Table of Contents – SENIOR PLANNING GUIDE
General Information
-Tucker County High School Class of 2010
-Senior Year Planning Calendar
-Graduation Pathways and Requirements
-Advanced Placement (AP) Information
2
3
6
7
College Admissions Test
-The ACT
-ACT Test Taking Tips
-ACT Test Dates
-The SAT
-Strategies for success on the SAT
-SAT Test dates
-SAT and ACT comparisons
-ACT vs. SAT
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
Selecting a College/Career
-Types of Post-Secondary Schools
-Where to start
-Top ten reasons not to choose a college
-Questions to ask on your college visit
-College visit request rules
-College visit request form
17
18
19
22
23
25
26
The Application Process
-When should I apply
-What colleges & scholarships consider
-College applications
-Applications Do’s and Don’ts
-College essay and personal statement
-Resume writing
-Additional considerations
27
28
29
30
33
34
35
38
Student Athlete
-NCAA Clearinghouse
39
40
Financial Aid and Sholarships
-FAFSA & Financial aid facts
-FAFSA4caster
41
42
46
Glossary
47
Appendix
-Senior profile
Tucker County High School Class of 2010
The time has come! Your high school days will be over before you know it. In just a
few short months, you will officially be finished with this chapter of your life. Where
will you go from here?
Whether you are thinking about college, a trade school, or a career, the information in
this notebook will help lead you through the highlights of the college/career search,
application, and selection process throughout your senior year. Also, make sure to check
the school counselor link off of the high school website for updates throughout the year.
Where do you begin to navigate the maze of researching, applying to, and achieving
acceptance to the college/career of your choice? Talk with recent high school graduates,
your school counselor, teachers, parents, and friends. Do a personalized internet college
search utilizing helpful websites including: gocollege.com, collegenet.com, fastweb.com
and petersons.com. You also have the option of “googling” your current school choices
to determine their entrance recommendations/requirements, academic programs offered,
and an overall view of the school. Further, consider the cost, which includes tuition and
fees plus transportation, books, supplies, food, housing and other expenses.
Academically, your senior year does count, so continue to take challenging courses to
build strong academics skills and strengthen your GPA. More and more
colleges/universities are looking for students who have successfully taken well beyond
the required level of coursework to graduate. It is in your best interest to take 4 years of
math and science and at least 2 years of a foreign language (more is always better) to be
competitive and considered by a wide range of college/universities. The more prepared
you are, the more options you will have.
Your counselor is always there to help, but you must be self-motivated. Don’t wait
around for someone else to tell you what to do. Make something happen for yourself!
Lastly, as my final fair well to the Tucker County High School class of 2010 please
remember a couple of things as you embark on a new chapter in your life. First, don’t
talk about what you’re going to do as the Nike slogan says – Just Do It! – action is much
more impressive. Secondly, you are in control of your actions, attitude and destiny
always remember this and don’t allow others to run your life nor should you try to control
someone else’s. Finally, be proud of all you do you are important!!
Sincerely,
Iestyn J. Bright, MA
TCHS School Counselor
2
Planning Calendar
Junior Year
Spring
- Take appropriate SAT / ACT Test
- Begin a filing system for college career material
Summer
- Go online to obtain college/career school information
- Create profile on www.fastweb.com
- Prepare tentative list of schools to visit
- Make appointments for interviews and / or tours
- Prepare your activities form/resume
Senior Year
September
-
Create or buy a master calendar to record important application deadlines, test
dates, etc.
Check your transcripts to ensure all of you graduation requirements are complete.
Narrow your list of colleges / technical schools and request their application
materials and financial aid information.
Register for the ACT or SAT. You can register online at www.act.org for the
ACT and at www.collegeboard.org for the SAT this is the preferred method of
registration. A limited number of registration packets are also available in the
counseling office to register by mail. TCHS school code is 491-275.
October
-
If you are applying for early decision, pay attention to admission deadlines.
Begin your scholarship search. More information can be found on the counselor
section of the TCHS website. Pay attention to deadlines!!
Submit transcript request in counseling office at least two weeks before due to
college.
Go to college/career fairs and make plans to visit your target schools. TCHS
allows one college visit day which will be counted as a field trip day if preapproved.
November
-
Complete all enrollment and scholarship applications and review them with a
parent, teacher, or counselor.
Ask teachers/counselor to write letters of recommendation if necessary for
admission. Allow at least two weeks to complete an adequate recommendation.
3
-
Provide stamped, addressed envelopes and your information about yourself which
can be used in the letter.
If you have not already done so, sign up and take the ACT/SAT.
TCHS school code is 491275.
December
-
-
Try to wrap up applications before winter break.
Transcript requests that need to go out before the holidays should be turned in by
December 12 to Mrs. Bright.
Ace your exams—they matter!
Apply for your pin number for your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student
Aid). The FAFSA cannot be completed until after January 1. Go online to
www.fafsa.ed.gov to familiarize yourself with the website and for more
information.
Enjoy the holidays and your time off!!
January
-
-
Request mid-year transcripts to be sent to the schools you have applied if needed.
Financial Aid Night is in January at TCHS. Make plans to attend with your
parents. Information will be given regarding financial aid and scholarship
opportunities.
Complete and file your FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1. Aid is
distributed on a first come, first served basis.
Continue to watch deadlines for scholarship applications and get them turned in
on time.
February
-
Make certain FAFSA is completed by February 14th. What better way to say I
love you then by getting free money?
If you haven’t already done so, visit schools to which you have applied.
Make sure you make copies of all applications and financial aid forms for your
records before you mail them out.
Check with schools to make sure they have the documentation they require.
Continue to watch deadlines for scholarship applications and get them turned in
on time.
Wait.
March
-
Decision letters may begin arriving. Read everything carefully and respond if
necessary.
Review your SAR (Student Aid Report), a report of all the data submitted through
your FAFSA, for accuracy. The SAR should arrive anywhere from 2-4 weeks
after the FAFSA is submitted. If the SAR has not been received 4 weeks after
submitting the FAFSA, call 1-800-FED-AID.
4
-
Continue to watch deadlines for scholarship applications and get them turned in
on time.
April
-
Most admissions decisions and financial aid award letters arrive this month.
Notify all colleges which have accepted you of your final decision.
Don’t give in to “senioritis.” Your admission may be contingent upon your final
grades.
Continue to watch deadlines for scholarship applications and get them turned in
on time.
May
-
-
Pay the required deposit to the college/career school you choose. This is usually
due by May 1, so continue to be aware of due dates.
Sign and return your financial aid award letter. If it will be difficult for your
family to pay the Expected Family Contribution for the semester, it’s time to start
pursuing alternatives such as parent loans or private loans to close the financial
aid gap.
Fill out a final transcript request for the college you will attend.
Thank your parents, teachers, counselor, and anyone else who helped you through
this process.
GRADUATE!!!
5
Graduation Paths and Requirements
All students will pursue a focused program of study preparing them for postsecondary
study in either university (professional pathway) or technical training (skilled pathway).
While all students may not enter postsecondary training immediately following high
school, they must be prepared for life-long learning. The paths will be flexible so a
student can change from one path to the other. Students in all paths will acquire essential
skills and knowledge.
Curriculum
English
Social Studies
(Must include
US History,
World History,
20/21st Century
and Civics)
Mathematics
Professional Pathway
4 units
4 units
4 units
Algebra I, Algebra II,
and Geometry or Other
Advanced Math Course
Science
4 units
Must include CATS 9
and three higher
sciences
Physical Ed.
1 unit
Health
1 unit
The Arts
1 unit
Intro to Majors
1 unit
Foreign Lang.
2 units
In the same language
Major
4 units
Electives
Dual Pathway
4 units
4 units
Skilled Pathway
4 units
4 units
4 units
Algebra I, Algebra II,
and Geometry or Other
Advanced Math Course
4 units
Must include CATS 9
and three higher
sciences
1 unit
1 unit
1 unit
1 unit
2 units
In the same language
4 units
4 units
Algebra I and at
least one higher
3 units
Must include
CATS 9 and two
higher sciences
1 unit
1 unit
1 unit
1 unit
4 units
2 units
All students must successfully pass 24 credits in order to be eligible for graduation
including the above listed required classes.
6
Advanced Placement (AP) Information
AP classes are those classes taken in high school in which a student may test for
college credit ($82.00 each) upon completion of the coursework in May. It is important to
note that college/university AP acceptance policies differ. Contact the college(s) of your
choice to determine the specifics of their policy or use the following website:
http://apps.collegeboard.com/apcreditpolicy/index.jsp
Taking the Test
Once you've completed your coursework, you must take the AP exam in order to
receive college credit. AP tests are administered every May. Schedules and locations for
testing vary. Check with your teacher or your high school's AP coordinator for more
details.
Scoring and College Credit
AP tests are scored on a scale of 1-5. Students with a grade of 3 or higher are
recommended to receive advanced placement in college and/or credit for a college
course. However, some colleges might require a 4 or 5 for students to receive credit.
Keep in mind that passing the AP exam doesn't guarantee you'll receive college credit.
Only your prospective college can confer credit for AP coursework; policies vary from
school to school.
If receiving credit is important to you, contact your prospective college early to learn
about their AP policies. Since AP courses are generally taken senior year, this may mean
checking AP policies far in advance, even before you apply for college admission.
Consult the school's catalog to learn more.
There's a lot to be gained from advanced study. By researching this option, you can save
time and money, and develop your skills for a successful college career.
7
TCHS Code: 491 275
Taking a college admissions test is a major component of the admissions process.
The score received will be used when evaluating your consideration for admittance. The
better you do on the test, the more options for admittance and scholarships you will have.
To help prepare for the tests, Tucker County High School offers a one semester ACT
Prep course. There are also various books available at local libraries, bookstores and your
Counselors office.
Most colleges/universities accept both the ACT and the SAT. However, students should
check the websites of their schools of interest to determine what is required or preferred.
If you plan to go straight into the work force or enroll in a career prep school, it may still
be in your best interest to take one of these tests for future planning.
The following pages include:
• The ACT
• Test Taking Tips
• 2009-10 ACT Exam Dates
• The SAT
• Test Taking Tips
• 2009-10 SAT Exam Dates
• SAT vs. ACT
8
The ACT
The ACT assessment measures your skills and knowledge in English, Math, Science,
Reading, and Writing. The ACT is usually taken by students for the first time in the
spring of their Junior year and can be retaken, without penalty, as many times as desired.
ACT registration packets can be picked up in the counseling office or you can register
online at www.act.org. The cost for taking the ACT is $31.00 plus $15.00 if you opt to
take the writing test. Your score on the ACT is based on the number of questions you
answer correctly: there is no penalty for guessing. Guessing on the ACT can help your
score if you don’t know the right answer.
Description of the ACT: The ACT is a set of four multiple-choice tests which cover
English, Mathematics, reading, and science. The ACT Plus Writing includes the four
multiple-choice tests and a Writing test.
Test
English
# of Questions
75
Time given
45 minutes
Mathematics
60
60 minutes
Reading
40
35 minutes
Science
40
35 minutes
Writing Test
1 writing prompt
30 minutes
Content
Measures standard written
English and rhetorical skills
Measuring mathematical
skills students have typically
acquired in courses taken up
to the beginning of grade 12
Measures reading
comprehension
Measures the interpretation,
analysis, evaluation,
reasoning, and problemsolving skills required in the
natural sciences.
Measures writing skills
emphasized in high school
English classes and in entrylevel college composition
courses.
9
ACT Test Taking Tips
(From http://www.actstudent.org)
General Tips:
• Carefully read the instructions on the cover of the test booklet.
• Read the directions for each section carefully.
• Read each question carefully.
• Pace yourself—don’t spend too much time on a single passage or question.
• Use a soft lead No. 2 pencil with a good eraser; do not use a mechanical pencil, ink pen
or correction fluid.
• Answer the easy questions first, then go back and answer the more difficult ones.
• On difficult questions, eliminate as many incorrect answers as you can, then make an
educated guess among those remaining.
• Answer every question. Your scores on the multiple-choice tests are based on the
number of questions you answer correctly. There is no penalty for guessing.
• Review your work. If you finish a test before time is up, go back and check your work.
• Mark your answers neatly. If you erase, erase completely and cleanly without
smudging.
• Do not mark or alter any ovals on a test or continue writing on the Writing Test after
time has been called or you will be disqualified from the exam.
For sample test questions, visit:
http://www.actstudent.org/sampletest/index
Also, the counseling office has sample test booklets available.
10
ACT Test Dates
Test Date
Registration Deadline
(Late Fee Required)
September 12, 2009*
August 7, 2009
August 8 – 21, 2009
October 24, 2009
September 18, 2009
September 19 – October 2, 2009
December 12, 2009
November 6, 2009
November 7 – 20, 2009
February 6, 2010**
January 5, 2010
January 6 – 15, 2010
April 10, 2010
March 5, 2010
March 6 – 19, 2010
June 12, 2010
May 7, 2010
May 8 – 21, 2010
2009–2010 ACT Fees and Services
All fees are nonrefundable unless otherwise noted.
Basic registration fee (per test option)
ACT (No Writing)
$32.00
Includes reports for you, your high school (if you authorize reporting), and up to
four college choices (if valid codes are provided when you register).
ACT Plus Writing
$47.00
Includes reports for you, your high school (if you authorize reporting), and up to
four college choices (if valid codes are provided when you register). The $15.00
Writing Test fee is refundable, on written request, if you are absent on test day or
switch to the ACT (No Writing) before you begin testing
11
The SAT
The SAT I
The SAT I has six sections with 30 minutes allowed for each section. Two sections test
verbal ability, asking questions about antonyms, analogies and sentence completion, and
testing reading comprehension. Two sections test quantitative thinking with mathematics
questions. One section tests grammar, usage, and sentence structure. The last part asks
questions that the examiners are considering for future tests. Your performance on these
last two sections does not affect you SAT score.
The SAT gives one point for each correct answer and deducts a fraction of a point for
each incorrect answer. Answers left blank are not deducted. The score ranges from 200
to 800.
The raw score is the number of correct answers, minus a fraction of a point for each
incorrect answer. Even with no correct answer, a student would still have a score of 200.
You also could have a score of 800 even with questions left unanswered or with some
incorrect answers. Separate scores from 200 to 800 are given for the verbal and
mathematics sections, the only section with count on the overall score.
Mathematics Section Preparation
The SAT I exam does not measure your knowledge of mathematics. Rather, it attempts
to discover your ability to understand and to reason with mathematical symbols, to solve
problems, and to interpret data. The subject matter covered on the exam includes basic
arithmetic, algebra and plane geometry. You should expect to solve most problems by
examination of the questions, insight and reasoning, not by complicated computations.
Verbal Section Preparation
The portion of the test that tests your verbal skills asks questions that, for example,
required you to see the relationship between words and your understanding of what a
written passage says.
Doing well on the verbal portion of the SAT I requires a good vocabulary and strong
reading skills. Using words and understanding them is an ability you’ve been acquiring
almost from birth. You use verbal skills constantly and refine them throughout your life.
Just learning the definition of words from a list is not enough; you also need to know how
the words are used. Many words can be used to describe the same thing, but the
connotation is different, that is, the way the word is used varies. To gain a mastery of
how words are used, it’s essential to read a variety of materials – from texts to
newspapers, novels to scholarly journals.
Extensive reading is the very best way to enhance your vocabulary and to give you and
edge in taking the SAT I.
12
Strategies for Success on the SAT
Test-Taking Approaches
Answer easy questions first.
You earn just as many points for easy questions as you do for hard questions. The easier
questions are usually at the start of the section, and the harder ones are at the end. The
exception is in the critical reading section, where questions are ordered according to the
logic and organization of each passage.
Make educated guesses.
If you can rule out one or more answer choices for multiple-choice questions, as
definitely wrong, you have a better chance of guessing the right answer. For math
questions without answer choices, fill in your best guess; no points are subtracted for
wrong answers as they are in all other questions types.
Skip questions that you really can't answer.
No points are deducted if an answer is left blank. But if you can rule out any choice, you
probably should guess from among the rest of the choices.
Don’t panic if you cannot answer every question.
You do not have to answer every question correctly to get a good score. You can get an
average score by answering about half of the questions correctly and omitting the
remaining questions.
Use your test book for scratch work.
You can also cross off choices you know are wrong and mark questions you have omitted
so you can go back to them if you have time.
Limit your time on any one question.
All questions are worth the same number of points. If you need a lot of time to answer a
question, go on to the next one. Later, you may have time to return to the question you
skipped. Keep track of time. Don't spend too much time on any group of questions
within a section.
13
SAT Test Dates
U.S. Registration Deadlines
2009-10
Test Dates
Test
Regular Registration Deadline
(postmark/submit by)
October 10, 2009
SAT & Subject Tests
September 9, 2009
November 7, 2009
SAT & Subject Tests
October 1, 2009
December 5, 2009
SAT & Subject Tests
October 31, 2009
January 23, 2010
SAT & Subject Tests
December 15, 2009
March 13, 2010
SAT only
February 4, 2010
May 1, 2010
SAT & Subject Tests
March 25, 2010
June 5, 2010
SAT & Subject Tests
April 29, 2010
2008-09 Fees
Test
Fees
SAT Reasoning Test™
SAT Subject Tests™
Basic registration fee
Language Tests with Listening (add to basic reg. fee)
All other Subject Tests (add per test to basic reg. fee)
$45
$20
add $20
add $9
Additional Processing Fees (add to test fees)
Register by phone
(available only if you have registered before)
Change fee (test type, center, or date change)
Late fee
Standby fee
International processing fee (for students testing in
countries other than the United States, U.S. territories,
and Puerto Rico)
Additional surcharge for testing in India and Pakistan
Fees for Receiving Your Scores
Early scores by Web
Official score report
(automatically mailed after you test)
Scores by phone (fee per call)
Fees for Sending Your Scores
Score report requests at registration*
Each additional score report request*
$12.50
$22
$23
$38
$26
$23
Free
Free
$12.50
4 reports included
$9.50
14
How do SAT and ACT scores compare?
The SAT and ACT test some academic skills that are the same and some that are
different. Both are used, however, by colleges and universities to compare your academic
skills with students from around the country (and sometimes the world)!
Below is a table that includes ACT Composite scores with Concordant (corresponding)
SAT I scores.
ACT Composite SAT I Score
15
1060
17
1210
19
1350
20
1410
21
1500
22
1530
23
1590
24
1650
25
1700
26
1760
27
1820
28
1860
29
1920
30
1980
31
2040
32
2130
33
2190
34
2260
35
2340
36
2400
15
Is it Better to Take the ACT or the SAT?
"Should I take the SAT or the ACT?" This is a common dilemma for many high school
students. The easy answer to this question is to talk to your college or university of
choice and see if they have a preference. Here are some other pointers.
• Most schools do not have a preference or one that they would require over the other.
• Many Ivy League schools want students to take the SAT.
• Some colleges require a student to take SAT II subject tests for placement into college
courses or for college admission.
• Students can (if they are able to) take both exams. The two exams differ from each
other in certain areas and many students do better on one rather than the other.
• Ask the colleges that you are applying to if they will combine scores from different
administrations to come up with a highest possible composite. In other words some
schools will take your highest math score from one SAT and combine it with your
highest verbal score from another SAT to come up with the highest possible composite.
Keep in mind that not all universities will do this.
• Keep in mind that all students have a "ceiling" when they take these exams. To put it
another way, no matter how many times they take it there will be a score that individually
they will not be able to go above.
• As difficult as these exams are for some students, they are a part of the admissions
process and decision at almost every school. Different colleges and universities put
different weight on this importance, but it still exists.
• For students with learning disabilities, there is an un-timed version of the exams that
can be administered.
• Some colleges offer a residual exam directly on their campus. This score is only good
on the campus on which it was taken.
Always try to get a good night sleep before and breakfast the morning of the exam. Relax
and do the best that you can. Be sure that you have taken an exam at least once during
your junior year of high school. Good luck.
16
Selecting a College/Career
Finding the college/career that is the “right fit” often is not an easy task. It is one of the
most important decisions you will make. For the last thirteen years, you have not had
much choice in where you attended school. Now, you get to make the decision where you
will spend the next four or more years preparing for your future career. Making the best
choice requires that you do a lot of homework and legwork. You need to think about
what you are looking for in a college, and about what is right for you.
Keep in mind that there are many colleges and universities out there, but that there are no
“perfect” schools. There may be several schools you could attend where you would be
happy and receive a quality education to help you attain your future goals. Each school
will have pros and cons that you will need to weigh carefully. The following pages are
provided to help guide you through the process of narrowing your college choices to a
manageable number.
This section contains the following pages:
• Types of Post-Secondary Schools
• Where Do I Start?
• Top Ten Reasons NOT to Choose a College
• Career and Training Programs
• Questions to Ask on Your College Visit
• College Day Form
17
Types of Post-Secondary Schools
As you begin to think about what college to attend, you need to understand the different
types of post-secondary schools available. Which one is right for you? Consider your
career options, your financial situation, your values, and your future goals in making this
decision.
Colleges are generally smaller in size and offer 4-year degree programs and many 2-year
Associate degrees.
Universities are usually larger institutions with specialized degrees in business,
engineering, pre-med, etc. They offer 2-year, 4-year, and graduate and professional
degrees.
Community / Junior colleges are small colleges offering 2-year Associate degrees.
Many students attend local community colleges with the intent to transfer to a larger
institution to further their education.
Vocational / Career / Technical schools are specialized schools of training for
specialized trade jobs such as mechanics, computer technicians, medical assistants, etc.
Programs may vary in length, requiring anywhere from only a few weeks to a year or
more to complete. Upon completion, graduates will receive a license, certificate or an
Associate degree.
18
Where do I start?
Once you decide on the type of school, how do you decide from among the hundreds of
choices which one is best for you? Choosing a college is a very personal decision you
should make based on your individual personality and personal goals. Here’s how to get
started:
STEP ONE: Get online!
There are several web sites that allow you to perform college searches online. You can
put in the criteria you are looking for in a college, and the search engine will give you a
list of colleges that meet your criteria. Here are a few common websites for college
searches:
www.collegeview.com
www.anycollege.net
www.collegeboard.com
www.act.org
www.petersons.com
Take virtual tours, online campus tours. Many schools have them on their websites, or
visit www.ecampustours.com. This will give you a glance at the college.
Go to the web sites of particular colleges you are interested in and explore to find out
more about individual schools.
STEP TWO: Consider what you’re looking for.
Location: Do you want to visit home frequently, or do you see college as a time to
experience a new part of the country? Perhaps you like a big-city environment with
access to museums, ethnic food, or major league ball games. Or maybe you hope for easy
access to the outdoors or the serenity of a small town.
Size: One of the reasons students drop out of college is because they don’t feel as if they
fit in. Consider how the size of the student body will affect you. Smaller schools may not
have as many academic majors or extracurricular activities available as a large campus,
but they may be able to offer more personal attention, smaller class sizes, and smaller
instructor-student ratio. What factors are more important to you? Do you want to have an
opportunity to shine in a small setting, or do you want the variety of opportunities and
experiences that a large setting provides?
Academics: Does the college offer the major you want to pursue? If so, what is the
reputation of the department? What is the job placement success? If you are undecided,
pick an academically balanced institution that offers a range of majors and programs.
Most colleges offer counseling to help you find a focus.
Campus Life: Consider what your college life will be like beyond the classroom. Aim
for a balance between academics, activities, and social life.
19
• What extracurricular activities, athletics, and special interest groups are
available?
• Does the community around the college offer interesting outlets for students?
• Is there an ethnic or religious group in which to take part?
• How do fraternities and sororities influence campus life?
• Is housing guaranteed?
• How are dorms assigned?
• Do most students live on campus or commute?
• Is it a “suitcase” college, meaning most students pack up and leave each
weekend?
Cost: Are you going to be getting help from your parents? What can you and your
parents realistically afford? College is expensive; however, virtually all colleges work to
ensure that academically qualified students from every economic circumstance can find
financial aid that allows them to attend.
STEP THREE: Realistically evaluate your options.
Once you have found some colleges that you are interested in, take a serious look at their
admissions requirements and then at your academic history. What is your GPA? What
number are you ranked in your senior class? What are your ACT and/or SAT scores? Do
you meet the admission standards at the schools you have chosen?
4-Year colleges and universities generally have admission requirements with a minimum
GPA and/or ACT/SAT score to be accepted. Of course, some colleges and universities
are more competitive than others, meaning that you will be competing with lots of other
students to get in. For these more competitive schools, you will need a high GPA, high
ACT/SAT test scores, a record of school and community involvement, and a record of
leadership positions held.
At many colleges and universities, you need only meet the minimum admission
requirements and get your application in on time to be accepted. You will need to
research the colleges you are interested in to see whether or not you meet the admission
standards required. If you do not meet college admission requirements, look at
community / junior colleges. Many of these institutions have an open-door admission
policy, meaning that students are not turned away for a lower GPA or lower ACT/SAT
scores.
STEP FOUR: Take college visits.
Once you have a list of some colleges you are interested in, the best way to discover what
colleges really stand out to you is to visit the campuses in person. The college visit is an
opportunity to find out more information about the college. You will spend countless
hours at the college you choose over the next few years, so it is important to do some
investigation. Make sure you plan ahead before your visit. You will need to call the
admissions office and make an appointment for a meeting with an admissions counselor
and a campus tour. You may want to arrange a meeting with a professor or someone in
20
the department in which you plan to major. Take the lead in this process rather than
having your parents do it for you. You are the one who will be attending the school, so
you need to take an active role in each part of the college search and application process.
Each senior at Tucker County High School is allowed one (1) college day during their
senior year to make a college visit. Students must have a good attendance record and be
in good standing to graduate in order to take a college day. If procedures are followed
properly, this day will count as a field trip, not as an absence from school. You are
required to bring confirmation of the visit on the college’s letterhead upon your return to
school, so don’t forget to ask the admissions counselor for this.
Come prepared for your campus visit. Bring along your transcript and ACT/SAT scores
so you can discuss them with the admissions counselor. Think about the things that are
important to you, and have a list of questions prepared. Plan to spend some time on the
campus. Attend a class. Have lunch in the cafeteria. Hang out in the student union, the
library or wherever students gather. Read the bulletin boards and student newspapers.
Talk to current students and ask them questions. This is your opportunity to learn about
the campus atmosphere and life.
After your college visit, follow up with a thank-you note to the admissions counselor and
any faculty members you met with. Few students take the time to write follow up notes,
and this will help you stand out.
STEP FIVE: Narrow your choices.
If you have taken all the steps above, you should be able to narrow your college choices
to around five (5) or fewer. One of these should be a “reach” school, one that you would
like to attend, but that you’re not sure you could get in to or afford, etc. At least one of
these should also be a “safety” school, one at which you are pretty sure you will be
accepted. You will need to gather the applications for each of these schools, note their
deadlines, and begin to complete and send the applications in. You can make your final
decision once the acceptance letters and financial aid packages come in.
21
Top Ten Reasons NOT to Choose a College
Deciding where to attend college is a huge decision because you will probably be spending the next four or more years
there. Often, students choose a college for all the wrong reasons and end up transferring to a different college or maybe
even dropping out of school altogether. Don’t become one of those students. Here are the top ten reasons not to choose a
college.
1. Your boyfriend/girlfriend is going there. Not to burst your love bubble, but chances are you are going to
have many boyfriends/girlfriends after your high school relationship is over. Although you may be completely in
love now and think you are going to spend the rest of your life with your current boyfriend/girlfriend, your life is
really just beginning. Think of all the different people you are going to meet in college. You may get to college and
realize that you want to be single so you aren’t tied down, or you may realize that you want to date someone else.
Since you don’t really know if you are going to be with your current boyfriend or girlfriend forever, don’t choose a
college just so you can be with that person. If you do, you may end up resenting him/her later.
2. Your best friend is going there. If you and your best friend want to go to the same college because you both
like the courses and extracurricular activities that are offered, then that’s great. Just don’t choose a college solely
because you want to go to school with your best friend. Going away to college means meeting a lot of new,
unique people. If you choose a college so you can be with your friend, the two of you may spend every day with
each other, and you may not take the opportunity to meet other people and make new friends. Making new
friends will help you grow as a person.
3. It’s a party school. While school should be fun for you at times, it is also a place for you to learn new ideas
and earn a degree. If you want to succeed in life, you can’t spend all your time at school partying. You need to
pick a school that is conducive to your educational needs and ignore the party schools.
4. The student body is attractive. Don’t choose a college based on how cute or pretty the students were during
your campus visit. Chasing members of the opposite sex or having an attractive girlfriend or boyfriend will not help
you get a college degree.
5. Your mom and dad are alumni. Don’t let either of your parents persuade you to go to their alma mater if you
don’t want to. You need to pick the college that is right for you. Your parent(s) may be disappointed at first, but
he/she will get over it. You need to live your own life.
6. It has a good football team. Unless you want to be on the football team, don’t choose a college just because
you like the team. While school spirit is important to have, you need to base your decision on what the school can
offer you, in regards to academics, extracurricular activities, and so forth.
7. Your school counselor told you to pick it. Even though your school counselor may know quite a bit of
information about a lot of schools, she probably doesn’t really know the whole you. While she can let your know
which schools offer the major you are interested in pursuing, she doesn’t know your personal preferences. What if
you don’t like the campus atmosphere at the college that your counselor picks? It’s best for you to take
suggestions, research the schools, and then make a decision on your own.
8. The school is prestigious. Just because a school has the reputation of being prestigious, it does not mean
that you are going to like it. What if the school doesn’t offer the major that you want? What if it doesn’t offer the
extracurricular activity that you really want to be involved in? You need to consider aspects that are important to
you when choosing a school instead of worrying about whether or not it is a high-status school.
9. The tuition is low. Money if often a big factor when choosing a college, but keep in mind that a school that is
more expensive may offer you a larger financial aid package with more gift aid (depending on your financial
situation) than a school where the tuition is lower. Apply to the schools you really want to attend, including schools
with high and low tuitions, and then compare their financial aid award letters in order to make a decision. Don’t
forget that you can also get a student loan to help you pay for tuition.
10. It looks good in the guidebook. Do not choose a college without visiting the campus first. While guidebooks
and virtual tours will help you narrow down your choices, it is important to visit your top two or three schools in
person so you can get a feel for what the campus atmosphere is like.
22
QUESTIONS TO ASK ON YOUR COLLEGE VISIT
General:
1. How many full-time undergraduate students attend the college?
2. How diverse is the student body?
3. What percentage of students reside on campus? Is it a “suitcase” school?
4. Is there a career center on campus? If so, what services are available and who can use
it?
5. What additional services do you offer to students (tutoring, career counseling, general
counseling, study skills workshops, etc.)?
6. Is there a health services center/infirmary on campus? If so, what services does it
provide?
7. How is campus safety ensured?
Academic:
1. What is the average classroom size? What is the range (smallest and largest) of the
classes taught?
2. What are considered to be the strongest academic departments/majors/programs?
3. What are the most popular majors?
4. What is the core curriculum for undergraduate students?
5. What kinds of courses are available to freshmen?
6. When do students have to declare a major?
7. How easy is it to change your major?
8. What kind of academic advising services are offered?
9. Do full-time professors or graduate assistants teach first-year courses?
10. Are professors required to have office hours?
11. What is the typical workload of a student?
12. Can I test out of any required courses?
13. Are computers available to students, and, if so, how accessible are they?
14. Do students need to have their own computers? If so, what kind?
15. What study-abroad programs exist?
16. How many of last year’s freshmen returned for their sophomore year?
17. What is the four-year graduation rate?
18. What is the main reason that students leave the institution?
Applications and Admissions:
1. What are the admission requirements?
2. How do I apply for admission (online, paper, Common Application, etc.)?
3. When are the applications due?
4. If I’m wait-listed, is there anything I can do to increase my chances of acceptance?
5. What are the average ACT/SAT scores of students who are admitted?
6. Do you require SAT II exams? If so, how many and which ones?
7. Do you require test scores be sent directly from the test agency or will you accept them
from an official transcript?
8. Do you require a portfolio, audition, etc. for admission?
23
9. What is your policy on accepting AP credits?
Financial Issues:
1. Including living expenses, what is the total estimated cost for one year?
2. What is an estimated student budget for the academic year?
3. What scholarships are available and how do I apply for them?
4. How do I apply for merit scholarships?
5. How do I apply for financial aid?
6. Do you meet 100% of demonstrated financial need?
7. What is taken into consideration when calculating a financial assistance package?
8. Do you accept outside scholarships?
9. How do outside scholarships affect financial assistance (loans, grants, work, study)?
Extracurricular:
1. What on-campus activities (clubs, organizations, etc.) do you offer?
2. How do students find out about off-campus activities?
3. What kinds of cultural opportunities are available on campus?
4. What is there to do on the weekends?
5. Do you have fraternities and sororities? What percentage of students join?
6. What non-academic opportunities are available in the area around campus (malls,
movie theaters, etc.)? How do students get there (walk, shuttle, car, cab, etc.)?
7. Are there churches near campus?
8. What are the athletic facilities like? Can any student use the athletic facilities?
9. Do you offer intramural sports? How many students participate? What sports?
Room and Board:
1. Are all freshmen required to live on campus and have a meal plan?
2. Is on-campus housing guaranteed for all four years?
3. What are the differences between the residence halls?
4. What is the visitation policy for dorms?
5. How is roommate selection done?
6. Are there a wide variety of foods to choose from on campus?
7. Can freshmen have cars on campus? How expensive are parking permits?
8. Is it necessary to have a car or is it easy to get around without one?
24
TUCKER COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL
Rt. 1 Box 153
Hambleton, WV 26269
Procedures and Requirements for College Day
Students are allowed one college day during their senior year. The student must have a
good attendance record and be in good standing to graduate. The absence will be
considered a field trip if the following procedures are completed:
1. A signed letter from parent stating the date of the visit and the name of the
college or university student will be visiting should be brought to the TCHS
Counseling Office for the counselor to approve.
2. The student’s counselor will verify student is on track for graduation
and give the student a signed College Day Request form.
3. Student will take the signed form to Attendance to verify that they
have a good attendance record. Attendance will then sign the form.
4. The form will be taken to the student’s teachers to obtain their
signature.
5. The completed form should be returned to the TCHS Counseling Office.
6. On the day following the college visit the student must present to the TCHS
School Secretary verification from the college of the visit and the date student
was on their campus. (This can be obtained in the college’s Admission Office.)
After Attendance has verified your visit, please bring your verification to the
Counseling Office to be placed in your permanent record.
STUDENTS: Please remember to call colleges to set up appointments with admissions,
financial aid offices, and departments that you are interested in.
PROCEDURES 1-5 SHOULD BE COMPLETED 0NE WEEK PRIOR TO
COLLEGE VISIT.
25
COLLEGE DAY REQUEST FORM FOR SENIORS
STUDENT ____________________________________ DATE OF VISIT___________
COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY ATTENDING_____________________________________
TEACHER SIGNATURES
1.__________________________________
2.__________________________________
3.__________________________________
4.__________________________________
5.__________________________________
COUNSELOR APPROVAL___________________________
ATTENDANCE ____________________________________
26
The Application Process
Once you have selected the college(s) to which you will apply, you will need to gather
the applications. Applications can be filled out on paper or online. To fill out a paper
application, download and print it from the college’s web site or call the college’s
admissions office to have a copy mailed to your home. Every college will have its own
application procedures, so make sure to read each application carefully and follow
directions accurately as you fill it out. It is recommended that you keep copies of every
application you submit, including the dates they were mailed.
This section contains the following pages for your information:
• When Should I Apply?
• What Colleges Consider
• What Does a College Application Consist Of?
• Transcript Request
• Application Do’s and Don’ts
• The College Essay and Personal Statement
• Writing a Winning Resume
• Application Process for Military Academies
Additional Considerations
• Learning Disabilities
• Student Athletes
• NCAA Clearinghouse
27
When Should I Apply?
Too many times students wait too late to apply to their college or university of choice. So
when should you apply? Apply early! Don’t wait until the spring of your senior year to
think about filling out applications. The application itself is usually the most extensive
process for both you and the school. Begin filling out applications early in your senior
year so you will have it behind you and so you can give the college plenty of time to
consider your application.
Make sure you are aware of all deadlines!!! This is one of the most important points.
College application deadlines are non-negotiable. You must be aware of the application
deadlines and/or scholarship deadlines for each college to which you will be applying and
adhere to them. You are responsible for seeing that your application is completed
thoroughly and accurately and that it gets to the college on time. Make sure you know
whether the application must be postmarked by the deadline or if the application must be
received by the deadline.
Most students will apply to college under regular application deadlines. However, some
colleges offer early application programs.
Early action is the early admission program in which applying early will get you an
early answer. The program usually asks students to apply by November or early
December of the senior year, and the college responds with a decision by mid to late
December. Early action is non-binding, meaning that the student does not have to attend
the college if accepted. A student may apply to as many early action schools as he/she
likes and can compare financial aid packages at different schools before making a
decision.
Early decision is similar to early action in that you can apply early, usually November or
early December, and get an early answer about acceptance. However, early decision
plans are binding. This means that if you apply to a college via the early decision process,
you must attend that college if accepted. Thus, you can only apply to one school using
early decision. You can apply to other colleges under regular admission, but if you are
accepted to your early decision college, you must withdraw all other applications. Often,
students who apply early decision are bound before financial aid packages are awarded.
28
What Colleges & Scholarships Consider
Colleges may consider some, all, or any combination of the following factors when determining
admission for students:










Courses Taken
Academic requirements met
Level of rigor of courses taken
Courses recommended for intended area of interest
Quality of the High School Attended
Academic rigor of the institution
Courses available
Grades Received in Courses Taken
Grade trend
Cumulative GPA
GPA in college prep curriculum
Class Rank
Standardized Test Scores
ACT or SAT
Extracurricular Involvement
Involvement outside the classroom
Quality and depth of involvement
Leadership positions, honors/awards, distinctions
Essays or Personal Statements
Recommendations
Teacher
Counselor
Other adult with knowledge of the student
Interview
Special Talents
Athlete
Musician
Actor
Artist
 Connection to the Institution
Legacy (parents or grandparent)
Sibling of current student or alum
Parent employed by the institution
Relationship with a major donor of the institution
 Community Service
29
What Does a College Application Consist Of?
Applications vary from college to college, but most require some or all of the following
parts:
1. Application Fee:
Most colleges will charge an application fee, due at the time you send in your application.
The average college application fee is around $25. (Some colleges charge up to $60,
while others don’t have an application fee at all.) This fee is usually nonrefundable, even
if you’re not offered admission. Many colleges offer fee waivers for applicants from lowincome families. If you need a fee waiver, call the college’s admissions office for more
information.
2. High School Transcript:
The transcript remains the single most important piece in any application file. Each
college will require you to send an official copy of your transcript. Tucker County High
School transcripts contain the following information:
1. Courses you have taken for high school credit (grades 9-12 and any high school
courses taken in middle school); AP, Advanced Honors, and Honors designations appear
in the course titles
2. Semester grades and final grades earned in each course and amount of credit received
for the course
3. Cumulative GPA
4. An unofficial record of admissions test results (if requested)
In order to request an official copy of your transcript, you will need to go to the TCHS
Counseling Office and fill out the transcript request form. Sealed transcripts are given
back to the student with in three days of the request and the student is responsible for
mailing the transcript to the college they are applying to.
3. Standardized Test Scores
Most colleges and universities require that you submit ACT or SAT test scores. Test
scores are a standard way of measuring a student’s ability to do college level work.
Some schools take your highest composite score, while others take the best combination
of scores from different sections. Contact each college to which you are applying to see
how they consider scores. If you note on your transcript request form that you would like
your test scores included with your transcript, this information will be sealed in the
envelope along with the transcript. However, some colleges require the scores come
directly from ACT/SAT so make sure you read the instructions carefully or call the
admissions office.
30
Some more competitive colleges require students to take the ACT Writing Section and/or
SAT II Subject Tests. Refer to the college’s admission requirements to find out if you
should sign up for these exams.
4. Secondary School Report/Counselor’s Report (not required by all colleges)
Many college applications include a form entitled a “Secondary School Report,”
“Counselor’s Report/Page,” or something similar. This form is to be filled out by your
counselor. If your application includes such a form, fill out your portion of the form
(name, address, etc.) and leave it for your counselor when you fill out a transcript request
form. Make sure you allow at least 1 week for your counselor to fill out the form.
5. Letters of Recommendation (not required by all colleges)
Some college applications will require you to submit one or more letters of
recommendation from a teacher, counselor, or other adult who knows you well. Choose
the teachers who you feel know you best and will represent you well.
It is recommended that you complete the Senior Profile, included in the appendix on page
IV and give copies of it to each person who you will ask to write a letter on your behalf.
The Senior Profile or a resume of your own is required for any recommendation you ask
of your counselor. This form will enable the recommender to fully cover all of your
accomplishments and write a more favorable letter for you.
When asking someone to write a letter of recommendation for you, make sure to allow
him/her two (2) weeks or more to complete the recommendation. You don’t want
someone writing a letter for you who feels hurried or is irritated with you. Read the
application instructions as to whether or not you have to submit the recommendation
letters with the rest of the application. If so, you will be responsible for gathering the
letter(s) and mailing them along with your application. If the recommendation letters are
to be mailed separately, you should provide a stamped, addressed envelope to the
individual(s) writing the letter and inform them of the deadline.
6. Essay (not required by all colleges)
Some applications will ask that you submit a personal and/or topical essay. If required,
this essay often plays a very important role. Whether you’re writing an autobiographical
statement or an essay on a specific theme, take the opportunity to express your
individuality in a way that sets you apart from other applicants. Helpful information on
how to write an essay is provided on page 37.
7. Audition/Portfolio
31
If you are applying for a program such as music, art, or design, you may have to
document prior work by auditioning on campus or submitting an audiotape, slides, or
some other sample of your work to demonstrate your ability.
8. Interview (not required by all colleges)
On-campus interviews are not required by most colleges. If you are required to have an
interview, realize that it will play only a minor part in the admissions decision. Use the
interview to express your interest in the school, learn more about the school, detail your
goals and strengths, and elaborate on your application.
32
Application Do’s and Don’ts
The Do’s
• DO read applications and directions carefully.
• DO make sure that everything that is supposed to be included is enclosed.
• DO fill out your own applications. Type the information yourself to avoid crucial
mistakes.
• DO start with the simple applications and then progress to the more complex ones.
• DO make copies of applications and practice filling one out before you complete the
original.
• DO type or neatly print your answers, and then proofread the applications and essays
several times for accuracy. Also, ask someone else to proofread them for you.
• DO describe how you can make a contribution to the schools to which you apply (if
you’re asked).
• DO be thorough and turn things in on time.
The Don’ts
• DON’T use correction fluid if you type your application. Better yet, fill out your
application online.
• DON’T write in cursive. If you don’t have access to a computer or typewriter, print
neatly.
• DON’T leave blank spaces. Missing information may cause your application to be sent
back or delayed while admission counselors wait for complete information.
• DON’T be unclear. If the question calls for a specific answer, don’t try to dodge it by
being vague.
• DON’T
PUT IT OFF!!!
33
The College Essay and Personal Statement
These tips will help you write a winning essay!
• Answer the question.
• Choose an appropriate topic and know your audience.
• Choose something “real” to write about, something about which you feel strongly and
know well. Be yourself. Write what you feel, not what you think colleges want to read.
• The essay is your “voice” in the application. It is your chance for the reader to get to
know you and gain insight into your personality, values, goals and character.
• Reveal something in the essay or statement that cannot be found anywhere else in the
application.
• What makes you special may not, in your eyes, seem profound, but will be meaningful
and authentic to the reader.
• If focusing on another person and their life, make sure that you indicate in detail and in
a reflective way how that person has influenced your life.
• If you choose to focus on a past life event, make sure it has relevance to who you are
now. Make the connection for your reader as to how and why this past event may have
been a turning point for you.
• Show, rather than tell. Give examples and illustrate your topic.
• Write in your own voice and use your own style.
• Be concise and to the point. Say what you need to say to get your point across.
• Abide by the word limit.
• Type your essay or personal statement.
• Captivate your audience. The first few sentences are critical because they must engage
the reader.
• Have someone proofread your essay or personal statement (spelling, grammar, sentence
structure, and content are important!)
• Plan on spending several weeks or even months brainstorming topics and polishing your
essay.
34
Your Guide to Resume Writing
How to Prepare an Effective Resume
1. Resume Essentials
Before you write, take time to do a self-assessment on paper. Outline your skills
and abilities as well as your work experience and extracurricular activities. This
will make it easier to prepare a thorough resume.
2. The Content of Your Resume
Name, address, telephone, e-mail address, web site address
All your contact information should go at the top of your resume.
o Avoid nicknames.
o Use a permanent address. Use your parents' address, a friend's address, or the address
you plan to use after graduation.
o Use a permanent telephone number and include the area code. If you have an
answering machine, record a neutral greeting.
o Add your e-mail address. Many employers will find it useful. (Note: Choose an email address that sounds professional.)
o Include your web site address only if the web page reflects your professional
ambitions.
Objective or Summary
An objective tells potential employers the sort of work you're hoping to do.
o Be specific about the job you want. For example: To obtain an entry-level position
within a financial institution requiring strong analytical and organizational skills.
o Tailor your objective to each employer you target/every job you seek.
Education
New graduates without a lot of work experience should list their educational information
first. Alumni can list it after the work experience section.
o Your most recent educational information is listed first.
o Include your degree (A.S., B.S., B.A., etc.), major, institution attended,
minor/concentration.
o Add your grade point average (GPA) if it is higher than 3.0.
o Mention academic honors.
35
Work Experience
Briefly give the employer an overview of work that has taught you skills. Use action
words to describe your job duties. Include your work experience in reverse chronological
order—that is, put your last job first and work backward to your first, relevant job.
Include:
o
o
o
o
o
Title of position,
Name of organization
Location of work (town, state)
Dates of employment
Describe your work responsibilities with emphasis on specific skills and
achievements.
Other information
A staff member at your career services office can advise you on other information to add
to your resume. You may want to add:
o Key or special skills or competencies,
o Leadership experience in volunteer organizations,
o Participation in sports.
References
Ask people if they are willing to serve as references before you give their names to a
potential employer.
Do not include your reference information on your resume. You may note at the bottom
of your resume: "References furnished on request."
3. Resume Checkup
You've written your resume. It's time to have it reviewed and critiqued by a career
counselor. You can also take the following steps to ensure quality:
Content:
o Run a spell check on your computer before anyone sees your resume.
o Get a friend (an English major would do nicely) to do a grammar review.
o Ask another friend to proofread. The more people who see your resume, the more
likely that misspelled words and awkward phrases will be seen (and corrected).
36
Design:
These tips will make your resume easier to read and/or scan into an employer's data base.
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Use white or off-white paper.
Use 8-1/2- x 11-inch paper.
Print on one side of the paper.
Use a font size of 10 to 14 points.
Use non-decorative typefaces.
Choose one typeface and stick to it.
Avoid italics, script, and underlined words.
Do not use horizontal or vertical lines, graphics, or shading.
Do not fold or staple your resume.
If you must mail your resume, put it in a large envelope.
37
Additional Considerations
Students with Learning Disabilities/ADHD
It is important to know that there is a great deal of variability in how disability services
are organized from college to college. Generally, students must take the initiative to
receive services. College students have control over who knows about their disability and
how accommodations are arranged; they will also have more responsibility for
remembering to make those arrangements.
Colleges will not ask you about your disability. You may choose to include information
about your disability with your application. You can do this in an essay, letters of
recommendation, or in a separate letter included with your information. Check with the
disability services office or the admissions office about the services offered and
procedures to follow at the colleges you are interested in.
38
The TCHS Student Athlete
The most valuable resource for the student athlete in the college process is the student’s
coach. We do encourage student-athletes to keep their counselor informed of their
questions, plans, and status, as the counselor is also a resource for the student. It is
important to understand that course selections, GPA, and ACT/SAT scores are factors
taken into consideration by colleges and universities when recruiting or selecting athletes
and by the NCAA in determining eligibility. The NCAA Quick Reference Sheet outlining
eligibility standards for Division I and Division II colleges is included on the following
page. In order for eligibility to be determined, the student athlete is required to register
with the NCAA Clearinghouse at the end of his/her junior year. Instructions for how to
register with the Clearinghouse are included on the following pages.
Included in this section:

NCAA Quick Reference Sheet

NCAA Clearinghouse Registration
39
NCAA Clearinghouse Registration
Students who are wishing to play sports at the collegiate level must register with the
NCAA Clearinghouse. Students should register with the Clearinghouse after the
completion of their junior year of high school. To view a list of core courses offered at
Blackman High School, go to www.ncaaclearinghouse.net and click on “Prospective
Student-Athlete.” Click on “The List of Approved Core Courses.” Enter Tucker County
High School’s high school code, 491275, and click submit. You should be able to view
the list of approved core courses for our school.
Registering with the NCAA Clearinghouse:
1. Online Registration:
 Go to www.ncaaclearinghouse.net.
 Click on “Prospective Student-Athlete.”
 Click on “Domestic Student Release Form.”
 Complete the form. There is a $50 registration fee required at the time the form is
completed. Have your credit card number ready.
 Print out three (3) copies of your completed form:
- Two (2) copies go to Mrs. Bright in the Counseling Office so transcripts and
test scores can be sent.
- One (1) copy should be kept for your own files.
2. Paper Registration:






Go to www.ncaaclearinghouse.net.
Click on “Prospective Student-Athlete.”
Click on “Domestic Student Release Form.”
Click on “HERE” for printable PDF version of the form.
Print out and complete the form.
Make three (3) copies of the completed form:
- Mail the original form with your registration fee to the NCAA Clearinghouse.
- Two (2) copies go to Mrs. Bright in the Counseling Office so transcripts and
test scores can be sent.
- One (1) copy should be kept for your own files.
40
Financial Aid and Scholarships
A big concern for most students and parents is the financial aspect of going to
college. This section is an overview of financial aid and scholarships. For more specific
information, check the Senior Journal each month and also surf the web.
The following are included in this section:

FAFSA & Financial Aid Facts

What About Loans

Parent Loans

Timeline

Other Sources of Aid
41
FAFSA & Financial Aid Facts
Many people believe that private scholarships are the panacea for their college-funding
woes. While you may have heard that millions of dollars in academic college
scholarships go unclaimed each year, that simply is not true. In reality, private
scholarships provide only a small percentage of college funding. The vast majority of
financial aid and grants are provided by the federal and state government and by schools.
What is Financial Aid?
There are two categories of financial aid:
 Need-based – financial aid that is based on the student’s financial situation
 Merit-based – financial aid that is based on the student’s achievements in
areas such as academics or special talents such as music or athletics
Within each of these categories of financial aid, there are two types:
 Gift aid – financial aid that is given to you and you do not have to repay it.
For example, scholarships or grants.
 Self help – financial aid that carries an obligation in order to receive it. For
example, loans or employment.
How do I qualify for Financial Aid?
The first step in filing for financial aid requires you to file the Free Application for
Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is available in paper format in the high school
counseling office or online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. This should be filed as soon after
January 1 each year as possible.
The FAFSA is essentially a 1040 line-item referenced financial aid statement. If you have
completed your most recent taxes, use the numbers from these to complete your
application. If your tax forms aren’t available, estimate. You can correct any errors when
your tax forms are complete, so don’t miss an application deadline because you haven’t
finished with your taxes. In addition to collecting income and asset information, the
FAFSA also collects demographic data including family size, parent age, number of
students in college and other related information. You are also invited to provide each
school with information on any extenuating circumstances that affect your family’s
ability to support educational expenses. Take advantage of this opportunity to provide
this information by writing directly to the colleges you’re considering.
In order to qualify for the State scholarship and grant programs you must complete the
State application which can be found at www.wvapply.com. This has to be completed by
March 1st (the earlier the better). The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, must
also be completed in order for the state to determine eligibility for all Title IV federal
student financial aid programs, the West Virginia PROMISE Scholarship program, and
the West Virginia Higher Education Grant.
42
One of the largest obstacles college-bound teens and their families face when planning
for college is the high cost of tuition. Here are some important tips to consider:

Think Ahead—The earlier the research process begins, the bigger the payoff.
Creating a family calendar of application deadlines will help you set realistic goals
and stay on top of the mountain of paperwork.

Think Federally—The most crucial step in the scholarship process is filling out the
FAFSA for financial aid. The FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student
Aid. Available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov or by calling (800) 4-FEDAID, FAFSA is
the only way to apply for college grants, scholarship money, and/or loans issued
through the U.S. government.

Think Locally—Organizations such as the Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club, the American
Legion, and Boosters chapters have college scholarship funds set aside specifically
for area high school seniors. Some scholarships require only an application, while
merit scholarships usually require a paper, speech, project or other form of
competition. Ask prospective colleges about their scholarship, financial aid and grant
packages.

Think Categorically—Your college-bound student may be eligible for certain
scholarships by virtue of ethnic, religious, and professional affiliations. Sit down as a
family and think about your various family connections. Consider your religious
affiliation. Perhaps you are a member of a club or fraternal organization that offers
scholarships for which your child may apply. To find out what kinds of funds your
student is qualified for without leaving your home, create a profile through an online
scholarships search engine and let the opportunities find you. Sites like Fastweb.com,
Scholarships.com, Finaid.org, and CollegeView.com allow you to sift through
thousands of career, college, and heritage-based scholarships to find what matches
your interests, activities, and needs.

Think Corporately—Businesses ranging from Coca-Cola to Target offer financial
aid and grants to thousands of students each year. First, ask about whether or not you
or your spouse's company offers scholarships to children of employees.
As a rule, you should avoid working with any scholarship or financial aid search firm that
charges a fee for its services. Almost without exception, any scholarship funds available
for a fee are also available for free.
43
What about Loans?
Borrowing can and should be used to close the gap between the resources available to
your family and the cost of the institution your student deserves.
Federal loans are the most accessible and affordable loan resources now available to
students. There are two federal programs available nationally, the Stafford and Perkins
programs. Both provide interest-subsidized, payment-deferred loans that borrowers can
repay after their enrollment ends. Interest –- capped at 8.25% for Stafford and 5% for
Perkins – begins to accrue only after the borrower begins to repay the loan. To qualify for
interest-subsidized Stafford or Perkins student loans, the student must demonstrate need
by completing the FAFSA. Although several different repayment plans are available,
most students repay these funds over a 10-year period.
Although students may borrow as much as $4,000 in Perkins funds each year, actual
offers differ from institution to institution, based on availablility and school policy.
Stafford borrowers may borrow $2,625 in the first year, $3,500 in the second year and
$5,500 in the third and fourth years. Additional Stafford and Perkins loans, with higher
annual borrowing limits, are available to graduate and professional students.
Perkins and Stafford are the loans most often included in student aid rewards. For
students who demonstrate need, interest payments are deferred until the student is no
longer enrolled at least half-time.
Perkins loan funds include both federal and institutional funds and reside on campus. If
you are offered a Perkins loan, you need only to sign the promissory note.
Stafford loans are slightly more complicated. You must complete a specific loan
application and submit it to the lender. Banks or state lending agencies generally provide
Stafford loan funds. If the school offering you the loan is a Direct Loan school (about
25% are), funds will come directly from the institution.
Students who are unable to demonstrate need through the FAFSA may still borrow from
the Stafford student loan program. These funds are, however, unsubsidized and require
that the borrower be responsible for interest from the point funds are disbursed. This can
be paid while the borrower is in school or capitalized and paid at the time principal
payments become due.
Regardless of who you borrow from, federal loan repayment schedules are amortized
over time, with a maximum standard repayment period of 10 years. The repayment
period is increasingly important. If you make your payments on a timely basis, you can
reduce the interest rate you are charged.
44
Parent Loans
A growing number of parent loans are available nationally. The federally supported
Parent Loan to Undergraduate Students (PLUS) offers low interest (not interest
subsidized) loans for which repayment begins 60 days after funds are disbursed. And, of
course, there are many private parent loans offered under a variety of terms and interest
rates—some allowing repayment over as long as 20 years.
45
FAFSA4caster
The U.S. Department of Education’s office of Federal Student Aid is pleased to announce
the release of FAFSA4caster, a new Web tool designed to assist high school juniors and
their families plan for education beyond high school. Students can receive an estimated
Expected Family Contribution (EFC) by entering their information into FAFSA4caster, a
simplified version of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
FAFSA4caster also provides guidance on next steps for applying for admission, applying
for federal student aid, and paying for education beyond high school.
Background
In September 2005, the Secretary of Education formed the bipartisan Commission on the
Future of Higher Education to launch a national dialogue on the vital issues of
accessibility, affordability, and accountability in higher education. One of the needs
identified in the Commission’s final report was to notify students of their federal student
aid eligibility earlier in order to help families plan better. We have developed
FAFSA4caster to address this need.
FAFSA4caster Benefits
FAFSA4caster is a companion piece to the official FAFSA on the Web. The free
FAFSA4caster tool will assist high school juniors and their families in the following
ways:

Instantly calculate an estimated EFC

Inform the student of potential Federal Pell Grant (Pell Grant) eligibility

Reduce the time needed to complete the FAFSA when the student applies
as a senior
FAFSA4caster Access
Students and families interested in assessing their eligibility for federal student aid can
access FAFSA4caster by visiting www.FederalStudentAid.ed.gov. The links for
FAFSA4caster are located in the lower right corner of the home page.
Spanish FAFSA4caster
Students will be able to access a Spanish version of FAFSA4caster on April 29, 2007.
Contact Information
We look forward to better serving students and families through this new Web product. If
you have any questions about FAFSA4caster, contact the Federal Student Aid
Information Center (FSAIC) at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243).
46
COLLEGE PLANNING GLOSSARY
College
1) A two or four year institution granting undergraduate
degrees in one main area, e.g. a liberal arts or a business
college, 2) a division of a university, as in a college of
agriculture or of arts and sciences, or as in the
undergraduate division of a university (e.g. Harvard
College of Harvard Univ.), 3) a generic term meaning
institution of higher education.
University
Usually an institution composed of several divisions (often
called colleges or schools) granting degrees at several
levels: BA, MA, Ph.D. There are institutions that don't fit
these exact models, e.g. Boston College is more like a
university, Denison University is more like a college.
SAT
Scholastic Assessment Test. As in SAT (verbal and math)
and SAT subject tests (formerly SAT 2) available in many
subject areas. SATs are administered ETS (Educational
Testing Service) of College Board (CEEB).
PSAT
Preliminary or Practice SATs. The entry into National
Merit competition through the NMSQT (National Merit
Scholarship Qualifying Test).
ACT
A variation of standardized testing, in a certain sense
combining SAT and SAT subject tests. Accepted by most
colleges in place of SAT.
AP
Advanced Placement. Describes a level of course offered as
well as the tests themselves by which students receiving a
score above a specified level can get credit from the college
which they enter.
Transcript
The academic history of a student as outlined by courses
taken and grades earned.
TOEFL
Test of English as a Foreign Language. The most
commonly accepted test of English for students whose first
language is other than English.
Early Admission
Admission to college after three years of high school.
47
Early Decision (ED) Program under which a student (usually) commits to attend
a college if accepted, in return for early notice.
Early Action (EA)
Similar to ED except that the student is (usually) not
committed to attend.
Single Choice
Early Action
(SCEA)
A system used by a handful of colleges wherein students
are allowed to apply to only one institution EA. Normally
one may apply EA to more than one place. Very
controversial.
Some colleges will only accept ED/EA candidates or defer them to the regular
review process. Other colleges will accept, defer or deny. Any early commitment
by the student assumes that sufficient financial aid is awarded.
Rolling Admission
Wherein an institution processes applications and sends
decision letters as applications are received and become
complete. Can sometimes be "first come, first served."
Application
Deadline
Date by which an application must be postmarked or
received, depending on policy, and after which application
review begins.
Open Admission
Admissions policy granting acceptance to all high school
graduates without regard to grades or scores.
Qualification/
Eligibility
Admission review process based on specific requirements
in which all applicants meeting the minimums are accepted.
Competition
Admission review process under which qualified
candidates compete for spaces, the intensity of the
competition based on number of applicants and number of
spaces.
CEEB/ACT/
SchoolCode
An identifying number for all secondary schools, frequently
requested during the college application process. For
Tucker County High School, the number is 491275.
48
Common
Application
A standardized application form accepted by over 150
colleges and universities around the country wherein the
student fills out one application and sends a copy to each
college applied to, rather than the same number of
individual applications.
FAFSA
Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Federal financial
aid form used in applying for Pell grants, student loans and
federal college-based aid. Available on line only if you
want or need a paper copy you must call the federal
government to request one. Paper copies are no longer sent
to schools.
SAR
A student’s official notification of the results his/her
FAFSA.
Profile/
CSSProfile
Financial aid form administered by College Scholarship
Service of College Board and required by many, but by no
means all colleges.
NCAA
Clearinghouse
Nationwide process by which the eligibility of Division 1
and 2 athletes is determined, based on scores and gpa.
Grants
Money offered to a student as part of a need-based financial
aid package that does not have to be paid back. Different
types of grants:
--Pell Grant – A federal grant. Eligibility must be determined
before other financial aid can be offered. The Pell Grant may be
applied against tuition, fees, room and board and many other
expenses.
--SEOG – Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant.
Offered by the college to eligible students, based on Pell Grant
eligibility and availability of funds.
--University Grant – A grant offered by the college or university
to students based on financial need and available funds.
49
Loans
Money provided to students, which must be repaid. Generally,
student loans have low interest rates, permit a long time for
repayment and have liberal deferment provisions. Some current
loan programs:

Stafford Subsidized Loan – A subsidized low interest loan offered in
conjunction with private lenders. Interest and principal are deferred for
periods of at least half time enrollment.

Stafford Unsubsidized Loan – A low interest loan available to students not
eligible to borrow any or all of the subsidized Stafford Loan. Interest must
be paid by the student or capitalized during the school period.

Perkins Loan – A federal low interest loan, offered by the college as the
lender, based on the availability of funds.

PLUS Loan – Parent Loan to Undergraduate Students
50
Senior Profile
Many of you are interested in applying to colleges and scholarships that will require
letters of recommendation. This form or a resume of your own is required for any
recommendation you ask of your counselor. You will fill it out once, and it will be kept
in your file so that your counselor can refer to it in writing recommendations for you. It is
recommended that you make copies of the completed form to give to teachers you will
ask for a recommendation, as well.
NAME: _______________________________________________________
School Activities (Grades 9-12) Indicate years of participation and leadership positions
held, if any. Example: French Club 10,11,12 (Vice-pres. 10, Pres. 12)
__________________________________ ___________________________________
__________________________________ ___________________________________
__________________________________ ___________________________________
__________________________________ ___________________________________
Non School Activities (community, volunteer service, church, employment, etc.)
__________________________________ ___________________________________
__________________________________ ___________________________________
__________________________________ ___________________________________
__________________________________ ___________________________________
Honors or Awards (Grades 9-12) Indicate year received
__________________________________ ___________________________________
__________________________________ ___________________________________
__________________________________ ___________________________________
__________________________________ ___________________________________
Athletics (Grades 9-12) List leadership positions held, if any
__________________________________ ___________________________________
__________________________________ ___________________________________
__________________________________ ___________________________________
__________________________________ ___________________________________
List and describe your current interests and/or talents (not necessarily clubs).
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
List your top three (3) college choices.
1._________________________________________
2._________________________________________
3._________________________________________
51
Use the space below to write a brief description of yourself. You may want to
highlight your personal qualities and abilities or use this opportunity to reveal
something meaningful about yourself.
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Is your transcript an accurate measure of your ability and potential? If not, what do
you consider the best measure of your potential for success in college work?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
What circumstances, if any, have interfered with your academic performance?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Why do you want to go to college? What do you hope to gain from college?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
What do you consider your strengths? Your weaknesses?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Considering all your accomplishments and/or achievements, of which are you the
most proud? Why?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Is there anything else you want me to know about you?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
List at least two teachers on the TCHS faculty you will ask to write your college
recommendations:
1.____________________________________
2.____________________________________
52