LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
LEXINGTON HIGH SCHOOL
COUNSELING DEPARTMENT
JUNIOR SEMINAR
2013-2014
Session Outline
SESSION I
INTRODUCTION AND POST SECONDARY PLANNING –
Transcript Review/Graduation Requirements/Course
Selection/Post-Secondary Options
SESSION II
THE COLLEGE SEARCH PROCESS – Part 1
Factors In The Admissions Decision/What Colleges Are
Looking For
SESSION III
THE COLLEGE SEARCH PROCESS - Part 2
Factors In Developing Your College List/What Are You
Looking For
SESSION IV
THE COLLEGE SEARCH PROCESS – Part 3
Developing A Working List Of Colleges/Reaches, Matches,
Safeties
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
JUNIOR SEMINAR NOTES
SESSION I
INTRODUCTION AND POST-SECONDARY OPTIONS
Transcript review_____________________________________________________________
Graduation requirements_______________________________________________________
Course selection______________________________________________________________
Post-Secondary options__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
SESSION II
THE COLLEGE SEARCH PROCESS – Part 1
Factors in the admissions decision (What colleges are looking for)
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
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?)
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
SESSION IV
THE COLLEGE SEARCH PROCESS – Part 3
Developing a working list of colleges: reaches, matches, safeties
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
LHS Counseling Department
STUDENT PORTAL ACCOUNT (Aspen/X2)
USERNAME: _________________________________________
PASSWORD: ________________________________________
NAVIANCE ACCOUNT
USERNAME: _________________________________________
PASSWORD: ________________________________________
COMMON APPLICATION ACCOUNT
USERNAME: ________________________________________
PASSWORD: ________________________________________
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
This is What I Must Complete/Pass to Graduate
(refer to this document when looking at course requests in the spring,
when examining your schedule over the summer, and before making
schedule change requests in the fall)
Grade
12
Total
Credits
Student
Choice/Waiver
English: (16)
Social Studies: (16)
Mathematics: (16)
Science: (18)
World Language: (8)
Fine & Performing Arts:
(8)
Physical Education: (6)
Health and Wellness:
(2) (gr. 9 and gr. 11)
Additional Courses:
Community Service: (40)
Total Credits: (104)
In addition to the above:
*all seniors must be enrolled in at least 26 credits*
*all seniors must pass the ELA, Math, and STE (any science) section of MCAS*
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
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.
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
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
The Military – Recruiters/Contact Information
Army – http://www.goarmy.com/locate-a-recruiter.html
Navy – http://www.navy.com/locator.html
Air Force – http://www.airforce.com/contact-us/recruiter-locator
Marines – https://www.marines.com/request-information
Army National Guard - http://www.nationalguard.com/recruiter
Air National Guard – http://www.goang.com/RequestInformation
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
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 Plans from Last Year’s Graduating Class
4 year school – 86.6%
2 year school – 3.8%
Non US College – 3.2%
Gap Year – 2.4%
Military – 1.2%
Unknown/Other – 1.2%
Employment - .6%
PG Program - .6%
Apprenticeship/Career Education - .4%
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
Junior Year Timeline
January
- Organize a file of college brochures and information. Before you know it, they’ll start pouring in.
February
- ATTEND ALL SCHEDULED JUNIOR SEMINARS WITH YOUR COUNSELOR.
- Plan to visit colleges while they’re in session. Start to explore your college options.
- Think about which college characteristics are important to you.
- Have an interview with admissions officers when you visit campuses.
- Don’t spend so much time trying to improve standardized test scores that grades and extra-curricular
involvement suffer. Strive to find a balance and maintain it.
- When selecting senior year courses, be sure to continue to challenge yourself academically, but realistically.
- Begin developing a list of colleges utilizing SuperMatch or College Search in Naviance.
March
- ATTEND ALL SCHEDULED JUNIOR SEMINARS WITH YOUR COUNSELOR.
- Write, telephone, or email colleges on your list to request admissions and financial aid information. There is
no charge and no obligation to obtain general information about admissions and financial aid.
- Discuss with your counselor which standardized tests are appropriate for you (SAT, SAT Subject Test, ACT).
- Talk to two teachers about writing letters of recommendation for you.
- Athletes should register with the NCAA if they are considering playing college athletics.
Throughout the spring, continue to utilize Naviance to update your list of schools. Stay in touch with your
counselor to discuss course selection and your future plans, whether they include post-secondary education,
the military, work or a gap year. Visit schools in the area just to get a sense of what a college campus is like.
Take advantage of your location. There are 2 and 4 year, public and private, liberal arts and specialty colleges
a mere T ride away.
April
- Register for the May/June SAT or ACT and/or the May/June SAT Subject Tests.
- Look into summer jobs or apply for special academic or enrichment programs.
- Attend local college fairs.
May
- Take the AP, ACT, SAT, and/or SAT Subject tests if appropriate.
June
- Take the ACT, SAT and SAT Subject Tests exams if appropriate.
- Finalize your summer plans.
July & August
- Start thinking about college majors related to your interests and career goals
- Request applications, brochures, and financial aid information from your colleges.
- Visit colleges, take tours, and have interviews (refer to seminar handouts)
- Continue to refine your list of schools.
- Contact athletic coaches if applicable.
- Begin preparing for the actual application process. (Ex. start a draft of a college essay and open up a
Common Application account)
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
SAT VS. ACT
Length
Sections
Subjects
Reading
Science
Math
Essay
Score Composition
Scoring
Penalties
Sending Scores to Colleges
Additional Information
SAT
3 hours, 45 minutes
10 Sections: 3 Critical
Reading, 3 Math, 3
Writing (including Essay),
1 Experimental (not
scored)
Critical Reading
Math
Writing
Reading passages with
questions pertaining to
comprehension and
sentence completion
N/A
Arithmetic, geometry,
algebra, statistics and
probability
Required
1
/3 Math
1
/3 Reading
1
/3 Writing
ACT
3 hours, 25 minutes (includes optional 30-minute Writing Test)
4 Sections (plus optional Writing Test): English, Math, Reading,
Science, Writing
English
Math
Reading
Science
Writing (optional)
4 passages, 10 questions per passage
Science (analysis, knowledge, problem solving)
Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry
Optional (final section)
¼ English
¼ Math
¼ Reading
¼ Science
Aggregate score 600 Composite score 1-36 based on average of 4 sections (English
2400 based on total of 3 Math, Reading Science)
scores 200- 800 (Reading,
Math, Writing)
Score 0-12 for Optional Essay
Score of 0-12 for Essay
Penalties (¼ point
No penalties for incorrect answers
deducted) for wrong
answers
Students can select
Student decides which scores are sent
(“score choice”) which
scores, by date, are sent
– cannot mix and match
across different dates
www.collegeboard.org
www.actstudent.org
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
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 Honors
Department awards - department, academic year
Other - title, description, year
B. Athletics
Sports - position, leadership (if any), year
Honors 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, year
Special honors or awards
D. Extracurricular Activities out of School
Lessons – type, year
Religious involvement - activity, year
E. Community Service/Volunteer Work
Organization, task - year
F. Work Experience
Job title (list most recent first) - duration, position, responsibilities, year
G. Summer Experience
Summer school, camp, etc. - experience, description, duration, year
H. Travel
Location, duration
I. Interests and Hobbies
Special 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
The format on the back is recommended and preferred by colleges. And don’t worry, the
example on the back is to illustrate formatting your resume, not to exemplify a “typical
student”**
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
Jill R. Lopes
Class of 2015
Lexington High School
Lexington, MA 02421
Home Address
10 Main Street
Lexington, MA 02420
Telephone: (781) 862-1234
Email: jrlopes@gmail.com
Date of Birth
April 10, 1995
Academic Honors
National Honor Society (nominated)
National Honor Society (inducted)
Smith College Book Award
Most Improved Biology Student
Grade
11
12
11
10
Athletics
Freshman Basketball
Best Defensive Player
JV Basketball
Captain
Varsity Basketball
Team MVP
Middlesex League All Star
Tri-Captain
Varsity Tennis
Middlesex League #2 Doubles
Middlesex League #1 Doubles
Massachusetts State Tournament Doubles Runner Up
Captain
9
9
10
10
11,12
12
12
12
9-12
9
10
12
12
In School Extracurriculars
Class Treasurer
Matzoh
Drama Club
9-12
11,12
9
Out of School Extracurriculars
Piano Lessons
Temple Youth Group
Vice President
9,10
9-12
11,12
Community Service/Volunteer Work
The Walk For Life (AIDS Fundraiser)
Rosie’s Place (Homeless shelter) – served meals on weekends
Helped out in guidance office
10-12
9,10
11
Work Experience
Camp Counselor
Rancatore’s (ice cream shop) – scooper
Rancatore’s – manager
summers before 11,12
11
12
Summer Activities
Basketball Camp, Brandeis University
Summer School, Belmont Hill, Biology Lab
summers before 10,11,12
summer before 10
Travel
Greater New England, Atlantic Coast, trips with family
Exchange Program to Israel
9-12
summer before 9
Interests and Hobbies
Mountain biking, snowboarding, music, reading
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
THE ADMISSIONS INTERVIEW
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 physical aspects of the campus and
what it offers, and what your chances are for admission.
If you request an interview or if the catalog states that an interview is required, you can prepare for
this in advance. You should read the college catalog so that you will know something about the
school and will be prepared to ask questions which are not answered in the catalog. Your dress for
the occasion should be tasteful and comfortable. Avoid nervous habits such as chewing gum or foot
tapping.
The interview is not a quiz to determine how much you know. Its purpose is to enable you to learn
about the college and for the interviewer to learn a little about you. You cannot predict the subject
matter of the conversation nor can you remodel your personality for this special performance. It
seems that each college interviewer has his or her own particular way of conducting an interview.
Always be honest and truthful. Don't be afraid to say nice things about yourself, or to discuss your
shortcomings.
Any information that you have written on the application form should be confirmed at the interview.
Any discrepancy will cause the Board of Admissions to question your sincerity. The most impressive
type of student is one who is confident, responsive, and able to carry on an interesting and
informative conversation. Bring a folder with you containing an unofficial copy of your transcript
(including 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.
Positive non-verbal communication is important:
1.
2.
3.
4.
frequent eye contact
smile occasionally
react to the interviewer (nod, smile at comments)
listen carefully
Make the interview enjoyable for your interviewer and present yourself as likable.
Some sample questions they may ask you:
1.
2.
3.
Name 3 adjectives that describe yourself. What things do you value?
What magazines do you read? Newspapers? Favorite websites?
How does your family feel about you going away to school?
LHS Counseling Department
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
What are you most proud of?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Who has had the greatest influence on your life?
Do you have a part-time job? Do you enjoy it?
What is the most significant activity in which you have participated?
Is your school progressive? What are the attitudes of your classmates?
What is the last book you have read?
If your SAT's are low, why do you think they are?
What career areas have you considered?
What personal qualities would you add to our college community?
Where do you see yourself ten years from now?
Questions you may wish to ask in your interview:
1.
2.
3.
4.
What makes your college distinctive?
Will I have access to a computer (or other special equipment or facilities) as a freshman?
What are the strengths and weaknesses of your advising system?
What kinds of campus jobs can I get if I qualify?
At the end of the interview, thank your interviewer for speaking with you.
Following the interview:
Make notes on the interview and the campus visit in general soon after the appointment. Include
your likes, dislikes, key points to remember, name and title of the interviewer.
Write a letter of appreciation to the interviewer.
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
Sample Essay Questions
The Common Application
(pick one, 250-500 words)

Some students have a background or story that is so central to their identity that they believe
their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your
story.

Recount an incident or time when you experienced failure. How did it affect you, and what
lessons did you learn?

Reflect on a time when you challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you to act? Would you
make the same decision again?

Describe a place or environment where you are perfectly content. What do you do or
experience there, and why is it meaningful to you?

Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your transition from
childhood to adulthood within your culture, community, or family.
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS 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 unless the financial aid award is
inadequate. 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.
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
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.
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 (used to be called SAT Reasoning Test).
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.
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
THE COLLEGE VISIT
No publication, no matter how thorough, can give you a complete picture of a college or university.
If you can manage it, a campus visit is the best way to find out what a college is like. Junior year is
not too early to begin these visits. High school vacation periods or the summer between junior and
senior year can be used effectively for this purpose, although a visit while their school is in session is
ideal. Try to avoid missing too many classes when visiting schools.
When you have decided you’d like to visit a campus, write or call the admissions office to tell them
the date(s) you’d like to come and the approximate time you expect to arrive. If it is possible to stay
overnight in a dormitory, and you would like to do so, let the admissions office know. If you are an
athlete who is being recruited by a college, you should check the NCAA recruiting guidelines.
Some suggestions:
1. Set up an interview with an admissions officer if that is appropriate.
a. Arrive early so that you can compose and prepare yourself
b. Take an unofficial copy of your transcript and your activities resume with you.
c. Follow up with a thank you note to the interviewer.
2. Arrange for a campus tour.
a. Arrive early before the appointed time. This will give you time to see a little of the campus
on your own.
b. Make sure you see what’s important to you (Chemistry lab, radio station, freshman dorms,
career center) if they’re not on the tour.
3. You should be well groomed and neatly attired.
4. Be yourself at all times - honest, sincere, interested.
5. Soon after the visit jot down some notes on what impressed you about the school. 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.
6. If you visit when the school is not in session, and you are impressed, you may want to set up a
return visit when students are on campus.
7. Pick up a copy of the school newspaper and other publications.
8. Read the bulletin boards.
9. 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.
10. Attend an extra-curricular event.
If you attend a class, ask yourself. . .
1. Are students interested in the material?
2. Do students participate readily in discussion?
3. Are students prepared for class?
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?
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
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?
8. How many hours does a typical student study 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? Are
they available outside the classroom?
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?
Miscellaneous questions
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/spiritual programs
exist on campus or nearby?
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?
9. Can I have a car on campus?
10. What is the town or city like?
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
MAKING THE MOST OF A COLLEGE FAIR
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.
1.
DO YOUR HOMEWORK
Find 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 SUPPLIES
Carry 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 QUESTIONS
Ask 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 PARENTS
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 IMPRESSION
The 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.
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
HELPFUL WEBSITES
LHS RESOURCES
LHS Department of School Counseling
LHS Community Service Information
http://lps.lexingtonma.org/domain/616
http://lps.lexingtonma.org/Page/1383
STANDARDIZED TESTS
The College Board (PSAT, SAT, SAT Subject, AP, and helpful advice)
ACT
CAREER INFORMATION
Occupational Outlook Handbook (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
COLLEGE SEARCH
Naviance
Virtual College Tours
www.collegeboard.org
www.actstudent.org
www.bls.gov/ooh/
https://connection.naviance.com/lexington
www.campustours.com
COLLEGE FAIRS
National Association for College Admission Counseling
http://www.nacacnet.org/college-fairs/Pages/default.aspx
New England Association for College Admission Counseling
http://www.neacac.org/cf_spring.cfm
COLLEGE APPLICATION
The Common Application
The Universal College Application
POST-GRADUATE SCHOOLS
www.commonapp.org
www.universalcollegeapp.com
http://www.boardingschoolreview.com/pg_boarding_schools.php
GAP YEAR PROGRAMS
APPRENTICESHIP OPTIONS
SCHOLARSHIPS
Fastweb
www.usagapyearfairs.org/programs
http://www.doleta.gov/oa/
www.fastweb.com
FINANCIAL AID
MEFA (Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority)
http://www.mefa.org/
Federal Student Aid (where you apply using the FAFSA)
http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/
New England Board of Higher Education Regional Student Program
www.nebhe.org
CSS Financial Aid Profile
http://student.collegeboard.org/css-financial-aid-profile
Finaid
http://www.finaid.org/
FIRST GENERATION & UNDERREPRESENTED APPLICANTS
Center for Student Opportunity
You Can Go
ATHLETICS
NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association)
PARENTS
College Parents of America
ALL ENCOMPASSING COLLEGE PLANNING
In Like Me
www.imfirst.org
http://youcango.collegeboard.org/
http://web1.ncaa.org/ECWR2/NCAA_EMS/NCAA.jsp
www.collegeparents.org
http://www.inlikeme.com/
LHS Counseling Department
Junior Seminar 2013-2014
NAVIANCE TIMELINE AND UTILIZATION
(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 may request their own Naviance accounts by contacting their
son/daughter’s school counselor’s secretary after Junior Parent Workshop.
_____ Have parent/guardian electronically sign the LHS Records Release form (information
regarding this will be sent out to them electronically and will be available on the LHS Website). 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
Click on the About Me top tab
On the left, under “surveys to take,” click on the “post-graduation plans – where u @?” link
Complete this survey and click the Update button
_____ 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/or
b. 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. The Common App is available in August, and students
should start this account regardless of whether or not they are applying to Common App schools.