Making College Count by Kim Bone

Making College Count

Taking the Next Steps.... Dear Students, Congratulations on making the choice to pursue a college education! This is one of the best investments you will make for yourself. The rewards you will enjoy in the end will make this effort a worthwhile experience! Throughout my ten-plus years in college admissions, I have counseled countless numbers of students and their families through the college selection process. Although there are many emotions that go into choosing a college, I often remind families that finding the â&#x20AC;&#x153;rightâ&#x20AC;? college is a match to be made, not a prize to be won. You want the best education possible: top-ranked academic programs, inspirational professors, and an experience that will help prepare you for a successful future. I am confident that you will find all of this and more! I encourage you to use our Making College Count handbook as a resource as you navigate your way through the college selection process. Always remember that this process is about YOU finding the right fit in a college education. Follow your dreams and land in a college that is best for you. This is an exciting time! Enjoy the experience and I hope that you truly find the right fit to make your college years really count! Best wishes for continued success!

Barb Sosin Barbara Sosin Director of Admissions Kettering University

Preparing For College

Standard High School Courses One key point when selecting your courses in high school is to take at least five solid academic courses each semester. The subjects below are standard fare for success in high school but also when looking to attend a four-year, two-year, or technical school. However, the necessary subjects may vary from college to college. English: Take an English course each year of high school. English courses will help you gain better writing skills, reading comprehension, and higher level vocabulary. • Literature • Writing/composition • Speech/communications Math: Generally, you will need algebra and geometry to be successful in college. Also, take the more advanced courses towards your junior and senior years of high school. They will show that you are ready for college level math courses. • Algebra • Geometry • Algebra II • Trigonometry and/or calculus Science: Science allows you to think more analytically and apply these theories to reality. Most high school science courses provide hands on experience in the laboratory. Six semesters are recommended for an experienced background. • Two semesters in biology • Two semesters in chemistry and/or physics • Two semesters in earth/space sciences (or) • Advanced courses in biology, chemistry, or physics Social Studies: Allows you to understand current local and global events as well as the historical events that shaped our society and the world. • Two semesters in U.S. history • One semester of U.S. government • One semester in economics • One semester in world history or geography • One additional semester in the above, or other areas Foreign Language: Studying foreign language shows that you are willing to go above and beyond. Most colleges require students to have at least two years of foreign language. Art: Many studies have indicated that art helps students recognize patterns, figure out differences and similarities, and think in unique ways. Most colleges do require their students to have at least one course in an arts related area. Computer Science: Most colleges require a basic understanding of computers. These courses will help you excel when doing research or completing assignments in school. Advanced Placement Program (AP): Challenge yourself and try college-level work. This is definitely not required but you may receive college credits along with your higher level of education in high school to better prepare you for college. 4

Source: www.collegeboard.com

Action Plan: High School Freshman •

Build a strong academic background in the core subjects.

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Study hard and stay on top -- get good grades.

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Start reading more advanced books to strengthen your vocabulary.

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Discuss your high school and future plans with your guidance counselor.

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Know what courses you will need to take in high school to meet the requirements for college admissions.

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Research career possibilities that interest you.

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Go to summer camps at local colleges for academics or sports.

It’s never too early to start planning your future! Action Plan: High School Sophomore August/September • Talk with your guidance counselor about taking the PSAT or the PLAN preliminary tests for the SAT and the ACT. This will give you a better understanding of what to expect on the tests and give you some preparation. Register early in September with your counselor. October/November • Take the PSAT or the PLAN preliminary tests for practice. These scores will not be used for your college admissions; they strictly just benefit you. • Start to look into extracurricular involvement with your school through sports, academics, employment, etc. • Stay on top of your academic studies; see your teachers or tutors if you are struggling. December/January • You will receive your test scores from the PAST or the PLAN. Meet with your guidance counselor to see how to improve certain areas that you may have struggled with. • Keep studying! February/March • It’s never too early to start your college search! Check out the catalogs or informational pieces that your guidance counselor has in their office and browse the web for colleges that strike your interest. June/July • Consider summer programs, volunteer work, and summer campus at local colleges!

Action Plan: High School Junior August/September • Make a list of about 10-15 potential colleges that strike your interest! • Meet with your guidance counselor to review your courses for this year and plan your schedule for your senior year. October/November • Junior year PSAT scores may qualify you for different scholarships. These scores will not be used for college admission, but it is still a good idea to take the PSAT for scholarships and academic preparation. • Junior year grades are extremely important in the college admission process. These courses measure how well you do in advanced courses and your eligibility for scholarships and grants! December/January • You should receive the results of your PSAT if you took this test. • Register now for the February ACT, if you are going to take it. Many colleges accept the ACT or the SAT Reasoning Test. • Construct a list of your abilities, interests, preferences, and a list of some of the things that you may want to study in college. February/March • Meet with your guidance counselor to discuss your list of colleges to see if they meet your needs and interests. Be optimistic and realistic when applying to colleges. • Register for the March SAT Reasoning Test or plan to take the SAT Reasoning Test in May or June. • Write, telephone, or use the Internet to request admission literature and financial aid information from the colleges on your list. There is no charge and no obligation to obtain general information about the colleges of your interest; it will only help your search! April/May • When selecting your senior courses be sure to continue to challenge yourself! • Register for the May/June SAT Reasoning Test and/or the May/June SAT Subject Tests. Register for the June ACT if you want to take that test. • If possible, attend a National College Fair. June/July • Take the SAT and/or the ACT. • Consider summer activities such as taking an academic course at a local college, looking into internships, jobs, or volunteering. Colleges are pleased to see students using their knowledge and developing their skills and interests. • Begin visiting colleges (ie. large, small, public, private, etc...). Phone to set up appointments or sign up online. Also, set up an interview with your admissions recruiter so you can ask extensive questions!

Action Plan: High School Senior September • Make sure you have all applications required for college admission and financial aid. • Check on application and financial aid deadlines for the schools to which you plan to apply. They may vary and it is essential to meet all deadlines! • Meet with your guidance counselor to make sure your list includes colleges appropriate to your academic and personal record. Look over your transcript! • Register for the October/November SAT and September/October ACT. • If the colleges require recommendations, ask your counselors, teachers, employers, or coaches to write letters of recommendation. Ask for them at least three weeks before the due date. October • Attend a regional college fair to investigate the colleges of interest and others. • Mail applications in time to reach the colleges by the deadlines. Check with your guidance counselor to make sure your transcript and test scores have been/will be sent to the colleges to which you are applying. • If applying for early decision or early action, send in your application now. Prepare applications for backup schools. • Register for the December/January SAT and the December ACT if you have not completed the required tests, or if you are not happy with your previous test scores and think you can do better. • Have official test scores sent by the testing agency to colleges on your list. November • November 1… Early Admissions! • Take the SAT Reasoning Test or SAT Subject Tests if appropriate. • Keep working hard in school to keep up your grades! • Continue completing applications to colleges. • Make copies of everything and keep all records, test score reports, and copies of applications for admission and financial aid. Do not throw anything away! Having your records will save you time and effort just in case anything gets lost and you may have to resend something. December • Have official test scores sent to colleges on your list if you have not done so. • File your last college application. • If you applied for early decision you should have an answer by now. If you are accepted, follow the instructions for admitted students. If the decision is deferred until spring or you are denied, submit applications now to other colleges. January • Grades and courses continue to count throughout the senior year. • Request that your counselor send the transcript of your first semester grades to the colleges to which you applied. • Parents and students should complete your income tax forms as soon as possible. You will need those figures to fill out the FAFSA (Federal application). Complete and submit your FAFSA by the priority deadline if possible. Check out http://www.fafsa.ed.gov!

Action Plan: High School Senior February • Monitor your applications to be sure that all materials are sent and received on time and that they are complete. Don’t procrastinate or miss a deadline! • If you completed a FAFSA, you should receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) within four weeks after submitting the FAFSA. Review the SAR carefully and check for any inaccuracies. If you have any questions contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID. • Complete scholarship applications. You may be eligible for more scholarships than you think, so apply for as many as you can. • Enjoy your final year in high school, but don’t catch SENIORITIS! March • Keep studying -- only a couple more months to go! • Do not take rolling admission applications for granted (some colleges do not have application deadlines; they admit students on a continuous basis). These schools may reach their maximum class size quickly, so the earlier you apply, the more availability there may be. April • Review your college acceptances and financial aid awards. Be sure to compare financial aid packages in your decision-making process. • If you know which college you will attend, send your tuition deposit and follow all other instructions for admitted students. You must decide which offer of admission to accept by May 1 (postmark date). May • By May 1, decide on the one college that you will attend and send in your tuition deposit to that college. Notify the other colleges that accepted you that you have selected another college. • BE PROUD -- you have completed a difficult task. • Take Advanced Placement examinations, if appropriate, and request that your AP scores be sent to the college you will attend. June • Request that your counselor send your final transcript to the college you will attend. Notify the college of any private scholarships or grants you will be receiving. • Know when the payment for tuition, room and board, meal plans, etc., is due. If necessary, ask the financial aid office about a possible payment plan that will allow you to pay in installments. • Congratulations! You have made it through high school! Enjoy your graduation and look forward to college. July • Almost there! • Look for information in the mail from the college about housing, roommate(s), orientation, course selection, etc. Respond promptly to all requests from the college. • Have a great freshman year! Source: NACAC’s PACT Guide, 2000. Last Revised 2005, www.collegeboard.com

Finding the Right Fit

Important Factors When looking at collegesâ&#x20AC;Ś consider the following: Finding the right school for you is an extremely important factor to consider. Ask yourself the following to find out more about your likes and dislikes. Learning about you 1. I would like to be around thousands of people. 2. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to be looked at as a number; I want to be known by name. 3. I would like to learn in a large environment. 4. I am interested in Fraternity or Sorority life. 5. I do not like to participate in class discussion (or) I do like to participate. General 1. Surrounding area. Location (Midwest, South, West, New England). Distance from home. 2. Cost. Public or Private (merit scholarships, ability of college to meet full needs). 3. Student body size. Small (1,000-3,000), Medium (5,000-12,000), Large (20,000+). 4. Campus size and environment (type of school, urban/rural, religious, co-ed, etc.). Academic Program 1. Degrees offered (Liberal Arts, Engineering, Nursing, Business, Fine Arts, Teaching, etc.). 2. Curriculum choices (language requirements, core requirements, grading options, etc.). 3. Course availability (when classes are offered, times of classes). 4. Services (accessible computer labs, writing centers, tutoring centers, math labs, etc.). 5. Reputation (excellence all around/specific to major, relaxed, challenging, rankings). 6. Availability and quality of faculty (Ph.D.s, involvement with students, reputation for good teaching, involved in research, student to teacher ratio, GAs, TAs, etc.). 7. Class experience (introductory class, advanced class, state of the art science labs, lab and classroom availability/quality, etc.). 8. Special programs (study abroad, college exchange, cooperative education, etc.). 9. Academic calendar (semesters, quarters, January term, 4-4-1, exam schedule). Student Body 1. Level of academic quality (interest in academic life, commitment to learning). 2. Goals (professional, grad school bound, grade conscious, community involvement). 3. Diversity (geographic, international, cultural, male to female ratio, etc.). 4. Extracurricular options (student activities/groups, fraternity/sorority, athletics, etc.). 5. Social life (on campus, off campus, and other options). Campus Services 1. Library (adequate, dependent upon other libraries, social or study atmosphere). 2. Residence facilities (dorm options, off campus, substance free, special interests, conditions, presence of advisors or residence hall assistants, cars and transportation). 3. Dining facilities (choices, quality of food, ability to respond to restrictions, number of meals per week, hours, etc.). 4. Orientation (summer program, early fall, adequate). 5. Academic advising. 6. Safety (well-lit walkways, escort service, access to residence halls, locked doors, etc.). 7. Health facilities (medical care, counseling, dental, hospital). 8. Career center (job placement, graduate school counseling). 9. Recreation center (hours/availability, exercise programs, lockers, equipment, etc.). 10

Types of Colleges What kind of college do you see yourself attending? Different types of colleges suit different types of people. Take a look at these descriptions to help you see where you fit. Liberal Arts Colleges Liberal arts colleges offer a broad base of courses in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences. Most are private and focus mainly on undergraduate students. Classes tend to be small and personal attention is available. Universities Generally, universities are larger and offer more majors and research facilities. Class size often reflects institutional size and some classes may be taught by graduate students. Community or Junior Colleges Community colleges offer degrees after two years of full-time study. They frequently offer technical programs that prepare you for immediate entry into the job market. Public vs. Private On one hand, public colleges are usually less expensive, particularly for in-state residents. They get most of their money from the state or local government. Private colleges rely on tuition, fees, endowments, and other private sources. Private colleges are usually smaller and can offer more personalized attention (and some believe more prestige). Upper-Division Schools Upper-division schools offer the last two years of undergraduate study, usually in specialized programs leading to a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree. You would generally transfer to an upper-division college after completing an associateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree or after finishing a second year of study at a four-year college. Agricultural, Technical, and Specialized Colleges Have you made a clear decision about what you want to do with your life? Specialized colleges emphasize preparation for specific careers. Examples include Art/Music, Bible, Business, Health Science, Seminary/Rabbinical, and Teaching. Source: www.collegeboard.com

The Top Five College Search Resources 1. High School Guidance Counselor and Teachers 2. The Internet Google search College and University Web Sites Collegeboard.com Princetonreview.com Act.org 3. College Fairs 4. Word of mouth - talk to people! College representatives, students, alumni, parents, and professionals 5. Campus Visits

Myths on the College Selection Process There are many college myths that everyone has heard at one point or another, but that is just what they are -- myths. Here are some common myths: Myth 1: “There is only one perfect college for me.” Reality 1: Perfect colleges rarely exist. All colleges have good and bad points and all vary in terms of their attractiveness for any individual student. Your goal is not necessarily to find the perfect college; rather, your goal is to research and find those several colleges that best meet your needs. Myth 2: “I need to decide on my career before I can choose a college.” Reality 2: College is your time to explore. Except in a few specific situations, you can choose a major in your sophomore year and still complete the degree in four years. A surprising number of students discover their ideal field while taking a course they didn’t expect to like. If you’re not ready, don’t let well-meaning friends pressure you into deciding on a major field or a career before you choose a college. Take your time. Myth 3: “We can only afford a low-priced college.” Reality 3: Students often rule out schools that seem too expensive before exploring all the options. Explore now -- narrow later. In order to attract students from all income levels and different areas of the country, private colleges and out of state schools may offer significant amounts of financial aid, such as, grants -- which are gifts; loans -- which are paid back; and paid work study. These offers can drastically change your cost to attend schools that at first seem too expensive. Myth 4: “I’ve never heard of this college, so it can’t be any good.” Reality 4: Most people can probably name only a small portion of the 3,000 U.S. colleges. These are usually the old East Coast schools, large state universities, those with outstanding athletic teams, or those near home. The schools that may be a match for you might be ones you haven’t heard of. Myth 5: “I will never get in.” Reality 5: You will never know until you try. There is a school out there for everyone. Some schools are very selective, but many seek to serve a range of students. You may think your grades do not meet the college acceptance level but you will not know until you apply. Myth 6: “Big colleges are best if you haven’t decided on a major field.” Reality 6: Many students think that because there are more courses to choose from, a large college offers greater options for undecided students. However, choices alone should not be the deciding factor. If you are undecided, the best college is one that has core requirements or distribution requirements that ensure you will explore new areas and fields. Also, look for colleges with the strongest academic advising and career counseling programs regardless of their size. Good advising can help you choose an academic and career path you will enjoy rather than one you think you might like right now. Source: www.aspireoregon.org & www.nrccua.org

College Visits

The College Visit Types of Visits • Daily tour -- interview with an admissions representative/counselor • Sit in on a class • Meet with a professor • Overnight stay in the residence hall • Open House programs You Can’t Judge a College by Its Brochure • A campus visit is your opportunity to get a first-hand view of a college. A college catalog, view book, or website, can only show you so much. To really get a feel for the school, you need to walk around campus, sit in on a class, and visit the dorms. Get Answers to Your Questions • A visit also gives you the chance to talk to students, faculty, financial aid, and admissions representatives. You can get answers to all of your questions. Get Valuable Information • Pick up any official school material you see, such as brochures and financial aid forms. Don’t forget to get business cards, so you’ll have a live contact if you have a question about admissions or financial aid. • Student produced material will give you a sense of what campus life is really like. Look around for newspapers and activity calendars. Check out bulletin boards to see what bands are coming to the campus, parties are advertised, internships are posted, and generally what the day-to-day energy of the place is. Is This College Right for You? • Ultimately, it’s your decision. Listen to your gut. Do you feel comfortable walking around campus? Do you click with the students and faculty? Spending time on a campus allows you to determine if a school is a good match, which is extremely important. Source: www.collegeboard.com

You can’t really get a feel for a school until you visit the campus -- don’t skip this step!

Questions to Ask Admissions • Is there an Early Decision, Early Action, or Single Choice Early Action plan? • On what basis are applicants accepted? • Are personal interviews or letters of recommendation required? • Can admission denials be appealed? • What are the application filing dates? • What high school courses are required for admissions? • Are entrance tests required? Which ones? What range of scores is accepted? • Does the college require a certain G.P.A.? • How important is the essay? Is there an essay required? General • What is the surrounding community like? • Is the college public, private, or church affiliated? • What is the current undergraduate student enrollment? • What special or unique programs are offered? • Does the college have general education or course distribution requirements? • Does the college have special programs for transfer students? • What is the academic calendar (semester, quarter)? Student Population • From where do the majority of students come? • What types of student groups are active on campus? • Are there fraternities and sororities on campus? • Is the surrounding community supportive of the college? • Is housing available/guaranteed for freshmen? Is it available all four years? • Do most of the students commute or live on campus? • Are freshmen allowed to have cars on campus? Academics • What is the average class size? Largest? Smallest? • How many students in last year’s freshman class returned for their sophomore year? • What was the grade point average for the freshman class last year? • What is the procedure for student orientation, class placement, and scheduling? • What services does the school offer for a student undecided about a major? • What percentage of students graduate in four years? In five years? • What are the most popular majors on campus? • Are students taught by full-time professors, graduate assistants, teacher’s assistants? • Are there free tutoring and computer labs open for most of the day? • Are co-op or internships available and/or required? Social Life • What is the average age of the student body? • What is the male to female ratio? • What percent of students reside on campus? • Is this considered a “suitcase campus” where most students leave on weekends? • Are the residence halls co-ed? Is there a substance-free residence option? • What are the procedures for selecting a roommate? • What are some of the rules and regulations that govern campus and residence hall life? 15

Questions to Ask Tuition/Cost • What is the cost of tuition? Room and Board? Are there other fees? • How much did costs increase from last year to this year? • Are accepted students required to make deposits for orientation and/or housing? • Are these deposits fully refundable until May 1? • Are deposits required each year for returning students? • When do bills have to be paid? Financial Aid • What percent of students receive need-based financial aid? • What percent of students receive scholarships based on merit? • What would a typical freshman financial aid package look like? • What percent of those who apply for financial aid receive it? • Will financial aid be adjusted if need increases? • What application(s) need(s) to be filed to apply for financial aid? • Is a tuition payment plan available? • Are there campus jobs available? Are there nearby off-campus jobs?

Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions! Campus Tour Checklist

See a residence hall room; check out the facilities in the residence hall. Look at the community living space, study rooms, location on campus, etc. See a classroom and view academic buildings. See how the classroom is set up. Are there professor offices in the building? Observe things such as the student body around campus; the parking availability; distance to and from the academic buildings and residence halls, etc. Check out the dining facilities to see what options are available. Look at the library. Is there study space, copy machines, computers and extra services such as writing labs or audio listening booths available? See what is important and interests you; the sports center, the science labs, the theatre, etc. Take a look at the posters around the campus. See what activities are offered and the different organizations that are available to join. When you are done with the tour you should be able to answer the following question: Would I feel comfortable on this campus, learning in this environment?

College Comparison Worksheet COLLEGE NAME LOCATION DISTANCE FROM HOME SIZE OF CITY ENROLLMENT CAMPUS SIZE SCHOOL TYPE DIVERSITY REQUIRED COURSES

RECOMMENDED COURSES

ADMISSIONS PROCESS & DEADLINES TESTS REQUIRED GPA/TEST SCORES PROGRAMS OF INTEREST ACCREDITATION STUDENT:FACULTY RATIO STUDENT HOUSING ON-CAMPUS LIVING REQUIRED? STUDENT GROUPS OF INTEREST TYPES OF ATHLETIC PROGRAMS TUITION, ROOM & BOARD, STUDENT FEES TRAVEL EXPENSES TOTAL COST % RECEIVING FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS FINANCIAL AID DEADLINES GRAD JOB PLACEMENT NOTES

Visiting College Representatives Representatives from many different colleges/universities visit high schools from their region. They go to college fairs and are accessible for you to talk to if you tour the college/ university campus. This is the person that you will talk with throughout your application and admissions process so it is important to meet them and discuss any questions that you may have. High School Visit • Listen to the daily announcements or check with your guidance counselor to see when colleges will be at your school. • Make sure that you sign up 24 hours in advance so that you may be excused from class. • Before meeting with the representative look over all the college information so that you can ask the questions you may have. • Take notes during the session. It will help you when reviewing your top college choices. College Fair • Go to any college fairs around your home town (look at local colleges to see if they are having any fairs at their campus or ask your guidance counselor). • Get all the information from the different colleges that have your degree interests. (Just because you haven’t heard of the school before doesn’t mean that it couldn’t be the right fit for you.) • Ask some general questions to get more familiar with the college/university (location, majors, cost, activities, etc.). • EXPLORE ALL OPTIONS!!! Campus Tour • Once you select your top colleges, visit each campus! • Most representatives are available to meet with you after your tour to discuss any questions you have; take advantage of this! • Ask as many questions as possible and get their business card so you can contact them in the future. • Make your visit productive!

Take advantage of as many resources to learn about schools you’re interested in as you can. 18

Applying for College

Competitive College Admissions Factors Your Secondary School Record How have you done in the courses taken? Colleges like to see you take harder and more challenging courses than improving your grade point average by taking “easy” courses. Have a good foundation of the Math, Science, English, History, and Foreign language course to help you prepare for college entrance. ACT/SAT Scores Scores on the SAT and the ACT are used by the admissions department as one measure to compare students from different schools. A combination of high grades and low test scores can be explained by many factors. However, high test scores and low grades are not as favorable, since it almost always describes an able person who does not work productively and could be a greater risk to the admissions representative. The Essay and the Application Most schools require you to write an essay, however, there are some schools out there that are essay-free. Your essay should be personal and honest, thoughtfully and carefully written, and discuss something of importance to you. Make sure your application and essay are neat and organized. The Counselor Statement The high school’s recommendation for a student is written by that student’s counselor. The counselor will attempt to present an assessment which is fair and accurate and emphasizes achievements and talents. Although the counselor will focus on the better parts of you as a student, they will not ignore the major difficulties as they are reflected in the transcript. They will, however, elaborate on the story to your advantage as much as possible. This document is confidential communication between the counselor and the college. Teacher Recommendation This part of the admissions process varies from college to college. Many colleges ask for two letters in specific areas. Do not give the college more than what they ask for -- read through the application carefully. The teacher’s letter of recommendation speaks to your abilities and accomplishments as a student and should be positive, so choose carefully. Extracurricular Activities and Work Experience Your involvement in activities does not carry as much weight as your transcript unless your talent or skill is exceptional. The extra activities are good as long as it does not detract from your academic record. Geographic Distribution and Legacy Status Most colleges are big on having a diverse student body, by different ethnic and racial background, to creating a more geographically diverse student body. For example, if you are applying to a school far from home you might have a slight advantage over equally qualified local candidates. Also, colleges encourage generations of families to attend the college, therefore, you may have an advantage over equally qualified students, but this does not mean that it is a sure thing.

Standard Admissions Guidelines Colleges and Universities have many different types of admission procedures and deadlines for applications. Here are the different types of admissions and a brief description. Early Admission There are colleges that accept outstanding students right after their junior year of high school, usually without completing the requirements for the high school diploma. Early Decision When a student submits an application early to their first-choice school, and if they are accepted, they will definitely enroll. There are restricted policies and they vary among the different schools. Generally, if a student applies early decision, it is required for them to sign a commitment to attend if accepted and to withdraw any other applications submitted to other universities. It is also required for the student to take the SAT/ACT in the spring of the junior year and the nonrefundable deposit must be made well in advance of May 1. Early Action Single Choice - This is when students submit an application to their top schools of choice and receive a decision well in advance of the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s regular response date. However, the students that are admitted are not obligated to accept the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offer of admission or to submit a deposit before May 1. Students that are planning to submit an application for early action may be required to take the SAT/ACT tests in the spring of their junior year if the college requires them to do so. Regular Decision When a student submits an application by a due date required by the college/university and then receives a decision within a reasonable period of time, but no later than April 15. Rolling Admissions This is an application process in which a college/university reviews applications that are completed and gives admission decisions to students throughout the admission cycle. It is to the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advantage to apply well in advance of the posted deadline because it is unknown how quickly the available spaces will be filled. Deferred Admissions Students who have other plans for the year following high school may apply to a variety of different colleges for deferred admission. The application process and timeline are the same for regular admission but students should indicate that they do not plan to attend until the following year. Along with the application many colleges will want an explanation of how the student plans to spend the year and how it will benefit them. Open Enrollment Open admission is used by schools that published a set of admission standards and pledges to admit any student who qualifies and/or exceeds them. Open enrollment is often used by community colleges. Wait List Colleges use wait lists for borderline candidates. By telling an applicant that he or she is on the wait list, a college can see how many accepted students decide to enroll before making a final decision on that applicant. When a student is put on the wait list the college/ university is neither admitting nor denying the student for admission.

Choosing a College Essay Your Choice of Essay Matters The application essay is a chance to explain yourself, to open your personality, charm, talents, vision, and spirit to the admissions committee. It’s a chance to show you can think about things and that you can write clearly about your thoughts. The Essay Writing Process First pre-write, then draft, and finally, edit. This process will help you identify a focus for your essay and gather the details you’ll need to support it. Prewriting To begin, you must first collect and organize potential ideas for your essay’s focus. Brainstorm: Make a list of your strengths and outstanding characteristics. Discover your strengths: Ask parents, friends, and teachers what they think your strengths are. Drafting Write your essay in three basic parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction gives your reader an idea of your essay’s content. The body presents the evidence that supports your main idea. Use narration and incident to show rather than tell. The conclusion can be brief as well. Just a few sentences to nail down the meaning of the events and incidents you’ve described. Types of Essays There are three basic types of essays for you to consider. Standard Essay: Take two or three points from your self-outline, give a paragraph to each, and make sure you provide plenty of evidence. Less-Is-More Essay: In this format you focus on a single interesting point about yourself. It works well for brief essays of a paragraph or half a page. Narrative Essay: A narrative essay tells a short and vivid story. Write one or two narrative paragraphs that grab and engage the reader’s attention, then explain what this little tale reveals about you. Editing When you have a good draft, it’s time to make final improvements to your draft, find and correct any errors, and get someone else to give you feedback. Remember, you are your best editor. No one can speak for you; your own words and ideas are your best bet. Let it cool: Take a break from your work and come back to it in a few days. Does your main idea come across clearly? Do you prove your points with specific details? Is your essay easy to read aloud? Feedback time: Have someone you like and trust read your essay. Ask them to tell you what they think you’re trying to convey. Did they get it right? Edit down: Your language should be simple, direct, and clear. This is a personal essay, not a term paper. Proofread two more times: Careless spelling or grammatical errors, awkward language, or fuzzy logic will make your essay memorable—in a bad way. 22

Source: www.collegeboard.com; this article is based on information found in The College Application Essay, by Sarah Myers McGinty

Essays: The Good, the Bad, the Ugly The Good… Each college/university is different. Know what the essay is for and if you even need to submit an essay. Getting started … • Start early and take your time. You never want to be in a rush to get your essays done. Put some work in your essay because good essays don’t just happen overnight! • Make sure that you read over the requirements and that your essay meets all of them. • Do more than one draft and make sure you know what the topics are and express yourself. • Always type the essay if you are given a choice. If you must write the essay use the appropriate utensil and have clear/neat writing. The Bad… Make sure you leave enough time to avoid the major mistakes that some students make. Things to watch for… • Misspelled words. Spell check does not always work. Use a dictionary and proofread your essay numerous times. Have your family and friends also look over your essay for grammar and spelling errors. • Using words incorrectly, such as there and their! • Grammar mistakes. Watch for long sentences, comma use, and consistent use of tense. • Make sure you are well organized. Make an outline and use it to make sure that everything is in logical order. • Make sure you meet all the requirements the college is asking for. • Do not write what you think they want to hear. Be honest! The Ugly… Here are things that can make or break an essay! Things to watch for… • Using slang, swear words, or abbreviations. This is a formal paper unless you want the reader to be LOL. Leave that behind. It is also very inappropriate to use discriminatory language in a college essay. Watch your words carefully! • Putting the wrong college in the essay… yes, this does happen! “I would be an asset to ABC College” sounds great, but not when you send it to XYZ University. • Using an essay that is plagiarized and passing it off as your own. For starters it is illegal, and colleges/universities do not tolerate students or applicants to plagiarize. • Give credit where credit is due. If you want to use a quote or anything else that did not come from you, then give credit to that person(s). • Don’t lie! Do not claim that you did community service or volunteered for Big Brothers/ Big Sisters every weekend, and made a difference in your community or in a young person’s life when you never thought about it! • Just not doing it. Skipping an essay or part of it will be detrimental to your application review. Deciding factors could be whether or not you are accepted.

Sending Out Your Application Send out your applications (regular decision) by the fall of your senior year. You will want to send applications out to a variety of different schools, but only to the ones that are on your top list and places where you think you will be comfortable. Try to submit one to two applications in each of the following categories (preferably five or six schools). Reach (Long Shot): Colleges where your chances of admission are less than 50/50 Competitive: Colleges where the likelihood of your admission is about 50/50 Back-up/Likely (Safety): Colleges where you will likely be admitted Paper Application or Electronic Application Admissions officers consider all applications equally, regardless of how you submit them. Electronic applications give you several benefits over traditional paper applications. • You’ll save time. Many services let you fill out the same information just once for all your applications so you won’t have to reenter your information on each application. • You’ll save money. Many schools offer discounted application fees for submitting electronically. • You’ll show that you’re computer literate. These benefits make it seem like applying electronically is a no-brainer. However, make sure to keep a backup of everything you do. You don’t want to spend an hour filling out an application, then have your internet connection crash and have to start over. Also make sure to save copies of your applications on your hard drive or print them out and save them. It never fails that a school has its server crash and loses some of its online applications. Source: © 2006 College Application 101.Com

Top 10 Application Mistakes 1. Misspellings and grammatical errors 2. Applying online, but the application isn’t submitted 3. Forgotten signatures 4. Not reading carefully 5. Listing extracurricular activities that are not what you participated in 6. Not telling your school counselor where you’ve applied 7. Writing illegibly 8. Using an email address that friends might laugh about, but colleges won’t! 9. Not checking your email regularly 10. Letting mom and dad fill out your application

Making the Final Decision • • • • 24

Know when the colleges that you applied to will make their final decisions. Many schools will mail notification by April 1 and colleges require commitments by May 1. Make your decision carefully and accept an offer that feels right to you. Weigh the pros and cons. IT’S NOT THE END OF THE WORLD if your dream college doesn’t extend an offer of admission to their school. Remember… a college education is the best investment you can make for yourself regardless of the school where you earned it.

Paying for College

Financial Aid Information Grants Grants are FREE money which never has to be paid back. •

Pell Grant: Once a student has completed their FAFSA, the first thing a school will determine is if he or she is eligible. Recipients must be undergraduate students who have not earned their first bachelor’s degree. They must also be U.S. Citizens or eligible non-citizens with a high school diploma or GED. The maximum Pell Grant for the 20082009 academic year is $4,731.

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Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG): These grant dollars are reserved for those Pell Grant recipients who demonstrate the most financial need as determined by the FAFSA. FSEOG money is funded by the federal government but administered by the local college. SEOG awards can vary by institution depending on availability of dollars. Award amounts can vary from $100 to $4,000.

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Institutional and State Grants: Most states do offer grant programs for their residents, but eligibility and availability of dollars may vary. To get more information about your state’s educational contacts go to http://www.ed.gov/about/contacts/state/index.html. Additionally, many colleges make available institutional grant dollars that come from endowment sources or other private donations. This is more typically found at private colleges. The school’s web site will be the best place to locate additional information.

Scholarships Scholarships are not only for valedictorians and star athletes. They typically fall into two categories: 1) need-based or 2) merit-based. •

Need-based scholarship: These are more often determined by students EFC. They are typically given to students whose parents may be in the lower middle income bracket. They do take academics into account when distributing the scholarships; however, the student must first meet the financial requirements to be considered.

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Merit-based scholarships: These are typically based on a student’s talent or academic prowess. Merit-based scholarships are often based on SAT or ACT test scores. There are literally thousands of scholarships available to all types of students

Loans Loans are far and away the single largest aid program available to students. A student loan is extremely accessible and very often a student’s first venture into the world of credit/debt. Because loans must be repaid the decision to borrow should be made carefully and the resulting debt managed methodically. Completing the FAFSA is the first step in determining your loan eligibility. Once the EFC is calculated, additional steps will be communicated to you on how to actually receive the loan proceeds at your institution. This usually involves completing a paper or electronic promissory note. •

Stafford Loan: Stafford loans are borrowed in a student’s name. There are two types: subsidized and unsubsidized. Subsidized loans have the government paying the interest for the student while he/she is in school and during their grace and deferment periods. Unsubsidized loans have interest accruing while the student is in school. Subsidized

Financial Aid Information loans are based on need while unsubsidized loans are not need-based. Both are not required to be repaid until six months after the student graduates or drops below half-time. For the 2008-2009 academic year, the subsidized loan rate is 6.00% and the unsubsidized loan rate is 6.80%. The maximum yearly amount a dependent, undergraduate student may borrow in combined subsidized/unsubsidized Stafford loan eligibility is: $5,500 Freshman $6,500 Sophomore $7,500 Junior and Senior The maximum yearly amount an independent, undergraduate student or dependent student whose parent was denied a PLUS loan may borrow in combined subsidized/ unsubsidized Stafford loan eligibility is: $9,500 Freshman $10,500 Sophomore $12,500 Junior and Senior The maximum yearly amount a graduate student may borrow in combined subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford loan eligibility is $20,500 (maximum of $8,500 subsidized). Stafford loans carry with them fees and interest charges that should be considered when making the decision to borrow. Stafford loans also come standard with a ten year repayment plan with a minimum payment of $50. There is no penalty for paying the loan off early. Some exceptions exist for medical students. •

Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS): PLUS loans are available to creditworthy parents of dependent, undergraduate students. The maximum yearly amount a parent may borrow is the student’s cost of attendance minus any other financial aid he/ she is receiving. A parent may borrow for multiple children during the same year. The interest rate for PLUS loans will be fixed at 8.5%. Repayment begins within 60 days of the loan being fully disbursed.

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PLUS Loans for Graduate Students: As a result of the Higher Education Reconciliation Act of 2005, PLUS loans are now made available to graduate students. The same terms and conditions apply to these loans as those used in determining Parent PLUS loan eligibility...including a credit check. Applicants for a Graduate PLUS loan must first exhaust their Stafford loan eligibility, thus requiring the completion of the FAFSA.

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Perkins Loans: These loans are funded by federal and institutional dollars and given to the neediest undergraduate and graduate students. They carry a 5% interest rate and do not have to be repaid until nine months after the student graduates or drops below half-time. The maximum an undergraduate student can borrow is $4,000 annually and $6,000 annually for graduate students.

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Private Loan: Recently, there has been a huge increase in private loan funding in order to fill the gap created by the rising costs of education while federal loan limits remained relatively dormant. Some schools have begun actively awarding private loans on the award letter since the demand is so strong. Private loans are inherently more costly to borrow as they carry higher interest rates and fees than federal loans. The higher rates and fees are due to the private lenders owning 100% of the risk of lending the money.

Financial Aid Myths Literally billions of dollars in financial aid is available to those who need help paying for college. Here are some myths dispelled for students confronting the process of financial aid. “College Is Just Too Expensive for Our Family” Despite the media hype about rising college costs, a college education is more affordable than most people think, especially when you consider college graduates earn an average of $800,000 more over their careers than high school graduates. The average yearly cost of a four-year public school in 2007-08 is just $6,185. There are some expensive schools, but high tuition is not a requirement for a good education. “There’s Not a Lot of Financial Aid Available” In fact, more than $130 billion of student financial aid is available. Most students receive some form of aid. Less of this aid now comes in the form of grants, however, most aid is awarded through low interest loans or institutional and other grants. You should consider carefully the financing packages you’ve been offered by each college to determine which makes the most financial sense. “My Parents’ Income Is Too High to Qualify for Aid” Aid is intended to make a college education available for students of families in many financial situations. College financial aid administrators often take into account not only income, but also other family members in college, home mortgage costs, and other factors. Aid is awarded to many families with incomes they thought would disqualify them. “My Parents Saved for College, So We Won’t Qualify for Aid” Saving for college is always a good idea. Since most financial aid comes in the form of loans, the aid you are likely to receive will need to be repaid. Tucking away money could mean you have fewer loans to repay and it won’t mean you’re not eligible for aid if you need it. A family’s share of college costs is calculated based mostly on income, not assets such as savings. “If I Apply for a Loan, I Have to Take It” Families are not obligated to accept a low-interest loan if it is awarded to them. Student loans are at all-time low interest rates. Apply and compare the loan awards with other debt instruments and assets to determine the best financial deal. “Working Will Hurt My Academic Success” Students who attempt to juggle full-time work and full-time studies do struggle. But research shows that students who work a moderate amount often do better academically. Securing an on-campus job related to career goals is a good way for you to help pay college costs, get experience, and create new ties with the university. “Private Schools Are Out of Reach for My Family” Experts recommend deferring cost considerations until late in the college selection process. Most important is finding a school that meets your academic, career, and personal needs. In fact, you might have a better chance of receiving aid from a private school. Private colleges often offer more financial aid to attract students from every income level. Higher college expenses also mean a better chance of demonstrating financial need. 28

Source: www.collegeboard.com

Financial Aid Glossary ACT – A college entrance exam that assesses high school students’ general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. COA (Cost of Attendance) – The total cost of attending a post-secondary institution which includes items such as: tuition, room and board, books, transportation, and personal expenses. DRN (Data Release Number) – This unique number appears on a student’s SAR and must be provided to any school wishing to receive FAFSA data that was not originally listed on the form. ED (U.S. Department of Education) – Government agency that oversees all federal aid programs. EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) – A transfer of funds that is made electronically rather than in paper form like a check. EFC (Expected Family Contribution) – Amount of money that student and his or her family is expected to contribute toward educational costs. Determined by the data provided on the FAFSA. FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) – The form that must be completed to determine a student’s eligibility for federal aid. FAT (Financial Aid Transcript) – A record of all aid received by a student at a particular school. FDLP (Federal Direct Loan Program) – Also known as DL. DL or FDLP are commonly used acronyms used in referring to the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. A school typically makes Stafford and PLUS loans available through either this program or the FFELP. Under the FDLP, loans are made directly from the government rather than through commercial lenders. FSEOG (Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant) – Also known as SEOG. A federal grant awarded to the neediest undergraduate students. Amounts can range from $100 to $4,000 per year. FWS (Federal Work Study) – Federal aid program that provides on and off campus jobs to undergraduate and graduate students. FFELP (Federal Family Education Loan Program) – Guaranteed, federal loan program where Stafford and PLUS loans are made by commercial lenders rather than the government as in DL. FAA (Financial Aid Administrator) – College employee working in the financial aid office. GED (General Education Development) Certificate – A certificate received by a student who passes an approved high school equivalency test. 29

Financial Aid Glossary GPA (Grade Point Average) – An average of a student’s grades that have been converted into numeral form. Usually 4.0 = A, 3.0 = B, 2.0 = C. ISIR (Institutional Student Information Record) – Electronic output data that is sent to schools listed on a student’s FAFSA. LEAP (Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership) Program - The LEAP Program provides grants to states to assist them in providing need-based grants and community service work-study assistance to eligible postsecondary students. MPN (Master Promissory Note) – The promissory note a student or parent signs when taking out a Stafford or PLUS loan. It is a promise to repay the loan. PIN (Personal Identification Number) – A number used to authenticate a user of computer or telephone system. PLUS (Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students) – Federal, guaranteed loan for parents of dependent undergraduate students. (Beginning, July 1, 2006, PLUS loans will be made available to graduate students to borrow on behalf of themselves.) SAT – A college entrance exam that assesses a high school student’s general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. SAR (Student Aid Report) – A student’s EFC is presented on the SAR. It is the federal output document that results from completing the FAFSA. SAP (Satisfactory Academic Progress) – Every student must maintain satisfactory academic progress toward their degree or certificate in order to remain eligible for federal aid. Every school will create a quantitative and qualitative measurement. Typically, a student must have a C average by the end of their second year if in a four-year program. SSN (Social Security Number) – This is a unique nine-digit number assigned to every U.S. citizen that identifies location of birth or registration. W-2 – All employers are required by the IRS to report wages earned by their employees through the W-2. Source: www.finaidfacts.org

Applying for Financial Aid • • • •

Know the deadline dates at specific colleges Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) after January 1 of your senior year in high school. FAFSA Online: www.fafsa.ed.gov Priority deadline

References

Quick Reference Guide Information about Financial Aid FAFSA (Free App. for Federal Student Aid)...............................................................www.fafsa.ed.gov Federal PIN.............................................................................................................................www.pin.ed.gov Federal Student Aid on the Web.....................................................................www.studentaid.ed.gov FinAid.........................................................................................................................................www.finaid.org FastWeb’s College Gold.........................................................................................www.collegegold.com Mapping Your Future............................................................................www.mapping-your-future.org Project Scholarship Scam....................................................................www.ftc.gov/scholarshipscams Taxes for Students......................................................www.irs.gov/individuals/students/index.html U.S. Department of Education................................................................................................www.ed.gov Sources of Financial Aid & Scholarships FastWeb Scholarship Search.......................................................................................www.fastweb.com FAFSA.....................................................................................................................................www.fafsa.ed.gov Federal Direct Loans...........................................................................................www.ed.gov/DirectLoan JobCorps....................................................................................................................www.jobcorps.dol/gov AmeriCorps...................................................................................................................www.americorps.org City Year.................................................................................................................................www.cityyear.org Resources by State.....................................................................www.finaid.org/otheraid/state.phtml Calculators College Cost Projector...................................................................................www.finaid.org/calculators Loan Calculators..............................................................................................www.finaid.org/calculators Savings Calculators........................................................................................www.finaid.org/calculators EFC Calculator..................................................................................................www.finaid.org/calculators General Information Social Security Administration..............................................................................................www.ssa.gov Selective Service.........................................................................................................................www.sss.gov Student Gateway to U.S. Government....................................................................www.students.gov College Admissions/Testing FastWeb College Search................................................................................................www.fastweb.com ACT.................................................................................................................................................www.ACT.org SAT...................................................................................................................................................www.SAT.org Choosing a Major/Career Career Planning...............................................................................................................www.FastWeb.com Monster Job Search.......................................................................................................www.monster.com America’s Career Infonet....................................................................................................www.acinet.org Bureau of Labor Statistics..............................................................................................www.stats.bls.gov Occupational Outlook Handbook...............................................................................www.bls.gov/oco Reference Books Colleges That Change Lives (Loren Pope) Complete Book of College (The staff of the Princeton Review) College and University Almanac 2008 (Petersons) College in Yours in 600 Words or Less (Patrick O’Connor) 32

Kettering University 1700 W. Third Avenue (now University Ave.) Flint, MI 48504 admissions.kettering.edu