october 2017 career center newsletter...fafsa: free application federal student aid october launch...

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1 October 2017 Career Center Newsletter October Events: 10/19: Thursday, Financial Aid Information Night: 6pm in the Library New! New!...... It’s FAFSA Filing Time Now! Computers available 5pm! 10/3: Towson University, MD 10/6: Stevenson University of Maryland, St. Mary’s College of Maryland 10/11: PSAT exam administration periods 1 – 4. $16 due by October 3 for 11 th graders 10/12: Frostburg State University, MD 10/13: Hollins University, VA, Morgan State University 10/17: Careers in Law Enforcement and Criminal Studies, CCSO, MD 10/18: La Plata Police Explorers’ Unit 10/23: Delaware State University, Military Monday, U.S. Armed Services Lunch Displays 10/23 to 10/27: Maryland College Application Week for Seniors 10/25: Hood College of Maryland Sign-ups Career Center clipboards Bring your agenda book for Mrs. Welch to sign a pass. October 24, Tuesday, 6:30pm, Library, College Admissions Application Night COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY REGIONAL INFORMATION NIGHTS: Remember you must know that selective and highly selective colleges require you to come to them! Information concerning various college visits, seminars, and workshops to meet the representatives from colleges across our nation is available on your prospective college’s website. Some flyers and cards are in the Career Center. These colleges are not able to visit every school and have designed these programs to allow you to come to them for information and admissions advice. Highly selective colleges do not send admissions reps to McDonough. You must look up their schedule for information sessions and visit with them. Getting to know the admissions reps for our area is very important in the college admissions process. Colleges see your attendance at such information sessions and open house dates as demonstrated interest in their college. Don’t forget fall merit scholarships may need nominations from teachers, counselors, or administrators. Check your colleges’ financial aid office. Do not hesitate to contact your college rep. They are waiting for you! Get to know your REP! FAFSA: Free Application Federal Student Aid October Launch Now! The FAFSA is the federal form that all colleges, career and technical institutions and other institutes use to determine the financial need of its applicants and prepare student financial award documents. The federal government prefers that you file your FAFSA online. A worksheet for the FAFSA is available at www.fafsa.ed.gov. When completing the FAFSA it is essential that you refer to the official instructions provided by the U.S. Department of Education.

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Page 1: October 2017 Career Center Newsletter...FAFSA: Free Application Federal Student Aid October Launch Now! The FAFSA is the federal form that all colleges, career and technical institutions

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October 2017 Career Center Newsletter

October Events:

10/19: Thursday, Financial Aid Information Night: 6pm in the Library New! New!...... It’s FAFSA Filing Time Now! Computers available 5pm! 10/3: Towson University, MD

10/6: Stevenson University of Maryland, St. Mary’s College of Maryland

10/11: PSAT exam administration periods 1 – 4. $16 due by October 3 for 11th graders

10/12: Frostburg State University, MD

10/13: Hollins University, VA, Morgan State University 10/17: Careers in Law Enforcement and Criminal Studies, CCSO, MD

10/18: La Plata Police Explorers’ Unit

10/23: Delaware State University, Military Monday, U.S. Armed Services Lunch Displays

10/23 to 10/27: Maryland College Application Week for Seniors

10/25: Hood College of Maryland

Sign-ups Career Center clipboards Bring your agenda book for Mrs. Welch to sign a pass. October 24, Tuesday, 6:30pm, Library, College Admissions Application Night

COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY REGIONAL INFORMATION NIGHTS:

Remember you must know that selective and highly selective colleges require you to come to them!

Information concerning various college visits, seminars, and workshops to meet the representatives

from colleges across our nation is available on your prospective college’s website. Some flyers and

cards are in the Career Center. These colleges are not able to visit every school and have designed

these programs to allow you to come to them for information and admissions advice. Highly selective

colleges do not send admissions reps to McDonough. You must look up their schedule for

information sessions and visit with them. Getting to know the admissions reps for our area is very

important in the college admissions process. Colleges see your attendance at such information

sessions and open house dates as demonstrated interest in their college. Don’t forget fall merit

scholarships may need nominations from teachers, counselors, or administrators. Check your

colleges’ financial aid office. Do not hesitate to contact your college rep. They are waiting for you!

Get to know your REP!

FAFSA: Free Application Federal Student Aid October Launch Now!

The FAFSA is the federal form that all colleges, career and technical institutions and other institutes use to determine the financial need of its applicants and prepare student financial award documents. The federal government prefers that you file your FAFSA online. A worksheet for the FAFSA is available at www.fafsa.ed.gov.

When completing the FAFSA it is essential that you refer to the official

instructions provided by the U.S. Department of Education.

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It is extremely important that the FAFSA be filed as soon as possible after October 1st. New federal guidelines allow families to use their prior year tax returns for filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The Class of 2018 may use their families’ 2016 tax returns to complete the application. Taking advantage of the IRS Data Retrieval Option allows you to transfer tax information directly from the Internal Revenue Services (IRS) to the FAFSA application, thus eliminating errors and providing accurate account of you and your parent’s income.

The FAFSA will not be processed without the appropriate signatures. When filing online, students and a parent must sign the FAFSA electronically. Students may electronically sign their FAFSA and make corrections to the FAFSA on the web if they have registered for a FSA ID Number. REGISTER NOW for a Federal Student Aid Number at www.fafsa.gov. Click on the lock icon and register.

A FSA ID is a username and password that you must use to log in to certain U.S. Department of

Education (ED) websites. Your FSA ID identifies you as someone who has the right to access

your own personal information on ED websites such as the Free Application for Federal Student

Aid (FAFSA®) at fafsa.gov.

If you are a parent of a dependent student, you will need your own FSA ID if you want to sign

your child's FAFSA electronically. If you have more than one child attending college, you can

use the same FSA ID to sign all applications. Please note: Each FSA ID user must have a unique

e-mail address. As a parent who has an existing PIN with FAFSA, your information will merge

creating a new FSA ID for your use in signing each child’s FAFSA documents.

Your FSA ID is used to sign legally binding documents electronically. It has the same legal status as a written signature. Don't give your FSA ID to anyone—not even to someone helping you fill out the FAFSA. Sharing your FSA ID could put you at risk of identity theft!

Everyone who is considering some type of post-secondary education (any

accredited 4-year or 2-year college, technical, trade, or business school) should file a FAFSA. Even if you believe your income is too high to qualify for Federal aid, you must file the FAFSA to be eligible for student loans and many scholarships or grants. If you wait to file your FAFSA until your plans for next fall are definite, many of the sources of money will be exhausted.

Be sure that you do not miss any deadlines. If you are applying to MD State

schools, your FAFSA should filed by February 15th in order to meet the

State Financial Aid deadline of March 1st. In order to be eligible for Maryland State Programs, you must list a Maryland school on the FAFSA. UMD-College Park wants January 1 filing. Even if a Maryland school may not be your first choice, list it first so that you are assured of being entered into the state’s database. This first MD school listed should be the most expensive MD school to which you are planning to apply so that your state aid is based on the highest tuition cost.

Make sure your FAFSA is accurate, complete, and it is signed.

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Get free information and help from the financial aid office at the college or

career school you plan to attend, or the U.S. Department of Education at

www.StudentAid.ed.gov or 1-800-4FED-AID (1-800-433-3243). Free help is

available any time during the application process. You should never have to pay

for help.

Watch This: Here is the link to the MPT(Maryland Public Television) website

that has the information on the Ways to Pay for College program:

http://www.mpt.org/college/. On the right side, there is a link to watch the

video online.

Want to watch the “Overview of the Financial Aid Process?”

Go to: www.YouTube.com/FederalStudentAid to learn about getting

student aid from the government. And, to learn more about the FAFSA!

Maryland College Application Week October 23 to 27

To ensure that every senior applies to at least one college, McDHS is participating

in the Maryland College Application Campaign. This program is part of the

American College Application Program with 49 states participating providing

events to help seniors apply to college.

Seniors are receiving preparation from Counselors, English teachers,

and The College of Southern Maryland.

Seniors: Be sure you know how to go!

Colleges are also sending their Reps to speak to students in the

Career Center this week ….sign-up with your agenda book!

How to Complete a College Application:

Getting Ready to Apply

Be sure you have your Social Security Number and your high school’s CEEB code handy. They will go on

all applications. My Social Security Number is ________-____-________. (Note: Keep your Social

Security Number private.) My school’s CEEB code is _210-823____________.

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Your Application - Written

Applications are now done online. But if, for whatever reason, you are submitting a paper application,

then take note. Your application is one of the few things that are seen by an admissions officer directly.

The appearance of your application is a reflection on you. Start working on your applications early, as

rush jobs are easy to spot. Practice by downloading a copy of the application and filling it out. Use a

black pen and avoid errors. Think carefully about your answers and review them. Ideally, have a parent

check them. Be truthful, be specific, and be accurate; but don’t hesitate to put your best foot forward.

Your Application – Online

Fortunately, colleges are now accepting, and requiring, online applications. Colleges prefer electronic

submission of paperwork to help manage the admissions process. This solves the neatness issue, but

can cause other problems. It is easier to make and miss mistakes on an online application. You should

still download or request a paper copy of the application and fill it out before doing the online form. Pay

attention to the online instructions. If your browser blocks pop-ups, you may need to disable that

feature for online applications. As the deadlines draw near, the websites begin to slow down

tremendously and this dramatically affects your time spent filing them out. Sluggish websites are simply

overloaded with applicants, so it pays not to be one of the late ones. Applying online early saves time in

the end and reflects on your time management skills as well. Procrastinators are easy to identify in the

application process; they’re the ones online at midnight on the deadline day. On the other hand, don’t

pull an all-nighter to be the first online applicant at your school of choice. It’s not a race, and there is no

advantage to being first.

Transcripts

Many applications will ask for your classes and grades as part of the form. Be accurate and truthful,

because they will still obtain an official transcript in the end. Falsifying anything on the application is a

sure way to be rejected.

Often the application will include a form for requesting a transcript, but pay attention to the individual

instructions for each college’s application. Many colleges, especially privates, may want it initially. Don’t

send things that the school doesn’t want. Pay attention to their instructions. Charles County Public

Schools’ new student accounting system now has the capability to send transcripts electronically!

Additional Requirements for Some Majors

Pay special attention to whether your intended major has additional requirements, such as portfolios,

tapes, auditions, or additional letters of recommendation. This is not uncommon.

Make Copies

In all cases, make a copy of the application (paper or online) before sending it. The online ones can

generally be printed. But one way or another, save a copy for your files.

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Certificate of Mailing

For anything important that you mail, obtain a certificate of mailing from the post office. This gives you

proof of the day the item was mailed. Use this for applications, secondary school reports (from your

counselor), transcripts, and anything else you consider critical. When close to deadlines, this is can be

valuable insurance.

Online Receipt

Most, if not all, online applications finish with a receipt or confirmation page as you submit the

application. Print and save this receipt page. It will often indicate that you have paid the application fee

by credit card (or whatever) as well. There are generally other ways to pay the fee if you prefer.

Fees

Application fees generally range from $35 to $95. Four fee waivers are generally issued to applicants

who qualified under the SAT and ACT Fee Waiver programs. The Fee Waiver program is available to

juniors and seniors based on economic need. See http://sat.collegeboard.org/register/sat-fee-waivers

The Common Application(s)

Colleges and universities have worked together to develop and distribute a Common Application.

Colleges “join” this effort, and their membership means that they accept the Common Application and

commit to considering it equally to their own. The advantage to students is obvious, in that you fill out

the common application and simply submit it multiple times to any member schools you are applying to.

What’s the downside? Not all colleges accept it. Some colleges will require their own supplement in

addition to the basic common application. You can visit www.commonapp.org for more information

and a list of member institutions (over 750 this year). The form can be completed online and submitted

electronically to your colleges. Even if you’re a freshman, print out the common app and take a look at

it. In a few years, you will be filling out applications that will be quite similar to it, and you’d better have

a lot to say. Pay special attention to the activities section. This year Spanish language resources are

included as well as Google Drive Integration and the ability of students to invite advisors to view their

application progress.

Another similar internet platform is online that attempts to include more public schools. You may want

to visit their website to check it out at www.universalcollegeapp.com. The Common Black College

Application has over 50 member Historically Black Colleges and Universities institutions for a one-time

fee of $35. Visit this website: http://commonblackcollegeapp.com/ to utilize this program.

The University of Maryland College Park as well as over 113 selective colleges will be using

http://www.coalitionforcollegeaccess.org/ as their admissions platform.

Be sure you know how to apply! Using these resources can save you time! Fees do apply…as usual!

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Types of Admission

As if the process isn’t already confusing enough, there are several types of admission.

Not all colleges offer all types. But it is important to understand them, then to research what your

prospective colleges offer. NACAC offers information for students and parents giving instruction about

college choice at http://www.nacacnet.org/studentinfo/breakdown/Pages/Applying.aspx.

Regular Admission or Regular Decision

This is the standard admission, whereby students submit applications by the college’s regular deadline.

Students applying under regular admission will generally be notified of the decision in March or April.

Early Decision – Binding (ED)

Have you found a college that is overwhelmingly your first choice? Are you prepared to commit that if

accepted you will attend? Then if that school offers early decision, it may be right for you. Early decision

is binding; that means if the college accepts you, you MUST attend. Obviously you can only apply under

early decision to one college. Usually you will sign a contract stating that you understand the binding

nature of this admission process. Failure to abide by the restrictions can jeopardize your acceptance to

that college and others. Some believe that applying ED can give you an edge at that school, but be very

cautious when using that option. Early Decision means you may be paying for the entire cost!

Early Action – Not Binding (EA)

Often confused with Early Decision, Early Action is an opportunity to apply early (usually by some

November date) and to be notified by around mid-December or January. Under this plan, you can be

accepted early, rejected, or deferred to the regular admission pool. Deferred means they were

undecided, but odds of getting in later are generally lower. If accepted under Early Action, you are NOT

obligated to attend and you still have until May 1 to make a decision. You may generally apply for Early

Action to more than one college; however, some colleges specify that theirs is a “single school Early

Action program.” This has been true, for example, at Stanford and Harvard. So be sure to research the

options carefully as you may be making some sort of promise.

Restrictive Early Action (REA) – Not Binding

If you select this plan, you may be restricted from filing any other ED, EA or REA applications. However,

you will receive a decision early and you can apply to as many colleges as you wish for regular

admission.

Admission Spring Semester

Some colleges are accepting qualified students, but for a semester other than fall. This represents their

attempt to remain at full capacity, knowing they will lose some students after first semester. These

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students are most likely ones that almost made the “cut” but had to be denied fall admission. However,

it’s still an acceptance, so be grateful.

Delayed or Deferred Acceptance

If you have been accepted at a college, you can sometimes arrange to delay your matriculation

(attendance) for a year. This is often referred to as a “gap year.” The school will look at your reasons,

and they will need to have some merit. Acceptable reasons might be to work to earn tuition money, to

travel, or to pursue some particular special internship or program. Any such arrangement must be

explicitly set up with the college.

Rolling Admission

Under this plan, applications are considered as they are received and the student is notified of the

decision as soon as it is made. A student applying to a college that offers rolling admission is not

committing to that college if accepted. There is almost no reason NOT to submit your application early

to these schools, as it can only serve to give you an early answer. If accepted, you can relax knowing that

you are in, but can still wait to see what additional options are available.

Open Admission

Open admission colleges, such as community colleges or trade schools, generally admit all interested

students with a high school diploma. However, some community colleges are no longer open admission.

Sometimes admission to particular programs is also more selective and not truly “open.”

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

Walter E. Washington Convention Center Sunday, November 5, 12:30pm to 4pm

For more information, visit: www.nationalcollegefairs.org.

___________

The Historical Black College Tour $495

November 8-12, 2017

To register: www.arrowcollegiatetour.com or

call Sabrina Crowder at 240-766-5407

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Visiting North Carolina A&T, Bennett College, Clark Atlanta, Spelman, Morehouse, Johnson C. Smith, Florida A&M, and Universal Studio in Disney World

Washington D.C. Performing and Visual Arts College Fair Sunday October 1, 2017, 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Walter E. Washington Convention Center Information: www.nationalcollegefairs.org Register: www.gotomypvafair.com

CollegeWeekLive.com

Want a chance to chat with a college rep? Looking for monthly scholarships and

millions of dollars in other scholarship money? How about over 100 college reps?

All Access Virtual College Fair October 4 from 10am to 10pm

www.collegeweeklive.com

This group provides ongoing activities online throughout the school year!

Miss the event on that date? Log-in…it’s archived!

Career Center Resources Available for 2017-2018 Use:

10 Best College Majors for your Personality – Jist Works

100 Fastest Growing Careers – Jist Publications

ACT: Cracking the ACT, The Princeton Review 2012

ASVAB AFQT for Dummies, Rod Powers 2010 (3)

ASVAB for Dummies 2011 Premiere 3rd Edition (3)

Barron’s 26th Edition SAT Test Preparation Book

Career Opportunities: Animation 2012 by J. Lenburg

Career Opportunities: So You Want to be a Physician Assistant, 2012, Beth Grivett,

PA-C, Second Edition

Career Opportunities: Working with Animals, 2012

Careers in FASHION, 2010, Iverson; Clarkson Potter

College Money Handbook 2009: Peterson’s

College Survival by Greg Gottesman, Daniel Baer, and Friends, 2004 edition

(Peterson’s)

CollegeBoard’s Campus Visits & College Interviews

CollegeBoard’s Getting Financial Aid, 7th Edition, 2017 (4)

CollegeBoard’s Handbook of Majors 2018 (3), 2017 (3)

CollegeBoard’s Scholarship Handbook 2018 (3), 2017 (3)

CollegeBoard’s The College Application Essay Book

Creating Your High School Resume -- Jist Publications

Culinary Careers for Dummies 2011, Thomas, Tomei, (2)

Fiske Guide to Colleges: 2015 (2), ’13-(2)

Guerrilla Marketing for Job Hunters 3.0, 2011

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How You Can Maximize Student Aid, ‘12 by Tracy Foote

Kaplan’s ASVAB Preparation Book, 2011 Edition

Knock ‘em Dead, The Ultimate Job Search Guide 2011

Peterson’s 440 Great Colleges for Top Students 2009

Peterson’s Best College Admission Essays, 3rd Edition, ’04: 50 sample essays from

successful college applications

Peterson’s Nursing Programs 2013, Nelnet Company

Peterson’s Teens’ Guide to College & Career Planning

The Psychology Major, 4th Edition, by Landrum & Davis

Top 100 Health-Care Careers; JIST 2011

The College Application Essay by S. McGinty, CB ‘12-13(4)

Campus Visits & College Interviews, CB, Z. Schneider 3rd Edition ’12 (4)

In addition to the above new arrivals, books are available to compare and research college

choices. Of course, some books are reference materials and cannot be checked out.

Others may be checked out through Mrs. Welch and due by return date to the Career

Center.

Our library/media center also has college information books and ACT/SAT test prep

books. As well as AP course handbooks for aid and help. Lots of computers this year!

Utilize these resources!

Eight computers are available for student use to research, apply to colleges, complete

scholarship applications, etc. in the Career Center. Make sure you are utilizing the resources at

www.ccboe.com/mcdonough and click on Career Center...including this monthly newsletter!

October Grade Level Reminders

9th Grade Freshmen:

High achieving, four-year college bound freshmen should consider taking the PSAT on October 11. Bring your $16 cash or check made payable to McDonough HS by October 4th to register. Take advantage of free prep at www.khanacademy.org/sat.

Plan and become involved in extracurricular activities, clubs, etc.

Position yourself for leadership opportunities, ex. SGA officer.

Keep up your grades. Be sure teachers know you care! Ninth grade counts!

If you are struggling with course work, be sure to seek tutoring. www.khanacademy.org

READ as much as you can. Reading has a huge effect on your vocabulary, hence your standardized test results.

Remember to utilize your free Career Cruising accounts to research colleges and scholarships as well as finding your dream career!

Start saving money for senior year expenses …..getting into college is expensive!

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10th Grade Sophomores:

Prepare to take the PSAT October 11. Use the PSAT Official Guide given to you in English class. Practice questions are www.collegeboard.org and www.khanacademy.org/sat.

Stay involved in extracurricular activities and leadership roles.

Keep up your grades and seek tutoring if needed. Make sure your teachers know you are a serious student. www.khanacademy.org offers free, online instruction and enrichment.

Visit the Career Center to pick up information left by college reps to gain information about college programs. Use the Book of Majors to explore college studies and find the colleges that offer those majors. Talk about other resources available in the Career Center to help you search for prospective colleges.

Use your Career Cruising account to research and update your career matches. Visit www.careercruising.com and the other web links on the Career Center webpage to continue your searches. If you forgot your password, see your counselor or Mrs. Welch.

Start or continue your resume.

Save money for senior year expenses ….getting into college is expensive!

11th Grade Juniors:

Register for the October 11 PSAT. Bring cash or a check payable to McDonough HS for $16. Due by October 4. As a junior, the PSAT qualifies you for the National Merit Scholarship competition, National Achievement Competition and National Hispanic Competition.

Keep up your grades. Seek tutoring if you need help. Study hard and aim for that A or B!

Set up or add to your personal file or bin which includes awards, articles, prizes, etc. earned. Be sure to update your resume. Use these artifacts to create your senior portfolio!

Visit the Career Center often as college reps are still scheduling visits to your school. Sign-up to speak to the reps and begin creating your list of prospective colleges. Check for

college fairs at www.gotomyncf.com or www.nationalcollegefairs .org to register.

Highly selective colleges are hosting information sessions for students and families. Check the posters and flyers in the Career Center and stairwell hall as well as checking the website of your prospective colleges for dates and times. Attendance shows demonstrated interest!

Save money for senior year expenses…getting into college is expensive!

Use www.khanacademy.org for free, online instruction and enrichment....tutoring!

12th Grade Seniors:

If you are four-year college bound, make sure you are registered for the appropriate college entrance exams required by your prospective colleges. Missed deadlines will cost you heavily this year as there are no stand-by, walk-in test takers permitted by SAT or ACT. The December ACT deadline is November 3th.

Sign-up in the Career Center to speak to prospective college reps and use the many resources of the Career Center to narrow your choices. Check the posters, flyers and the colleges’ website for important dates, times, and other information.

Continue to work on completing your college applications gathering all the required documents and recommendations. Make sure you apply by the early action or priority

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dates. Remember selecting the early decision date locks you into a binding contract to attend that college. Keep a copy of your completed applications. Use the sample college application essay books available in the Career Center and Library to help you polish application essays. English teachers are available during H.E.R.D. time to review essays.

Attend college open houses and information sessions to find out if your choice is a good fit for you. Look at some of the opportunities posted in Career Center.

Remember to ask for any separate applications that are needed for financial aid opportunities. Many colleges have early fall deadlines for specific merit scholarships. Check with the financial aid office and/or their website for available scholarships. Some of these merit and service scholarships require a nomination from your high school counselor or another high school recommender.

File your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) after October 1 at www.fafsa.gov. Make sure you attend all information nights being held at your high school. Financial Aid Night will be held on different dates in October at each of the seven Charles County high schools. McDonough’s FA Night is October 19 at 6:00pm. Computers will be available at 5pm in the Library to register for the FSA ID #. Feel free to attend a session at any of the high schools. Use your Career Cruising account to search for scholarships. Ask Mrs. Welch for the handout, “The Skinny on Scholarships.”

NCAA Eligibility Center Information

Any junior wishing to play collegiate sports at the Division I or Division II level needs to register with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Initial-Eligibility Center at this time. Visit www.eligibilitycenter.org for all the pertinent information you will need to compete in college. Remember ACT/SAT test scores are reported directly from the testing agencies to NCAA Initial-Eligibility Center. When registering for the exams, include “9999” in the send score reports section.

Want to Play College Sports? You MUST Know Your Core Course GPA. McDonough High School has teamed up with CoreCourseGPA.com to provide custom online software to all student-athletes to assist in tracking their progress towards meeting NCAA initial eligibility requirements.

CoreCourseGPA.com calculates core course GPA for both the Division I and II, provides

corresponding minimum SAT/ACT scores, and a detailed report of core course credits earned and needed. All student-athletes are encouraged to activate their FREE membership to begin tracking their core course GPA and learn more about important recruiting topics. The sooner, the better - every semester counts!

Activate Your FREE Membership Step 1: Go to www.CoreCourseGPA.com Step 2: In the “New Member Account Creation” box, enter: School ID: __210823___________ School Code: 725900544

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Don’t have the GPA or college entrance exam scores needed for a four-year college? Think junior colleges! Think community colleges! Many community and junior colleges across the country have full athletic programs including tackle football. Visit the National Junior Collegiate Athletic Association’s website at www.njcaa.org and find out where you can use your talents while building your academic skills for transfer to a four-year college or university program. See September’s Career Center Newsletter for other NCAA eligibility information or visit www.eligibilitycenter.org.

Military News

Military Service Academies

You can earn an officer commission in the United States armed forces through one of the federal

service academies, also referred to as military academies. The academies are colleges for the

undergraduate education and training of commissioned officers for the United States armed forces.

The United States operates five service academies:

United States Military Academy - West Point, New York

http://www.usma.edu

United States Naval Academy - Annapolis, Maryland

http://www.usna.edu

United States Coast Guard Academy - New London, Connecticut

http://www.uscg.edu/opportunity/

United States Merchant Marine Academy - Kings Point, New York

http://www.usmma.edu

United States Air Force Academy - Colorado Springs, Colorado

http://www.academyadmissions.com

How to Receive an Appointment to a Military Academy

Applicants to all service academies, except for the United States Coast Guard Academy, must obtain a

nomination to the school either through a Senator or Representative, the Vice President, or the

President. Applicants to the Coast Guard Academy compete in a nationwide competitive process for

nominations. Applicants are encouraged to seek nominations from ALL nominating sources.

Contact Information: Visit the websites to determine their nomination process, application deadlines and interview dates. Senator Benjamin L. Cardin – www.cardin.senate.gov - Applications must be received by November 2.

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Senator Chris Van Hollen -- https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/ - Applications must be received in the Rockville office by October 6. Representative Steny Hoyer – www.hoyer.house.gov Deadline for seniors – 10/14

Ms. Stephanie Carey, Liaison to Rep. Steny Hoyer – [email protected]

SCHOLARSHIPS

Common Scholarship Application Mistakes • Missing deadlines • Failing to proofread the application • Failing to follow directions, especially regarding essay length and the number of recommendations • Omitting required information • Applying for an award when you don't qualify • Failing to apply for an award for which you are eligible • Failing to tailor the application to the sponsor • Writing a boring essay • Writing an essay that may offend the reviewer • Including exaggerations or lies on your application

Students must use www.mhec.maryland.gov . And www.mdgo4it.org

As Maryland residents, this is for you! Everything you need to know! MONEY, MONEY!

Scholarship Finder with the U.S. Department of Labor:

https://www.careeronestop.org/toolkit/training/find-scholarships.aspx

https://www.raise.me/ Over 130 colleges are participating in this scholarship program beginning in 9th grade year. Introducing Micro-Scholarships--Get scholarships

from colleges for your achievements in high school.

October Deadline:

AES Engineering Scholarship Eligible: Seniors Criteria: Scholarships are intended for our future leaders across a wide spectrum of fields of study. You are not required to be taking Engineering course to be eligible. AES believes that a high point average should not be the only criteria for determining who deserves to get helped. For that reason we are offering a scholarship that will be awarded on the basis of character, as determined by evaluated essays submitted at [email protected] See web-site for essay topics: http://www.aesengineers.com/scholarships.htm Award: $500 Deadline: 10/06

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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, employment Award: $10,000 - $20,000 Deadline: 10/31 students apply online www.coca-colascholars.org Hispanic Heritage Foundation/ Colgate-Palmolive Essay Competition Eligible: students 16 years of age and older having at least one biological parent of Hispanic descent Criteria: short essay Award: $2,500-$15,000 Deadline: 10/15 www.colgate.com/hazlau; more scholarships: www.hsf.net Horatio Alger Association Awards Eligible: High School Seniors graduating in 2014 Criteria: 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 www.horatioalger.org/scholarships/

Hotelcheaps Scholarship Program Eligible: at least 16 years old Criteria: Community service, must answer four personal, open-ended questions Award: $1500 Deadline: ? http://www.hotelscheap.org/scholarships Omega Psi-Phi Fraternity, Inc. Eligible: Seniors Criteria: Essay: "What would you propose to substantially reduce the incidence of gun violence in the United States and around the world without taking away the legal rights of law abiding citizens to acquire and possess firearms?" 700-750 words Award: $250-$5,000 Deadline: 10/20, applications in the Career Center or www.southernmdques.org

Ronald McDonald House Charities Scholarship Program http://rmhc.org Eligible: seniors Criteria: financial need, community involvement, essay content, academic achievement and records, GPA 2.7 min Deadline: 01/18 apply online. http://www.rmhc.org/rmhc-us-scholarships UMBC Meyerhoff Scholarship Program Eligible: 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 their counselor or Mrs. Welch by 10/09.

Wendy’s High School Heisman Award Eligible: Seniors Criteria: Students with a B average and who participate in a school sport and are dedicated to being school role models Award: Heisman Patch, Bronze Medal, up to $10,000 for students’ High School Deadline: 10/02 apply online at www.wendyshighschoolheisman.com

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Young Arts Application Eligible: 15-18 years old in grades 10-12 Criteria: Students pursuing cinematic arts, dance, jazz, music, photography, theater, visual arts, voice and writing may apply. Award: Exclusive path to U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts, $100 million in college scholarships, $500,000 in annual awards, and opportunities in professional programs. Deadline: 10/13 www.youngarts.org November Deadline:

Comcast Leaders & Achievers Scholarship Program Eligible: High School Senior Criteria: 2.8+GPA, demonstrate leadership abilities in school activities or through work experiences, strong commitment to community service involvement Awards: $1,000 Deadline: School Nomination required. Stop in the Career Center by 11/3 for consideration. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship Eligible: Seniors Criteria: 4-year college bound, 3.5gpa unweighted 26+ ACT/SAT 1200+ Math and Reading Award: $30,000 possible Deadline: 11/14 visit: www.jkcf.org DAR Good Citizen Award Eligible: Graduating high school senior who has demonstrated the qualities of a good citizen: Dependability, Service, Leadership, and Patriotism. Criteria: Part I of the application prior to nomination, Part II a timed 2 hour, timed essay writing. Award: $250-$5,000 Deadline: completed application must be returned to the Career Center by 11/7 for consideration. Prudential Spirit of Community Award Eligible: Students in grades 5 - 12 Criteria: has engaged in a volunteer activity that occurred at least in part after September 1, 2011, school nomination required Award: $1,000, medallion & all-expense paid trip to Washington, D. C. with parent in May 2016. Deadline: 11/07 application due to school Principal or College & Career Advisor at your school; http://spirit.prudential.com The Bill of Rights Institute Eligible: 9-12 graders Criteria: Essay www.billofrightsinstitute.org Award: $1,500-$5,000 Deadline: Early Bird submission: 11/15

Ron Brown Scholar Program Eligible: African American Seniors Criteria: academic achievement, leadership, community service, financial need Award: 10,000 for 4 years www.ronbrown.org Deadline: 11/1 to include colleges 1/9 regular deadline Maryland School Counseling Coordinators Eligible: Seniors Criteria: transcript, essay: 300-500 words on “How a school counselor has made a difference.” Award: $500 Deadline: 11/30 http://www.mscaonline.org/?page_id=2731

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Why Education Matters Eligible: 9th-12th grade students

Criteria: Submit a 250 word essay on What would you say to someone who thinks education doesn’t matter, or that college is a waste of time and money?

Award: $3000 Deadline: multiple http://www.afsa.org/essay_contest.aspx

December Deadline: AXA Achievement Scholarship ambitious students; awarding more than $1.3 million outstanding, significant

service projects or business projects, www.axa-achievement.com Deadline: 12/15 Only

10,000 applications accepted .….Go for it!

Hispanic Heritage Fund Scholarships www.hsf.net http://hsf.net/en/scholarships/programs/graduating-high-school-seniors/ Eligible: Seniors Award: Multiple awards Deadline: multiple scholarships check for deadlines

January Deadline:

FIRE: Foundation for Individual Rights in Education Eligible: Juniors and Seniors Criteria: Essay of 800 and 1000 words on a provided topic Award: $10,000 first prize, $5,000 second prize, and three $1,000 runner-up prizes, four $500 drawings. Deadline: 01/01 visit: https://www.thefire.org/student-network/essay-contest/ to enter Junior Achievement Essay Competition Eligible: 9-12th grade students Criteria: write a 1,000 to 1,500 word essay. Award: $10,000-$20,000 Deadline: ? www.myJA.org/students/essay

Princeton Prize in Race Relations Eligible: 9-12th graders Criteria: actively involved in a volunteer activity within the last 12 months that has a significant positive impact on race relations Deadline: 01/31 Award: $1,000 www.princeton.edu/PrincetonPrize

February Deadline: The Bill of Rights Institute Eligible: 9-12 graders Criteria: Essay www.billofrightsinstitute.org Award: $1,500-$5,000 Deadline: 2/5 National Co-op Scholarship Program Eligible: Seniors Criteria: GPA 3.5+unweighted, one-page essay, to qualify for the merit co-op scholarship, students must complete all the required admissions material and be accepted for the 2016-2017 academic year at one or more of the WACE Partner Colleges & Universities. Apply at www.co-op.edu Award: $6,000 renewable Deadline: 2/15

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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 The list follows: ****Below is a listing of the many scholarships available

through the DAR...you can also access this information at the website

link: http://www.dar.org/national-society/scholarships

General Scholarship RICHARD AND ELIZABETH DEAN SCHOLARSHIP—The Richard and Elizabeth Dean Scholarship awards two

scholarships in the preferred amount of $5,000 each year for up to four consecutive years to graduating high school

students. The selection process shall be based on academic merit with an initial 4.0. Renewal is conditional upon

maintenance of a GPA of 3.25. This scholarship is renewable only after review and approval of the annual official

transcript. Renewal transcript must be submitted to the Office of the Reporter General by July 1 of the year of renewal or

the scholarship is forfeited.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Richard and Elizabeth Dean Scholarship: [email protected]

Political Science, History, Government, and Economics

Scholarships

A separate application must be submitted for each scholarship in this group.

DR. AURA-LEE A. PITTENGER AND JAMES HOBBS PITTENGER AMERICAN HISTORY

SCHOLARSHIP—A scholarship in the amount of $2,000 each year for up to four consecutive years to a graduating high

school senior who will have a concentrated study of a minimum of 24 credit hours in American History or American

Government, while in college. This award is intended to promote the study of history among our finest students. United

States citizens residing abroad may apply through a Units Overseas Chapter. Renewal is conditional upon maintenance of

a GPA of 3.25.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Dr. Aura-Lee A. Pittenger and James Hobbs Pittenger American

History Scholarship:[email protected]

ENID HALL GRISWOLD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP—The Enid Hall Griswold Memorial Scholarship is

awarded to two deserving College juniors or seniors enrolled in an accredited college or university in the United States

who is pursuing a major in political science, history, government, or economics. This is a one-time award in the amount of

$5,000

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Enid Hall Memorial Scholarship:[email protected]

DAR CENTENNIAL SCHOLARSHIP—The DAR Centennial Scholarship is awarded to two outstanding students

pursuing a course of graduate study in the field of historic preservation at a college or university in the United States. This

scholarship was established from a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Centennial Pin. This is a one-time award in

the amount of $2,500.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, DAR Centennial Scholarship:[email protected]

THE LUCINDA BENEVENTI FINDLEY HISTORY SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time $2,000 scholarship awarded to

two graduating high school seniors that have demonstrated advance interest in history and are planning to major in or

pursue the study of history in a full-time accredited college or university in the United States. The applicant must have a

GPA of 3.25.

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Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, The Lucinda Beneventi Findley History Scholarship:[email protected]

Nursing School Scholarships The following scholarships are one-time awards of $1000. Each scholarship applied for must have its own application

submitted.

CAROLINE E. HOLT NURSING SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time $2,500 scholarship is awarded to three students who

are in financial need and are accepted and enrolled into an accredited school of nursing.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Caroline E. Holt Scholarship:[email protected]

MILDRED NUTTING SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time $2,000 scholarship for two students who are in financial need

and who have been accepted or are currently enrolled in an accredited school of nursing. A letter of acceptance into the

Nursing Program or the transcript stating that the applicant is in the Nursing Program must be enclosed with the

application. Preference will be given to candidates from the Lowell, MA area.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Mildred Nutting Scholarship:[email protected]

OCCUPATIONAL/PHYSICAL THERAPY SCHOLARSHIP—The Occupational/Physical Therapy Scholarship, in

the amount of $2,000, is awarded to two students who are in financial need and have been accepted or are attending an

accredited school of occupational therapy (including art, music, or physical therapy).

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Occupational/Physical Therapy Scholarship:

[email protected]

MADELINE PICKETT (HALBERT) COGSWELL NURSING SCHOLARSHIP—The Madeline Pickett (Halbert)

Cogswell Nursing Scholarship, in the amount of $2,500, is awarded to two students who are accepted or enrolled in an

accredited school of nursing. Applicants must be members, descendents of members or be eligible for membership in

NSDAR. The DAR member number of the mother, who is a current dues paying member, must be on the Application.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Madeline Pickett (Halbert) Cogswell Nursing Scholarship:

[email protected]

Medical Scholarships These awards are in the amount of up to $5,000. An application form must be completed for each scholarship you are

applying for.

IRENE AND DAISY MACGREGOR SCHOLARSHIP—The Irene and Daisy MacGregor Memorial Scholarship is

awarded to two students of high scholastic standing and character who have been accepted into or are pursuing an

approved course of study to become a medical doctor (no pre-med, veterinarian or physician assistant) at an approved,

accredited medical school. Renewal is conditional upon maintenance of a GPA of 3.25.

This scholarship is also available to students who have been accepted into or who are pursing an approved course of study

in the field of psychiatric nursing at the graduate level at accredited medical schools, colleges, or universities. There is a

preference to females "if equally qualified."

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Irene and Daisy MacGregor Scholarship: [email protected]

ALICE W. ROOKE SCHOLARSHIP—A $5,000 scholarship awarded to one student who has been accepted into or

who are pursuing an approved course of study to become a medical doctor (no pre–med, veterinarian, or physician

assistant) at approved, accredited medical schools, colleges, and universities. The scholarship is not automatically

renewable; however, applicant may reapply for up to four years.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Alice W. Rooke Scholarship: [email protected]

DR. FRANCIS ANTHONY BENEVENTI MEDICAL SCHOLARSHIP—A preferred amount $5,000 scholarship

awarded to one student either attending or planning to attend an approved, accredited medical school, college, or

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university. The applicant must have a minimum GPA of 3.25. This scholarship is not automatically renewable; however,

recipients may reapply for consideration each year for up to four consecutive years, pending receipt of proof of continued

enrollment (no pre–med, veterinarian, or physician assistant), and after the first semester, an annual transcript review

indicating a minimum GPA of 3.25.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Dr. Francis Anthony Beneventi Scholarship: [email protected]

LESLIE ANDREE HANNA MEDICAL SCHOLARSHIP-A one-time preferred amount of $5,000 to a deserving

female student who is a U.S. citizen attending medical school . The selection process is based on academic merit with a

minimum GPA of 3.25 on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent GPA on the scale used by the applicable educational

institution. The recipient may reapply for the scholarship each year, but is not guaranteed the award.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Leslie Andree Hanna Medical Scholarship: [email protected]

Specific Scholarships

A separate application must be submitted for each scholarship in this group.

LEO W. AND ALBERTA V. THOMAS UTZ SCHOLARSHIP - Provides three scholarships annually to three top

students (one in each of the following areas - Math, Science and English). The amount of the scholardship is $4,000 per

year for four years each pending academic review and fund performance. The students must maintain a scholarship of 3.25

annually. When applying for this scholarship be sure to write on the application form which scholarship area.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Leo W. and Alberta V. Thomas Utz English Scholarship: [email protected]

National Vice Chair, Leo W. and Alberta V. Thomas Utz Science Scholarship: [email protected]

National Vice Chair, Leo W. and Alberta V. Thomas Utz Math Scholarship: [email protected]

MARGARET HOWARD HAMILTON SCHOLARSHIP—A $1,000 scholarship awarded for up to four years to a

graduating high school senior who has been accepted into the Harvey and Bernice Jones Learning Center, housing the Ben

D. Caudle Learning Program, University of the Ozarks, Clarksville, Arkansas. Applications must be requested directly

from the Learning Center upon acceptance into their program for learning disabled students.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Margaret Howard Hamilton Scholarship: [email protected]

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time $1,000 award is given to two graduating high school

seniors, one who has been accepted into the field of nursing and one who has been accepted into the field of occupational

therapy, who reside in the District of Columbia, the home of NSDAR Headquarters.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, District of Columbia Scholarship: [email protected]

LILLIAN AND ARTHUR DUNN SCHOLARSHIP—The Lillian and Arthur Dunn Scholarship is a $2,500 scholarship

awarded for up to four years to two well qualified, deserving sons and daughters of members of the NSDAR for four years

of college. Renewal is conditional upon maintenance of a GPA of 3.25. Outstanding recipients pursuing graduate study

may reapply each year for an additional period of up to four years of study. The DAR member number of the mother, who

is a current dues paying member, must be on the application.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Lillian and Arthur Dunn Scholarship: [email protected]

NELLIE LOVE BUTCHER MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP—A $5,000 scholarship shall be given annually to a male or

female music student who is pursuing an education in piano or voice. Special consideration shall be given to students

currently attending the Duke Ellington School of the Performing Arts, Washington, DC. This substantial scholarship is for

one year, and is not automatically renewable; however, recipients may reapply for consideration each year for four years

based on maintaining a 3.0 grade point average. Visit http://www.dar.org/members/committees/national-committees/dar-

scholarship/pdf/nelliebutcher.pdf for CD submission instructions.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Nellie Love Butcher Music Scholarship: [email protected]

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ARTHUR LOCKWOOD BENEVENTI LAW SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time preferred amount $2,000 scholarship

awarded to a student who is either enrolled in or attends an accredited law school and has a minimum GPA of 3.25. The

scholarship is not automatically renewable and recipients may reapply for consideration each year.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Arthur Lockwood Beneventi Law Scholarship: [email protected]

MARY ELIZABETH LOCKWOOD BENEVENTI MBA SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time preferred amount $2,000

scholarship for a student attending graduate school full time in an accredited college or university and majoring in

business administration. The applicant must have a minimum GPA of 3.25. The scholarship is not automatically

renewable; however, recipients may reapply for consideration each year.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Mary Elizabeth Lockwood Beneventi MBA Scholarship:

[email protected]

WILLIAM ROBERT FINDLEY GRADUATE CHEMISTRY SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time preferred amount

$2,000 scholarship for a student attending graduate school full time in an accredited college or university and majoring in

chemistry. The applicant must have a minimum GPA of 3.25. The scholarship is not automatically renewable; however,

recipients may reapply for consideration each year.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, William Robert Findley Graduate Chemistry Scholarship:

[email protected]

MICHAEL T. AND MARY L. CLOYD SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time only, preferred amount award of $3,000 to two

students with a minimum 3.0 average at the third year level of undergraduate study or studying at the graduate level

studying in the field of American History/Archives Management.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Michael T. and Mary L. Cloyd Scholarship: [email protected]

EDWARD G. AND HELEN A. BORGENS ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY TEACHER EDUCATION

SCHOLARSHIPS—Two one-time, preferred amount awards of $1,500 for students twenty-five (25) years of age or

older. One award is given to students studying to teach at the elementary school level, the other to students studying to

teach at the secondary level. All applicants must have at least a 3.50 GPA, be at least a college sophomore, and attend or

plan on attending an accredited college or university. The award is based on academic merit and is not automatically

renewable, though recipients may reapply for consideration as long as they meet the eligibility requirements.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Edward G. and Helen A. Borgens Elementary Teacher Education Scholarship:

[email protected]

Email completed SECONDARY scholarship application form to:

National Vice Chair, Edward G. and Helen A. Borgens Secondary Teacher Education Scholarship:

[email protected]

SWADLEY HORTICULTURE SCHOLARSHIP - Established by Bernadine Swadley, Honorary State Regent of

California.

Email completed application form to:

National Vice Chair, Swadley Horticulture Scholarship:[email protected] March Deadline: Automotive Scholarship Gateway Eligible: Seniors Criteria: career in the automotive industry. Applications will be accepted from September to March 31. Apply online at www.automotivescholarships.com. Create-A-Holiday-Card Scholarship Eligible: high school students Criteria: Design a greeting card Award: $10,000 scholarship Deadline: 3/1 www.gallerycollection.com/greetingcardscontests.htm

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Done Vida Scholarship Video Based Contest: Eligible: Latino High School Seniors Criteria: Video essay no longer that 2 minutes see www.BeADonor.org for details. Award: $3,000-$500

Deadline: 03/31 Legacy of Life Scholarship

Eligible: Graduating Seniors Criteria: Essay on “Organ & Tissue Donation: Persuade Someone to Give the Gift of a Lifetime” 1,000 word persuasive argument on the topic, fiction or non-fiction, with sources cited, www.BeADonor.org for details. Award: $5,000-$1,000 Deadline: 3/31 April Deadline:

Master Gardener Scholarship Eligible: Seniors enrolling in college Fall of 2016 Award: $1,000 Criteria: Resident of Charles County, 3.0 GPA or higher, pursuing animal and avian sciences, earth and physical sciences, environmental science, life science, marine science, plant science, etc. Deadline: 04/28 applications in the Career Center

May Deadline:

Sun Trust Scholarship Eligible: High School Seniors, One winner will be chosen every two weeks through May 12 Award: $500 Apply online: www.suntrusteducation.com/ScholarshipSweepstakes/ no purchase necessary to enter to win

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

Apply: www.kidschance-md.org

Students need to check the Maryland Higher Education website for financial aid resources including the Academic Common Market….attend an out-of-state college for in-state tuition prices if accepted by application and major: www.mhec.state.md.us

By School……A Few….Research Your Prospective Colleges………

To be eligible for scholarships offered by individual schools, the student must apply and be planning to

attend that particular college or university. Listed below are only a few for example.

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Black Male Teachers needed. Are you a Black Male who is a senior in high school and want to go to college out of state for FREE (not all programs offer full tuition) and want to become teacher? The CALL ME MISTER program is offered by many colleges across the country. Details about national partners online at www.callmemister.clemson.edu or call 1-800-640-2657.

Boston University Trustee Scholarship Competition four year, full tuition scholarship to BU, top 10% of the senior class, very active leaders in school and community, also Alexander Graham Bell Scholarship for students interested in engineering, the School of Education Presidential Scholarship; and the Dr. Martin Luther King Scholarship for students dedicated to community service. December 1st deadline. Visit www.bu.edu/admissions/trustee for more information. ***The Croft Family Scholarships to Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland College Park, Dartmouth College, Washington and Lee, Randolph Macon, and the College of Southern Maryland are available to graduating seniors who reside in the southern Charles County region around Route 225 in the Port Tobacco and surrounding areas. Please check with the financial aid office of the colleges for more information. Some information is available in the Career Center.

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.

Architecture Scholarships to Syracuse University Ten full ride scholarships for African-American men and women studying architecture at Syracuse University in New York is available for qualified students. Contact Mr. Mark Robbins, Dean of Architecture, at 315-443-2256 for more information or visit http://soa.syr.edu/index.php.

United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Scholarships UNCF has various scholarships with eligibility criteria, open/close dates and required documentation. Apply online: https://scholarships.uncf.org/

UMBC Meyerhoff Scholarship Program Eligible: High School Seniors, 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 College & Career Advisor by 10/09.

Villanova University Presidential Scholarship, renewable, merit-based award covering full tuition, room,

board and fees, GPA 4.19, SAT 1450/1600, ACT 33/36, must submit a completed application for

admission by 12/1, see your College & Career Advisor, Villanova Scholarship, awarded on the basis of

exemplary academic achievement and accomplishments outside the classroom, top 5% of graduating

class or GPA 3.85, SAT 1380/1600, ACT 31/36, Award: beginning at $1000 per year

www.villanova.edu/scholarships

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

SCHOLARSHIP and COLLEGE Information on-line www.mhec.state.md.us www.studentscholarships.org www.finaid.com www.uncf.org www.fastweb.com www.blackstudents.blacknews.com www.studentaid.ed.gov

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www.meritaid.com www.MDgo4it.org www.federalstudentaid.ed.gov www.mapccs.org www.going2college.org www.collegexpress.com https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/scholarships-grants Merit Scholarships Contact the Financial Aid Office of your prospective colleges to see if separate applications for aid are due this fall. Early October dates are common. UVA, Davidson, Emory U., and NYU, to name a few, have merit deadlines this fall. Some of these scholarships require a counselor or principal nomination. Don't miss out on these financial opportunities. Ask your prospective colleges' financial aid office for merit scholarship applications. Online: www.meritaid.com “My College Dollars” Launched by MTV, Get Schooled and the College Board, a Facebook application that utilizes information from a user’s Facebook profile – including age, gender and state – to connect students with targeted financial aid opportunities. VISIT THE MY COLLEGE DOLLARS FACEBOOK APP. http://mycollegedollars.hyfnrsx1.com/ 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

Guaranteed Access Partnership Program (GAPP):

GAPP provides a matching award for eligible students who receive a State Guaranteed

Access grant and attend a participating institution, for a total grant award up to $35,800

per year for four years. Johns Hopkins University, Stevenson University, Hood College,

Goucher College, Capitol Technology University, Washington College and others are

participating in the program. Visit: www.micua.org/GAPP for more details.

Financial Aid information

It is important to start thinking about Financial Aid for college early. And it is never too early! Seniors should be stopping in their Career Center weekly to find out what new scholarships are available. The Career Center is not the only place they should be looking. Seniors should be checking this newsletter’s scholarship section every month and applying. Also seniors should be searching the many websites listed in this newsletter.

Remember to be alert for scams! If you are not sure if it is a scam, bring it to your College & Career Advisor.

Here are a few red flags that a scholarship is possibly a scam:

They ask you on the application for your social security number.

You have to pay to apply.

It says they guarantee that everyone who applies will receive a scholarship.

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Students that are not yet seniors should be looking for scholarships as well. A good starting place is

www.fastweb.com. Other places to look: The local newspaper, clubs and organizations in the community in which you or your parents are involved, your career center.

Information about STEM careers: http://www.ice.gov/sevis/stemlist.htm http://www.onetonline.org/find/stem?t=0&g=Go www.STEMjobs.com

College Majors 101….learn about various majors at www.collegemajors101.com

SEAP Internship Program: Deadline: 10/31

Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program for grades 10 thru 12

(16 yrs. old) work in science labs this summer for 8 weeks and earn

$3,300 (returning students $3,800) http://seap.asee.org/apply

All students are reminded to take advantage of the Career Center webpage for

many links to assist you in your career and college options. Career Cruising.com

is available, along with Getin2College.com. Check out the Career Center

webpage.

See you in the Career Center,

Mrs. Wanda N. Welch, College and Career Advisor

Gordon Croft Family Scholarships

Gordon Croft is a longtime supporter of Charles County Public Schools and students and families who

reside in Southern Charles County. Mr. Croft has endowed 9 scholarships for eligible Charles County

Public Schools (CCPS) students. Each scholarship is administered by the college, with the admissions

and financial aid staff selecting the recipient(s) from among students who meet specific eligibility criteria,

including financial need.

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.

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University of Maryland Scholarships (3)

The Croft Charles County Scholarships provide annual tuition scholarships for students at the

University of Maryland who demonstrate financial need. Students must enroll in the A. James

Clark School of Engineering, College Park, MD. There are three scholarships available:

o The Russell Gordon Croft Southern Charles County Scholarship

o The Kent Gordon Croft Southern Charles County Scholarship

o The Carol Croft Linde Southern Charles County Scholarship Awards range from $7,500 to $9,000 per year.

Washington and Lee University

The 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

The 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

The 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

The 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.

Dartmouth is an Ivy League school that adheres to a need-blind admissions process- if you are

granted admission your financial needs will be worked out.

Students who have the academic qualifications could apply to the other Ivy League schools, all of

which are need-blind: Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Harvard

University, University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University, and Yale University.

The College of Southern Maryland (2)

The two College of Southern Maryland Croft Scholarships were established in 2000 and provide

tuition scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need. Awards are up to $2,200 per

year for each of the two scholarships.

October 24, Tuesday, 6:30pm, Library, College Admissions Application Night

Salisbury Representative will discuss the admissions application process for four-year colleges!

These programs and scholarships are provided as a courtesy. Charles County Public Schools and McDonough High School do not

rate the quality or value of any of these listings. For more information on items in this newsletter, please see Mrs. Welch 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 Patricia Vaira, Title

IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (students) or Marvin L. Jones, 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.

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