharmacistPublic relations specialistRecreational therapistResearch assistantSocial workerTeacherMedical illustrator

Over Four Years of College(Graduate Degree Req.)

ArchitectBiologistChiropractorDentistDoctorEconomistGeologistLawyerManagement ConsultantPaleontologistPriestPsychologistPublic Policy AnalystRabbiScientistSociologistUniversity ProfessorVeterinarianZoologist

EXPLORING CAREERS: STudENTS’ ROLE

1 32 4Take a career or personality assessment to find out what

occupations match your interests.

Explore your career interests by participating in activities and

workshops.

Learn about the different

college majors connected to your career of

interest.

Learn about the education level required

for careers that interest you.

Independent/ Private Colleges

2 or 4 years

Associate’s Degrees (AA)

Bachelor’s Degree (BA/BS)

Master’s Degree (MA / MS)

Doctorate Degree (PhD)

Professional Degrees (e.g. medical, dental & law school)

Loyola MarymountOccidental CollegeUSCMt. St. Mary’s

Yes!

university ofCalifornia (uC)

4 years

Bachelor’s Degree (BA/BS)

Master’s Degree (MA/MS)

Doctorate Degree (PhD)

Professional Degrees (e.g. medical, dental & law school)

UC Los AngelesUC Santa BarbaraUC IrvineUC Riverside

Yes!

CommunityColleges (CC)

2 years

Associate’s Degree (AA/AS)

AA/AS Transfer Program

Certificate and Vocational Programs

LA City CollegeEast LA CollegeLA Valley CollegePierce College

Yes!

Length of undergraduate program(s) offered

Degrees Offered

Examples

Financial AidOpportunities

California Stateuniversity (CSu)

4 years

Bachelor’s Degree (BA/ BS)

Masters Degree (MA/ MS)

Cal State NorthridgeCal State LACal State FullertonCal Poly Pomona

Yes!

HiGHeR edUCaTiON OPPORTUNiTies iN CaliFORNia

Two-year College(Associate’s Degree)

Administrative assistantAutomotive mechanicCardiovascular technicianHeating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration technicianDental HygienistDrafterEngineering technicianFuneral directorHotel/restaurant managerMedical laboratory technicianMedical record technicianLicensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)Surgical technologistSurveyorWater & wastewater treatment plant operatorCommercial artist*Computer technician*Visual artist**Bachelor’s degree recommended

samPles OF eNTRy level OCCUPaTiONs By deGRee

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1940 South Figueroa Street | Los Angeles, CA 90007 | 213 943-4930 | FAX: 213 943-4931 | www.laalliance.org

Nicole MurphyDirector of College Success

nmurphy@laalliance.org213 943-4930 Ext. 1021

Mary Louise SilvaDirector of Parent and Community Engagement

msilva@laalliance.org213 943-4930 Ext. 1011

PLANNING TOGETHER FOR COLLEGE ANd CAREERS

1 32Set goals for what

you want to achieve in school each year.

Seek resources to meet your goals.

Review college and career plans

together frequently.

For additional information about FIS programs and services, please visit www.familiesinschools.org

middle schoolWhat high school will best help me reach my college and career goals?What can I do to succeed in Algebra 1?What activities are important and interesting to me?Where can I find tutoring and other academic support? High school What classes do I need to graduate and prepare for college?What clubs or activities will I participate in?What college(s) will be the best match for me?What other requirements must I fulfill?Where can I find help during the college and financial aid process?What summer enrichment programs can I apply to, to broaden my college and career experience?

College/Career What is my career goal?What educational level is required for that career?What are the college majors that relate to my career?Will I live at home, in a dorm, or on my own?Do I want to study in a foreign country during my college experience? What summer enrichment programs can I apply to, to broaden my college and career experience?

middle schoolHow can I best support my child during the transition to middle school?Where can I find support for my child’s academic needs?How do I monitor my child’s progress?

High school How can I support my child during the transition to high school?Where can I find support to help my child achieve his/her academic goals?Where can I learn about college and career options for my child?

College/CareerHow do I help my child transition to college? What kind of support does my child need?How can I help my child explore a variety of career options? How can the entire family support my child’s college and career goals?

GUidiNG QUesTiONs: Parents, students, and schools should work in partnership to create a plan to help reach the child’s educational and career goals. To get started, here are a few questions to help students and their families stay on track as early as middle school.

Printing and distribution partially supported by JPMorgan Chase and Gayle Miller.