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LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOLJUNIOR COUNSELOR SEMINAR CURRICULUM

CLASS of 2017

SESSION I INTRODUCTION AND POST SECONDARY PLANNING Please Do Now: Junior Information Sheet Activator: Snowball Fight Overview of Junior Seminar Transcript Review Review of Course Request Process Post-Secondary Options

SESSION II THE COLLEGE SEARCH PROCESS – Part 1 Please Do Now: Influences of Post Secondary Goals Activator: High/Low of Junior Year Activity: Factors in Admissions Game What Colleges Are Looking For Grades in College Prep Courses Strength of Curriculum Standardized Testing Extracurricular Activities College Interview The College Essay College Recommendations

SESSION III THE COLLEGE SEARCH PROCESS - Part 2 Please Do Now: Know Yourself Activator: Would You Rather Finding Your Fit Resources to Develop Your College Build a College List in Naviance

SESSION IV THE COLLEGE SEARCH PROCESS – Part 3 Please Do Now: Parent Support Activator: Guided Visualization Creating a Balanced College List Review of Tools Available in Naviance Seniors Visit (optional) I Got This!

Session I: Please Do Now

Junior Counselor Seminar LHS Class of 2017

JUNIOR SEMINAR INFORMATION SHEET

Name: ________________________________________ Date: _________

Preferred Name: ______________________________ Homeroom: _____

Email: _______________________________________________________

Cell Phone: ___________________________________________________

Describe yourself in three words:

What are some of the activities you have been involved in while at LHS?

What are you most proud of accomplishing over the past three years?

Who are two or three students at LHS that you consider to be friends?

Name one or two LHS faculty or staff members whom you trust.

Is there anything else you would like your counselor to know?


Session I: ActivatorSnowball Fight

What excites you most about post-secondary planning?

What makes you most nervous about post-secondary planning?


JUNIOR SEMINAR NOTES

SESSION I INTRODUCTION AND POST-SECONDARY OPTIONS

Transcript review__________________________________________________________________________

Graduation requirements____________________________________________________________________

Course request process______________________________________________________________________

Post-Secondary options_____________________________________________________________________

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SESSION II THE COLLEGE SEARCH PROCESS – Part 1

Factors in the admissions decision (What colleges are looking for)

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SESSION III THE COLLEGE SEARCH PROCESS - Part 2

Factors in developing your college list including career and college major exploration (What are you looking for?)__________________________________________________________________________________________

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SESSION IV THE COLLEGE SEARCH PROCESS – Part 3

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STUDENT PORTAL ACCOUNT (Aspen/X2)USERNAME: _________________________________________PASSWORD: ________________________________________

NAVIANCE ACCOUNTUSERNAME: _________________________________________PASSWORD: ________________________________________

COMMON APPLICATION ACCOUNTUSERNAME: ________________________________________PASSWORD: ________________________________________


POST-SECONDARY OPTIONS

4 Year School (college or university) – Students at four year schools graduate with a bachelor’s/baccalaureate degree, and are able to focus their studies in one or several directions. Students can major, double-major, minor, double-minor, and/or concentrate. For example, “I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English” or “I double majored in English and Creative Writing with a concentration in Poetry” or “I have a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Biology, and double minored in mathematics and theater.” While the differences between “colleges” and “universities” appear to be relatively insignificant, universities may be larger and offer graduate programs whose courses may be open to undergraduate students. Due to their size, they may offer more classes/sections of classes, and have greater flexibility in scheduling, especially across different fields of study. University faculty may split their time and attention between research and teaching. Some larger universities divide their programs into “colleges” or “schools” such as Boston University’s School of Communication or Bucknell University’s College of Engineering.

2 Year School - Students at two-year schools may graduate with an associate’s degree or a certificate. Associate’s degrees may be more focused or general, depending on the student’s plan for after graduation, either entering the workforce or additional education. Certificate programs are very specific and graduates from a certificate program tend to go directly into the workforce after graduation. For example, “I have an Associate’s Degree in Child Care and am going to work at Kindercare after graduation” or “I earned an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts and am transferring to Salem State as a junior after graduation” or “I am a Certified Emergency Medical Technician and will be working at Bay State Ambulance after graduation.” A two year school may be a less expensive option for students looking to start careers (earning money!) sooner, for those who need to improve their academic record to get into a four year school, and students who simply want to save money on their general education courses before transferring to a more expensive four year institution.

*A commonly asked question is “what is the difference between a private and a public school?” Both 4 year and 2-year schools can be public or private. 4-year public schools are often called “State Schools” (like University of Massachusetts and Bridgewater State University); 2 year public schools are often called “Community Colleges” (like Middlesex Community College or Bunker Hill Community College). The major difference between public and private is their funding. Public schools are state funded and are less expensive for in-state students. Private schools do not receive state funding, and rely on tuition and private contributions. Public schools tend to be larger (like universities) while private schools tend to be smaller (like colleges)*

Technical School – Students studying at a technical school will study a very specific field, and be prepared for direct entry into the working world. Instructors at technical schools may or may not have a college degree; however, they all have training in the particular field in which they teach. Many programs prepare students to take licensing or certification exams upon completion of the required courses. Students who lean toward technical training in high school might be able to accelerate their studies at a post-secondary technical school.

Gap Year Programs – It is more common, for students to consider an enrichment experience between high school and college. Some students take the time to explore another culture. Others use the time to learn a new skill or a second language. Others do volunteer work or work full time to save up for college. If you are considering this option, we recommend that you go through the process of applying to college in your senior year. In the spring, make a deposit at the college you would like to attend, and request that the college defer your entry for one year to hold a spot in the following year’s incoming class (if you know you are going to pursue this option in advance, make sure that the colleges you are applying to allow you to defer). Many colleges look favorably on students who opt for an enrichment experience between high school and college, as they feel students arrive on campus more mature and focused.

If you are contemplating a Gap Year, it is important to have a clear plan by choosing an alternative, significant activity for the year, rather than just taking a vacation. There are numerous alternative year off/time out/gap year opportunities for students, such as living and studying in another country as an exchange student, doing community service work, participating in challenging outdoor or leadership training programs, doing scientific research, or working full-time. The benefits of an enrichment year include developing a broader perspective, having some time away from a school


environment to explore your future goals and academic interests, participating in experiential learning opportunities, developing independence and maturity, and saving money. Additional information can be found on-line at: http://www.usagapyearfairs.org/programs

Post-Graduate/PG Programs – Students who attend PG programs are opting for another year of high school, having already graduated from LHS. PG programs are available at many private schools, as well as some vocational/technical high schools (like Minuteman). Typically, those who consider this option do so to improve their study skills or their academic record in a structured environment with small classes in order to increase college options. In addition, PG programs are sometimes suggested for athletes by college coaches. Additional information can be found on-line at: http://www.boardingschoolreview.com/pg_boarding_schools.php

The Military Army – http://www.goarmy.com/locate-a-recruiter.htmlNavy – http://www.navy.com/locator.htmlAir Force – http://www.airforce.com/contact-us/recruiter-locatorMarines – https://www.marines.com/request-informationArmy National Guard - http://www.nationalguard.com/recruiterAir National Guard – http://www.goang.com/RequestInformation

Employment – Job opportunities are continually posted and updated throughout the year on the bulletin board outside rm. 156. Additional job information can be found at the Department of Employment Training website (which varies from state to state).

Apprenticeship - a formal way of learning a skill or trade by working with someone who is in that particular field or profession. Additional information on apprenticeships can be found at the Department of Labor website (http://www.doleta.gov/oa/).

Post-Secondary PlansClass of 2015

Total post secondary education...............94.6% 4-year college..........................................87.0% 2-year college..........................................3.3% Non-U.S. college.....................................3.7% Prep & other schools................................0.6% Gap year...................................................2.5% Employed/Military...................................1.4% Undecided................................................1.5%


http://www.goarmy.com/locate-a-recruiter.html

http://www.doleta.gov/oa/

http://www.nationalguard.com/recruiter

http://www.navy.com/locator.html

Session II: Please Do Now INFLUENCES OF POST SECONDARY GOALS

Name:_________________________________________________________________________________

Looking over your 2.5 years of high school what class has influenced your post-secondary goals? How so?

Looking over your 2.5 years of high school what event has influenced your post-secondary goals? How so?

Looking over your 2.5 years of high school what activity has influenced your post-secondary goals? How so?

Looking over your 2.5 years of high school what person has influenced your post-secondary goals? How so?


College Checklist for LHS JuniorsTAKE FIRST STEPS NOW□ Naviance – Revisit the Careers tab

Return to http://connection.naviance.com/lexington to review the “Personality Type” & “Career Interest Profiler” tools. These will help you consider majors and careers. It’s normal to be exploring still and it’s okay if you’re not sure what you want to do yet.

□ Senior Year Course RequestsWork with your teachers, your family and your counselor to request a well-balanced courseload.

□ Professional Email AddressCreate a simple email address with your name in it. You will check email regularly during your senior year for communication with colleges and your guidance counselor.

EXPLORE COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY OPTIONS

□ Naviance – Colleges tabVisit http://connection.naviance.com/lexington to explore options with the “College Search.” Add schools to your “Colleges I Am Interested In” list to help organize your search.

□ College VisitsSome schools offer open houses that are geared toward juniors, but you can schedule tours almost any day by contacting a school’s admissions office through the official website or by phone.

□ College FairsMeet representatives from hundreds of colleges at a college fair (NACAC Boston National College Fair is May 23 & 24, 2016 at Boston Convention & Exhibition Center).

PREPARE APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

□ SAT and ACT ExamsRegister now for a May or June test at www.SAT.collegeboard.org and/or www.ACTstudent.org

□ Letters of RecommendationDuring the 4th Quarter this year, ask 1-2 teachers if they are willing to write positive letters of recommendation for you. Follow up via email and share reminders of highlights from your time in that teacher’s class (ex. a project, class discussion, seeking extra help, etc.)

□ Activities ResumeFormulate and maintain a list of your extracurricular activities, accomplishments, awards and work experience from grades 9-12.

□ College EssayLook at next year’s Common Application essay topics. Begin to draft your essay over the summer.

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Comparing the SAT to the ACTWhen it is released this year, the new SAT will be a significant change from the current test. Below is a broad comparison of the new SAT and the ACT, courtesy of Summit Educational Group.

New SAT (Spring 2016) ACT

Description The new SAT will require similar skills and test similar content to that of the ACT and current SAT. Many of the changes to the new SAT’s format will make it look a lot like the ACT, but the SAT will retain its focus as an aptitude test. Among the biggest changes to the SAT are a sharper focus on critical-thinking, an emphasis on real-world problems, a new scoring system, and an overhaul of the essay section. Overall, the redesigned SAT will place a bigger emphasis on problem-solving and understanding context. Comparatively, the ACT will remain more of an achievement test, requiring a broad knowledge of many concepts, as well as considerable speed and endurance.

Format & Length

5 long sections (comprising 3 “tests” and an optional essay): Writing & Language; Reading; 2 Math; Essay Questions have 4 answer choices Total testing time: 3 hours, 50 minutes (with essay)

5 long sections (comprising 4 “tests” and an optional essay): English; Mathematics; Reading; Science; Writing (optional essay) Most questions have 4 answer choices (Math has 5) Total testing time: 3 hours, 25 minutes (with essay)

Scoring Combined score: 400-1600 Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 200- 800; Math: 200-800 Essay score reported separately “Cross-Test Scores” report performance on Science and History/ Social Studies across entire test No deduction for incorrect answers

Composite score: 1-36 (average of 4 tests) English: 1-36; Math: 1-36; Reading: 1-36; Science: 1-36 Writing score not factored into Composite score Combined English/Writing score provided separately: 1-36 No deduction for incorrect answers

Writing/ English

Revise and edit a piece of writing for, logical structure, and effective rhetoric standard English grammar and usage punctuation logical structure effective rhetoric includes informational graphics

Revise and edit a piece of writing for, logical structure, and effective rhetoric standard English grammar and usage punctuation logical structure effective rhetoric commonly confused words

Math Pre-Algebra through basic Trigonometry strong emphasis on Algebra Calculator prohibited on one section12 Grid-In questions (no answer choices) 1 Extended Thinking question (4 points)

Pre-Algebra through basic Trigonometry math tested in straightforward manner extensive range of concepts tested emphasis on word problems formulas not provided

Reading Vocabulary de-emphasized 4 long passages and 1 paired passage 2 passages include diagrams/charts 1 passage from U.S. “founding document”

4 long passages very little emphasis on vocabulary straightforward questions that require close reading of passage order of questions is random less time per question

Science The new SAT does not have stand-alone Science section, but Science questions will be included throughout the Math,

40 questions distributed over 7 passages emphasis on charts, diagrams, etc. Science is a reasoning test—rarely requires


Reading, and Writing & Language tests. prior science knowledge

Essay 50 minutes, always the last section analyze a passage and evaluate author’s reasoning and rhetoric students’ opinions discouraged Essay is scored on 2-8 scale on three traits (Reading, Analysis, and Writing)

30 minutes, always the last test narrow topic “relevant” to high school students demands a more structured response optional, but required by most schools

ACTIVITIES RESUME

Colleges, employers, and other institutions like to know about a student’s activities. The first step in preparing an activities record or resume is listing the things you have done - whether in or out of school, paid or volunteer, short-term or long-term. Any productive use of time applies. Use the categories below to help you organize your list of activities and experiences and include the academic year you participated.

A. Academic HonorsDepartment awards - department, academic yearOther - title, description, year

B. AthleticsSports - position, leadership (if any), yearHonors and awards - title, description, year

C. Extracurricular Activities in School(list in order of significance, either in terms of time commitment or achievement)Position, activity, yearSpecial honors or awards

D. Extracurricular Activities out of SchoolLessons – type, yearReligious involvement - activity, year

E. Community Service/Volunteer WorkOrganization, task - year

F. Work ExperienceJob title (list most recent first) - duration, position, responsibilities, year

G. Summer ExperienceSummer school, camp, etc. - experience, description, duration, year

H. TravelLocation, duration

I. Interests and HobbiesSpecial skills, things you do with your free time

**While there are many ways to format your activities resume, it is important to be clear and concise. Do not list the same activity twice (under different headings)


There is no need to use paragraphs to describe everything you’ve participated in

JILL R. LOPES10 Main Street

Lexington, MA 02420Telephone: (781) 862-1234 / Email: [email protected]

ACADEMIC HONORS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS National Honor Society (nominated) 11National Honor Society (inducted) 12Smith College Book Award 11

LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE Class Treasurer 9-12Temple Youth Group 9-12

Vice President 11,12

ATHELTICS Freshman Basketball 9

Best Defensive Player 9JV Basketball 10

Captain 10Varsity Basketball 11,12

Team MVP 12Middlesex League All Star 12Tri-Captain 12

Varsity Tennis 9-12Middlesex League #2 Doubles 9Massachusetts State Tournament Doubles Runner Up 12Captain 12

COMMUNITY SERVICE The Walk For Life (AIDS Fundraiser) 10-12Rosie’s Place (Homeless shelter) – served meals on weekends 9,10Helped out in guidance office 11

EMPLOYMENT Camp Counselor 11, 12Rancatore’s (ice cream shop) – scooper 11


Rancatore’s – Manager 12

TRAVEL Greater New England, Atlantic Coast, trips with family 9-12Exchange Program to Israel 9

INTERESTS and HOBBIES Mountain biking, snowboarding, music, reading

THE COLLEGE VISIT

No publication, no matter how thorough, can give you a complete picture of a college or university. If possible, a campus visit is the best way to find out what a college is like. Many colleges are now counting student interest among the variables they consider when making admission decisions. Nothing demonstrates this interest more than visiting campus. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time there.

Research the college (s) before you visit.

Register for information sessions and tours ahead of time on the college’s admission webpage.

The best time to visit a college campus is when college is in session.

To have a true sense of campus plan to spend a half-day at each college visit.

Arrive with questions in hand that are not easily answered by viewing the website.

Students should ask the questions – not parents! Parents, if you do have questions be sure yours are logical parent concerns such as cost and safety.

Make sure you see what’s important to you (Chemistry lab, radio station, freshman dorms, career center) if they’re not on the tour. If possible, sit in on a class or speak with a professor in the academic area of your interest.

Engage current students in conversation and ask them questions.

Try to schedule an interview while you are on campus. Some smaller colleges require an interview others make it optional.

If you are on campus to meet with a member of the athletic staff or visit the music department, schedule an appointment ahead of time so they are expecting you.

Visit the student union, the library, and campus bookstore. Read the bulletin boards. Pick up a copy of the school newspaper and other publications.


Take notes – perhaps purchase a postcard from the bookstore and use it to record your impressions. Also note any particular likes or dislikes you had about the school. Include any questions that the visit provoked - call the admissions office when you get home to follow up.

Eat a meal on campus (check out the cafeteria and the snack bar). Find out what meals are available – kosher, vegan/vegetarian, nut/dairy-free, etc.

Attend an extra-curricular event.

Take photos with your phone.

Trust your gut instincts about a college regardless of others comments. You owe it to yourself to discover your own opinions. What you are looking for in a college may be different than what others were focused on.

THE COLLEGE VISIT

Below are some questions to ask/consider when you are on campus.

If you attend a class, ask yourself. . . 1. Are students interested in the material?2. Do students participate readily in discussion?4. Were you intellectually challenged by what took place?5. Do you feel the students learned - either new facts or new ways of thinking about a subject?6. Is there a good rapport between professors and students?7. Would you feel comfortable in this setting?

Academic questions to ask:1. How much flexibility will I have in my curriculum? Can I change majors? Can I double major? Can I cross-register with other colleges? Is there a “core curriculum”? 2. What is the average class size?3. What is the faculty-student ratio?4. Can I get an internship in my major field?5. Can I study abroad? Where?6. How many credits do students usually take?7. How often does each class meet per week?

Faculty: 1. What percentage of the faculty teach freshmen/sophomores? Are they full professors? Will I be taught by graduate students?2. How accessible are the faculty? Do they have office hours? Do they act as faculty advisors? 3. Are the faculty encouraged to publish research?4. Do the faculty have contact with the professional world?

Student life:1. What kinds of students are here? Are they diverse? Are they all from the local area? Are they tolerant of different kinds of students? 2. What kinds of student organizations are there on campus? Are there fraternities and sororities?3. Is there school spirit?4. What kinds of athletic teams/programs are there? Are there intramural or club leagues?5. Is there an effective student government?6. What happens on campus on weekends? Do most students leave?


7. How politically active are the students?

Additional Considerations: 1. How are the various academic departments? How are the athletic facilities? music? theater? 2. Is housing guaranteed for four years? What types of housing are available? What would be best for a freshman? Can I change dormitories? How is the food? Are there laundry facilities? Is it possible to study in your dorm room?3. Does this school have a safe campus?4. How active are the alumni?5. What kinds of student support services are available? What kind of religious programs are on campus?6. Do I need a computer? What is the computer situation on campus?7. How much does this school cost? Does this include room, board, and expenses? How can I apply for financial aid? Does this school offer athletic, scholastic, merit or performance scholarships?8. Can I get a job on campus?

INTERVIEWS

The function and significance of the interview in the college admissions process varies from school to school. While large universities have moved away from the interview, smaller, private colleges may require an interview. In this case, the interview may be evaluative, but it rarely weighs significantly in an admission decision. It is an opportunity to get to know you personally. Admissions interviewers generally look at three areas while interviewing students. They are looking at you as a possible student at their school, how you react to the campus and what it offers, and what your chances are for admission.

The most impressive type of student is one who is confident, responsive, and able to carry on an interesting and informative conversation. Be prepared to ask intelligent, pertinent questions (whose answers are not easily accessible on the website.) Dress for the occasion – tasteful and comfortable, not overly formal. Bring a folder with you containing an unofficial copy of your transcript, standardized test scores and your activity resume, with a pen and note pad to jot down your thoughts.

Attitude is key. An interview is meant to be a conversation. Be prepared to take an active role in the interview (from the start: rise to greet the interviewer, call him or her by name, give the person your name, offer a handshake). Arrive early and be courteous to secretaries or receptionists. Call if you're running late. Before your interview be sure to turn off your cell phone – do not silence it – TURN IT OFF.

Positive non-verbal communication is important:1. Frequent eye contact2. Smile occasionally3. React to the interviewer (nod, smile at comments)4. Listen carefully

Some sample questions they may ask you:

1. Name 3 adjectives that describe yourself. What things do you value? 2. What magazines do you read? Newspapers? Favorite websites? 3. How does your family feel about you going away to school? 4. What are you most proud of? 5. What are your strengths and weaknesses? 6. Who has had the greatest influence on your life? 7. Do you have a part-time job? Do you enjoy it?8. What is the most significant activity in which you have participated?9. Is your school progressive? What are the attitudes of your classmates?


10. What is the last book you have read?11. If your standardized test scores are low, why do you think they are?12. What career areas have you considered?13. What personal qualities would you add to our college community?14. Where do you see yourself ten years from now?

After the InterviewAt the end of the interview, thank your interviewer for speaking with you. Get a business card of your interviewer. If you enjoyed your visit and plan on applying be sure to include this in your thank you note of appreciation.

THE COMMON APPLICATION2015-2016 Essay Prompts

1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.

2. The lessons we take from failure can be fundamental to later success. Recount an incident or time when you experienced failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

3. Reflect on a time when you challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you to act? Would you make the same decision again?

4. Describe a problem you’ve solved or a problem you’d like to solve. It can be an intellectual challenge, a research query, an ethical dilemma-anything that is of personal importance, no matter the scale. Explain its significance to you and what steps you took or could be taken to identify a solution.

5. Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your transition from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community, or family.


THE ESSAY

College applicant pools are generally full of students with similar academic achievements. Hence the reason colleges request other things: extracurricular activities, interviews, recommendations – and essays. The essay is your voice in the application and is one of the few things that you have complete control over in the application process. View the essay as a chance to tell the admissions committee about who you are as a person. When the reader has finished your essay they should feel as if they just had a conversation with you.

1. There is no “right” topic. They simply want to get to know you.

2. Read the Common Application essay prompts. Ponder them. Then let them go. In the interim your brain will do a lot of heavy lifting and an idea will occur to you.

3. Write thoughtfully and from your heart. It'll be clear who believes in what they are saying versus those who are simply saying what they think we want to hear. Colleges want to get to know you, how you think, what is important to you, how you choose to spend your time. Be sure your essay is YOU centered. This is a challenging task because you are rarely asked to write about yourself but they are considering admitting you to their college so be sure that is the focus of the essay.

4. Do not provide a history report. Some background knowledge is okay, but do not draw out a long story of a particular experience. They are more interested in how you responded, what you learned and/or how you grew from the experience than the details of the experience itself. Keep it short and to the point. Narrowly focused essays are typically the strongest.

5. Show, don’t tell. Make the reader the seventh player on the lacrosse field, the fifth singer in a capella, another student in an AP course.

6. Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Global issues are worthy of serious attention and can you sufficiently address these complex issues and how they relate to who you are in 650 words?

7. Avoid the obvious. Perhaps you are considering writing about what a competitive high school you have attended. Consider how many or your classmates could write on that topic as well. Other tired topics may include: the jock essay (how I learned the value of teamwork, perseverance and hard work), the travel essay (if you do choose this topics be sure it is a story that you alone can share), the community service essay (I’ve witnessed how people can have so little and still be happy, makes me appreciate what I have.)

8. Confer with someone as you write. A conversation with your English teacher may help you clarify your thinking.

9. Write the first sentence last. Crafting the first sentence can take time because you want to hook the reader in from the start. It is easy for students to get stuck here. The best thing to do is just start writing. There should be many drafts of your essay so to begin – just write. You cannot write your final draft first. As you write you may


discover your essay really starts in the middle of the third paragraph, and you end up cutting the preliminaries or you rearrange the paragraphs. Once completed, read your first sentence. Is it a hook?

10. Leave the reader with a strong image. Your conclusion should add to your essay and to your qualities as an applicant, not merely rehash what has already been said.

Remember your essay is merely one piece of the puzzle. Admission counselors are on the lookout for a reason to admit you, be sure your essay gives them a few.

COLLEGE APPLICATION TERMINOLOGY

Advanced Placement Test (AP) - a subject specific test taken by some high school students after they have completed certain AP or Honors courses. Some colleges give advanced standing and/or credit for these College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) sponsored tests if students earn a score of 3, 4, or 5 on them.

ACT – a curriculum based achievement test, which measures skills in English, writing, mathematics, reading and natural science, as well as Reasoning abilities. Composite scores range from 1 to 36.

Associates Degree - a degree granted by a college or university for a program that requires two years of full-time study.

Baccalaureate Degree - the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, or any other bachelor's degree granted by a college or university for a program that typically requires four years of full-time study.

CEEB Code Number - The LHS CEEB code number is 221190. It is commonly asked for on college applications and standardized test registration forms.

Class Rank – an individual high school’s method of ranking students by GPA to compare one student's academic performance with the performance of all other students at the same grade level. LHS does not rank students, nor do we estimate percentiles.

The Common Application – a college application form developed and widely accepted by many colleges and universities.

Cooperative Education (Co-Op) Program - a program integrating classroom study with work experience, offering both credit and salary.

Deferring Acceptance - an accepted student can delay entrance by a year (or a semester).

Early Action - permits you to apply to a college or university and receive a decision early in your senior year, well in advance of the normal spring response dates. Though you will hear early regarding your admission, you are NOT committed to attend, and you MAY apply to other colleges. If you are applying for financial aid, you will follow the financial aid application deadline set by the institution. You are not required to make a commitment before May 1, but you are encouraged to do so as soon as your final choice is made. Some schools are now designating themselves as “single choice” or “restricted” early action, meaning your application is still non-binding, but you can’t apply anywhere else early. Under early action programs, applicants are accepted, denied, or deferred where they will be re-evaluated with the regular admission pool.


Early Decision - the same as Early Action, except it requires you to commit to that college or university at the time of application - if admitted, you MUST enroll. You should apply under an Early Decision plan only if you know that you can make a well reasoned, first choice decision. Upon admission, the school will require a nonrefundable deposit well before May 1. You may apply to other colleges but are permitted to have only one Early Decision application pending at any given time. The school will respond to your request for financial aid at or near the time admission is offered. If admitted, you must enroll and withdraw all other applications. Under early decision programs, applicants are accepted, denied, or deferred where they will be re-evaluated with the regular admission pool.

Grade Point Average (GPA) - a calculated number used to evaluate a student's academic performance. While LHS GPA calculations are listed in the Student/Parent Handbook, some colleges and universities may recalculate your LHS GPA using their own system.

International Baccalaureate (IB) – a challenging, specialized two-year curriculum of international education offered at some high schools. It may lead to a diploma that some colleges/universities will recognize. LHS does not offer IB courses.

National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) - an athletic governing body to which approximately 500 small four-year colleges and universities belong. The NAIA governs athletic recruitment and scholarship awarding policies.

National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) - an athletic governing body to which approximately 800 colleges and universities belong. Each school chooses a general division 1, 2, or 3, and is required to follow the policies regarding recruitment and scholarship awards that have been established for that division.

National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) – The National Merit Scholarship program is offered to students based on their junior year PSAT scores. Students will be contacted in September of their senior year, informing them if they are commended or semi-finalists. Semi-finalists will have the opportunity to continue the application process. The application will include an essay, an activity sheet and counselor statement. Finalists will be notified in February.

Open Admissions - an admissions policy whereby the college admits all applicants.

Post-Secondary Planning - relating to the plans or education taking place following graduation from a high school

Regular Decision - most colleges have an early winter application deadline (January 1 or 15 or February 1). They generally notify candidates of their acceptance between March 1 and April 12. Students then have until May 1 (the common reply date) to respond to the colleges. Regular decision applicants are either accepted, denied, or waitlisted (the college may initially delay offering or denying admission, but rather extend the possibility of admission in the future. Colleges offer admission to waitlist candidates if insufficient numbers of regularly admitted candidates accept their offers of admission).

Rolling Admission - a term used to describe the application process in which an institution reviews applications as they are received and offers decisions to students soon after they are made (on a "rolling" basis). If you are applying for financial aid you will follow the financial aid application deadline set by the school. You may apply to other colleges and you will not be required to make a decision regarding enrolling before May 1.

SAT - this test, graded on a scale from 200 to 800 (per section), measures a student’s mathematical, writing and reading skills.


SAT Subject Tests - one hour tests offered in subjects such as world language, science, history, and mathematics. These tests, graded on a scale from 200 to 800, measure a student's knowledge of particular subject areas.

School Profile - essentially a summary of LHS - it includes a description of Lexington, our average SAT/AP scores, our grading and course level systems, the fact that we don't rank our students, etc. It is included in the packet that our registrar sends to colleges with student’s transcript and counselor statement.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - a test used to evaluate the English proficiency of those students whose first language is not English.


COLLEGE FAIRS

A college fair is a great opportunity to get more information about colleges that interest you and to ask questions of college representatives. Walking into a room filled with hundreds of colleges without having an idea of how or where to proceed may be an overwhelming experience. Getting the most from a college fair takes some advanced planning, and these helpful hints will assist you in making the best use of your time. While some of these suggestions may seem basic or obvious, they are designed make life easier for all involved.

If you attend the Boston National College Fair register in advance at nacacnet.org.

1. DO YOUR HOMEWORKFind out which colleges will be at the fair, and target the schools you know you want to hit. When you’re done with those, then you can “wander around” and look at some other schools. Most college fairs arrange the schools in alphabetical order, so you’ll know where to find Abilene Christian University vs. Youngstown State. If it’s crowded (it will be crowded), you may want to approach in reverse alphabetical order. Those schools at the end of the alphabet may not be as busy, especially early in the evening. Prepare a list of questions that are important to you as an individual (cars on campus, a radio station, meal plans, internship opportunities, etc.).

2. BRING SUPPLIESCarry an empty knapsack. You’ll acquire catalogs, view books, videos, applications, pennants, etc., and you’ll want something to comfortably carry them all home in. Also, bring a notebook and a working pen to jot down notes, names, addresses, web sites, phone numbers, and answers to your specific questions. You may also write down some of your general impressions of the school and/or the representative that you spoke with.

3. ASK QUESTIONSAsk those questions that you prepared earlier. They shouldn’t be questions that are easily answered in the college’s literature. You have a live person to speak with - ask them the tough questions.

4. BRING YOUR PARENT(S)/GUARDIAN(S)No, you don’t have to hang out with them all night. Split up, but make sure you hit the same schools. Then you can compare notes afterwards.

5. MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSIONThe college representatives are going to see hundreds of students and parents that night, so they may not remember all of them. However, if you plan on meeting with a rep at a school that you are sincerely interested in, and you plan on asking them a lot of questions, make an impression on them. They could be the person who reviews your application and/or the one who conducts your admissions interview. Formal attire isn’t necessary, but look good. If the representative has a business card, ask for one. You can send them a nice note afterwards thanking them for their time.

6. HAVE FUN!Get the job done, and then go look at some schools that you’ve never heard of. You may find yourself interested in a school you never considered.


RESOURCES

Online Resource Web Address

APPRENTICESHIP OPTIONSEmployment and Training Administration(US Department of Labor)

www.doleta.gov/oa

ATHLETICSNational Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) www.eligibilitycenter.org

CAREER INFORMATIONOccupational Outlook HandbookU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

www.bls.gov/ooh

COLLEGE APPLICATIONThe Common Application www.commonapp.org

COLLEGE FAIRSNational Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC)

New England Association for College Admission Counseling (NEACAC)

www.nacacnet.org/college-fairs

www.neacac.org/cf_spring.cfm

COLLEGE SEARCH & PLANNINGCollege Board

In Like Me

Naviance

Niche

Princeton Review

Virtual College Tours

www.collegeboard.org

www.inlikeme.com

connection.naviance.com/lexington

www.niche.com

www.princetonreview.org

www.campustours.com

FINANCIAL AID CSS Financial Aid Profile (CollegeBoard)

Federal Student Aid (US Department of Education)

Finaid

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority (MEFA)

New England Board of Higher Education:

student.collegeboard.org/css-financial-aid-profile

www.studentaid.gov

www.finaid.org

www.fafsa.ed.gov

www.mefa.org


Tuition Break Regional Student Program www.nebhe.org

FIRST GENERATION & UNDERREPRESENTED APPLICANTSCenter for Student Opportunity

You Can Go (CollegeBoard)

www.imfirst.org

youcango.collegeboard.org

GAP YEAR PROGRAMSUSA Gap Year Fairs www.usagapyearfairs.org/programs

LHS RESOURCESLHS School Counseling Department lps.lexingtonma.org/domain/616

PARENT/GUARDIANSNational Association for College Admissions Counseling (NACAC)

www.nacacnet.org/studentinfo

POST-GRADUATE SCHOOLSBoarding School Review www.boardingschoolreview.com

SCHOLARSHIPSCappex

College Board Scholarship Search

Fastweb

Unigo

www.cappex.com

bigfuture.collegeboard.org/scholarship-search

www.fastweb.com

www.unigo.com

STANDARDIZED TESTSACT

College BoardPSAT, SAT, SAT Subject, and AP test information

FairTest: The National Center for Fair & Open TestingA listing of test-optional colleges

www.actstudent.org

www.collegeboard.org

www.fairtest.org

COLLEGE REFERENCE BOOKSAdmission Matters: What Students and Parents Need to Know About Getting Into CollegeJon Reider and Sally P Springer

Colleges That Change LivesLoren Pope

Looking Beyond the Ivy LeagueLoren Pope

The Best 345 CollegesPrinceton Review

The Secrets of Picking a College (and Getting In!)Jeffrey Durso-Finley, Lynn F. Jacobs, Jeremy S. Hyman

The Fiske Guide to CollegesEdward B. Fiske


Session III: Please Do Now KNOW YOURSELF

The college search is a journey of self-discovery and the journey is more important than the destination. The college process is an opportunity to make decisions about your future, and that is something you should be excited about and ready for! The better you understand yourself, your unique strengths and the things you care about, the easier it will be to identify colleges that fit you. Take some time to think about the following questions and respond in writing to two:

What are your academic interests? What courses have you enjoyed the most? How do you learn best? Is there a type of teaching style you particularly enjoy? Which of your extracurricular interests means most to you? Why? What accomplishment are you proudest of? Why? How would your friends and teachers describe you and your role in the school community? How has the environment in which you’ve grown up helped/hindered you? What balance of study, activities and social life suits you best? How well do you respond to academic

pressure and competition? How would you feel about going to a college where other students were very different from you? Would

you find it exciting or intimidating? If you had a year to go anywhere and do whatever you wanted, how would you spend that year?


NAVIANCE CHECKLIST(Junior Year and preparation for Senior Year)

Most students have already opened up their Naviance accounts during sophomore seminars, when it was utilized for career and interest exploration, and in preparation for post-secondary planning. Moving into junior year, Naviance will be used to further investigate post-secondary options and to develop a potential college list. Parents/guardians may request their own Naviance accounts by contacting Joanne Tringale, the school counseling administrative assistant at [email protected].

_____ Have parent/guardian sign the LHS Records Release form. This should be done in the winter or spring of junior year to avoid any delays or confusion in processing transcript requests next year.

_____ Log into Naviance:http://connection.naviance.com/lexington

_____ Begin developing a list of colleges utilizing: a. SuperMatch college search - Click on Colleges top tab, click on SuperMatch college search

link – clicking on “factors” in the left hand column, and indicating “how important is this to you?” helps you develop a broader list, including schools that don’t’ meet all of your criteria, but that might be worth consideration (SuperMatch also includes more unique search criteria including “GLBT-friendly,” “ethnicity,” and “great college towns” – users can “pin” schools for comparison or add them to their list, and can save searches)

and/orb. College Search – Click on Colleges top tab, click on College Search link (a more traditional

college search, clicking on desired criteria gives a more focused list of schools meeting all criteria – users can “pick” schools for comparison or add them to their list, and can save searches)

_____ Add some of these colleges to “Colleges I’m Thinking About”

_____ Students should continually enter and update their potential college list in their Naviance account. (Spring of junior year and over the summer)

_____ Students should open up a Common App account at www.commonapp.org, as that will expedite requesting transcripts next year. Students should start this account regardless of whether or not they are applying to Common App schools.


http://connection.naviance.com/lexington

Session IV: Please Do Now Parent Support

Name:________________________________________________________________________________

How can your parent(s)/guardian(s) best support you throughout the post-secondary planning process?


JUNIOR COUNSELOR SEMINAR~ I GOT THIS!

NAME: _____________________________________________________ HOMEROOM: __________

EMAIL ADDRESS: __________________________________________ CELL: __________________

CURRENT GPA: _____________ DATE/MONTH OF SAT/ACT: ____________________________

Current senior year plan (check all that apply):

_____ I will apply to 4-year colleges _____ I will research employment opportunities

_____ I will apply to 2-year colleges _____ I will explore gap year options

_____ I will explore technical training _____ I am not sure of my senior year plan

_____ I will speak with military recruiters

List the 3 most important criteria that you will use to guide your college search:

1. _________________________________2. _________________________________3. _________________________________

Beyond Naviance, what are two other resources you may use to further develop your college list and how will each of them be helpful?

1.

2.

Are you leaving seminar with any questions regarding next steps in the college search process? And if so, what are they?

If you would like to meet with your counselor after seminar what days/blocks are best?


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