Supporting Transitioning Foster Youth
A CASA Volunteer’s Guide to Post-secondary Education and Career Planning
Post-secondary Education and Career Planning
Section 1: Supporting Your CASA Youth’s High School Success ...... 2 Graduation Requirements for San Mateo County High School Districts ...... 3 Monitoring Your High School Youth's Attendance and Grades ...... 4 Alternatives to Comprehensive High Schools ...... 5 Assembly Bill 167 ...... 6 California High School Equivalency Tests & CA High School Proficiency Exam (CHSPE) . 7 Employment and Job Training for Youth in High School ...... 7 Career Research ...... 8 Independent Living Program (ILP) ...... 9 AB 12: Extended Foster Care ...... 10 Section 2: Supporting Your CASA Youth on a Community College or Vocational Track ... 11 Community Colleges ...... 12 Unions and Trades...... 14 Job Corps (San Francisco, San Jose, National) ...... 15 Employment Training and Education Programs ...... 15 Helping Your CASA Youth Find Employment ...... 17 Section 3: Supporting Your CASA Youth on Four-Year University Track...... 19 College Planning Tools ...... 20 Four-Year University Prep Timeline ...... 21 High School Programs for College Bound Youth ...... 22 College Prep and Entrance Exams ...... 23 College Support Programs ...... 24 Section 4:Financial Aid and Scholarships ...... 26 Financial Aid 101 ...... 27 Federal Financial Aid ...... 27 Scholarship Opportunities...... 29
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Section 1: Supporting Your CASA Youth’s High School Success
2 Graduation Requirements for San Mateo County High School Districts
Sequoia Union Jefferson Union San Mateo Union So. SF Unified Cabrillo Unified
SUBJECT Semesters Credits Semesters Credits Semesters Credits Semesters Credits Semesters Credits English 8 40 8 40 8 40 8 40 8 40
Math 4 20 6 30 6 30 4 20 4 20
Social Science 7 35 6 30 7 35 6 30 8 40
Science 4 20 4 20 4 20 4 20 4 20
Fine Arts/Foreign Language2 10 2 10 4 20 2 10 2 10
Physical Education 4 20 4 20 4 20 4 20 4 20 Driver’s Education 1 2.5 Health Education 1 5 1 5 1 5 1 5 Career Technical Education2 10 2 10 Electives/Service Credits 12 57.5 12 60 10 50 15 75 14 70
Required for Graduation 220 225 220 220 220
Minimum Grades: Students must earn a "D" grade or better to receive credit for a course that will count towards graduation. However, students must receive a “C” or better for the credit to count towards the UC/CSU entry requirement – more on this in 4-year college section.
CAHSEE Suspended: The California High School Exit Examination (CAHSEE), formerly a graduation requirement for students in the California public schools, was suspended effective January 1, 2016.
Graduation for Special Education Students: Many youth in special education graduate with diplomas. However, those who cannot meet the demands of graduation requirements will instead receive a “certificate of completion” upon satisfactorily completing the benchmarks outlined in their IEP. If your youth is a special education student, contact their counselor or special education case manager to get clarification about your youth’s graduation goal.
Partial Credits: If a foster youth moves mid-semester they are entitled to partial credits. This site will calculate exactly how many credits your youth should get based on the number of days enrolled during the semester: www.sacfys.org/demo/FYSPartialGradeCalc.cfm
Credit Forgiveness for Foster Youth (AB 167): Foster youth who transfer schools or districts in 11th or 12th grade are exempt from local graduation requirements, if they would not be able to reasonably meet these additional local requirements (more on pg. 6).
3 Monitoring Your High School Youth's Attendance and Grades
Now it's a lot easier because almost every high school in San Mateo County is providing up to date grade and attendance information online.
Not every district or school uses the same system for tracking student progress online. Each system has different requirements, but users will log-in at the high school’s website. The trickiest part of accessing this information is getting a user name and password.
Go to the high school’s website Locate the logo or a link to log-in Register for a new username and password You will be asked for Student ID # (School Loop) or an Activation Key (Infinite Campus or Parent Vue). o If you do not have the ID#, your CASA youth, or an adult, can provide this information. Otherwise, you may need to contact the school to register.
San Mateo Union High School District (Aragon, Burlingame, Capuchino, Hillsdale, Mills, San Mateo, & Peninsula) & Half Moon Bay HS, South San Francisco HS, El Camino HS, and Baden HS:
Sequoia Union High School District (Carlmont, Menlo-Atherton, Sequoia, Woodside, & Redwood):
Jefferson Union High School District (Jefferson, Oceana, Terra Nova, Westmoor, & Thornton)
4 Alternatives to Comprehensive High Schools
Generally speaking, your CASA youth will attend one of the comprehensive high schools in their school district. However, many will benefit from a different type of high school program. Some of the local alternatives are listed below.
Middle College High Schools Middle colleges are collaborations between local high school districts and community colleges. These programs provide an alternative to students for whom the traditional high schools were not meeting their needs. Cañada Middle College describes a potential middle college student: Will be a junior or senior in good standing with a GPA of 2.0 or above. Is on track for graduation: Minimum 90 credits for a junior, Minimum 145 credits for a senior Has the ability to thrive in an alternative environment Desires to complete high school and begin college courses Demonstrates the maturity to cope with the challenges and relative freedom of a college environment May show a discrepancy between standardized test scores and actual grades, indicating that she/he is not working up to potential Eligible for English 836 or above per Cañada's placement test There middle colleges at all three of San Mateo County’s Community Colleges, Cañada, College of San Mateo, and Skyline, which are available to students enrolled in Sequoia Union HSD, San Mateo Union HSD and Cabrillo USD, and South San Francisco USD, respectively. Cañada Middle College: http://canadacollege.edu/middlecollege San Mateo Middle College: http://collegeofsanmateo.edu/middlecollege/ Skyline Middle College: http://www.skylinecollege.edu/middlecollege/
Local Private or Charter High Schools Eastside College Preparatory School: Located in East Palo Alto, Eastside Prep has a competitive admissions process with applicants from all over the Bay Area. Youth can commute or live in the dorms on campus. Tuition, room, and board will be free for the youth we work with. http://www.eastside.org/
Everest Public High School and Summit Prep High School: Everest and Summit Prep are public charter schools primarily for students in the Sequoia Union High School District. Once the application is submitted, admission is based on a lottery. http://www.everestphs.org; http://www.summitprep.net
East Palo Alto Academy: EPAA’s mission is to prepare students for college and for the 21st century world and workplace by enabling them to graduate with the full array of knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed for success in a complex world, and with the ability to learn independently throughout their lives: http://www.epaahs.org/
5 Continuation and Alternative High Schools Both types of high schools have shorter school days and often require little to no homework from the students. Students accumulate credits every couple of weeks for satisfactorily completing class work and achieving on tests, as opposed to receiving grades and credits after a full semester or trimester worth of work.
Continuation high schools are for students who are sixteen years of age or older, behind in credits and at-risk of not graduating: http://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/eo/ce/ Baden High School (SSFUSD): http://badenhs.schoolloop.com/ Redwood High School (SUHSD): http://www.redwoodhs.org/index.html Thornton High School (JUHSD): http://www.juhsd.net/Thornton Alternative high schools serve the same function as continuation school but they are able to reach students at a younger age (as early as freshman year) and provide more services, including programs for children with diagnosed mental health challenges. Peninsula High School (SMUHSD): http://phs-smuhsd-ca.schoolloop.com/ Pillarcitos High School (CUSD): http://www.cabrillo.k12.ca.us/pilarcitos/index_ae.htm
Community Schools Students are placed at Gateway Community School in San Mateo when referred by a local school district, usually after an expulsion, or as a result of a School Attendance Review Board (SARB) hearing. In some instances the youth is referred by the district and the parent agrees to this placement. Gateway is part of the Court and Community Schools program which is administered by the San Mateo County Office of Education (SMCOE). School districts who place children at Gateway pay SMCOE for educating their students. For this reason, some districts have created their own community school programs for students struggling behaviorally at comprehensive schools in their district.
Assembly Bill 167
Assembly Bill 167 (AB 167) refers to California legislation that exempts pupils in foster care from school district graduation requirements that exceed state graduation requirements if the pupil transfers to the district, or transfers from one high school to another within a district, in the 11th or 12th grade if the pupil would not be reasonably able to complete the additional district requirements.1
A waiver needs to be granted by the school district. There is an expectation that the youth and supporting adults establish AB 167 eligibility within 30 days of their enrollment in their new school.
1 AB 167: Frequently Asked Questions, California Foster Youth Education Task Force, 4/13/10 6 California High School Equivalency Tests & CA High School Proficiency Exam (CHSPE)
California high school equivalency tests (GED, Hi-SET, & TASC) and CHSPE are tests that students can pass to get a degree roughly equivalent to a high school diploma. With AB 167 waivers available to most foster youth who are struggling with their credits, the GED or CHSPE become less appealing and less necessary options for our youth – most of our students are able to get to the 130 credit threshold often required under AB 167. However, these options may make sense for your youth.
CA High School Equivalency Tests: http://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/tg/gd/ CHSPE: http://www.chspe.net/
Employment and Job Training for Youth in High School
Work Permits For a youth under the age of 18 to work, they need to acquire a work permit. They would get this from their high school counselor: http://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/DLSE-CL.htm.
Jobs for Youth (Daly City & San Mateo) A part of the Peninsula Works system, Jobs for Youth is a federally funded job search program for 14-21 year olds in San Mateo County. Participating youth get help in searching for jobs, completing job applications, writing resumes, preparing for interviews, and job search. Youth who participate in a one- time orientation, become eligible for a scholarship and internship and job opportunities. http://hsa.smcgov.org/jobsforyouth Summer Paid Internships (18-21): http://hr.smcgov.org/SJFY
Teen Force (San Jose) Teen Force provides youth ages 14-20 with work readiness training, skills development and job placement services. For current and former foster youth the age range extends to 24. www.teenforce.org
Career Technical Education (Office in Burlingame) In partnership with the County Office of Education, All of the high school districts in San Mateo County offer Career and Technical Education learning opportunities for students. https://cte-smcoe-cte-ca.schoolloop.com/
Job Train (Menlo Park) Students between the ages of 14 and 21 are eligible to receive vocational training, tutoring in basic skills, GED preparation, and job placement assistance. Young people come to JobTrain to take classes in culinary arts, digital arts/multimedia and more. Youth who are out of school come for help ranging from vocational training to receiving personalized GED exam assistance to finding housing. 7 http://www.jobtrainworks.org/clients/youth-services/
Sponsored Employment Program (East Palo Alto) Each spring One East Palo Alto announces this summer employment program, which is only for residents of East Palo Alto. Applications are usually due in early May: http://www.oneepa.org/sep.html
New Door Ventures (San Francisco) A job and job readiness program for high school: http://www.newdoor.org/
General Job Search In Section 2 on page 17 and 18, there is more detailed information about helping your CASA youth find work and work experience through the open market by identifying places of interest, applying, and following-up.
Career Research
How can we expect our young people to understand the career and employment options out there when our work world is so varied and evolving? We can’t, and we shouldn’t. As trusted confidants and advisers, we need to explain to our youth what’s out there, but also equip them to explore on their own.
Engage your CASA youth in a conversation about what they think they might be interested in doing for work – after all, everyone’s got to do something. You can initiate a conversation about career options, but also provide them with some steps to discover options on their own.
1. Stimulate thinking about your youth’s interests, passions, and strengths and how each of those might translate into a career path and future success in the workforce. There is any number of ways to start a conversation about your youth’s interests, and many will tell you outright what they are interested in.
2. Help them research career options and understand the steps needed to reach a career goal. After you’ve gotten to know your CASA youth, you will have a starting point to research career options to present to your youth, help them to conduct research, or send them on an information gathering mission. Each of the websites highlighted below has detailed descriptions about occupations, training and education needed, earnings expectations, and more. Who Do You Want to Be?: http://whodouwant2b.com/student/pathways (In the resources section, has a hypothetical college course list for different career paths) California Career Zone: http://www.cacareerzone.org/ (Has a job search and listing engine) Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH): www.bls.gov/oco/ 8 (Has the most information about industries, but is the least interactive and user-friendly.) As you and your youth drill down into a particular field or profession, you can get more information from professional organizations or websites, or by connecting them with a professional in the field.
3. Keep encouraging reflection and thinking about job and career possibilities. No one expects a teenager in high school to have chosen a career by their senior year. And even when a youth seems to have settled on a path, this choice is liable to change. Continually encourage your youth to think about their options and help keep them informed about what is out there.
Independent Living Program (ILP)
Overview ILP is federally funded and run by the San Mate County Department of Children and Family Services. The purpose of ILP is to prepare foster youth ages 14.5 to 21 years old in out-of-home care for self- sufficiency as they transition out of the system. A youth will need to be referred to ILP by their social worker or probation officer
Independent Living Skills Program (ILSP) Workshops and Facilitators These life skills workshops are for all foster youth in high school. These workshops cover topics ranging from employment, education, housing, money management, and healthy relationships. Youth are paid for their attendance. The workshops are broken into two groups separated by age. ILSP facilitators can be available to youth who would benefit from one-on-one support in preparing for independent living.
For info about ILSP or one-on-one support contact Esperanza Jacuinde at 650-834-2442 or Jeffrey Jefferson at 408-688-4918
Education and Employment Specialists For youth ages 17-21, an Education and Employment Specialist (ESS) will be assigned. The ESS help youth create a resume, look for jobs, apply for jobs, complete financial aid and scholarship forms, apply for college, and anything else that will help the youth reach their education and employment goals. The ESS can be a very important adult in your CASA youth’s life. We have two ESS contact people, Melina Cortez and Steven Axberg, contacting them can be crucial to coordinating the support you are providing.
Melina Cortez - 650-599-5958 Steven Axberg- 650-599-5911
Transitional Conferences Youth are generally introduced to their ESS during their initial Transitional Conference, which will often occur during the first semester of their senior year. If the youth will turn 18 during their junior year, this initial conference will occur close to their 18th birthday. Transitional Conferences are held to ensure that a transition-age youth is familiar with the resources available to them, like education, employment, and housing support. These meetings also allow many of the youth’s adult supporters to also receive this information and share their contact information. A second transitional conference is often held close to the youth’s high school graduation or near their 18th birthday in order to reinforce the information
9 they’ve received about services and to identify anything that the youth or the adult supporters need to be doing to help the youth’s transition.
If you are wondering about your youth’s initial transitional conference, either contact your CASA supervisor or the youth’s social worker.
AB 12: Extended Foster Care
California now offers foster care to youth through the age of 21. Below are some of the most salient information about extended foster care as it relates to your efforts to support your Advocate youth’s college and career planning.
1. Who is eligible for extended foster care? Any youth who is a dependent of the Court and in out-of-home care on their 18th birthday is eligible. This includes youth who are AWOL or in Juvenile Hall the day they turn 18, as long as they have an order from the Court for out-of-home placement.
2. How is extended foster care different from traditional foster care? Extended foster care is voluntary. The youth agrees to and signs a Transitional Independent Living Plan (TILP) which the social worker will submit to the Court at a Youth Approaching Age of Majoirty (YAM) hearing (held within six months of their 18th birthday). The TILP outlines the youth’s plan to complete high school, enroll in college, retain employment at least 80 hours a month, enroll in a employment training program, or have a medical condition to prevents them from meeting the other requirements. On their 18th birthday, they will then become a non- minor dependent and be expected to meet one of the criteria for eligibility the entire time they are in extended foster care. They will have six-month Court reviews as they would as a dependent minor. Their parents will not be parties to the case.
If a youth decides to opt out and in the future decides they would like to become a non-minor dependent, they can petition the court to resume dependency.
3. Where can a youth in extended foster care live? In many cases, the youth can remain in their current placement. However, there are significant restrictions on youth remaining in group homes – they can if they are working towards their HS diploma or have a medical need to remain. Many youth will decide to live in a Supervised Independent Living Placement (SILP) which can be a college dorm, an apartment, a shared room, or just about any arrangement that meets health and safety standards appropriate for legal adults. Youth will be reimbursed for these living expenses at the basic foster care rate, ~ $890 per month. For more details about extended foster care, contact your supervisor and search for information and resources here: http://www.cafosteringconnections.org
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Section 2: Supporting Your CASA Youth on a Community College or Vocational Track
A majority of the youth that CASA volunteers work with have not completed the requisite course work (“a-g” requirements) or are not adequately prepared for admission to a four- year university. Some will perform well at the community college level and eventually transfer to a four-year. Others will never have aspirations to receive a four-year college degree, but may spend some time in the community college system. And still others will never enroll in college courses. This section is a good place to start for CASA volunteers working with youth who will not be starting at a four-year college after they complete their high school program.
11 Community Colleges
There are 112 Community Colleges in California. The San Mateo Community College District’s three colleges (Skyline College, College of San Mateo, and Cañada College) serve many of the foster youth from San Mateo County. Many other foster youth attend other community colleges throughout California. Community colleges offer the first two years of instruction in a wide variety of transfer programs as well as more than 90 vocational-technical programs. Students can earn either Associate in Arts or Science degrees or receive Certificates of Proficiency in their chosen fields. The cost of attendance for foster youth is very minimal, after they complete their Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA) and avail themselves of grants and scholarships (more on this in Section 4). For this, they will get support from their aftercare social worker (described in Section 1). http://www.smccd.edu/accounts/smccd/
How does my CASA youth gain admittance? Your CASA youth will be admitted to any of the California Community Colleges if they meet one of the following criteria: They are 18 years of age or older, with or without a high school diploma They are a high school graduate They have the equivalent of a high school diploma
Why would my CASA youth enroll at a Community College? There are too many programs and opportunities at the community colleges to mention in this guide, but here are five primary reasons foster youth in San Mateo County enroll at a community college: 1) Community Colleges are local and significantly less expense than 4-year universities. 2) Community Colleges provide more individualized support. 3) Students would like to get a 2-year degree in order to transfer to a 4-year college. 4) Community colleges offer certificate and prerequisite courses for a jobs and apprenticeships. 5) Community colleges offer opportunities for those who are unemployed or underemployed to gain employment skills.
What is the purpose of the assessment test that new enrollees are required to take? With some exceptions, all new enrollees take an assessment test to determine their English and math level. Many of our CASA youth score low on these tests, which indicate that they need to take basic English or math classes. These classes will not count toward the credits needed to transfer to a UC or CSU four-year program. Once the student demonstrates proficiency in English and math, they can begin to take classes that will count towards an A-A degree or a transfer. This can be very discouraging for our youth and lead to dropping out. However, there are a number of short-term test prep opportunities at the colleges.
What is concurrent enrollment? Every community college allows high school students to take college-level course while they are still working towards their high school diploma. Most of these programs require the high school counselor’s approval, so speak with your youth’s high school counselor or teacher about these opportunities that are available during the school year or over the summer.
12 Important Points About Community Colleges 1. Community Colleges are significantly less expensive than for-profit universities that often recruit from the same pool of students. 2. Current and former foster youth have priority enrollment for classes, which can be crucial in a community college system that is increasingly in demand. 3. Community Colleges have transfer agreements with UC and CSU systems that guarantee admission for all students who have met the admissions requirements for UC or CSU.
Project Change at College of San Mateo
A program run by the College of San Mateo, Project Change provides incarcerated and probation- involved youth direct access to postsecondary education and in-person instruction inside juvenile youth facilities. Project Change is designed for students who have completed their high school diploma, GED or are on track to graduate before summer begins. High school juniors or seniors interested in concurrent enrollment are also eligible to participate. Each student will receive:
Assistance with class registration and academic planning, financial aid, and other student support services beneficial to student's success College readiness and academic preparedness for success in the student's first year of college A mentor who provides individualized support and guidance for their first year in college A project director who connects students personally to all services they are eligible for on campus and serves as a liaison between the student and all services they receive at the college Enrollment in courses with professors who specifically provide support and guidance to Project Change students
For more information, contact: Katie Bliss, Program Director at 650-574-6173, [email protected] http://collegeofsanmateo.edu/projectchange/
Guardian Scholars Program at Skyline College Part of a statewide network of similar programs, Skyline College’s Guardian Scholars Program’s purpose is to create a network of support that will meet the academic, social, emotional, and financial needs of college-bound students who are transitioning out of the foster care system. The program is fully committed to empowering these youth to become self-supporting, conscious community leaders, role models and competent professionals in their fields of interest. http://skylinecollege.edu/guardianscholars/
While Skyline hosts the only Guardian Scholars program in San Mateo County, numerous, UC, CSU, and Community Colleges throughout the state offer this critical college support programs for foster youth.
Extended Opportunity Program & Services (EOPS) A state funded program offered at all of the community colleges, EOPS provides enrollment and ongoing support to foster youth entering community colleges. EOPS provides the following: Individualized Counseling
13 Assistance Purchasing Required Textbooks and School Supplies Priority Registration Discounted Bus Passes University Fee Waivers and Transfer Services Workshops, Special Events, and Group Outings Tutoring
Generally, current or former foster youth enrolling will be eligible for EOPS if they are enrolled full-time (12 units minimum). EOPS at the very least provides a friendly, understanding face to youth who are prospective or current students, and at its best EOPS can provide an on-going support network and resources that are invaluable to your youth’s college success. If you would like to get a better understanding of what your CASA youth’s community college experience will be like, contacting staff at one of these programs is a good place to start.
EOPS Contacts in the SMCCCD: Skyline College: Jorge Murillo, (650) 738-4171, [email protected] http://www.skylinecollege.edu/eops/index.php
College of San Mateo: Arianna Avendo, [email protected] or Katrina Evasco, [email protected] (650) 574-6154 http://collegeofsanmateo.edu/eops/index.asp
Cañada College: Jose Romero, (650) 306-3465, [email protected], http://canadacollege.edu/eops/
Unions and Trades
Traditionally, unions and the trades were an alternative to college. Increasingly, the unions require proficiency in math and English that most students have not received at the high school level, and some of the more technical trades require prerequisites offered at the community colleges. So even if your youth is interested in going into a trade, exploring what the community colleges have to offer is a good place to start.
For more information on the various trade apprenticeship programs throughout the Bay Area: http://www.calapprenticeship.org/ http://www.dir.ca.gov/databases/das/aigstart.asp
14 Job Corps (San Francisco, San Jose, National)
Job Corps is a no-cost education and vocational training program administered by the U.S. Department of Labor that helps young people ages 16 through 24 get a better job, make more money, and take control of their lives. At Job Corps, students enroll to learn a trade, earn a high school diploma or GED and get help finding a good job. When joining the program, youth will be paid a monthly allowance; the longer youth stay with the program, the more their allowance will be. Job Corps participants live on-site and receive free room and board. Job Corps supports its students for up to 12 months after they graduate from the program. http://treasureisland.jobcorps.gov/Home.aspx http://sanjose.jobcorps.gov/home.aspx
Employment Training and Education Programs
Supportive Training and Employment Program (STEP) STEP is a paid training and work experience opportunity offered by the County, with internships available for 12 month or longer. Internship placements include San Mateo County Libraries, Parks, Human Services Agency, Medical Center, Human Resources, and various other departments and programs throughout the county. Positions start at $12.00/hour. Eligibility Be available and willing to work 20-40 hours per week Be between the ages of 18-24, and a non-minor dependent/AB12 participant or have aged out of foster care or probation Be a resident or dependent (current or former) of San Mateo County
What STEP Offers? STEP is a partnership between San Mateo County Human Services Agency and the San Mateo County Human Resources Department. The purpose of the program is to provide foster youth an opportunity to experience “the world of work" and learn valuable workplace skills. The program offers the following: 1. Paid job readiness skills training: Youth will receive paid job skills training including, resume development, interview skills, work ethics, communications, and customer service. Interns can take advantage of the many training classes and workshops available from the County. 2. Hands on work experience and employment coaching: Youth are assigned individual tasks and projects and receive one-to-one guidance and support from a job coach/mentor. Coaches help prepare the youth for new duties by modeling and teaching appropriate behaviors and skills. 3. Transition planning: Throughout the program youth will create a transition plan based on career and education goals http://hr.smcgov.org/STEP
15 Career Technical Institute (CTE) (Burlingame) CTE classes offer high school students a chance to explore career pathways while discovering the real world application of the knowledge and skills learned in core subjects. Classes are offered in schools within the San Mateo, Jefferson, and South San Francisco Union High School Districts. Courses offered at each high school may vary but include the following: Foods and Nutrition Culinary Arts Computer Science Biotechnology Arts and Media Digital Photography Publications Journalism Engineering and Technology Architectural Design Child Development Auto Mechanics Wood Tech https://cte-smcoe-cte-ca.schoolloop.com/cms/page_view?d=x&piid=&vpid=1315913520560
Job Train (Menlo Park) Job Train offers a wide range of programs and services to help young people focus on educational success, employment readiness, job skills, life skills, and practical goal setting. Job Train is a good place to connect with to get help searching for a job, but it also offers job and vocational training courses in the following areas: Business Administration Skills Culinary Arts Medical Office Assistant Web Developer Coding Professional Health Care Worker Building and Construction Trades Solar Training Job Train also offers employment skills and GED prep for youth who are no longer in high school. http://www.jobtrainworks.org/for-clients/youth-services http://www.jobtrainworks.org/
NOVA (San Mateo, Menlo Park, Sunnyvale) PeninsulaWorks has a network of federally funded One-Stop Career Centers in San Mateo County. Services available at the Career Centers include: job search assistance, skills and behavioral assessments, trainings, and community resources; and referrals to other services. http://novaworks.org/
16 Adult Schools (Entire Peninsula) Adult education program are offered by local school districts. While each district will have unique programs, adult schools generally offer low-cost classes to help adult get their diploma or GED or enhance their computer, employment, vocation, and language skills. Search the Web for your youth’s local adult education program.
Year Up (San Francisco & San Jose) Year Up is a free, 12-month, full-time professional technology program for 18-24 year olds with a high school diploma or a GED who live in the San Francisco Bay Area. The program requires attendance Monday through Fridays from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, and participants are given a weekly stipend. Year Up strives to close the opportunity divide by providing young adults with the skills, experience, and support that will empower participants to reach their potential through professional careers and higher education. The optimal candidates are interested in and have the potential to graduate from college and work in the white-collar corporate world. Year Up places an emphasis on improving the “soft skills” of their participants. Year Up has a relatively competitive admissions process and a good reputation. http://www.yearup.org/locations/main.php?page=sfbay
Conservation Corps (San Francisco, San Jose, San Rafael) The Conservation Corps offers a paid job training program for young adults aged 18-26. As corps members, young men and women learn landscaping and recycling skills, working on projects to improve the environment. Corps members also attend a charter school to earn a high school diploma or achieve other academic goals. http://www.sfcc.org/become_corpsmember.html (See page 7 for other employment programs which are primarily, but not exclusively, aimed at youth in high school)
Helping Your CASA Youth Find Employment
Pursuing employment and employment skills through one of the programs above can be fruitful, but the reality is that most people get jobs through personal networks or by just applying. Many of us got our first jobs when we were in high school. First jobs often have little to no relation to the field that we eventually entered. Similarly, we should not expect our CASA youth to wait for the perfect position. Generally speaking, our youth benefit from the income and learning expectations in the work world. We should be encouraging our youth to cast a wide net and apply to numerous places while systematically following up with each place they have submitted an application to. Here are some key takeaways for supporting your CASA youth’s job search.
1. Looking for a job is a job: So many of our youth communicate a desire for a job. However, many of them don’t understand that in most instances finding a job takes a lot of work. Share this point with your CASA youth when you begin the job search process.
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2. Create a job search spread sheet: Many of our young people lack the organizational skills necessary to keep track of the opportunities. You can create an Excel spreadsheet or a shareable Google document that provides a space to record the places they are interested in and the status of their attempts to apply. You can create this document, but the youth can complete it or at least report the information to you. The important things to record include the name of the business, date they visited the store, date they submitted the application, date they followed-up, name of a contact, and the resolution. The process of creating and completing this document will ensure they don’t miss deadlines, but also will remind of the hard work they’ve put in to landing a job. Encourage in-person inquiries and follow-up 3. Complete an application or two with your youth: This will be a good way to gauge their proficiency in completing applications, which can be time consuming. Make a couple of copies for them to keep and use as a reference for future applications – keep one copy for yourself in case they lose theirs. 4. Ask your CASA youth if someone they know might be able to help them land a job: Research highlights the importance of social networks in helping people get jobs. This applies to young people, too. They may have friends who are good employees somewhere. They may have an adult friend, relative, or acquaintance with a connection. Help them explore these connections. 5. Where else to look? Keep it local: Start with establishments that are very close to where the youth lives, as most of our youth do not have cars. Your CASA youth will have some ideas, and encourage them to look for places that are hiring. But you can search on Google Maps for businesses nearby. Staffing Agencies: There are numerous types of staffing agencies, but the ones below have opportunities for young people with little education or experience. o http://www.aerotek.com/ o http://www.selectstaffing.com; 650-592-1862 Craigslist: http://sfbay.craigslist.org/pen/ Opportunities through the System: ILP, the CASA program, and other stakeholders will occasionally send out notices for employment opportunities. Looking for and applying for jobs is a skill that will help your CASA youth throughout their lives. And for youth over 18 and not in school, either holding a job or searching for a job may be the way in which they maintain eligibility for extended foster care. Getting them started, oriented, and organized can be an invaluable form of support. However, they will need to do a majority of the work on their own both now and in the future. Help give them the tools to search and apply for jobs and even check in on or help manage their progress. In the end, however, it will be up to them to own and lead their job search.
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Section 3: Supporting Your CASA Youth on Four-Year University Track
Planning for admissions to a four-year university begins in middle school. This section will be helpful to CASA volunteers working with elementary, middle, and high school students who have the potential to be admitted to a four-year university after graduating from high school. While there is a summary of the requirements, the websites highlighted in this section have much more detailed descriptions of the admissions requirements and preferences of the different types of four-year universities.
19 College Planning Tools There is a fair amount of information about college admissions on the web. In this guide, we attempt to pare down the information considerably, to include only the basics and allow you to tailor your research to the needs of your youth. The most basic thing for a CASA supporting a youth’s four-year college aspirations is to know the minimum requirements for entry into a UC or CSU2: 1. Complete the “a-g” course requirements during high school Need a “C” or better in each course (an exception can be made for a single course) 2. Take the SAT Reasoning Test or the ACT with Writing UC admission no longer requires SAT II
California College Pathways Resources for Foster Youth California College Pathways is a very comprehensive resource that addresses college for foster youth specifically: http://www.cacollegepathways.org/
The Foster Youth Educational Planning Guide is excellent: http://www.cacollegepathways.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/1-CCP-educational-planning-guide- 1.pdf
UC and CSU Admissions Indices It’s one thing to meet the minimum requirements; it’s another to be competitive for admission to either system. These links will help you determine where your youth stands or where they need to get. UC: http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/freshman/california-residents/admissions-index/ CSU: http://www.csumentor.edu/planning/high_school/elig_index_calculator.asp
UC and CSU Admissions Planning Document: “My Academic Planner” is a great 6-page printable planning document for a CASA to get an overview of college admissions requirements and steps needed to become eligible and competitive for admission to a four-year university. http://www.eaop.ucla.edu/College-Course-Requirements
College Admissions and Planning Websites www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions www.csumentor.edu http://californiacolleges.edu/ http://www.collegeboard.org/
High School Courses that Meet A-G Requirements If you’re curious whether your youth’s classes meet A-G requirements, this site will clarify. https://doorways.ucop.edu/list
2 Private colleges and universities have their own entry requirements and standards, which vary from school to school. 20
Four-Year University Prep Timeline
8th Grade 9th Grade 10th Grade 11th Grade 12th Grade Select courses for high Meet with counselor to Save essays written for Gather scholarship Work on personal school discuss coursework classes information statements/application essays Investigate Consider taking SAT II Register at Take SAT Reasoning or transition/study skills (subject) Tests while collegeboard.com to ACT Plus Writing Start working on college programs material is fresh receive notices of test application in October dates, reminders, etc. Continue accumulating Research high school Consider practice ACT and tracking Submit applications resources, including tests Consider taking SAT II extracurricular (generally due in late those college prep (Subject Tests) while activities and November) organizations Participate in and material is fresh community service record extracurricular Submit FAFSA in January activities and Take PSAT Visit colleges if possible (deadline is March 2) community service Start writing personal Begin narrowing list of Cal Grant GPA Join college prep statements and colleges verification (deadline is organizations (AVID, application essays. March 2) Upward Bound, etc.) If considering private universities, get letters Research and apply for of recommendation scholarships from teachers and other adults
21 High School Programs for College Bound Youth
The behavior and habits of those we spend a lot of time with is a strong predictor of our own behavior. This is especially true among teens. Being part of a cohort of students working toward college admission can exert a powerful influence on a student’s choices. If possible, try to identify options before the youth enters high school or soon after they enter. Below are some local programs.
AVID (Throughout the Bay Area) AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a national nonprofit program that assists students in the 4th through 12th successfully prepare for four-year college eligibility. AVID targets students in the academic middle — B, C, and even D students — who have the desire to go to college and the willingness to work hard. These are students who are capable of completing rigorous curriculum but are falling short of their potential. Typically, they will be the first in their families to attend college, and many are from low-income or minority families. AVID pulls these students out of their unchallenging courses and puts them on the college track: acceleration instead of remediation. http://www.avid.org/what-is-avid.ashx
While there is no central resource regarding AVID programs in San Mateo County, there is a California division: http://www.avid.org/contact-us--california.ashx
The best way to determine whether you child’s high school or prospective high school has an AVID program is to search the Web (e.g. name of school and AVID) or call the front office at the school. Here are links to two local high school’s AVID program webpages: Capuchino High School: https://chs.schoolloop.com/avid_program Menlo Atherton High School: http://www.mabears.org/Academics/Departments/AVID/
San Mateo Youth Foundation (SMYF) (San Mateo Union High School District) SMYF provides mentoring, academic support, group outings, college application assistance, and financial incentives for low-income youth in San Mateo and surrounding cities. Connecting with youth as early as 8th grade, SMYF will help support the college aspirations of youth who show desire and potential to go to college. http://www.smyf.org/
Upward Bound (EPA/Redwood City, Surrounding Bay Area) Upward Bound provides fundamental support to participants in their preparation for college entrance. The program helps students succeed in their pre-college performance and ultimately in their higher education pursuits. Upward Bound serves high school students from low-income families; high school students from families in which neither parent holds a bachelor's degree; and low-income, first- generation military veterans who are preparing to enter post-secondary education. The goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary education and enroll in and graduate from institutions of postsecondary education. Sequoia Union High Schools: http://canadacollege.edu/upwardbound/
22 San Jose area High Schools: http://www.sjsu.edu/pcp/ub/ San Francisco High Schools: http://www.usfca.edu/upwardbound/
College Track (Sequoia Union High School District, San Francisco, Oakland) College Track is an after- school, college preparatory program that helps students graduate from high school and succeed in college. College Track offers one-on-one and group tutoring that helps students master A–G subjects, supports the college application process, assists with financial aid and scholarship applications, and opportunities for students to engage in four types of activities designed to build on their personal interests, talents and sense of community spirit. https://collegetrack.org/where-we-work/east-palo-alto/
Foundation for a College Education (FCE) (East Palo Alto) FCE provides academic and college planning support to students in grades 9-12 and their families. FCE’s objective is to help the entire family better navigate the admissions system and take advantage of the resources offered at their schools. FCE provides academic enrichment and support, college planning, college tours, financial aid and scholarship assistance, parent/guardian support, and career exploration. http://www.collegefoundation.org/
BUILD (Carlmont HS, Woodside HS, Sequoia HS, East Palo Alto Academy) BUILD integrates business education into the high school curriculum during the student’s freshman year in order to pique the interest of the low-income students they serve. Increasingly, BUILD focuses on academic and college prep activities. http://www.build.org/ http://build.org/where-we-work/bay-area/
College Prep and Entrance Exams http://admission.universityofcalifornia.edu/freshman/requirements/examination- requirement/index.html http://www.csumentor.edu/Testing/
PSAT: http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/psat/about.html Description: A "practice" test is used to predict a student's performance on the SAT Reasoning Test. The PSAT gives students a chance to become familiar with the format and questions they will encounter on the SAT Reasoning Test. When to Take: Students can take the PSAT as early as 8th grade, but it is recommended to take it by 10th grade. It can be taken again each year until the 11th grade. The PSAT is administered at local high schools, not through test centers.
ACT Plus Writing: http://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act.html Description: Instead of the SAT reasoning test, students may choose to take the ACT Assessment Plus Writing. It is a test designed to assess high school students' general education development and their 23 ability to complete college-level work. The test covers four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading and science reasoning. The Writing Test, which is required for admission to UC or CSU, measures skill in planning and writing a short essay. When to Take: Students should take the ACT Assessment plus Writing Test by 11th grade. You may take it more than once. In fact, students who take the test more than once generally improve their scores.
SAT Reasoning: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat?navId=gh-sa Description: Scores on this test help colleges and scholarship programs compare your academic preparation and ability with other students. It is designed to measure the critical thinking skills you'll need for academic success in college. When to Take: Students should take the SAT Reasoning Test by 11th grade. You may take it more than once. In fact, students who take the test more than once generally improve their scores.
SAT Subject Tests: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat-subject- tests?&affiliateId=aru%7Csat-%28landing-page%29&bannerId= Description: These one-hour tests measure your knowledge and skills in particular subjects and your ability to apply that knowledge. They fall into five general areas: English, history and social studies, mathematics, sciences, and languages. When to Take: Students should take these tests immediately after finishing the subject on which they are based. Students have a better chance of getting a good score if the information about a particular subject is still fresh in their minds.
College Support Programs
Once admitted, many of the youth we serve will need on-going support to succeed in college. Luckily, most of the UC and CSU campuses have solid support programs for former or current foster youth, or programs for youth who are identified as disadvantaged because of economic and educational backgrounds (all of our youth will meet this criteria).
Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) At all CSU’s and most UC’s (similar to EOPS offered at Community Colleges) Provides admission and academic assistance to EOP eligible undergraduate students. Also offers financial assistance to many qualifying students. Must be a California resident and considered disadvantaged because of economic and educational backgrounds. Accepts students who do not meet regular admission criteria, as well as those who qualify for regular admission. Once accepted, must successfully complete the Summer Bridge Program.
Summer Bridge Among those accepted to EOP, some are selected to participate in Summer Bridge.
24 Comprehensive support program provided by EOP that assists disadvantaged and low-income, first-generation students in achieving academic success. Six-week academic program that facilitates the transition from high school to university. Provided with an opportunity to adjust to the university environment and are introduced to an extensive educational support service network and will receive valuable information regarding graduation, major, and general education requirements. Students attend classes, specialized EOP tutoring sessions, and a variety of seminars.
Guardian Scholars, Renaissance Scholars, and Similar Programs These programs provide financial aid, life coaching, mentoring, housing, and personalized attention for current or former foster youth. In general, participating students receive a full financial aid package, housing, academic advisement, employment services, career counseling, mentoring, and supplemental support. Here are some of the campuses that offer these programs: Cal State Fullerton - www.fullerton.edu/guardianscholars/ SFSU - http://www.sfsu.edu/~eop/gs.html SDSU - http://eop.sdsu.edu/Content/Guardian%20Scholars.html Sacramento State - http://www.csus.edu/gs/ San Jose State - http://www.sjsu.edu/eop/special_programs/GS/ CSU East Bay - http://www20.csueastbay.edu/academic/academic-support/sas/renaissance/ Cal Poly Pomona - https://www.cpp.edu/~ssep/renaissance-scholars/ UC Santa Cruz - http://smithsociety.ucsc.edu/ Fresno State - http://www.fresnostate.edu/studentaffairs/rsp/ Cal State Northridge - http://www.csun.edu/csun-eop/eop-resilient-scholars-program-rsp
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Section 4: Financial Aid and Scholarships
26 Financial Aid 101
Below you will find the different awards available to a foster youth based on full-time enrollment for the school year (over two semesters or three quarters). Program eligibility may differ and awards for campus-based funds vary from institution to institution. For federal programs, students must file the FAFSA. Most of the state awards have unique applications to be submitted with the FAFSA, or have applications to be submitted through the institution the youth will be attending.
General Advice: Utilize the local expertise of our ILSP and Education and Employment Specialists when helping your CASA youth with Financial Aid, Scholarships, or the college application process. You can find a more detailed description of their services on page 9, but here is the contact info:
Independent Living Skills Program (ILSP) Esperanza Jacuinde at 650-834-2442 Jeffrey Jefferson at 408-688-4918
San Mateo County Education and Employment Specialists Melina Cortez - 650-599-5958 Steven Axberg- 650-599-5911
Federal Financial Aid Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) FAFSA is the starting point for all students considering college for the Fall semester. The application period begins on January 1st and ends June 30th for the following academic year (Summer to Spring). However, filing after March 2nd can result in missing out on certain types of aid, like the Cal Grant or Chafee Grant: http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/ IMPORTANT: Any child who was a dependent of the Court on or after their 13th birthday is eligible to indicate that they are “independent” for financial aid purposes. This will make the youth eligible for the maximum amount of federal student aid. This guide is quite detailed, but could be helpful if you find yourself helping with the FAFSA: http://www.cacollegepathways.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/nasfaa_guide_2011.pdf
Pell Grant The Federal Pell Grant Program provides need-based grants to low-income undergraduate and certain post baccalaureate students to promote access to postsecondary education. Grant amounts are dependent on: the student’s expected family contribution (EFC); the cost of attendance (as determined by the institution); the student’s enrollment status (full time or part time); and whether the student attends for a full academic year or less. The Pell Grant is up to $5,815 https://studentaid.ed.gov/types/grants-scholarships/pell
SEOG (Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant) Up to $4,000, though community colleges award between $100 - $4,000 (campus-based) Awarded to neediest students until funds are gone for aid year 27 http://studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/FSEOG.jsp
FWS (Federal Work-Study) Average new award is $1,600, though can be up to $6,000. These are campus based funds so once the allocation is awarded for the year, no more students can be offered employment as part of their financial aid package until the next aid-year. https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/types/work-study http://www2.ed.gov/programs/fws/index.html
Perkins Loans Up to $5,500 per year, but average award ~$2,000 Low interest campus-based funds (student pays back to school), but many schools do not offer http://www2.ed.gov/programs/fpl/index.html
FFEL/Direct Loan (Stafford) Undergraduates $3,500 - $9,500 per year Only $3,500 can be “subsidized,” which means interest won’t accumulate until after graduation https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/types/loans/subsidized-unsubsidized
State Financial Aid Cal Grant The size of Cal Grant award differs based on whether the youth is attending a UC or CSU ($5,900- $12,500), a private University (up to $9,200), a Community College (up to $1,551), or a career technical school (between $575 and $2,500). There are also competitive Cal Grants for students with excellent academic records. Priority goes to students who have completed their FAFSA and Cal Grant application by March http://www.collegescholarships.org/grants/states/california.htm
Chafee Grant Program The Chafee Grant is for current and former foster youth to use for career and technical training or college courses at California Community Colleges, Cal State Universities, and University of California campuses. Eligibility: Any youth who was a dependent of the Court on or after their 16th birthday. Undocumented students who are unable to complete a FAFSA are eligible to apply for Chafee Maximum $5,000 – funds are allocated annually. Once fully expended, no new awards are funded for aid-year. Priority is given to students that received Chafee who continue to be eligible and those who submitted their FAFSA and Chafee application on or before March 2nd. http://www.collegescholarships.org/grants/states/california.htm
BOGFW (Board of Governors Fee Waiver) Waives fees (~$500) for all students meeting one of several eligibility criteria. Most former or current foster youth will qualify. Must be California residents attending community college
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EOP and EOPS (Extended Opportunity Programs and Services) Up to $500 book voucher plus may be eligible for bus passes, mini-grants, etc. Each college determines how best to provide direct assistance to students (CARE and CalWORKs programs may also be available for eligible students)
Scholarship Opportunities
San Mateo County and Local The Youth Education Scholars (YES) Program – Scholarships for youth placed in foster or kinship care at least one day after age 13, are emancipated; or currently actively involved with Independent Living Program. http://svcf.org/yes-program-scholarships/
Local Rotary Club Scholarships – Various College Grants http://www.redwoodcityrotary.org/?p=stories&c=353 http://www.sanmateorotary.com/ScholarshipProgram.cfm
College of San Mateo – Scholarships for CSM Students http://www.collegeofsanmateo.edu/scholarships/
San Mateo Credit Union – Recent HS Grads with 3.0 or higher https://www.smcu.org/scholarship/index.php
Peninsula College Fund – $3,000 a year for four years, mentoring, workshops, and summer internships; high schools in EPA, Sequoia Union HSD, or Palo Alto SD,HS seniors, financial need, 3.2 to 3.8 GPA. http://www.peninsulacollegefund.org/apply.html
Silicon Valley Community Foundation – Numerous scholarships for which there is a common application (link at bottom). The most relevant for CASA youth include the following: Bobette Bibo Gugliotta Scholarship for Creative Writing – Up to $1,000, demonstrate a passion for creative writing, current senior or graduate of a public or private school on San Mateo or Santa Clara County. Crain Educational Grants Program – Up to $5,000, demonstrate community involvement over the past several years, GPA 3.5-4.0, senior or graduate of a public or private school on San Mateo or Santa Clara County. Curry Award for Girls and Young Women – $1,000 for girls and women ages 16-26, San Mateo County resident with financial hardship Eustace-Kwan Family Foundation – Up to $10,000, GPA 3.0-3.7, financial hardship, resident of San Mateo County (SMC), HS senior or college freshman or sophomore Hazel Reed Baumeister Scholarship – Up to $5,000, GPA 3.3+, financial hardship, HS senior in SMC or Santa Clara County (SCC) enrolling at 4-year University
29 Krishnan Shah Scholarship – Up to $40,000 (paid over four years) graduating, senior or current community college student, pursuing first undergraduate degree, GPA 3.0-4.0, demonstrate involvement in activities (extracurricular, volunteer, paid, etc.) Latinos in Technology Scholarship - Up to $30,000 (paid over 3 years, provided renewal eligibility requirements are met), Latino or Hispanic origin, declared major and accepted into STEM program, GPA 2.5, current college student entering their junior or senior year and planning to enroll on a full-time or part time basis for the next academic year The Odette Moren Scholarship – Up to $10,000, current resident of EPA or EPA resident while in high school, min HS GPA 3.0, min college GPA 2.5, financial hardship, enrolled in 4-year. Ralph Hale and Martha L. Ruppert Educational Scholarship - Up to $10,000, “late bloomer” who demonstrates academic promise and continues grade point average improvement during high school or college, GPA 3.3, HS senior or graduate of SMC or SCC HS. Sand Hill Scholars Program – Up to $10,000, 8th Grade graduate of Ravenswood City School District, HS Senior in SMC or SCC. The Abby Sobrato Scholarship – Up to $20,000, HS senior or graduate of SMC or SCC HS, GPA 2.5, planning to enroll in a two-or four-year college, university or vocational school as a fullt-time student. The Bright Futures Scholarship - Up to $10,000, applied for, but not awarded, a community foundation managed scholarship and /or was awarded a scholarship, but can demonstrate unmet need all other forms of college financial aid are secured, GPA 3.3, currently enrolled in a four-year educational institute as a full-time student. The Harold Johnson Law Enforcement Scholarship – Up to $3,000, declared program of study in law enforcement, min GPA 2.5, HS senior or graduate of SMC or SCC HS. The Juniper Networks Engineering Scholarships - Up to $5,000, demonstrate success in STEM educational courses, planning to major in engineering, HS senior or graduate of SMC or SCC HS, GPA 3.5, demonstrate community involvement over a period of several years http://www.siliconvalleycf.org/scholarships/community-foundation-managed
SF Bay Area Good Tidings Foundation – Community Service Scholarship https://app.smarterselect.com/programs/29797-Good-Tidings-Foundation
Students Rising Above – College Scholarships for Low-Income Students; Apply in Spring of Junior Year http://studentsrisingabove.org/students/
National Foster Care to Success – Former Foster Youth Scholarship http://www.fc2success.org/our-programs/information-for-students/
Shawn Carter Foundation – Scholarships for HS seniors, GED recipients, current college students, or vocational school students, min 2.0 GPA. https://www.shawncartersf.com/scholarship-fund/ 30
National Foster Parent Association Scholarship – For foster and adopted children http://nfpaonline.org/nfpascholarship
United Negro College Fund – Scholarships for African-American Students http://www.uncf.org/scholarships
Gates Millennium Scholars – Scholarships for High Achieving (3.3 GPA Minimum) Minorities http://www.gmsp.org/
Xerox – Minorities in Technical or Engineering Disciplines http://www.xerox.com/jobs/minority-scholarships/enus.html
Microsoft – Scholarships for Students with Technical Majors https://careers.microsoft.com/students/scholarships
IRS – Description of Tax Credits for Education Expenses, including Hope Credit http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=213044,00.html
Scholarship Search Sites and Lists
College Board – Scholarship Search http://apps.collegeboard.com/cbsearch_ss/welcome.jsp
Hispanic Scholarship Fund – Search Engine for Hispanic/Latino Scholarships http://www.hsf.net/Scholarship-Programs.aspx
IEFA – Scholarship Search Site http://www.iefa.org/scholarships
IES Abroad – List of Scholarships for Students Who Study Abroad https://www.iesabroad.org/IES/Scholarships_and_Aid/financialAid.html
College Net – Scholarship Database http://www.collegenet.com/mach25/app
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