Planning Your Future

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Junior/Senior Handbook 2014-2015 Planning Your Future KLEIN ISD

Junior/Senior Handbook

Prepared by The Klein ISD High School Counselors TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE

Foreword & Klein ISD Philosophy ...... 1 Klein ISD Mission Statement & Strategies ...... 2 Klein ISD School Calendar ...... 3 High Schools, Names, and Addresses & Counselors ...... 4 Planning Your Future - Introduction ...... 5 Junior Dates to Remember ...... 7 Senior Dates to Remember ...... 9 Who Am I? ...... 11 Self-Assessment Worksheet ...... 12 Personal Activity Sheet ...... 15 Analyze Your Options ...... 17 Career Check List ...... 19 Career Help Websites ...... 20 Level of Education Chart ...... 21 What Employers Want ...... 22 What Will I Do After High School? ...... 23 Two Years of Career Programs ...... 27 Addresses Of Junior and Community Colleges In Texas ...... 29 Military Opportunities ...... 32 Testing (TAKS, PSAT, SAT, ACT, TASP, AP, CLEP) ...... 35 Test Preparation ...... 47 College Planning ...... 49 Junior Planning Calendar ...... 54 Senior Planning Calendar ...... , 56 Rank in Class ...... 58 Top 10 Percent Eligible for Automatic College Admission...... 59 The Recommended High School Program & Distinguished Achievement Program ...... 60 Campus Visits and Interviews ...... 61 Typical Questions to Be Answered During the College Visit ...... 65 Interview and Essay Preparation ...... 66 Sample letter For College Inquiries...... 67 College Planning Worksheet ...... 68 Preparing For College ...... 69 Common Admission Decision Definitions ...... 71 Glossary of Collegiate Terms ...... 72 Selected References ...... 74 Ten Things Every Parent Should Know About the College Application Process ...... 77 Student Athletes ...... 79 Procedures for College and Scholarship Applications ...... 80 The Application ...... 94 Resumes ...... ,96 Writing Your College Essays ...... 101 Student Brag Sheet ...... 103 Activities Sheet ...... 106 Parent Brag Sheet ...... 107 Teacher Recommendation Form ...... 109 Financial Aid Information ...... 111 Determining Financial Aid Eligibility ...... 112 Examples of Awards Available For Texas High School Graduates ...... 114 Students Rights and Responsibilities ...... 117 Bookmarks for High School Students ...... 118 Addresses of Private Senior Colleges and Universities in Texas ...... 120 Addresses of Public Senior Colleges and Universities in Texas ...... 122 FOREWORD

A high school education is vitally affected by the student’s choice of courses and by strenuous and continuous application of the student’s abilities. A major part of schoolwork consists of fundamentals, which will be needed throughout the student’s life, regardless of the choices that are made after graduation from high school.

This handbook should promote understanding and clarification of some of the goals and objectives of the Klein high schools and should be of considerable value to the students and their parents.

KLEIN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT PHILOSOPHY

The Klein Independent School District recognizes its function to be that of providing a school environment that is conducive to the best teaching- learning experiences that the students' abilities will permit. We believe that public schools are our best hope for individual attainment and for national strength and welfare. We continue to strive for a student-centered, teacher-led program in which individual needs are considered primary. We recognize that as individual abilities and goals vary so must the instructional program of the individual. We, therefore, offer as wide a scope of specific studies and subjects as our resources will allow; and we attempt to offer every possible opportunity to help students be prepared to take their places in society. We believe that the parents and teachers, principals, and other administrators, with the cooperation and support of the Board of Trustees, must give American youth the guidance, vision, encouragement, and tools for their life's tasks.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

1 KLEIN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Mission Statement:

The Klein Independent School District, proud of its heritage and embracing the future, develops students to become skillful, active, reflective, self-disciplined, and honorable members of their communities through engaging learning experiences in a safe and nurturing environment.

Strategic Objectives

Klein Independent School District believes that quality student achievement includes and goes beyond achieving the highest ratings awarded by state and national accountability standards. Our strategic objectives aim to address both the academic success and social well being of every Klein Independent School District student. • Each student will achieve academic excellence with comprehensive knowledge, skill, and understanding within an individual learning plan. • Every student will demonstrate the character traits of a productive and honorable citizen in a global community.

Strategic Parameters:

• We will put students first. • We will not compromise our commitment to excellence. • We will treat all people with dignity and respect. • We will practice open and honest communication within our organization and the community. • We will not compromise safety and security. • We will be good stewards of our resources.

Approved: January 2011

2 3

Klein Independent School District

Central Office 7200 Spring-Cypress Road Klein, Texas 77379 832-249-4000 Klein Instructional Center 4411 Louetta Road Spring, Texas 77388 832-249-5000

Klein High School Klein Forest High School 16715 Stuebner-Airline Road 11400 Misty Valley Klein, Texas 77379-7376 Houston, Texas 77066-3499 832-484-4000 832-484-4500 Lead Counselor Lead Counselor Kelly Bonin Laura Goodwin

Principal Principal Mr. Larry Whitehead Mrs. Pat Crittendon

Klein Oak High School Klein Collins High School 22603 Northcrest Drive 20811 Ella Boulevard Spring, Texas 77389-4451 Spring, Texas 77388 832-484-5000 832-484-5500 Lead Counselor Lead Counselor Liz Krottinger Kayla Shaw

Principal Principal Dr. Brian Greeney Mr. Randy Kirk

Vistas High School Program 12550 Bammel N. Houston Houston, Texas 77066 832-484-7650 Lead Counselor – Kim Mahnke

Director - Ms. Peggy Ekster

For counselors & case managers, please go to the website listed below http://www.kleinisd.net/

Planning Your Future

Introduction

“You see things and say ‘Why?” But I dream things that never were, and I say ‘Why Not?” ~George Bernard Shaw

Where am I going? What do I want to do with my life? What’s after high school? Should I get a job? Would I like the military? Where do I want to live? What do I want to study? If I go to college, which is best -- a community college or a four-year college? Will the college I want accept me? How will I decide? What if I change my mind? What if I make a mistake?

If you have been asking yourself some of these questions, be assured that they are common and the concerns and doubts they represent are normal. As you search for answers during these last two years of high school, you will be asking important decisions about the direction of your life. The counseling staff designed this handbook to be a helpful guide as you explore all the possibilities.

Because the alternatives are too numerous and complex to be decided This handbook by chance, we encourage you to make informed decisions by… will help you with the process of • Knowing your strengths and weaknesses deciding what to • Establishing your objectives and goals do after • Evaluating the options available to you graduation

The counseling department will provide both assistance and information. Your counselor will help you coordinate your efforts by keeping you informed about important dates and deadlines. Counselors are available to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, select your academic program, investigate colleges and careers, and make choices. Another valuable resource for you is the career counselor. If you are uncertain about a college major or unsure of what to do after high school, a career decision - making program can inside… match your individual interests to related occupations. There are additional tools for conducting college Analyze Your Options page 17 and scholarship searches as well as information about Military Opportunities page 32 Testing page 35 specific colleges and career fields. Be sure to take College Planning page 50 advantage of College Night and the visits by colleges The Application page 82 throughout the year offered by the school. Also, make use of community resources. Many companies sponsor job fairs, career days, career seminars, and job-shadowing opportunities.

If you decide that college is your next step, this guide will provide information you need about college entrance examinations, visiting colleges, selecting and applying to colleges, college interviews, and financial aid.

We know that the choices you are facing seem overwhelming at times. However, careful preparation on your part, as well as guidance and support from your family, your school and community will result in good decisions that will lead to a rewarding future.

“Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved.” ~William Jennings Bryan

6 JUNIOR DATES TO REMEMBER

SEPTEMBER 1 Labor Day Holiday 12 End of three week grading period 12 Registration deadline for October 11th SAT 13 ACT Exam 19 Registration deadline for October 25th ACT

OCTOBER 3 End of first six week grading period 6 Second six weeks grading period begins 9 Combined High School College Night 9 Registration deadline for November 8th SAT 11 SAT Exam 13 Student Holiday/Staff Development Day/Elementary Parent Conference Day 15 PSAT 20-23 TAKS testing (eligible students only) 24 End of three week grading period 25 ACT Exam

NOVEMBER 6 Registration deadline for December 6th SAT 7 Registration deadline for December 13th ACT 8 SAT Exam 14 End of second six weeks grading period 17 Third six weeks grading period begins 24 & 25 Staff Development/Student Holiday 26-28 Thanksgiving Break

DECEMBER 6 SAT Exam 12 End of three week grading period 13 ACT Exam 22 Christmas/Winter break begins 29 Registration deadline for January 24th SAT

JANUARY 5 Classes Resume 9 Registration deadline for February 7th ACT 15 End of first semester 16 Staff Development Day/Student Holiday 19 Martin Luther King Holiday 20 Second semester begins 24 SAT Exam

7 JUNIOR DATES TO REMEMBER

FEBRUARY 6 End of three week grading period 7 ACT Exam 13 Registration deadline for March 14th SAT 27 End of fourth six weeks grading period

MARCH 2 Fifth six weeks grading period begins 9-13 Spring Break 13 Registration deadline for April 18th ACT 14 SAT Exam 27 End of three week grading period

APRIL 2 Staff Development Day/Student Holiday 3 Easter Break 6 Registration deadline for May 2nd SAT 17 End of fifth six weeks grading period 18 ACT Exam 20 Sixth six weeks begins

MAY 2 SAT Exam 8 Registration deadline for June 6th SAT 8 Registration deadline for June 13th ACT 8 End of three week grading period 25 Memorial Day Holiday

JUNE 4 Last day of classes 5 Staff Development Day 6 SAT Exam 13 ACT Exam

8 SENIOR DATES TO REMEMBER

SEPTEMBER 1 Labor Day Holiday 12 End of three week grading period 12 Registration deadline for October 11th SAT 13 ACT Exam 19 Registration deadline for October 25th ACT

DECEMBER 6 SAT Exam 12 End of three week grading period 13 ACT Exam 22 Christmas/Winter break begins 29 Registration deadline for January 25th SAT

JANUARY 5 Classes Resume 9 Registration deadline for February 7th ACT 15 End of first semester 16 Staff Development/Student Holiday 19 Martin Luther King Holiday 20 Second semester begins 24 SAT Exam

9 SENIOR DATES TO REMEMBER

FEBRUARY 6 End of three week grading period 7 ACT Exam 13 Registration deadline for March 14th SAT 27 End of fourth six weeks grading period

MARCH 2 Fifth six weeks grading period begins 13 Registration deadline for April 18th ACT 9-13 Spring Break 14 SAT Exam 27 End of three week grading period

APRIL 2 Staff Development Day/Student Holiday 3 Easter Break 6 Registration deadline for May 2nd SAT 17 End of fifth six weeks grading period 18 ACT Exam 20 Sixth six weeks begins

MAY 2 SAT Exam 8 End of three week grading period 8 Registration deadline for June 6th SAT 8 Registration deadline for June 13th ACT 25 Memorial Day Holiday

JUNE 4 Last day of classes 5 Staff Development Day 6 High School Graduation 6 SAT Exam 13 ACT Exam

10 Who Am I?

“Don’t go through life, grow through life.” ~Tim Butterworth

Understanding yourself – your INTERESTS, ABILITIES, VALUES, and ATTITUDES – is essential for making good decisions about your future.

INTERESTS What do you like to do, to study? How do you like to spend your time? ABILITIES What are your special talents and skills?

VALUES What is most important to you? Family? Friends? Education? $$$? Social Issues? ATTITUDES What is your preferred learning style? Working environment? How do you approach a task? What is your work ethic?

Fitting the pieces together to create an accurate picture of you is one of the most important steps you can take in planning your life after high school.

abilities interests values attitudes

One way to better understand yourself is to complete the following Self-Assessment Worksheet and Personal Activity Sheet.

“Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or the present are certain to miss the future.” ~John F. Kennedy

11 Self-Assessment Worksheet

Answer the following questions as completely as possible. (TIP: Some of these same questions are often asked on college applications or in interviews.) Remember that this is a tool to help you explore your accomplishments, goals, thoughts and values. There are no right or wrong answers.

ACADEMIC 1. Describe yourself as a student. Do your grades reflect your abilities?

2. Which high school courses have been challenging? Which have been most interesting? Why?

3. What do you like to learn about when you have the choice? What do you read?

4. In what kind of environment do you learn best?

5. What skills do you have that are unique? Describe how you currently use these skills in your life. Athletic Ability Mechanical Ability Ability to work with numbers Leadership skills Teaching skills Artistic skills Analytical skills

EXTRACURRICULAR / COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT / EMPLOYMENT 6. In what school activities (clubs, sports, etc.) do you participate? How have you been a leader in those groups?

7. What are your interests and hobbies (outside of school)?

8. Where have you traveled? Describe a memorable travel experience.

9. If you have been employed, where did you work? What were your responsibilities? What did you like or dislike about the job?

10. Describe your preferred working style. (Alone or with others? Under deadlines?)

11. Do you enjoy helping others? Describe a meaningful community service activity.

PERSONAL 12. List three people who have influenced you. How?

13. List three qualities you admire and respect in others.

14. What do your friends say they like most about you?

15. List three goals you have in life.

16. Describe your greatest success.

17. What was a failure that taught you something?

18. What is your definition of happiness?

19. Describe a fear you conquered.

20. List ten things you like and then things you don’t like at all.

21. What is your one sentence philosophy of life?

22. What matters most to you? Rate the items on the list below from 1 to 10, with 10 being “extremely important,” 5 being “somewhat important,” and 1 being “not at all important.”

Good Health Beauty Seeing the World Charity Justice Safety Love Honor Marriage/Family Friendship Fun Intelligence Faith Respect Power Wealth Fame Accomplishment Individualism

Personal Activity Sheet

Another organizational tool is this activity sheet which will help you prepare a resume for college, scholarship, and job applications.

School Activities Circle Grade School Activities Circle Grade Examples: Academic Decathlon 9 10 11 12 ______9 10 11 12

Band 9 10 11 12 ______9 10 11 12

Chess Club 9 10 11 12 ______9 10 11 12

Colorguard/Winterguard 9 10 11 12 ______9 10 11 12

French Club 9 10 11 12 ______9 10 11 12

______9 10 11 12 ______9 10 11 12

Examples: Sports Activities Circle Grade Sports Activities Circle Grade Baseball 9 10 11 12 ______9 10 11 12

Cross-Country 9 10 11 12 ______9 10 11 12

Softball 9 10 11 12 ______9 10 11 12

Wrestling 9 10 11 12 ______9 10 11 12

______9 10 11 12 ______9 10 11 12

Describe any specific leadership experiences you have had in the activities you circled. Remember that being an officer is not the only way to be a leader.

15 Community Activities:

Work Experience:

Awards/Honors:

References: (at least three individuals, unrelated to you, who can attest to your abilities and character)

Name______Address______City______State______Zip______Telephone______

16 Analyze Your Options

Career Fields

The choice of a career involves not only narrowing to a field that matches one's aptitudes, interests, values, and temperament, but also involves understanding levels of careers within a career field. Take time to explore varying occupations within a career field and the different levels of education required for each occupation. Don't rush into a specific career choice. As you consider occupations, think in terms of a career family rather than a specific job. Investigate all levels of jobs within that career family. Also, be aware of the level of education required for each specific job within a career field.

Exploring Careers

In addition to your informal self-assessment, seek information regarding careers and the career decision-making process. Sources of information include but are not limited to:

Counseling Office – Your counselor can assist you in further clarifying your abilities and strengths. Interest inventories and aptitude tests might help in this assessment. In addition to conferencing with your counselor, rely upon the counseling office for a good source of printed career information.

Career Counselor – Each high school has a specific counselor who is knowledgeable in career information. The career counselor is a good resource for guiding your career exploration. He/She can help you as you pursue an intensive career search (via interest inventory, computer software, and other career search avenues). Utilize his/her knowledge regarding proprietary schools, state technical institutes, community colleges, and vocational/technical programs as well as career information.

Career Libraries – Offer a wealth of career exploration information. There are many books that can assist students with occupation information.

Agencies and state employment services, personnel offices at business establishments, trade unions, and professional societies and associations often have free career information.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor (Washington, D.C. 20212), is an invaluable source of career information.

Professionals – Family, friends, and people in certain professions are good resources often overlooked.

Reference Sources – These are available in the library or in the career counselors office and include but are not limited to:

1) Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor

2) Texas Educational Opportunities, The Coordinating Board of Texas College and University System

3) Encyclopedia of Careers and Vocational Guidance, J.G. Ferguson Publishing Company

4) Dictionary of Occupational Titles, U.S. Department of Labor

5) Handbook of Trade and Technical Careers and Training, National Association of Trade and Technical Schools

6) Directory of Licensed Occupations and Apprenticeship Programs in Texas, Texas State Occupational Information Coordinating Committee

7) Postsecondary Educational Supply and Occupational Demand in Texas, The Coordinating Board of Texas College and University System

8) Texas Job Outlook, Texas Employment Commission

9) Computer software for career exploration, college financial aid, college entrance examinations, and college admissions

State Occupational Information Coordinating Committee – This newly formed committee serves as a resource providing information on careers, occupations, educational opportunities, and other related occupations and labor market information produced by state and federal agencies. You may secure computerized information regarding the following aspects of any career of your choice: places of employment, work settings, job descriptors, salaries, specialties available, advancement opportunities, education necessary, predicted growth patterns, and resources available. (Call The Career Information Hotline Toll Free 1-800-822-PLAN for this career information specific to Texas and your interests.)

18 Career Check List

The following is a list of questions to help you develop an overall picture of your occupational choice. Make photocopies of these questions and apply them toward a number of careers. Continue to explore careers.

1. What education is required for this career?

2. Where would I obtain the training needed?

3. What competition is there for jobs in this field?

4. What is a realistic starting salary at the entry level?

5. Is there opportunity for travel? Is it required? How much?

6. Does this career require my living in a specific geographic location?

7. About how many people are currently engaged in this occupation in Houston? Harris County? Texas?

8. What personality traits are desirable for this profession?

9. Is there excessive pressure associated with this job?

10. Are there writing skills required for this occupation? math skills?

11. How much security does this career afford?

12. How do the swings in the economy affect this career?

13. What is the impact of this career on family life?

14. Does this career demand flexibility in lifestyle, such as hours, moving, shift work?

15. Is it possible to combine this career with rearing a family?

16. How easy is re-entry into this field after several years away from the field?

17. Are the opportunities for women in this field equal to those of men?

18. How rapidly may I expect to advance in the first ten years?

19. What is the need for this occupation in the next twenty years?

20. How would a person in this occupation spend an average working day?

Career Help Web Sites

Teenage Job Skills www.bygpub.com

The Work Source http://wrksolutions.com/

Texas Rehabilitation Commission www.dars.state.tx.us/

Texas Workforce Commission www.twc.state.tx.us

Dictionary of Occupational Titles www.oalj.dol.gov

Military Career Guide Online www.militarycareers.com

Also check these informative websites out: www.tracer2.com www.texasworkprep.com www.texascaresonline.com

www.online.onetcenter.org http://www.careercube.org http://www.texasrealitycheck.com/

20 Level Of Education Chart The following chart gives an overview of the levels of education required for jobs within career levels

Type Description Anticipated Transfer of Credit Length of Study Training (OJT - Specific training offered by Usually less than 6 * On Job the employer; includes months Training) military service High School Allows students to finish 4 years * Diploma with entry-level job skills

Vocational Allows students to finish 3 months - 2 years * Technical with entry-level job skills; Certificate offered primarily at vocational-technical centers & comprehensive high schools Private Trade Specific skill training after 3 months - 2 years * School high school for a particular occupation Associate Offered at 2 years Institution granting Degree community/junior colleges, baccalaureate degree (Academic & some 4-year colleges & will determine Vocational) proprietary schools; applicability of provides training after high courses from A.D. school in specific vocations program toward high or for transfer to a senior degree college Apprenticeship Formal training program 2 - 5 years (usually Only credits earned in between employee and 4 years) a college may be employer; involves work transferable experience and classroom instruction

Bachelor's Formal 4-year program 4 years Credits may transfer Degree leading to a degree from a among colleges and college or university universities Master's Degree Advanced degree; may be 1 - 2+ years Credits may transfer required for entry into beyond bachelor's among colleges and certain careers degree universities upon approval of receiving school

Doctorate or Research or professional 3 -5 years beyond Transfer is difficult Professional degree in preparation for bachelor's degree Degree such careers as medicine, dentistry, law, education or science

21 WHAT EMPLOYERS WANT – A SUMMARY

The Secretary's Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills (SCANS), U.S. Department of Labor, was asked to examine the demands of the workplace and to determine whether young people are capable of meeting those demands.

The SCANS research verified workplace "know-how" as having two elements – the competencies and the foundation. The five competencies and three-part foundation are summarized below.

FIVE COMPETENCIES THREE-PART FOUNDATION

Resources: Identifies, organizes Basic Skills: Reads, writes, performs, plans, and allocates resources mathematical operations, listens, and speaks Interpersonal: Works with others Thinking Skills: Thinks creatively, Information: Acquires and uses makes decisions, solves problems, information visualizes, knows how to learn, and reasons Systems: Understands complex interrelationships Personal Qualities: Displays responsibility self-esteem, sociability, self-management Technology: Works with a and integrity and honesty variety of technologies

Workplace Basics: The Skills Employers Want identifies seven skill groups which incorporate the competencies and foundation given above. They are as follows.

SEVEN SKILL GROUPS

1 – Learning to Learn

2 – Listening and Oral Communication

3 – Competence in Reading, Writing, and Computation

4 – Adaptability: Creative Thinking and Problem Solving

5 – Personal Management: Self-Esteem, Goal Setting/Motivation, 21st Century Etiquette, and Personal Career Development

6 – Group Effectiveness: Interpersonal Skills, Negotiation and Teamwork

7 – Organizational Effectiveness and Leadership

Remember that ‘Interpersonal Skills’ (working with others) continues to be a key component in success in the workplace.

22 WHAT WILL I DO AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?

What Are Some Options? The options are as varied as the people who are needing them. It is important to think about and plan for your future. Today's job market is very tough, especially for those without the proper education or skills training. Work of one kind or another is the activity that occupies most of our daily hours during the week for almost fifty years after high school.

World of Work

Should you go immediately to full-time work after you graduate?

NO, if you are just “working until…”

• you make up your mind what to do. Some careful planning and preparation now will make temporary stop-gap jobs unnecessary after you graduate.

• you earn enough money for college. Local college tuition remains inexpensive enough for nearly everyone who wants to go. You can afford to start college right after graduation by working part-time and continuing to live at home. Also, many grants and scholarships are available.

NO, if you know that you will do better in the long run by getting additional training or schooling now. Don’t be forced to stay on the bottom rung of the company ladder if you can start higher and rise faster by getting some training now. In the next century, 80% of the jobs will require technical training beyond high school. Schooling becomes harder later on when you have the responsibilities of a home and family. If you need more training, get it now.

YES, if you are already employed part-time and know that you want to continue with that company. The company may assist with tuition or provide a managerial training program.

YES, if you have a clear idea of the career you want to follow and know that you can succeed without further training or education. However, times and technology change and learning should continue with periodic updates for your lifetime.

If full-time work is your best choice after graduation, how can you prepare for it now?

You should do some research now about the job opportunities in the immediate future and in the long range future. You can learn a great deal about careers by:

• taking an interest and aptitude survey

23 • using the career materials available such as the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT), which has job descriptions of the various occupations, continuing to work with a plan, just to name a few. • skimming through the want-ads in the newspaper from time to time and noticing what jobs seem to be in demand • checking the library for books about different careers • preparing a resume • keeping alert to newspaper and magazine articles about careers and future trends in employment

You should get some work experience to make you more desirable to a future employer and to give you some ideas about the work you might, or might not, want to do.

Some possibilities are:

• part-time jobs after school hours • a career and technology education program that combines school with work: internships, coops, and apprenticeships • summer employment • job shadowing, spending time in the workplace with an employee as he or she goes through a normal day on the job

Vocational/Technical Opportunities

If you are not planning to enter college (2-year or 4-year) upon graduation from high school, you may want to explore other alternatives that will offer practical job training. These alternatives may include the following:

Technical schools offer Getting training after high school will increase your opportunities two-year programs in seeking employment. Additional job skills will raise the designed to update beginning salaries, improve working conditions, and allow for technical skills more opportunity for advancement.

Should you go for further training right after you graduate?

NO, if you are still “fumbling around” looking for a career. Technical schools are very specialized and offer training in very specific jobs. They aim for immediate employment in a definite job, sometimes with a particular company.

NO, if you haven’t carefully studied the credentials of the vocational/technical school. Unfortunately, there are many “fast-buck” operators in the field who promise you a wonderful job after your expensive training and then deliver nothing. Do not sign a contract until you have verified that the school and its program are legitimate. You can make sure of this by asking the Better Business Bureau or the Texas Education Agency. You can also contact the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology at 2101 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201, for detailed information regarding vocational and technical schools.

24 YES, if you are sure what career you want to pursue, what training you must have, and where that training is available.

When making your career decision, you should consider:

• Careers that are in demand • What training and schooling is necessary • Stability of career/job

Technical schools offer two-year programs designed to update technical competence and professional levels. Some technology curriculum may lead to an associate degree. Students entering an associate degree program must meet certain requirements. Most technical schools will require an entrance examination in math, reading, English, and perhaps a technical aptitude.

Examples of vocational/technical schools include:

• Art institutes • Allied health schools • Business schools • Fashion schools • Electronic schools • Community colleges • Junior colleges

When selecting these schools, you should consider:

• Reputation of school • Credentials and accreditation • Success of job placement • Duration of school program • Tuition and total cost of program

• State technical schools/colleges. These public institutions offer technical/vocational training in a variety of fields at a cost that is often less than private technical schools. Texas State College Institute at Waco, (1-800-792-8784) Harlingen, Marshall, Abilene, Sweetwater, Breckenridge and Brownwood and Institute of Electronic Science at Texas A&M are Texas technical schools.

• Private trade, technical or business schools. There are more than 7,000 trade or technical schools throughout the U.S. These schools offer training for many occupations. When considering an occupation that requires training in one of these schools, one should consider courses, facilities and equipment, hands-on training, placement assistance, state licensing, cost, and accreditation offered by the institution. (Contact the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology at 2101 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201, for detailed information regarding trade and technical schools.

25 Contact the Association of Independent Schools, 1620 L Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036, for information regarding business schools.)

If a vocational/technical program is your best choice after graduation, how can you prepare for it now?

1. Go through the same steps recommended for full-time work after graduation. 2. In addition to doing job research, also check out the schools in which you are interested. 3. Visit with the representatives from various vocational and technical schools who come to our school. 4. Talk with your Counselor about your choices and the programs which might suit you best. 5. Contact a prospective employer or two. Ask him/her what sort of training is recommended and what school he/she thinks is good. Ask also about present hiring policy and the job prospects in that field for the next ten years.

• Industry training programs. Many private employers such as large corporations, hospitals, or insurance companies offer job training to employees.

• Apprenticeships. There are over 700 occupations, which offer apprenticeships. Supervised on-the-job training is combined with technical studies. These programs are conducted by employers, often jointly with labor unions. The apprentice gains practical experience as a worker on the job - possibly in a factory, laboratory, office, or at a construction site. Apprenticeship periods last from one to six years, with most trades requiring three to five years of organized training and instruction. Apprentices are paid by their employers while they learn - usually at progressive rates from a starting salary of about one-half of the skilled craftsman's rate to ninety percent of full pay near the end of the apprenticeship. A certificate of completion is given by the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training of the U.S. Department of Labor when the required training has been completed. A few of the skilled trades in which apprentices are found are automotive mechanic, butcher, most of the building and construction trades, compositor, electronic technician, pattern-maker, machinist, optical technician, lithographer, and medical and dental technicians. (For more information, contact the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training at http://www.doleta.gov/oa/. Click on search sponsor database and you will receive a list of occupations of apprenticeships available in your geographic area. Another valuable source of information is the Texas Workforce Commission http://www.twc.state.tx.us/.

Private vocational schools are licensed and regulated in fewer than half the states. In those states that license and provisions for supervision may be lacking. Be sure to check for accreditation by a reputable accrediting agency.

26 Two Years of Career Programs Students whose main goals are directed toward preparation for employment in a vocational, technical, or semi-professional occupation may pursue training immediately after high school at a community college. All career programs at the junior college stress competency in job-entry skills either in a degree program requiring two years of study, or a competency certificate program possibly requiring one year of study.

There are over fifty community/junior colleges in Texas alone, many offering a wide variety of programs.

Career training varies from institution to institution. Consult the community college catalogs to determine if the college offers career programs that interest you.

Example: Associate of Applied Science Degree Programs (Two-Year Program)

Accounting Interior Design Technology Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Legal Assisting Automotive Technology Management Childcare and Development Marketing Cosmetology Medical Office Management Criminal Justice Microcomputing Applications Data Processing Programmer/Analyst Nursing Data Processing Systems Operations Office Administration Dental Assisting Photographic Technology Diesel Technology Real Estate Drafting Technology Records Specialist Electronics (Computer Hardware Specialist) Respiratory Care Therapist Electronics (Telecommunication Specialist) Travel and Tourism Geological Technology Veterinary Technology Human Services Welding Information & Records Management Word Processing Institutional Food Service

Example: Certificate of Competency Programs

The Certificate of Competency is awarded upon completion of specific courses of study in the following fields. These programs vary in length and are designed to prepare the student for immediate occupational employment.

Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Institutional Food Service Automotive Servicing Legal Assisting Child Care and Development Legal Secretary Cisco Academy Microcomputer Applications Cosmetology Office Clerical Dental Assisting Photographic Technician

27 Diesel Engine Mechanics Records Technical Diesel Technician Respiratory Care Technician Drafting Secretary Human Services Vocational Nursing Human Services: Substance Abuse Welding

Eighty percent of today's jobs require technical or vocational skills. Each year there are over 50,000 students enrolled in Texas vocational/technical schools who ultimately enter the marketplace as court reporters, secretaries, computer programmers, medical or dental technicians, cosmetologists, barbers, electronic technicians, printers, auto and diesel mechanics, commercial artists, airline reservationists, welders, or other skilled professions. Schools that train these students are sensitive to community and labor needs and are able to convert their curriculum quickly to meet these needs. They generally provide intensive training in a short period of time in order to enable a student to obtain employment as soon as possible.

Community Colleges Community colleges generally have an “Open Admission” policy. Students who have graduated from high school can usually be admitted, although on-campus testing may be required. Very low scores may necessitate some remedial or noncredit work depending upon the type of program you plan to enter. A student’s performance on the Texas Academic Skills Program test (TASP) may be used to determine whether a student must take remedial course work.

Texas has over fifty (50) community colleges that provide excellent opportunities to develop career skills or to take the basic course work toward a four-year degree.

Community colleges generally offer two major types of programs. One is the “Transfer Program” for those who later plan to attend a four-year college. The other is a “Career Preparatory Program” that may lead to an associate of Applied Science Degree or some kind of certification that can be achieved in two years or less.

Associate Degrees are offered by community colleges for successful completion of specified programs. Associate Degree programs are designed to be completed within two years. Students planning to pursue a degree from a four-year institution must plan carefully to ensure that the courses taken at the junior college transfer to the senior institution and apply toward a specified baccalaureate degree. The requirements for transfer and application to a degree vary from insitiution to institution and demand planning and coordination. Students taking “transfer courses” may earn an Associate of Arts Degree when they complete specified programs at the community college.

28 ADDRESSES* OF JUNIOR AND COMMUNITY COLLEGES IN TEXAS

Alvin Community College Cisco Junior College Galveston College 3110 Mustang Road Route 3, Box 3 4015 Avenue Q Alvin, TX 77511 Cisco, TX 76437 Galveston, TX 77550 281-756-3500 254-442-2567 409-944-1275 http://www.alvincollege.edu/ http://www.cisco.edu http://www.gc.edu

Amarillo College Clarendon College Grayson County College P.O. Box 447 P.O. Box 968 6101 Grayson Drive Amarillo, TX 79178 Clarendon, TX 79226 Denison, TX 75020 806-371-5030 806-874-3571 or 800-687-9737 903-465-6030 http://www.actx.edu http://www.clarendoncollege.net http://www.grayson.edu

Angelina College College of the Mainland Hill Junior College P.O. Box 1768 1200 Auburn Road P.O. Box 619 Lufkin, TX 75901 Texas City, TX 77591 Hillsboro, TX 76645 936-639-1301 409-938-1211 or 888-258-8859 254-582-2555 http://www.angelina.edu http://www.com.edu/ http://www.hillcollege.edu

Austin Community College North Central Texas College - Gainesville Houston Community College System P.O. Box 2285 1525 West California P.O. Box 7849 Austin, TX 78768 Gainesville, TX 76240 Houston, TX 77270 512-223-7000 817-668-7731 281-265-5343 http://www.austincc.edu http://www.nctc.edu/Home.aspx http://www.hccs.cc.tx.us

Blinn College Coastal Bend College Howard College 902 College Avenue 3800 Charco Road 1001 Birdwell Lane Brenham, TX 77833-4049 Beeville, TX 78102 Big Spring, TX 79720 979-830-4140 361-358-2838 432-264-5072 http://www.blinn.edu http://www.coastalbend.edu http://www.howardcollege.edu/

Blinn College - Bryan Del Mar College Kilgore College 2520 E. Villa Maria 101 Balwin 1100 Broadway Boulevard Bryan, TX 77802 Corpus Christi, TX 78404 Kilgore, TX 75662-3299 979-209-7223 361-698-1200 or 800-652-3357 903-984-8531 http://www.blinn.edu http://www.delmar.edu http://www.kilgore.edu/

Brazosport College Eastfield College 500 College Drive 3737 Motley Drive Laredo Community College Lake Jackson, TX 77566 Mesquite, TX 75150 West End Washington Street 979-230-3000 972-860-7100 Laredo, TX 78040 http://www.brazosport.edu/ http://www.efc.dcccd.edu 956-721-5117 http://www.laredo.edu/ Brookhaven College El Centro College 3939 Valley View Lane 801 Main Street Lee College Farmers Branch, TX 75244 Dallas, TX 75202 P.O. Box 818 972-860-4700 214-860-2037 Baytown, TX 77520 http://www.dcccd.edu/bhc http://www.elcentrocollege.edu/ 281-427-5611 http://www.lee.edu Cedar Valley College El Paso Community College 3030 North Dallas Avenue P.O. Box 20500 McLennan Community College Lancaster, TX 75134-3799 El Paso, TX 79998 1400 College Drive 972-860-8201 915-831-2000 Waco, TX 76708 http://cedarvalleycollege.edu http://www.epcc.edu 254-299-8622 http://www.mclennan.edu/ Central Texas College Frank Phillips College U.S. Highway 190 West P.O. Box 5118 Midland College Killeen, TX 76542 Borger, TX 79008-5118 3600 North Garfield 254-526-7161 or 800-223-4760 806-274-5311 Midland, TX 79701 http://www.ctcd.edu http://www.fpctx.edu/ 915-685-4500 http://www.midland.edu

*NOTE: Include Office of Admission in all addresses

29 ADDRESSES* OF JUNIOR AND COMMUNITY COLLEGES IN TEXAS

San Jacinto College - South College Mountain View College Lone Star College - University Park 13735 Beamer Road 4849 West Illinois Avenue 20515 SH 249 Houston, TX 77089-6099 Dallas, TX 75211 Houston, TX 77070 281-484-1900 214-860-8600 281-290-2600 http://www.sjcd.edu/ http://www.mvc.dcccd.edu http://www.lonestar.edu/universitypark.htm South Plains College Navarro College North Lake College 1401 S. College Avenue P.O. Box 1170 5001 N. MacArthur Boulevard Levelland, TX 79336 Corsicana, TX 75110 Irving, TX 75062 806-894-9611 903-875-7539 or 800-628-2776 972-273-3000 http://www.southplainscollege.edu http://www.navarrocollege.edu/ http://www.northlakecollege.edu Southwest Texas Junior College Lone Star College - Carver Center Odessa College 2401 Garner Field Road 2330 S. Victory 201 West University Uvalde, TX 78801 Houston, TX 77088 Odessa, TX 79762 830-278-4401 281-618-5800 915-335-6400 http://www.swtjc.edu/ http://www.lonestar.edu/carver- http://www.odessa.edu center.htm St. Phillips College Panola Junior College 1801 Martin Luther King Drive Lone Star College - North Harris 1109 W. Panola Street San Antonio, TX 78203-2098 2700 W.W. Thorne Drive Carthage, TX 75633 210-531-3200 Houston, Texas 77073-3499 903-693-2000 http://www.alamo.edu/spc/ 281/618/5400 http://www.panola.edu http://www.lonestar.edu/northharris Tarrant County Jr. College: - Paris Junior College Northeast Lone Star College - Cy-Fair 2400 Clarksville Street 828 Harwood Road 9191 Barker Cypress Road Paris, TX 75460 Hurst, TX 76053 Cypress, TX 77433 903-785-7661 or 800-232-5804 817-515-6100 281-290-3200 http://www.parisjc.edu/ http://www.tccd.edu http://www.lonestar.edu/cyfair Ranger Junior College Tarrant County Jr. College - Lone Star College - Greenspoint College Circle Northwest 250 N. Sam Houston Parkway East Ranger, TX 76470 4801 Marine Creek Parkway Houston, TX 77060 254-647-3234 Fort Worth, TX 76179 281-618-5400 http://rangercollege.edu/ 817-515-7100 http://www.lonestar.edu/greenspoint- http://www.tccd.edu center.htm Richland College 1200 Abrams Road Tarrant County Junior College - Lone Star College - Kingwood Dallas, TX 75243 South 20000 Kingwood Drive 972-238-6106 5301 Campus Drive Kingwood, TX 77379-3801 http://www.rlc.dcccd.edu Fort Worth, TX 76119 713-359-1600 or 281-312-1444 817-515-4100 http://www.lonestar.edu/kingwood San Antonio College http://www.tccd.edu 1300 San Pedro Avenue Lone Star College- Montgomery San Antonio, TX 78212-4299 Temple Junior College 3200 College Park Drive 210-733-2300 2600 South First Street Conroe, TX 77384 http://www.alamo.edu/sac/ Temple, TX 76501 936-273-7000 254-298-8282 http://www.lonestar.edu/montgomery San Jacinto College - Central Campus http://www.templejc.edu 8060 Spencer Highway, P.O. Box 2007 Lone Star College - Tomball Pasadena, TX 77501-2007 Texarkana College 30555 Tomball Parkway 281-476-1501 2500 North Robison Road Tomball, TX 77375-4036 http://www.sjcd.edu/ Texarkana, TX 77501 281-351-3300 903-832-5565 http://www.lonestar.edu/tomball San Jacinto College - North Campus http://www.texarkanacollege.edu/ 5800 Uvalde Road Houston, TX 77049-45999 281-458-4050 http://www.sjcd.edu/node/3578

*NOTE: Include Office of Admission in all addresses

30 ADDRESSES* OF JUNIOR AND COMMUNITY COLLEGES IN TEXAS

Texas Southmost College PRIVATE JUNIOR COLLEGES 80 Fort Brown Brownsville, TX 78520 Jacksonville College 956-514-8200 500 West Pine Street http://www.utb.edu Jacksonville, TX 75766 903-586-2518 Trinity Valley Community College http://www.jacksonville-college.edu - Athens 500 S. Prairieville Street Lon Morris College Athens, TX 75751 800 College Avenue 903-677-8822 Jacksonville, TX 75766 http://www.tvcc.edu 903-589-4000 or 800-594-5753 http://www.beagercat.com/?/

Trinity Valley Community College - Palestine P.O. Box 2530 Palestine, TX 78502 903-729-0256 http://www.tvcc.edu

Trinity Valley Community College - Terrell P.O. Box 668 Terrell, TX 75160 972-563-9573 http://www.tvcc.edu

Tyler Community College P.O. Box 9020 Tyler, TX 75711 903-510-2200 or 800-687-5680 http://www.tjc.edu/

Vernon Regional Junior College 4400 College Drive Vernon, TX 76384 940-552-6291 http://www.vernoncollege.edu/

Victoria College 2200 East Red River Victoria, TX 77901 361-573-3291 http://www.victoriacollege.edu/

Weatherford College 225 College Park Drive Weatherford, TX 76086 817-594-5471 or 800-287-5471 http://www.wc.edu

Wharton County Junior College 911 Boling Highway Wharton, TX 77488 979-532-4560 or 800-561-9252 http://www.wcjc.edu/

*NOTE: Include Office of Admission in all addresses

31 Military Opportunities

Joining the military enables you to do several things at once. You can serve your country, earn a salary right away, and get training that will probably help you whether or not you make the service your lifetime career. You can also, through various educational programs, earn your college degree while in the service or have the government pay for a large part of your college expenses after you leave the service.

Full-time military personnel are the first called upon to serve in crisis areas in times of national need.

The various branches of the United States Armed Services provide a variety of opportunities for career training in occupationally specific areas. Many of the career training areas are common for all the military organizations, while some are specific to the respective branches.

Some of the programs that provide career education opportunities for military personnel are as follows:

• The National Apprenticeship Program – provides skill training, which can lead to apprenticeship certification in many career fields. Avionics, data systems, electronics, machinist, meteorology, mechanics, fire fighting, welding, photography, law enforcement, and career counseling are just some of the examples of areas in which certification may be earned.

• The Montgomery G.I. Bill Program – enlistees who enroll in this program pay $100 per month for their first year of Various branches of the active duty ($1200). In return, they receive up to $19,000 U.S. Armed Services for college expenses. provide a variety of opportunities for career • Armed Services College Fund – offers a maximum of up training to $30,000 in addition to the Montgomery G.I. Bill.

• College Program – enables students interested in becoming officers to receive R.O.T.C. benefits. A $150 per month allowance is paid during college enrollment. After graduation, students receive commissions as reserve offices.

• Service Academies (West Point, U.S. Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and Coast Guard Academy) – consult the college portion of this handbook and see your counselor the fall of your junior year regarding requirements. Nominations should be requested in the fall of your senior year.

If you do not wish to be in the military full time, a reserve program can provide you with some financial assistance for college.

32 • The Reserve G.I. Bill – provides a stipend for educational assistance. In order to qualify, you must be a high school graduate, enlist in the reserves for six years (the minimum time allowed for reserve duty), and complete Initial Active Duty Training.

Persons in the reserves are required to serve one A military reserve program weekend of unit drill and training each month and two can provide you with weeks of training a year, usually in the summer months. financial assistance for While on active duty, you would earn the same salary as college. a full time soldier. Enlistment in the reserves is for a time period of at least six years.

The reserves may be called upon to serve in crisis areas during times of national need after full time military have been called.

The reserve program allows students to begin their active duty the summer between the junior and senior years of high school. Students involved in this program serve for two months during the summer and earn a monthly stipend. During their senior year, they are required to serve one weekend each month in unit drill and training. The senior year of service counts as one of the six required years in the reserves.

High school students involved in the reserve program are exempt from being sent to crisis areas during time of national need.

Should you go into the military immediately after graduation?

NO, if you are doing that because nothing else seems handy.

YES, if you know what is expected of you and what you will give in return. The military services offer unique opportunities available nowhere else.

What is required to join the military?

Full time and reserve military after graduation:

You must…

• be able to pass a physical. There are some physical limitations that prohibit getting into the military. What is required • meet a height and weight standard to joint the established by the military military?

• have a high school diploma. In rare instances persons may be allowed into certain branches with a G.E.D. only. If you are enlisting months or weeks prior to graduation, you must bring a letter from your school verifying that you will graduate.

• be a U.S. citizen

• provide your Social Security Card and your driver’s license

• provide you I.N.S. card, green card, or temporary resident card if you are an alien resident

Reserve military beginning the summer after your junior year in high school:

In addition to the requirements listed above, with the exception of the high school diploma verification, you must:

• be a least 17 years old. Provide your birth certificate.

• provide a letter from your school verifying your grade level and good conduct record.

• Have a parent sign the military parental consent form.

If the military service is your best choice after graduation, how can you prepare for it now? You can talk to the recruiters from the various services. Local recruiting officer addresses are listed below:

KHS KFHS KOHS KCHS United States Air Force: (281) 446-4780 (281) 446-4780 (281) 446-4780 (281) 446-4780 United States Army: (281) 257-9281 (281) 257-9281 (281) 257-9281 (281) 257-9281 United States Coast Guard: (713) 641-3559 (713) 641-3559 (713) 641-3559 (713) 641-3559 United States Marine Corps: (281) 376-2162 (281) 955-1268 (281) 376-2162 (281) 376-2166 United States Navy: (281) 655-7267 (281) 655-7267 (281) 655-7267 (281) 655-7267

Recruiters also visit campus on a regular basis. Remember, not all services offer the same opportunities; you need to find out what each one offers you and what your obligation is in return.

Other helpful tips:

• You can take the Armed Service Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB). This test helps identify skills that are available for various jobs in the service. Contact your local recruiter regarding test date and times and talk with school personnel regarding possible on campus testing.

• Check with your counselor or recruiter about specialized military opportunities, such as the Academies, R.O.T.C. programs and scholarships, the National Guard, and the reserves.

34 Testing

Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) The Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) became the new statewide assessment program in 2003. TAKS is a graduation requirement for the class of 2005 and thereafter.

The State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) The STAAR will replace the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS). It will be used for the 5 end-of-course assessments mandated in 2013 by House Bill 5 and the new grade 3-8 assessments mandated by HB 3 in the 2009 legislative session. The new tests will be used beginning in the 2011-2012 school year. Students in the graduating Class of 2015 will be the first students who must meet the end-of-course testing requirements, as well as pass their classes, in order to earn a diploma. The new tests will be significantly more rigorous than previous tests and will measure a child’s performance, as well as academic growth. The grade 3-8 STAAR tests in reading and mathematics, by law, must be linked from grade to grade to performance expectations for the English III and Algebra II end-of-course assessments.

PSAT/NMSQT The PSAT is designed to familiarize students with the SAT and serves as an excellent predictor. It allows the student to receive feedback on their strengths and weaknesses on skills necessary for college study. The PSAT is also the only way that a student can qualify for the National Merit Scholarship competition, and the scores are used as the selection basis for many collegiate, corporate and other types of scholarships. It assesses skills developed through years of study in a wide range of courses as well as through experiences outside the classroom.

The PSAT is basically a condensed version of the SAT. The PSAT has three parts: critical reading sections equaling 48 questions. Two math sections equaling 38 questions and one writing section equaling 39 questions.

The PSAT score reports provide three different scores on the 20 to 80 scale. One each for critical reading skills, math skills, and writing skills. Also on your score report is the selection index, which is the sum of the three scores (CR + W + M). The selection index ranges from 60-240.

The Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test (PSAT) takes place in October and will be given to all sophomores and juniors free of charge. Students are registered by Klein ISD for the test on their home campus, and receive a “Student Bulletin” with sample questions, scoring information and strategies for taking the test. Ample notification will be given as to the deadline for registration, the date and hour of the test. The test will be given on a Wednesday and lasts approximately 3 hours. Other preparatory materials are available in the library and on the College Board web site and at bookstores and local libraries. Scores usually are reported to the students and their parent by December or January. A booklet with a comprehensive explanation of the scores and their meaning will be given to each student.

35 College Admissions Tests The purpose of the college entrance exams is to provide the college administration with a common measure of ability in order to understand and compare applicants from varying educational backgrounds. High schools have different grading practices and standards; within a high school, students take different courses. The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) and the American College Testing Program (ACT) provide that common measure of ability. The admission officer may combine your SAT or ACT score with high school grades and/or class rank to determine your probability of success on the campus. Colleges strive to admit students who will most likely succeed and graduate!

Therefore, the first step in the college application process is to take either the SAT or ACT. Many colleges will accept either test; some require a specific one. You must find out which test the college of your choice requires. You are encouraged to take the SAT and ACT at the end of your junior year and again in the fall of your senior year. Early test results enable you to know if you qualify for the schools that interest you. If your score is below the requirement, you have more time to retest. Obtain the applications for these tests in the counseling office. On the application, you will include your high schools CEEB code to ensure that the school receives information about your test results. The tests are given on Saturday mornings at local high schools or colleges.

ACT http://www.actstudent.org/

Approximately six to eight weeks before the test date, you should complete your registration form and payment. Registering online is a good option to use if you have access. Your ticket for testing is available then. If you choose to mail your form, prior to the test date you will receive an admissions ticket through the mail, which you must take to the test center with proper identification. Specific guidelines for ID must be followed; they are included with your ticket. Tests may be taken more than once; the higher scores will be accepted in most cases. Check the college website to determine how the university or college handles additional scores.

SAT and SAT Subject Tests

SAT: The SAT initials stand for Scholastic Aptitude Test. This test is a measure of the critical thinking skills you will need for academic success in college. The SAT assesses how well you analyze and solve problems, skills that you learn in high school that you will need in college. The SAT includes a critical reading, math and writing section, with a specific number of questions related to content. In addition there is one unscored section, known as the variable or equating section. This section can be one of the three mentioned areas. This section does not count toward the final score, but is used to try out new questions for future test. Each section is scored on a scale of 200-800 and the writing section will contain two sub scores. Be sure you answer the easy questions first, guess smart, omit questions that you really have no idea how to answer and don’t panic if you cannot answer every question.

SAT Subject Tests: These one-hour subject tests are given by the College Board. Students register for them the same way they register for the SAT; they are given on the same dates. A student may take one, two, or three subject tests on a test day. These are given in the same time period as the SAT; one cannot take both the SAT and SAT subject tests on the same day. Many colleges do not require any SAT subject tests, but highly academic, competitive schools usually

36 want to see your scores from three subject tests. Check with the individual colleges to see what tests are required. Students considering selective schools which may require SAT subject tests should consider taking English and Math tests at the end of junior year for early decision and no later than December of the senior year for regular decision. Some colleges require these tests to help decide admissions, along with the SAT, and others use the SAT subject tests as placement tests. Normally these colleges require tests in Math, Writing, and one other subject of the student’s choice.

The best time to take these subject tests is when the information is fresh in your mind. The colleges are the best source of advice about selecting the tests and determining when to take them.

Official SAT and/or ACT scores must be sent to colleges directly from the testing agency

ACT

The Act is a three-hour curriculum-based test in English Usage, Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry and Trigonometry), Reading Comprehension and Science Reasoning. Each section is scored on a scale of 1-36; the composite score is most often used for admission decisions. Some colleges use subject test scores on the ACT for advanced placement. Answer every question; there is no penalty for wrong answers. Your score is based on the number of questions you answer correctly.

When preparing for the ACT, it is not necessary to review vocabulary or concern yourself with mental strategies but it is wise to review geometry. It is important to study the practice book, especially the instructions. To get the best possible score, you need to finish each section. Learn what the instructions will be so time is not lost on the test day. Answer each question; there is no penalty for guessing. Watch your time. If you see that you cannot finish a section, fill in something for the remaining questions before time is called.

37 SAT vs. ACT

The road to college can be a confusing and hectic experience. Choosing the right admissions test to take SAT or ACT doesn’t have to be. While most colleges across the country accept scores from either test, the SAT and ACT are significantly different, and in many ways, they measure different skills. Admission officers and educators often describe the difference between SAT and ACT in these terms: The ACT is a content-based test, whereas the SAT tests critical thinking and problem solving. A good practice is to take both tests and see which one you are better suited for.

Differences at a glance

SAT ACT w/Writing • no science section • science reasoning section • vocabulary emphasized • vocabulary less important • guessing penalty • no guessing penalty • no English grammar y • English grammar tested • math accounts for 1/3 of your score • Math accounts for 25% of your score • questions go from easy to hard in most • Easy and hard questions mixed within sections sections • essay • essay • entirely multiple choice

The Set-Up

SAT ACT The SAT is made up of 10 sections: Section Time • A 25-minute essay • English 45 min • Six 25-minute sections • Math 60 min (mathematics, critical reading, and writing) • Reading 35 min • Two 20-minute sections • Science 35 min (mathematics, critical reading, and writing) • A 10-minute multiple choice writing section Total test time: just over 4 hours without the writing test including instructions and breaks. Total test time: 3 hours and 45 minutes The ACT writing Test adds 30 minutes to the testing times. You will also get three short breaks during the Scoring is from 1-36 testing, so don’t forget to bring a snack! Scoring is from 200-800

SAT Critical Reading is like analyzing a debate, while ACT Reading is more like researching a term paper. If you’re good at interpretation, you’ll do well on the SAT. But if you’re more quantitative thinker, you might be more comfortable on the ACT.

The Writing Sections SAT ACT The writing section will include grammar, The ACT English section gives you a series usage and word choice. The essay will of sentences and paragraphs and asks you to measure your ability to organize and express identify and correct any grammatical or your ideas clearly, develop and support the punctuation errors, garbled or redundant main idea and use appropriate word choice prose, or stylistic flubs. Don’t be alarmed, and sentence structure. though. These questions do not test arcane grammar rules, but rather your basic The Critical Reading Section grammar skills, logic and common sense. SAT This section will include short reading In the ACT Reading section, you’ll be given passages along with long passages. It will four reading passages followed by questions include critical reading and sentence level mostly asking you to locate facts and verify reading. information.

The Mathematics Section ACT SAT The ACT Math sections require you to know This section will include number and pre-algebra, algebra, and coordinate and operations; algebra and functions, geometry, plane geometries. Unlike the SAT, you’ll statistics, probability and data analysis. The also see trigonometry, the quadratic formula, SAT will include expanded Math topics and graphs and equations of circles, ellipses such as exponential growth, absolute value and parabolas. and functional notation, and place greater emphasis on such other topics as linear All questions are multiple-choice, regular functional, manipulations with exponent, math questions. They are straight forward, and properties of tangent lines. requiring you to know a particular concept or formula – so you’ll need to have this information memorized.

Both the SAT and ACT test high school math and permit you to use a calculator. If you enjoy questions that call upon logical reasoning and visualization, you might prefer the SAT. But if you’re more comfortable with straightforward, academically rigorous questions, the ACT.

Taking the ACT Science Reasoning section doesn’t mean you’ll have to memorize the periodic table! Any information you need is provided. What the section really tests is your ability to think like a scientist – draw conclusions from data, grasp the purpose of an experiment, or identify an assumption underlying a scientific theory.

Copied with permission from: Kaplan

39 40 41 Using the SAT Writing Section

The writing section on the SAT provides colleges and universities a new measure with which to evaluate applicants, as well as an opportunity for students to provide raw evidence of their writing abilities.

In addition to using the complete writing score, colleges and universities have also expressed an interest in reviewing the handwritten essay of candidates. Fully aware of the test environment and the time constraints they expect the essay to be an example of the kind of spontaneous writing required in the classroom.

TOP THREE REASONS CITED BY COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITIES FOR READING STUDENTS ESSAYS.

• To use it as an additional placement essay • To compare the SAT essay to the application essay • To gain additional information about a candidate’s writing skills.

42 COLLEGE ENTRANCE EXAMINATIONS 2014-2015 Dates and Fees

Applications for the SAT and ACT may be picked up in the counseling office. It is recommended that the SAT and/or ACT be taken late in the junior year and/or early in the senior year. See your counselor if you have any questions.

FEES*: The 2014-2015 basic test fee is listed below. Additional late fees can be determined by accessing their website.

• SAT: $52.50 • ACT: $38.00 • ACT Plus Writing: $54.50

WEB SITES: SAT http://sat.collegeboard.com ACT http://www.actstudent.org

Klein High School is a Test Center for the SAT. Check registration bulletin for dates. (The location is shown as Klein, Texas.) Please note that Klein High School is not a Test Center on the June 6, 2015 test date. The Test Center code number for Klein High is 44-584. Klein Collins High is a Test Center for the ACT.

Test applicants should indicate their school code number on their applications for all tests. The school code numbers for the KISD high schools are as follows:

Klein High School - 446690 * Klein Forest High School - 443394 * Klein Oak High School – 446691 * Klein Collins High School - 446693

THE COLLEGE ENTRANCE EXAMINATION BOARD (SAT) SAT Registration Late Registration Test Date Test(s) Postmark Deadline Postmark Deadline** October 11, 2014 SAT and Subject Tests September 12, 2014 September 30, 2014 November 8, 2014 SAT and Subject Tests October 9, 2014 October 28, 2014 December 6, 2014 SAT and Subject Tests November 6, 2014 November 24, 2014 January 24, 2015 SAT and Subject Tests December 29, 2014 January 13, 2015 March 14, 2015 SAT only February 13, 2015 March 3, 2015 May 2, 2015 SAT and Subject Tests April 6, 2015 April 21, 2015 June 6, 2015*** SAT and Subject Tests May 8, 2015 May 27, 2015

AMERICAN COLLEGE TESTING PROGRAM (ACT)

ACT Registration Late Registration Test Date Postmark Deadline Postmark Deadline**

September 13, 2014 August 8, 2014 August 9–22, 2014 October 25, 2014 September 19, 2014 Sept. 20–Oct 3, 2014 December13, 2014 November 7, 2014 November 8–21, 2014 February 7, 2015 January 9, 2015 January 10–16, 2015 April 18, 2015 March 13, 2015 Mar. 14 - 27, 2015 June 13, 2015 May 8, 2015 May 9–22, 2015

TEST OF ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE (TOEFL) This test is available to foreign students to demonstrate English language proficiency at the college level. For more information, contact a col l ege ad mi ssi ons of f i ce or check their website http:/ / wwwets.org/ toefl

* Fees are subject to change. Check publications. ** Additional fee required for late registration. *** Klein High is not a Test Center on this date.

43 Texas Success Initiative Placement Test (TSI)

Students entering a Texas public college or university may need to take a TSI Placement Test before enrolling in any college-level coursework, For more information about the testing, contact your school counselor.

44 Advanced Placement Tests (AP’s)

AP exams could be an impressive and important credential when applying to college. Schools have varying policies about awarding credit for advanced placement. Scores of 3, 4, or 5 on the 1-5 AP grading scale may be considered. While AP exams maybe taken by any prepared student, this generally requires work beyond the normal classroom requirements. AP courses offered in Klein ISD are Calculus, Statistics, English III, English IV, US History, World History, European History, Government, Economics (Marco and Micro), Psychology, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, Art/Drawing, Art/2 Dimensional, Art/3 Dimensional, Music Theory, Spanish and French. Courses offered on particular campuses vary due to number of student requests. Registration for these test are handled at each of the high schools.

There are a number of reasons to consider an Advanced Placement Examination:

1. AP Exams provide an opportunity to certify one’s knowledge of college level materials. All students enrolled in an AP course Colleges and universities are strongly encouraged to take the corresponding AP exam. have varying policies about awarding credit

for advanced placement 2. The student who places out of prerequisite courses through AP testing can go on to more challenging higher level college courses.

3. An individual who receives college credit for AP work may have many options opened in college, such as entering disciplines without adding to one’s course load, being able to cut back on courses during a semester of heavy reading, and taking graduate courses while an undergraduate and still graduating in four years.

4. College costs can be saved if credit is awarded. The greatest savings occurs if a student receives credit for one year of college work because of scoring a qualifying grade in three or more AP Examinations. More typically, a candidate takes one or two AP exams, but even this can lead to a reduction in the usual four-year requirements if it is combined with taking extra courses during the year or in the summer.

5. AP credit is a bargain. Six semester hours of credit for one AP examination costs about $87. However the state of Texas may subsidize the cost of the test so that students typically pay only $57 representing a tremendous savings over college costs. A further savings is experienced by free/reduced lunch students.

6. AP examination grades are kept on file by the College Board. This allows the student to “bank” AP results and withdraw them when they are needed. They can be sent to the college for evaluation, for credit, or advanced placement in classes.

7. An AP exam can be taken only once in a school year, in May. It is most appropriate to take it at the end of the AP course, when the student is best prepared. The dates, the cost and all other information is given to the students by their AP teachers.

45 College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

CLEP tests are another means of receiving college credit for knowledge already acquired before college enrollment. CLEP consists of five general and thirty-four subject examinations. Registration to take CLEP tests is made directly to a university test center which administers the tests several times during the year. Since college credit-by- examination policies vary considerably, you should wait until you have made your final college decision to see what testing is appropriate. By receiving a satisfactory score, you can earn from three to twelve college credits toward your college degree for each CLEP you take, depending on the exam subject. Visit the college board website www.collegeboard.com.

REPORTING admissions test results

When completing your college test application be sure to include which colleges need to receive your scores. It is your responsibility as an applicant to report your SAT or ACT scores by indicating colleges as score recipients on the registration form. Check the testing website for further information.

SAT is http.//www.collegeboard.com ACT is http://www.actstudent.org

Be sure and watch college deadlines because your official scores are needed in order to have a completed application. Scores are usually mailed three weeks after test dates.

46 Test preparation

Klein counselors have observed firsthand the truth of the College Board statement that “the best way for students to prepare for the tests is to take challenging academic courses and to do plenty of reading throughout school.” If you have done this and have the SAT or ACT scores that match up with the scores of admitted students at the schools in which you are interested, you can relax. You will probably do fine, and that will be the end of it.

If, however, your scores are not as high as you expected, based on your academic accomplishments, or if you are considering highly selective schools and/or scholarship competitions and want to improve your chances, you will probably decide to retest. If so, it will be beneficial to you to do some additional preparation (becoming familiar with the test content and format and learning appropriate test-taking strategies) before you take one or both of these tests a second time. You can improve In the short-term, it is possible to improve scores through test scores familiarization, motivation, and new knowledge. Of the three, through motivation is the most important. There is no point in purchasing study familiarization, motivation and guides and computer software or signing up for prep classes if you do new knowledge not plan to make a reasonable effort to gain from the instruction.

Familiarization with the content and format of the tests can be accomplished through self- study using authentic practice materials. Examples are: your PSAT results, copies of old tests, computer software, the official test guides, and internet resources (see the appendix of this handbook for a list of helpful websites). Students who are self-disciplined and motivated to use self-study can benefit from these low-cost materials.

Test prep classes are popular because time is structured into the student’s busy schedule. One caution: to benefit from a class, you need to have time to complete the homework assignments that are given as well as to reflect and assimilate what is taught. As one expert states, “taking a class isn’t an easy way to improve our scores. Just like your regular classes, you will have to put in outside time and effort. Merely sitting in on an SAT prep class won’t raise your scores.” Check with your counselor for information on what’s offered in your area and what’s available on some Klein high school campuses.

47 It is important to research the different options offered by each independent company. Most will have several different courses of varying lengths and prices. For example, some well-known national companies are the Princeton Review. Kaplan, RMASS, and Score! Information on these can be found in the counseling offices or by going to each specific web page.

We do not endorse any program. We believe that you should consider your needs, your learning style, your resources, your level of motivation, your available time, and then decide what is best for you.

After taking the PSAT, register for ‘My Road’. You will receive your password to register when your booklet is returned. This is outstanding preparation for taking the SAT.

Above all, we hope that you will resist getting caught up in the Research your options to decide testing hysteria that is so prevalent. If you test one time and get your best course of the score you need, you can be finished with testing. For those action striving for improvement, taking the test a second time might be enough. Be aware that without additional work/study, testing more than twice will have little benefit. Normally, three is the maximum number of times you should take either the SAT or ACT. College admissions testing and preparation is a big business, and very profitable. Consider the hype as you evaluate your options.

48 College planning begins here

Selecting A College

Selecting a college which is a great match for your abilities, values, goals – yours, not your best friend’s or your parents’ – is one of the most important decisions you will make as a young adult. This college decision may strongly influence the career path you take, many of the friends you will make and keep the rest of your life, and even the geographic area where you will eventually live and work. Remember, however, that there is no one perfect college for you. Rather, there are many colleges that would be an excellent “fit.” The secret is to know yourself. Be honest about your abilities, goals, and interests; identify the characteristics you prefer in a college; fully research these characteristics in a wide range of colleges; then finally, narrow your application list to a realistic number of schools.

STEP ONE: Assess your abilities and identify your goals and interests.

Examine your priorities. What are your goals and interests? What are you good at? In what environment do you do your best? What careers interest you the most? Make lists.

Ask questions such as:

Personal Considerations: Selecting a college is 1. How important are existing friendships with peers going to a one of the most specific college? Will they influence your decision? important decisions 2. Family traditions. Are they tied to a particular college, you will make university or religion? Is that important to you? 3. Area of the country in which school is located and proximity to home. 4. What is the school’s reputation? (academic, social, or a good balance) 5. What are the expenses? How much debt would you and/or your family assume? 6. What are the housing and meal options? 7. What percent of entering freshman graduate from this college? 8. What is the size of this school? Would you feel comfortable on a campus this size? 9. Are cultural activities available to suit your interest? 10. What are the wardrobe needs? 11. Would I adapt well to the climate of the area where the school is located?

49 Academic Considerations:

1. Will you be more comfortable at a two or four year college? 2. What are your personal study habits? Do they fit with the school attitude? 3. How is the academic year divided? 4. How large are classes? 5. What is the diversity of students and faculty? 6. Are credits transferable to other schools you might consider? 7. What percent of graduates are admitted to professional schools? 8. Is there a job placement service for graduates?

STEP TWO: Familiarize yourself with the different types of schools and find out what characteristics to look for when selecting a school.

The schools available to you are as varied as the interests of the students being served. When trying to decide what type of school fits you best, take a look at some of the characteristics you may want to consider in selecting a school. In general, schools can be divided into two major categories: vocational training schools and colleges/universities.

Vocational Training Schools Vocational training schools are privately owned and operated schools that offer a wide Familiarize variety of training options in areas such as cosmetology, yourself with mechanical repair, court reporting, paralegal services, travel different types of services, secretarial, and medical assistance. Typical academic schools and find preparation is short, lasting from five to twelve months. However, out what some training programs (such as court reporting) can take up to characteristics to two to three years to complete. The main appeal of these schools look for when is their concentrated curriculum, job-training focus, and short courseselecting a school length. Additional information may be found on p.23.

Colleges and Universities

Two-year community/junior colleges provide the opportunity to get your feet wet before jumping into a four-year college arena. Community colleges generally offer two-year studies with an associate’s degree conferred upon completion. The courses are designed to transfer to four-year colleges, should you decide to continue on. Also, like vocational schools, many community colleges often offer specialized job training in certain areas. These studies are designed to prepare you for the work force as soon as you complete your training.

Four-year colleges and universities offer bachelor’s degrees and a much wider variety of studies. Many also offer graduate studies (studies after a bachelor’s degree is completed) with opportunities to earn a master’s degree, doctorate, or professional degree (such as a medical doctor). The curriculum is much broader than a two-year school and is designed to accommodate a variety of interests (unless the college specializes in a certain area of study, such as art).

50 Public colleges and universities are subsidized by the states in which they are located and are generally less expensive than private colleges. However, the cheapest rates go to residents of the state in which the college is located. Out-of-state students usually pay much higher fees. Private colleges, on the other hand, are funded through endowments, tuition, and donations. They usually cost more, but don’t rule them out! Private colleges often offer enough financial aid to make them financially feasible for your budget.

In addition to those listed above, schools can be divided into a number of other categories, including the following:

Size Specialization (liberal arts/art institute)

Location (urban/suburban/rural) Area(s) of study

Admissions requirements Ethnicity

Financial aid opportunities Gender (women’s/co-ed)

Cost Course offering

Family tradition Retention and graduation rates

Distance from home Housing

Religious affiliation Facilities

Diversity Campus life

STEP THREE: Choose the characteristics that are important to you. Choose characteristics that are important to you As you have worked through your handbook, you have and identify a list of examined who you are and what you value. This insight schools that meet your personal goals will enable you to evaluate the characteristics of colleges and to decide which ones are most important to you. For example, maybe it’s important to you to stay close to home, which will narrow your search. Perhaps you want to study a very specialized field that is only offered at a few schools. The choice is yours. MAKE A LIST OF THE FIVE TO TEN CHARACTERISTICS THAT YOU CONSIDER VERY IMPORTANT.

STEP FOUR: Gather information to identify a short list of schools that have these characteristics and that meet your personal goals and needs. So many resources are available to students looking at colleges that it is hard to know where to start. To do a thorough job of researching, you will want to use several of these:

College Guidebooks

A number of different publishers put together guidebooks describing almost everything you want to know about any college or university in the United States and the world. Many of these are available in the counseling center, the public library and bookstores. A number of guidebooks are also available on CD-ROM. Guides that also address quality- of-life issues are based on surveys of enrolled students and offer subjective information. These include The Fiske Guide to Colleges and Yale Insider’s Guide. For information about college majors, the College Board’s Index of Majors and Graduate Degrees is available. Ratings of academic programs, also subjective, can be found in Rugg’s Recommendations on Colleges and U.S. News & World Reports Best Colleges.

College-Produced Resources

Colleges will inundate you with publications. You can write or e-mail most college admissions offices for information on admissions, housing, financial aid, majors, etc. The college’s catalog is always a valuable resource.

Librarians – check for resources and media research

Computer Resources

Research colleges Check with the career counselor at your school to see what specific using different computer programs are available for your use. materials

College Night

Nearly two hundred public and private two and four years colleges/universities from in- state and out-of-state will have representatives available at the high school college night. The KISD Consolidated College night is October 11, 2012.

Family, Friends, Counselors

Find out what recommendations and experiences your parents, brothers, sisters, relatives, teachers, counselors, neighbors, and friends have had. Begin to narrow your list of school choices and find alumni who can give you insight into the schools you are interested in attending. Talk with your parents about your possible choices and the means for financing.

52 The Internet

Research colleges, scholarships, and other types of financial aid on-line.

Visits to College Campuses

The best way to gain firsthand knowledge of a college or university is to visit the campus. Call or write the Office of Admission to set up an appointment. Also, try to arrange to stay overnight in a dorm and to visit a class to get the “real feel” of the campus. Spring break of your junior year is a good time to visit if the college’s break does not coincide with ours. Although visiting in the summer may not give you the complete picture of a college’s atmosphere (the student population is generally much smaller in the summer), it does allow you to tour the actual facility and meet with admissions counselors. If you wait until your senior year to begin your visits, remember that you may be pressed for time with the hectic pace of your final year of high school. Also, keep in mind that students can now receive two days for college visits. Check with your individual high school for specific procedures prior to making these visits. Also, if you cannot travel to a particular school, many colleges provide ‘virtual’ tours of their campus.

STEP FIVE: Apply to the three to five schools that top your list.

Before your college search is complete, compare your academic and personal qualifications to those of students typically admitted to schools where you want to apply. Large public universities usually make admission decisions based on objective information including: number and level Be sure to apply to at of difficulty of high school courses, grade point average, least one “safe” school! class rank, and standardized test scores (SAT and/or ACT). Private and highly selective schools also consider special talents, community service, extracurricular and leadership activities.

As you narrow your college list, select one or two institutions that present an admission challenge. These schools are called “reachers: Make sure your final list also includes one or more “mid-range” colleges, where your qualifications closely match those of the average student. Finally, be sure to apply to at least one “safe” school, where your statistics equal or exceed those of most of the students admitted. Above all, apply only to schools where you believe you would be happy for four or more years.

53 Junior Planning Calendar

WHEN WHAT TO DO August & Return to school with a positive attitude. Realize that this is the start of the last full year September that colleges will see. It is the most important year for performance. Make a commitment to concentrate on good grades and challenging college prep courses.

Join a club or other extracurricular activity. Do something beyond academics. Visit the counseling office and discover valuable information you can secure there. Listen for announcements related to college and career planning. Visit prospective college campuses whenever possible this year. October Attend College Night. Take the PSAT in October. Your counselor will announce information about the test. Study carefully your free copy of PSAT/NMSQT Student Bulletin. Start to define your special abilities, interests, personal qualities and educational plans. Take TAKS - Retesters November Remain conscious of your grades. Continue self-assessment and career exploration. Explore features of colleges or other post-secondary options that meet your needs, interests, aptitudes, abilities (military, tech schools, specialized training). Contact military if interested in ROTC scholarships or military academies. December Compile a list of colleges that interest you. During the holiday break, talk with college friends who are home. Discuss your questions about college life and college selection. Have ongoing conversations with your parents during which you discuss your and their expectations about your college selection. January Understand the implications of your PSAT/NMSQT results by reading carefully the interpretation included in "Report of Student Answers" and "About Your PSAT/NMSQT Score." Review your answers to the test questions. Prepare for final exams. Prepare a list of subjects you would like to study after high school. Arrange in order of preference. Begin a personal resume sheet for next year, listing your awards and honors; school, extracurricular and community activities; and jobs. This four-year summary will help you in evaluating your interests. February Become familiar with applications for jobs, colleges, postsecondary training. Prepare a list of personal references (with addresses) to be used for applications. Register to take SAT (April, May or June) and/or ACT (April or June). Take TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills). March Arrange in order of importance 3-4 careers that are of interest to you. Secure information regarding training necessary for success in those careers. Contact colleges if considering Early Decision Application next year. Be aware of deadlines for admission tests, achievement tests and applications for Early Decision. Continue to update your personal resume sheet. Visit prospective college campuses during Spring Break. Take the SAT or ACT.

54 Junior Planning Calendar

April Evaluate features of colleges/other postsecondary plans explored earlier and narrow to 3 or 4 choices. Finalize plans for senior year with your counselor. Register for April, May or June SAT, ACT, and/or SAT subject tests, if required by colleges. Take TAKS test. May Become aware of application deadlines for college admission next year. Take AP exams if applicable. Begin to evaluate your 3-4 college choices in terms of whether they meet your needs of size, cost, academic program, location, student body. Prepare for final exams. June Consider visiting colleges that interest you. Go with parents, friends, or on an organized tour; be aware that campuses can feel very different during the summer. August Use the summer productively. Begin working on college essay topics, continue working on resume. Get a job, do volunteer work, attend a summer institute, or travel. But do something productive. If you are working, discuss with your supervisor the possibility of getting a letter of recommendation for college or scholarships.

55 Senior Planning Calendar

WHEN WHAT TO DO All year Visit the counseling office and discover invaluable information you can secure there. Listen for announcements related to college and career planning, college visitations and scholarships. Meet with college representatives who visit your school.

Keep a calendar of important dates and deadlines. Mail well ahead of every deadline. Make copies of every college or scholarship application you submit. Research and begin applying for scholarships. August & September Register for the college entrance exams (SAT or ACT ) if you have not already done so. (Register at least five weeks in advance.) Obtain college admission test registration materials in College & Career Center. *September 7th is the deadline to register for the October 6th SAT. This is the most popular date with seniors.

*Mail registration form directly to the testing company or register on-line (htt://sat.collegeboard.com/register).

You must indicate on test application which schools you want to receive your test scores. Colleges accept test scores as official only when sent directly from the test company. *Determine of your college(s) require SAT Subject Tests. Registration forms are available in counseling office or online. October Attend special programs such as College Night. Continue work on college essays. File early action/early decision applications. If you plan to visit a college campus, call ahead for an appointment with the college admissions office. Have a frank talk with your parents about college costs, how much they are prepared to contribute, and whether you should apply for financial aid. November November 1st to 15th - Most colleges using "early decision" admission require test scores and applications between these dates. Students must apply by the deadline and notification date varies. Register for THEA if you plan to attend a Texas public college/university and do not qualify for an exemption.

Work on preparing your college applications. Be sure to note when applications are due. Many colleges have a mid-November, December 15th or January 1st deadline. (Some colleges have an in-house, not a postmark deadline.) It is important to fill out applications as soon as possible. By early November turn in all requests to teachers and/or counselors for letters on recommendation or counselor's portions of applications due in December. By the Thanksgiving break, turn in all requests to teachers or counselors for letters of recommendation or counselor portions of applications due during Christmas break. (Requests turned in after Christmas break must still allow three weeks notice.) December Try to mail all college applications before Christmas. (Your holidays will be much more enjoyable.) During the holiday break, talk with friends and/or relatives who are attending (or have attended) the colleges on your list. January Pick up FASFA application in counseling office. File as soon as possible after January 1st. January 1st, 10th, and 15th - Deadline dates for some applications to selective colleges. Others have other due dates. Make sure the counselor has your Mid-year Report Form, if required by your college. Watch admissions application deadline of February 1st. February Have your mid-year grades sent to colleges that require them. March & Most selective colleges start to announce their decisions this month. April Review college acceptance and compare financial aid offers. If you have more than one college offer, rank the colleges according to your important criteria. Does this ranking match your gut feeling? Pick your college and send in deposit by the deadline. Inform counselors of any scholarships and awards received so you can be included in the May/June awards program.

56 Senior Planning Calendar

May Notify all the colleges of your enrollment intention. Make sure you accept the financial aid offer according to the directions in your award letter. If you received financial aid offers from other colleges you are not attending, be sure you let the colleges know of your decision not to attend. Fill out Final Transcript form and turn it in to the Registrar. This will assure that your final transcript is sent to the college you have decided to attend. Final transcript must also be sent to NCAA if you plan to participate in college athletics. Make sure that you accept in writing the financial aid award from the college you decide to attend. Find out what else you need to do to maintain your eligibility. **Write a thank you note to everyone who has helped you with the admission application process, and tell them of your decision. Also send thank-you notes to donors from whom you have received scholarships.

Senior Award Programs Graduation - June 6, 2015

Rank in class

Class rank for the class of 2012 - 2013 is based on semester grades earned in all state- approved credit courses in grades 9-12.

In grades 9-12, to receive credit for a course, a student must maintain an average of 70 or above. The school district awards credit semester by semester except in the case of EOC courses..

The 2000-01 and ensuing years grade point values are as follows:

Course Average Honor/GT/AP/DC Advanced Regular Basic Independent Study/ PreAP/PreIB& IB 100 6.0 5.5 5.0 4.0 99 5.9 5.4 4.9 3.9 98 5.8 5.3 4.8 3.8 97 5.7 5.2 4.7 3.7 96 5.6 5.1 4.6 3.6 95 5.5 5.0 4.5 3.5 94 5.4 4.9 4.4 3.4 93 5.3 4.8 4.3 3.3 92 5.2 4.7 4.2 3.2 91 5.1 4.6 4.1 3.1 90 5.0 4.5 4.0 3.0 89 4.9 4.4 3.9 2.9 88 4.8 4.3 3.8 2.8 87 4.7 4.2 3.7 2.7 86 4.6 4.1 3.6 2.6 85 4.5 4.0 3.5 2.5 84 4.4 3.9 3.4 2.4 83 4.3 3.8 3.3 2.3 82 4.2 3.7 3.2 2.2 81 4.1 3.6 3.1 2.1 80 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.0 79 3.8 3.3 2.8 1.8 78 3.6 3.1 2.6 1.6 77 3.4 2.9 2.4 1.4 76 3.2 2.7 2.2 1.2 75 3.0 2.5 2.0 1.0 74 1.8 1.8 1.8 .9 73 1.6 1.6 1.6 .8 72 1.4 1.4 1.4 .7 71 1.2 1.2 1.2 .6 70 1.0 1.0 1.0 .5

58 Top 10 percent eligible for automatic college admission

Students who are in the top 10 percent of their graduating class are eligible for automatic admission to any public university in Texas.

To be eligible for automatic admission, a student must: • Graduate in the top 10 percent of his/her class at a public or private high school in Texas, • Or graduate in the top 10 percent of a high school operated by the U.S. Department of Defense and be a Texas resident or eligible to pay resident tuition; • Enroll in college no more than two years after graduating from high school; and • Submit an application to a Texas public university for admission before the institution’s application deadline

Since rules and deadlines vary, please check with the specific university to verify the application deadline. Once a student is admitted, a university may review a student’s high school records to determine if the student is prepared for college-level course work. A student who needs additional preparation may be required to take a developmental, enrichment or orientation course during the semester prior to the first semester of college.

Admission to a university does not guarantee acceptance into a particular college of study or department.

You should be aware that students who ARE NOT in the top 10 percent of their class are considered for college admission under other criteria. University admissions officers may consider a student’s academic record, socio-economic background, work and family responsibilities, admission to a comparable out-of-state institution, performance on standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT, community activities, and proficiency in more than one language.

Each university is required to publish in its catalog the alternate factors it considers in making admission decisions. Consult the university you are interested in for details about admissions criteria for students who are not in the top 10 percent.

59 The Recommended High School Program & The Distinguished Achievement Program

The Recommended High School Program (RHSP) helps ensure that participating Texas high school students have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the real world after graduation. The program encourages students to set targets beyond the minimum graduation requirements, and allows students to pursue their own interest in a variety of college-preparatory courses. The program requires challenging academic courses which means that students will be better prepared to complete technical school, community college, or a four-year university. The 4x4 graduation requirement will still be in effect for current 10th-12th graders unless they choose the foundation plan.

The Distinguished Achievement Program (DAP) requires students to complete the RHSP. Within those credits, students must complete advanced schoolwork that reflect college- or professional-level skills as assessed by outside evaluators. To achieve this distinguished recognition, students must complete any combination of four of the advanced measures listed below: • Earn a score of 3 or above on a College Board Advanced Placement (AP) exam or a score of 4 or above on an International Baccalaureate (IB) exam. Each exam can count as one measure. • Complete original research or project under the direction of mentor(s), judged by professionals in the appropriate field, and reported to an appropriate audience. • Earn a PSAT score that qualifies a student for recognition as a Commended Scholar or higher. • Earn a grade of 3.0 or higher on courses that count for college credit.

In addition, if you complete the Recommended High School Program or the Distinguished Achievement Program and show financial need (based on set criteria) you may be eligible for a TEXAS Grant. Visiting college representatives in Klein ISD College representatives routinely visit Klein ISD high schools and are scheduled during the lunch periods whenever possible. Students are encouraged to meet with the college representatives of their choice, but must remember to make up any missed classwork. Listen to morning announcements and read your newsletters for college representative visits.

Many colleges also schedule areas information sessions, which are typically held in the evenings or on a weekend at a Houston location. Information is posted as it becomes available. Remember, college admissions counselors are eager to meet with you about their schools and provide great information on college programs, extracurricular activities, dorms, cafeteria food, as well as admissions and scholarships.

60 Campus visits and interviews

There is no better way to learn about a college or university—the faculty, facilities, spirit, academic atmosphere, and student values—than to visit the campus when college is in session. It is better to see through “your own eyes” rather than rely upon the word of a friend or the school’s literature.

The campus visit can be considered Educational Insurance.

• You are more likely to choose a college which is “matched” to your needs. • You will have an opportunity to evaluate what students wear, how they live, etc. • You will be able to observe where you will eat, sleep, study, worship, attend classes, and take part in campus activities. • You are likely to do better work if you are in an environment which is consistent with your value system and needs.

Preparing For a College Visit

Arrange for your visit in advance by calling or writing the Admissions Office about 3 weeks in advance. Avoid being a drop-in. Arrange for an interview with an admissions officer if this is required by the college or desirable on your part. Although summer holiday visits are most convenient for you, it’s preferable to visit while college classes are in session in order to experience the total environment of the campus. Many schools have special weekend events and tours for incoming students.

Familiarize yourself with college catalogues/bulletins before visiting so that you can ask intelligent questions when you arrive on campus and avoid asking questions readily answered in the viewbook, catalog, or video. Call the admissions Inform the college about your areas of interest, academic preparation, office to schedule activities, etc. Indicate whether you have applied for admission. an appointment before you visit If you will be interviewed while on the visit, know facts about your high school before visiting: percentage of graduates going on to college, average test scores, etc.

To further prepare for the interview, summarize your personal data (interests, awards, activities, test scores, rank in class, etc.) Even better, compile all data into a personal resume.

Give careful attention to your appearance, grooming, and conduct. The interview, if the college offers this option, facilitates putting a face with a name. Often, notes are kept and placed in your application file. Make sure that all information pertaining to you is appropriate. Remember to put your best appearance forward.

61 Try to do the following: • Take an official admissions office tour (if offered) and then supplement with one of your own. • Check in with the financial aid office to see what is available and how to apply for it. • Try to visit one or more classes. • Talk to several college students (not just the tour guides). Ask them about the academic and social life on campus. • Take your camera and notebook. Taking pictures of the campus will help you remember what it looks like when comparing schools. After you have visited, make notes concerning the following while the information gained is still fresh in your mind: impression of facilities and campus impression of faculty and students instructional program and regulations cost names and titles of officials you visited while there • Stay overnight in a dorm. • Have lunch in the dining hall. • If you can’t visit a particular campus, take a virtual tour. • Check the college website for more information about the campus.

What To Learn About The College/University And What To Ask On A Campus Visit

Classes 1. What is the average class size for freshmen? Upperclassmen? 2. Who will teach freshmen courses—graduate assistants or faculty? 3. What is the faculty advisor system? How easy is it to meet with advisors? 4. Is there an organized professional counseling service for students? 5. What is the relationship between student – faculty – administrators? 6. Do faculty members seem accessible, friendly, and helpful? 7. What is the availability of courses in the field you are interested in? Flexibility and special opportunities (study abroad, co-op, internships)? 8. What are the college’s top three programs or majors?

Campus 1. Does the college campus appeal to you? Is it too large? Too small? Is it easy to get around? Do the buildings appeal to you? 2. How far is it from the local community? Is there easy access to shopping? 3. Is pride shown by students in maintaining a clean and well-ordered campus? 4. Inquire about campus security. Have there been problems in the recent past? What preventative security measures are in place? Will you feel reasonably safe living there?

62 Housing 1. Are freshmen required to live in a dorm? 2. How many students per room? Are single rooms available? 3. How are roommates assigned? Can you request a particular roommate? 4. Are rooms fully furnished or do you need to bring certain items? Are refrigerators or microwaves allowed? 5. Are there study facilities in the dorm? How many computers are available? Will I need to furnish my own? Is there a computer hook-up in each dorm room? 6. Are there quiet hours? 7. Are the dining facilities of the dorm satisfactory? What options are available for meal plans? 8. What percentage of students lives on campus? 9. Are freshmen allowed to have cars on campus? If yes, what are the pros and cons? 10. How and when do I apply for housing? Is dorm space guaranteed to every freshman?

Religious

1. If it is a church-related school, is chapel required? 2. Are there religious organizations to suit your purposes?

Social and recreational 1. What do students do on weekends? 2. What percentage of students remain on campus on weekends? 3. Are there fraternities or sororities? What percentage of students belong? Are there opportunities for independents? 4. Does the college have a social room or union? 5. What varsity sports are played? Are there opportunities for participation? Are there intramurals? 6. Are the students active supporters of athletic events? Are the facilities adequate? 7. What cultural activities are available on or near the campus? Are speakers, plays, musicians and other artists brought to the campus? 8. Are there recreation and workout facilities available for all students?

Admissions Criteria 1. How will the college/university be evaluating the student? What criteria is used in the process? (Test scores, GPA, rank, quota, area of study, recommendations, activities, other subjective factors.) 2. Is the Admissions Office fully aware of the type of high school you attend? 3. What is the enrollment and composition of the student body? 4. What are the application deadlines and procedures?

63 College Costs and Financial Aid/Scholarship Opportunities 1. What are the school’s basic costs (tuition, room, board, fees, books)? 2. What kinds of financial aid programs are available? What is the procedure for applying? 3. Are work opportunities or loans available? 4. Are there merit or no-need scholarships or grants available? Athletic or talent awards? Scholarships for upperclassmen?

Placement and Graduate Statistics 1. What percentage of entering freshman graduate in 4 years? 2. What percentage of freshman returns the second year? 3. What percentage of graduates continues on with graduate or professional study? 4. What national recognition have students received? 5. What are some of the placement statistics of graduates not pursuing professional study? 6. What employers visit campus? 7. Is there a career planning program for students?

General Atmosphere and Student Body 1. What is the college’s history, objectives, extent of traditions, direction of philosophy? How will it affect the student? 2. How is the student body as a whole? Are they happy, friendly, and independent? 3. How diverse does the student body appear to be geographically, ethnically, racially, politically, and religiously? 4. What is the male/female ratio? 5. Where do the students come from? 6. What are the predominant styles of dress? 7. Do students appear serious about their studies? What do you look for 8. What are some of the regulations for all students? during a college visit 9. What’s the attendance policy? 10. In general, does the college appear to be relatively strict or fairly liberal in its operation? After the Campus Visit 1. Write thank-you notes to the Director of Admissions and to any other staff or faculty who interviewed you or extended you courtesies while on campus. This should be done promptly upon returning home. 2. Review your evaluations and impressions. 3. Make a list of pro’s and con’s. 4. Use the “College Planning Worksheet” included in this booklet to keep a running comparison of colleges. 5. Begin rank ordering the colleges on your list.

Many colleges offer ‘virtual’ tours of their campus – check out some!

64 Typical Questions To Be Answered During the College Visit

1. Are there adequate facilities for the department of your major interest? 2. Do laboratory facilities appear to be up-to-date and adequate? 3. Do freshmen have opportunities to take courses with the “top” or “major” professors? 4. What is the typical class size? For freshmen? For upperclassmen? 5. Are library facilities sufficient? Would you want to spend a great deal of time there? What are the hours for student use? 6. Does the campus have appeal in general? 7. How near is the campus to the local community? Where is the nearest pizza? Are drugstores convenient? 8. Is the campus clean and orderly? Do student exhibit a pride in the college appearance? 9. What is the condition of the buildings? 10. What are the dormitories like? Must freshmen live in the dorms? May students decorate their rooms? How many to a room or suite? What are the dorm regulations? Are there student facilities in the dorms? Quiet hours? 11. What is the computer access in your room? An access fee? Computer centers available on campus? 12. Where are the dining facilities located? Are students required to buy meal contracts? How many meals are served per day? 13. What activities go on at the student union? 14. Are there fraternity/sorority houses? What percent of students belong? What effect do fraternities/sororities have on student life as a whole? 15. Is religious affiliation significant? Are there religious organizations to suit your purposes? 16. Are there good athletic facilities? Intercollegiate athletics? Intramural athletics? 17. What is the relationship between students-faculty-administrators? Do faculty members seem accessible, friendly, and helpful? 18. Do the students seem serious about their educational experience? Is there a country club atmosphere? Good balance? 19. What are the financial aid opportunities? Work opportunities? 20. What are the unique programs? Travel abroad programs? Internship or practical work experience in field of interest? 21. What percentage of students goes on to graduate study and to which graduate schools? What national recognition have students received? 22. What cultural activities are available on or near the campus? Are speakers, plays, musicians and other artists brought to the campus? 23. Do the majority of students leave the campus on the weekend? What do students do on typical weekends? 24. What club and student activity groups are available? 25. What are the traditions of the college? 26. What is the ratio of men to women? Where do the students come from? 27. How do you get there? How far to the nearest bus, plane or train? 28. Are advisors readily available? Is there an organized, professional counseling service for students? 29. What percentage of the freshman class is around to graduate in four years? 30. Are there tutoring services available on campus?

65 Interview and Essay Preparation

Throughout the admissions process, you will constantly be asked to reflect upon yourself and your activities. The following questions are provided to help you begin thinking about your special talents and anything else you especially want the Admissions Committee to know about yourself.

1. Do you have any special interest which you feel is unusually or especially important to you?

2. Other than academics, what do you feel are your own special talents and how have you discovered them?

3. What do you feel are your weaknesses? What especially would you like to correct?

4. What are the qualities you most often admire in other people?

5. Have you been personally responsible for any innovations or constructive ideas adopted by your high school?

6. Do you consider yourself a leader or follower? On what basis?

7. Why do you want to go to college?

8. What is your attitude toward academics? Do you expect it will change in college?

9. What motivates you to learn?

10. Have you gone through a particular experience, which has affected your life? Made a special friend? Took an important trip? Had a joyful or sad experience?

Prompts are provided in ‘Apply Texas’ to use as sample essays.

66 SAMPLE LETTER OR ONLINE INFORMATION FOR COLLEGE INQUIRIES

Pick a paragraph (or a combination of paragraphs) that meets your needs: Paragraph A: Information Request Letter Paragraph B: Campus Visit Letter Paragraph C: Financial Aid Letter Paragraph D: Housing Information Letter Paragraph E: Credit-By-Examination Letter (Date) Office of (Admissions) (Financial Aid) (Housing) Name of College Street Address City, State, Zip Code

To Whom It May Concern:

I am a student at High School and will graduate in of 20_ . (month)

A. Pl ease send me an appl i cat i on f or admi ssi on and i nf or mat i on about y our col l ege ( gen- er al i nf or mat i on bul l et i n, col l ege cost s, and pr ogr am descr i pt i ons) . I am consi der i ng ______as my major.

B. I am i nt er est ed i n v i si t i ng y our campus, t ak i ng a campus t our , and meet i ng wi t h an Admissions Counselor. Since I am considering ______as my major, I would al so l i k e t o meet wi t h someone f r om t hat depar t ment , i f possi bl e. Pl ease adv i se me of a dat e and t i me t hat woul d be conv eni ent .

C. M y par ent s and I woul d l i k e t o i nv est i gat e col l ege cost s and possi bl e sour ces of f i nanci al ai d. Pl ease send us i nf or mat i on about what i t cost s, how and when t o appl y f or f i nanci al ai d, and what f or ms ar e necessar y .

D. I am wr i t i ng t o r equest i nf or mat i on f or on- campus housi ng. Pl ease send me l ocat i on of dormitories, cost of dormitories, deposit fee information, and a housing application.

E. I am i nt er est ed i n y our cr edi t - by - ex ami nat i on pr ogr am. Pl ease send me i nf or mat i on r egar di ng t he pr ogr am( s) , dat e f or y our depar t ment al t est ( s) , and deadl i ne( s) f or t hese opportunities.

I plan to enroll in college the term, 20 . Thank you. Sincerely, Your Signature (Your Name) (Your Address)

67 College Planning Worksheet

College 1 College 2 College 3 LOCATION * distance from home SIZE * enrollment * size of campus ENVIRONMENT * setting (urban, rural) * locaiton & size of nearest city * religious affiliation * male/female ration ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS * deadline * tests required * average SAT scores * average ACT scores * rank in top 10% * rank in top 25% * rank in top 50% * acceptance rate * admissions notification date ACADEMICS * your major offered * special requirements * student/faculty ratio * average class size * who teaches 1st yr. Classes * average graduation rate * support services available COLLEGE EXPENSES * tuition, room, & board * estimated total budget * application fee and deposits FINANCIAL AID * deadline * forms required * % receiving aid * scholarship awards HOUSING * availability for freshmen * food plan FACILITIES * academic * recreatonal * computer access CAMPUS VISITS * when * special opportunities

68 Preparing for college

Choose A Rigorous and Challenging Curriculum Success in challenging college preparatory courses is the best preparation for a selective college. The more demanding your high school course of study, the better your chances are for admission to and success at the selective college of your choice. Check with the colleges you are interested in regarding their admissions standards.

Advanced Placement Courses: Advanced placement courses demonstrate your ability to handle advanced work. Colleges view advanced placement courses as a sign of your willingness to accept a challenge and as evidence of your intellectual curiosity. The members of most college admissions committees will take special note of students with at least one advanced placement course on their high school transcript. However, this does not mean that you must take advanced placement courses to be admitted to a college.

Dual Credit Courses: Courses taken for college credit which also meet in most cases high school graduation courses. The teachers of these courses must meet the college standard and the syllabus of the course demonstrates college type learning. Dual credit is generally accepted by colleges in the state of Texas.

What Counts Most? Copied with Success in a demanding college preparatory program is the first priority for a permission of college when it reviews an application for admission. Yet, it is the Randolph-Macon combination of courses, grade-point average and rank, standardized test College, Ashland, Virginia scores, out-of-class experiences, and even the essay on the application that determines your preparedness for a selective college.

Application: You cannot be admitted if you do not complete an application to the college. Most colleges prefer an online application and direct communication with them. Check the college website for more information. Colleges review the application to learn about your in-school and extracurricular activities. Most colleges also require an essay. They use the essay to learn about you and also to judge your ability to express your thoughts in writing. Refer to the page devoted to Interview and Essay Preparation. The application is usually submitted in the fall of your senior year of high school.

Secondary School Record: Your high school record carries a great deal of weight. Slightly lower grades in more rigorous courses may be more important than higher grades in an easier program. A transcript which is requested from the registrar must accompany each college application.

College Entrance Exams: The SAT or ACT (usually taken no later than fall of the senior year) is required by most colleges. However, the importance a college places on the tests varies greatly.

Subject Tests Check your college(s) website to determine if SAT subject tests are required.

69 Recommendations: Recommendations from your high school Good luck with your college search! guidance counselor, principal, and/or teacher(s) are taken seriously by most selective colleges. The colleges use these as evidence of your potential, character, and classroom effect. Key people at your school who know you well are best able to give the college a fair and valuable assessment of you and your work. Out-of-Class Activities: Colleges seek students with a wide variety of interests and experiences. These colleges realize that the intellectual ability and the varied perspectives of their students contribute to the overall educational climate. Community service, student government, athletics, overseas study, unusual hobbies, as well as participation in theatre, music, art, dance, or academic clubs are viewed positively by selective colleges. However, participation in out-of-class activities will not compensate for a poor academic record.

The Interview: If a college you are considering encourages interviews, be sure to take advantage of the opportunity. The interview is an excellent way to determine if a college will really “fit” you. Admissions counselors at the college can answer most of your questions. In some cases an interview may make the difference in whether you are admitted or not. If you believe you may be a “marginal” candidate for admission to a specific college, request an interview. However, do your homework before you go. Have good questions and be sure you can explain why that college is attractive to you.

70 Common admission decision definitions you will want to know

Early Decision requires you to commit to a college or university at the time of application that, if admitted, you will enroll. You should apply under an Early Decision plan only if you know that you can make a well-reasoned, first-choice decision. Upon admission, the institution will require a nonrefundable deposit before May 1. You may apply to other colleges but may have only one Early Decision application pending at any time. Colleges will respond to requests for financial aid at or near the time admission is offered. If admitted, you must enroll unless the financial aid award is inadequate.

Early Action permits you to apply to a college or university of your choice and receive a decision early in the senior year, well in advance of the normal spring response dates. Though you will hear early regarding your admission, you are not committed to attend and you may apply to other colleges. If you are applying for financial aid you will follow the aid application deadlines set by the institution. You are not required to make a commitment before May 1, but you are encouraged to do so as soon as a final choice is made.

Regular Decision is a plan in which institutions review most of their applications before notifying the majority of candidates of their admission. In this process, colleges set a deadline for completing applications and will respond to completed You may have only applications by a specified date. If you are applying for financial one Early Decision aid you will follow aid application deadlines set by the school. You application pending may apply to other colleges. You will not be required to make a at any time decision regarding enrolling before May 1.

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

Wait List is a term used by institutions to describe a process in which they may initially delay offering or denying you admission, but rather extends to you the possibility of admission in the future. Colleges offer admission to wait list candidates if insufficient numbers of regularly admitted candidates accept their offers of admission. Please refer to the Statement of Students’ Rights and Responsibilities for the rights which you are assured if placed on a wait list.

71 Glossary of Collegiate Terms * Advanced Placement (AP) – Granting of credit and/or assignment to an advanced course on the basis of evidence that the student has mastered the concepts of the course. * American College Testing Program (ACT) – This organization administers the scholastic aptitude examination known as the American College Test. The ACT is one of the two major college entrance examinations.

* Application Form – A completed application form must be sent to the colleges to which you are applying. In many cases a completed FAFSA form must be attached. Please check your college(s) website to see what is required from them.

* Associate Degree – It is a planned and sequential two-year degree program usually offered by a community college. * Bachelor Degree – Awarded by a college or university for a program of study generally requiring four years of study. * CEEB – College Entrance Examination Board produces the PSAT, SAT, SAT Subject Tests, Advanced Placement, and other test instruments. * College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) – A series of general and subject examinations for the evaluation of abilities of college applicants whose education has been achieved in such non-traditional ways as independent reading, on-the-job training, or correspondence courses. * College Work Study – Federally-funded program that enables college students to earn money from non-profit organizations assigned by the college.

* Dual Credit – Taking a course or courses which earn credit for both college and high school graduation. * Early Decision – Some colleges offer students the opportunity of receiving action on their admissions applications in the seventh term of high school. There are two types of Early Decision plans: the single choice plan and the first choice plan. In the single choice plan, the student can make no applications to other colleges until he has received notification from his Early Decision college. In the first choice plan, the student may apply to other colleges, but he names the early Decision application as his first choice and agrees to enroll at that college and withdraw all other applications if he is accepted. * FAFSA– Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The application required for grants, student and/or parent loans and financial aid at college. * Grant – An award of money given to a college student that requires neither repayment nor performance of a service.

* Honors Program – Any program offering opportunity for superior students to enrich their educational experience through independent, advanced, or accelerated study.

72 * Hours – A means of counting credits for course work, also may denote amount of time in class per week. * Major – The subject of study in which the student chooses to specialize; a series of related courses, taken primarily in the junior and senior years. * PSAT / NMSQT – Preliminary Scholastic Assessment/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. * Pell Grant – Federal funds awarded to students based upon an eligibility index that determines financial need. * Rolling Admissions – This means that a college gives an admissions decision as soon  as possible after an application is completed and does not specify an application or a notification deadline. Usually, it is wise to apply early to colleges using this procedure, since further applications are normally not accepted after the admissions quota has been reached. * SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) – A multiple-choice test designed to measure proficiency in mathematical and verbal ability and composition skills designed by the College Entrance Examination Board. It is used as an entrance examination by many colleges. * SAT (Subject Tests) – Tests given by the College Entrance Examination Board to measure ability in different subject areas.

* Scholarship – Financial award based on need, scholastic achievement, merit, special interest, or some special affiliation. This money may be given by a college, governmental agency, corporation, or private group. It is an outright gift and does not need to be repaid. * Transcript – A record of a student's grades, kept by the registrar. * THEA – Texas Higher Education Assessment. Mastery in mathematics, reading and writing is required for students entering state institutions in Texas. Certain colleges will place a student in remedial courses if the student has not taken and demonstrated mastery prior to entry.

* TEXAS GRANT – Funds awarded to students who graduate from high school with the recommended or distinguished diploma and who meet the financial need guidelines.

73 SELECTED REFERENCES

College and Financial Aid Reference Materials

These materials may be available in the counseling office, school library or local library.

Barron's Profile of American Colleges, Barron's Educational Series

Collegeboard.com

The College Cost Book, The College Entrance Examination Board

College Handbook, The College Entrance Examination Board

Compendium of Texas Colleges and Financial Aid Calendar, Minnie Stevens Piper Foundation

Educational Opportunities in Texas, Coordinating Board, Texas College and University System

Going Right On, The College Entrance Examination Board Publication

Lovejoy's College Guide, Simon and Schuster

Need a Lift?, American Legion

Peterson's Guide to College Admissions, Peterson's Guides, Inc.

Job and Career Information

Public Libraries:

Most public libraries have the following kinds of career occupational information:

• Print resources (lists of local, state, federal and international job opportunities; newspapers from other cities; job hunters' newspapers and special supplements; descriptions of jobs)

• Information about associations and professional organizations (directories listing convention information, addresses and publications; interviews at conferences, workshops and seminars; professional joblines or hotlines)

• Information on specific careers (salaries, qualifications, benefits, job market outlook)

74 • Information about potential employers (size of company, locations of offices, types of jobs, salaries)

• Information about special populations (people over 40, women, minorities, handicapped, mid-life career changers)

• Information about job search methods (lists of resources on the job search, how to decide on the right career for you, how to write a résumé, how to prepare for the interview)

• Sample military tests, sample civil service tests and tests for specific occupations

Standard References:

The following is a list of titles, each of which is followed by the publisher and a summary of content. Although each library and career center has its own resource collection, the following are standard resources with which you should become familiar:

The Career Guide. Dun's Employment Opportunity Directory. Provides an overview, career opportunities, location of offices, benefits, addresses and contact persons for U.S. companies with 1,000 plus employees.

Career Information Center. Glencoe/Macmillan. Maintains 600 occupational profiles that review the work characteristics, job entry, education and training requirements, advancement, employment outlook and earnings and benefits for 3,000 jobs.

Discover What You're Best At: The National Career Aptitude System and Career Directory by Barry Gale. An administered and self-scored career aptitude evaluation system that discusses career strengths, career goals, job potential and potential careers.

The Encyclopedia of Careers and Vocational Guidance. J.G. Ferguson Publishing Company. A three-volume reference with information on careers, personality type for specific jobs, education requirements, opportunities, related occupations and starting salaries.

National Job Bank. Bob Adams, Inc. Details the hiring activity, educational requirements and benefits of specific occupations; gives the names, addresses, phone numbers and contact people for information on available jobs; and includes a state listing of companies, what they do and whom they hire.

75 Dictionary of Occupational Titles. U.S. Department of Labor. Offers a comprehensive, standardized description of the duties of 20,000 occupations. DOT is designed to match job requirements and workers' skills.

Occupational Outlook Handbook. U.S. Department of Labor. Includes information on specific jobs, working conditions, training and education requirements, earnings projections and job prospects.

The American Almanac of Jobs and Salaries. Avon. Includes job descriptions, predictions for employment opportunities, salary data by place, jobs for recent college graduates and a comparison of salaries by city, region, state and company for all types of jobs.

Index of Majors, College Board.

Computer Software and Video Tapes

Various software packages and video tapes on topics such as career exploration, college entrance examinations, financial aid information, and college selection may be available for student check out in the school library. Additionally, the libraries may contain selected study guide software licensures. Consult your school librarian for information and assistance.

Computer Assisted Career Guidance Programs

Choices or eChoices is a database which can give you in-depth information on 748 careers and 4,132 colleges/universities/technical and trade schools. Also available is information on military careers and financial aid. Students can take an interest inventory through Choices.

The College Board Fund Finder is a guidance software program designed to provide updated, accurate information about college costs, financial aid, scholarships, and loans. Personalized student data can be put into the program to provide a report streamlined to individual student needs.

Contact the career counselor in your building or your guidance counselor for information regarding the use of computer assisted career guidance programs.

76 Ten things every parent should know about the college application process

1. Relax – Your son or daughter will thank you. Much of the stress that parents feel in the admissions process is self-induced. Choosing colleges, applying, getting admitted, and deciding where to enroll isn’t easy. There’s a lot of work involved, and it’s drawn out over a long period of time. The best way to avoid stress is to plan slowly and deliberately, using a calendar that builds in an ample cushion for time-sensitive endeavors.

2. Make a plan-of-action calendar – and stick to it! Together with your son or daughter and his or her college counselor, construct an outline for the entire college admissions process, from initial browsing for information to deciding where to attend. Create an itinerary for visiting colleges and fathering your financial information for filing aid forms. Post the calendar in a handy location, touching base periodically with your child to monitor progress.

3. Plan out your tests. In this competitive admissions environment, standardized tests are becoming increasingly important. In addition to the SAT I and ACT, the most important college admissions tests, there are other exams students should consider. The PSAT not only helps student practice for the SAT, it allows them to qualify for National Merit scholarships. The SAT II, formerly known as the Achievement Tests, are necessary for admissions to many competitive colleges; student should take each subject test immediately after they finish the class. Advanced Placement exams are administered in a variety of subjects. Passing the AP test with a certain score may mean that students are able to receive college credit or even pass out of a certain college prerequisite courses. Students should take AP tests after they have taken AP courses.

4. Have your child contact the college admissions offices. Assist your child in making his/her calls to the college admission officers, but remember to allow your child the opportunity to make those calls themselves.

5. Keep copies of everything. Set up file folders for each college to which your child is applying. Keep all correspondence within these folders. Document phone calls as well – always get the names of titles of those with whom you have had contact. Quick and comprehensive access to all pertinent materials will pay off in the long run.

6. File all financial aid forms as soon as possible after January 1. Do all tax forms promptly so you can complete the required financial aid applications. Be sure to do a good job of recordkeeping and filing so that you can complete the forms.

77 7. Be on the lookout for scholarship opportunities for your son or daughter. Many employers, social clubs, and religious organizations offer scholarships. Be sure to check with these organizations early, before your child’s senior year. A lot of these programs have selection calendars that do not mesh with the college admissions calendar. Constantly search college websites, the school website, school newsletters, scholarship postings in your senior classes, etc. Don’t miss out due to lack of awareness.

8. Visit your child’s top college options. If you can, visit all of the colleges where your child is applying. There is no substitute for a campus visit, and college-produced videos are not “the next best thing.” And never stick strictly to a “packaged” admissions visit consisting of an information session/interview and a slide show or tour. Balance the experience by lunching on your own in the dining hall and browsing around campus. When you do visit, make sure that you allow enough time on campus for your son or daughter to explore on his or her own – the perfect time for you to meet with a financial aid officer. If you can not visit in person take a virtual tour of a campus.

9. Be aware of new methods that make the application process easier. Most colleges now have their application for admission on their website. You can either download and print the application or apply online. Additional resources are available in the counseling office at your child’s school.

10. Remember that you’re not going to college; your child is. There’s no doubt that you should have some say in the matter, just remember to keep it in perspective. Parental input should focus on the mechanics of making a choice, not on the choice itself. Be frank and direct about any absolutes, such as financial limitations, but be low-key and reserved about the characteristics you think they want in a college. Think about helping your child choose the best college for him or her.

78 Student athletes

If you are planning to participate in Division I or Division II college athletics, you must be certified by the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Center. The Center insures that each student meets certain academic standards in order to be eligible as a student athlete. It is imperative that you contact the Center about your individual circumstances at:

NCAA Eligibility Center mailing address:

NCAA Eligibility Center P.O. Box 7136 Indianapolis, IN 46207 Phone (877) 262-1492 Fax (317) 968-5100

Website: http://www.eligibilitycenter.org/

Student Responsibilities

1. Make sure that you contact the Center directly so that you can stay abreast of their requirements. 2. In May of your senior year, complete Final Transcript Request form to have a transcript mailed to NCAA Center after graduation. (This is in addition to the final transcript mailed to the college you have decided to attend.) 3. Questions? See your coach.

Student athletes and their parents should sign a release form in the athletic office so records can be released to coaches for recruiting purposes.

79 2014-2015 PROCEDURES FOR COLLEGE AND SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS

Parents and Students: Please read these instructions carefully.

TRANSCRIPTS: • Transcript request must be in writing • All official transcripts must be mailed by the appropriate high school to the appropriate institution.

COLLEGE APPLICATIONS: • Bring the counselor page, if required, to your counselor at least two weeks prior to the due date. • Included with the completed application should be all appropriate paperwork, the application fee, etc. which is then given to the registrar to include the transcript.

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS: • There are no processing fees for scholarship applications. Transcript fees still apply.

DEADLINES: • All requests for counselor recommendations are due to the counselor at lease three (3) weeks before the official application deadline. Counselors establish priorities based on application deadlines. • Pay close attention to school holidays and deadlines that occur during winter break. BE SURE TO BE AWARE OF YOUR HIGH SCHOOL’S DEADLINE FOR REQUESTS FOR RECOMMENDATIONS. • Transcript requests only (no counselor section required) are due NO LATER THAN one week prior to the official college deadline. • Of course, it is always better to submit your requests as soon as possible.

PLEASE DO NOT IGNORE THESE DEADLINES. WE CANNOT GUARANTEE THAT WE WILL BE ABLE TO PROCESS YOUR APPLICATIONS BY THE DEADLINE IF YOU TURN THEM IN AT THE LAST MINUTE.

80 2010-11 First-year Application For Spring 2011 or Fall 2011 Enrollment

APPLICANT Legal Name ______Last/Family/Sur (Enter name exactly as it appears on official documents.) First/Given Middle (complete) Jr., etc. Preferred name, if not ﬁrst name (choose only one) ______Former last name(s), if any ______Birth Date ______ Female Male US Social Security Number, if any ______mm/dd/yyyy Optional, unless applying for US Federal financial aid with the FAFSA form Preferred Telephone Home Cell Home (______) ______Cell (______) ______Area/Country/City Code Area/Country/City Code E-mail Address ______IM Address ______Permanent home address ______Number & Street Apartment # ______City/Town County or Parish State/Province Country ZIP/Postal Code If different from above, please give your current mailing address for all admission correspondence. (from ______to ______) (mm/dd/yyyy) (mm/dd/yyyy) Current mailing address ______Number & Street Apartment # ______City/Town County or Parish State/Province Country ZIP/Postal Code If your current mailing address is a boarding school, include name of school here: ______

FUTURE PLANS Your answers to these questions will vary for different colleges. If the online system did not ask you to answer some of the questions you see in this section, this college chose not to ask that question of its applicants.

College ______Deadline ______mm/dd/yyyy Entry Term: Fall (Jul-Dec) Spring (Jan-Jun) Do you intend to apply for need-based ﬁnancial aid? Yes No Decision Plan ______Do you intend to apply for merit-based scholarships? Yes No Academic Interests ______Do you intend to be a full-time student? Yes No ______Do you intend to enroll in a degree program your ﬁrst year? Yes No ______Do you intend to live in college housing? ______Career Interest ______What is the highest degree you intend to earn? ______

DEMOGRAPHICS

Citizenship Status ______1. Are you Hispanic/Latino? Non-US Citizenship ______ Yes, Hispanic or Latino (including Spain) No ______Please describe your background ______2. Regardless of your answer to the prior question, please indicate how you identify yourself. (Check all that apply.) Years lived in the US? ______ American Indian or Alaska Native (including all Original Peoples of the Americas) Birthplace ______Are you Enrolled? Yes No If yes, please enter Tribal Enrollment Number______City/Town State/Province Country First Language ______Please describe your background ______ Primary language spoken at home ______Asian (including Indian subcontinent and Philippines) Are you proﬁcient in any other languages? ______Please describe your background ______ Black or African American (including Africa and Caribbean) ______Optional The items with a gray background are optional. No information you Please describe your background ______provide will be used in a discriminatory manner. Native Hawaiian or Other Paciﬁc Islander (Original Peoples) Marital Status ______Please describe your background ______Religious Preference ______ White (including Middle Eastern) US Armed Services veteran? Yes No Please describe your background ______

81 © 2010 The Common Application, Inc. AP-1 / 2010-11 FAMILY Please list both parents below, even if one or more is deceased or no longer has legal responsibilities toward you. Many colleges collect this information for demographic purposes even if you are an adult or an emancipated minor. If you are a minor with a legal guardian (an individual or government entity), then please list that information below as well. If you wish, you may list step-parents and/or other adults with whom you reside, or who otherwise care for you, in the Additional Information section. Household Parents’ marital status (relative to each other): Never Married Married Widowed Separated Divorced (date ______) mm/yyyy With whom do you make your permanent home? Parent 1 Parent 2 Both Legal Guardian Ward of the Court/State Other Parent 1: Mother Father Unknown Parent 2: Mother Father Unknown Is Parent 1 living? Yes No (Date Deceased ______) Is Parent 2 living? Yes No (Date Deceased ______) mm/yyyy mm/yyyy ______Last/Family/Sur First/Given Middle Title (Mr./Ms./Dr., etc.) Last/Family/Sur First/Given Middle Title (Mr./Ms./Dr., etc.)

Country of birth ______Country of birth ______Home address if different from yours Home address if different from yours

______

______Preferred Telephone: Home Cell Work Preferred Telephone: Home Cell Work (______) ______(______) ______Area/Country/City Code Area/Country/City Code E-mail ______E-mail ______

Occupation ______Occupation ______

Employer ______Employer ______

College (if any) ______CEEB ______College (if any) ______CEEB ______

Degree ______Year ______Degree ______Year ______

Graduate School (if any) ______CEEB ______Graduate School (if any) ______CEEB ______

Degree ______Year ______Degree ______Year ______

Legal Guardian (if other than a parent) Siblings Please give names and ages of your brothers or sisters. If they are enrolled in Relationship to you ______grades K-12 (or international equivalent), list their grade levels. If they have attended or are currently attending college, give the names of the undergraduate ______institution, degree earned, and approximate dates of attendance. If more than Last/Family/Sur First/Given Middle Title (Mr./Ms./Dr., etc.) three siblings, please list them in the Additional Information section. Home address if different from yours ______Name Age & Grade Relationship College Attended ______CEEB ______Preferred Telephone: Home Cell Work Degree earned ______Dates ______or expected mm/yyyy – mm/yyyy (______) ______Area/Country/City Code ______E-mail ______Name Age & Grade Relationship College Attended ______CEEB ______Occupation ______Degree earned ______Dates ______Employer ______or expected mm/yyyy – mm/yyyy

College (if any) ______CEEB ______Name Age & Grade Relationship Degree ______Year ______College Attended ______CEEB ______Graduate School (if any) ______CEEB ______Degree earned ______Dates ______Degree ______Year ______or expe82ct mm/yyyy – mm/yyyy 83 © 2010 The Common Application, Inc. AP-2 / 2010-11 EDUCATION Secondary Schools Current or most recent secondary school attended ______

Entry Date ______Graduation Date ______School Type: Public Charter Independent Religious Home School mm/yyyy mm/dd/yyyy Address ______CEEB/ACT Code ______Number & Street ______City/Town State/Province Country ZIP/Postal Code Counselor’s Name (Mr./Ms./Dr., etc.) ______Counselor’s Title ______

E-mail ______Telephone (______) ______Fax (______) ______Area/Country/City Code Number Ext. Area/Country/City Code Number List all other secondary schools you have attended since 9th grade, including summer schools or enrichment programs hosted on a secondary school campus: School Name & CEEB/ACT Code Location (City, State/Province, ZIP/Postal Code, Country) Dates Attended (mm/yyyy) ______Please list any community program/organization that has provided free assistance with your application process: ______If your education was or will be interrupted, please indicate so here and provide details in the Additional Information section: ______

Colleges & Universities List all colleges you have attended since 9th grade, including summer schools or enrichment programs hosted on a college campus: College/University Name & CEEB/ACT Code Location (City, State/Province, ZIP/Postal Code, Country) Degree Candidate? Dates Attended Degree Earned Yes No mm/yyyy – mm/yyyy ______ ______ ______ ______

ACADEMICS The self-reported information in this section is not intended to take the place of your official records. Please note the requirements of each institution to which you are applying and arrange for official transcripts and score reports to be sent from your secondary school and the appropriate testing agencies. Where “Best Scores” are requested, please report the highest individual scores you have earned so far, even if those scores are from different test dates. Grades Class Rank ______Class Size ______Weighted? Yes No GPA ______Scale ______Weighted? Yes No (if available) (if available) ACT Exam Dates: ______Best Scores: ______(past & future) mm/yyyy mm/yyyy mm/yyyy (so far) COMP mm/yyyy English mm/yyyy Math mm/yyyy ______Reading mm/yyyy Science mm/yyyy Writing mm/yyyy SAT Exam Dates: ______Best Scores: ______(past & future) mm/yyyy mm/yyyy mm/yyyy (so far) Critical Reading mm/yyyy Math mm/yyyy Writing mm/yyyy TOEFL/ Exam Dates: ______Best Score: ______IELTS (past & future) mm/yyyy mm/yyyy mm/yyyy (so far) Test Score mm/yyyy AP/IB/SAT Best Scores: ______Subjects (per subject, so far) mm/yyyy Type & Subject Score mm/yyyy Type & Subject Score ______mm/yyyy Type & Subject Score mm/yyyy Type & Subject Score ______mm/yyyy Type & Subject Score mm/yyyy Type & Subject Score ______mm/yyyy Type & Subject Score mm/yyyy Type & Subject Score Current Courses Please indicate title, level (AP, IB, advanced honors, etc.) and credit value of all courses you are taking this year. Indicate quarter classes taken in the same semester on the appropriate semester line. First Semester/Trimester Second Semester/Trimester Third Trimester or additional first/second term courses if more space is needed ______83 84 ______© 2010 The Common Application, Inc. AP-3 / 2010-11 Honors Briefly list any academic distinctions or honors you have received since the 9th grade or international equivalent (e.g., National Merit, Cum Laude Society). Grade level or Honor Level of Recognition post-graduate (PG) School State/ National Inter- 9 101112PG Regional national ______ ______ ______ ______ ______

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & WORK EXPERIENCE Extracurricular Please list your principal extracurricular, volunteer, and work activities in their order of importance to you. Feel free to group your activities and paid work experience separately if you prefer. Use the space available to provide details of your activities and accomplishments (speciﬁc events, varsity letter, musical instrument, employer, etc.). To allow us to focus on the highlights of your activities, please complete this section even if you plan to attach a résumé.

Grade level or Approximate When did you participate If applicable, post-graduate (PG) time spent in the activity? do you plan Positions held, honors won, letters earned, or employer Summer/ to participate 9 10 11 12 PG Hours Weeks School School per week per year year Break in college?

______ Activity ______

______ Activity ______Activity

______4______ ______ 85

Short Answer Please brieﬂy elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities or work experiences in the space below or on an attached sheet (150 words or fewer).

______

Personal Essay Please write an essay (250 words minimum) on a topic of your choice or on one of the options listed below, and attach it to your application before submission. Please indicate your topic by checking the appropriate box. This personal essay helps us become acquainted with you as a person and student, apart from courses, grades, test scores, and other objective data. It will also demonstrate your ability to organize your thoughts and express yourself. NOTE: Your Common Application essay should be the same for all colleges. Do not customize it in any way for individual colleges. Colleges that want customized essay responses will ask for them on a supplement form. Evaluate a significant experience, achievement, risk you have taken, or ethical dilemma you have faced and its impact on you. Discuss some issue of personal, local, national, or international concern and its importance to you. Indicate a person who has had a significant influence on you, and describe that influence. Describe a character in fiction, a historical figure, or a creative work (as in art, music, science, etc.) that has had an influence on you, and explain that influence. A range of academic interests, personal perspectives, and life experiences adds much to the educational mix. Given your personal background, describe an experience that illustrates what you would bring to the diversity in a college community or an encounter that demonstrated the importance of diversity to you. Topic of your choice. Additional Information If there is any additional information you’d like to provide regarding special circumstances, additional qualifications, etc., please do so in the space below or on an attached sheet.

______

______Disciplinary History Have you ever been found responsible for a disciplinary violation at any educational institution you have attended from 9th grade (or the international equivalent) forward, whether related to academic misconduct or behavioral misconduct, that resulted in your probation, suspension, removal, dismissal, or expulsion from the institution? Yes No Have you ever been adjudicated guilty or convicted of a misdemeanor, felony, or other crime? Yes No [Note that you are not required to answer “yes” to this question, or provide an explanation, if the criminal adjudication or conviction has been expunged, sealed, annulled, pardoned, destroyed, erased, impounded, or otherwise ordered by a court to be kept conﬁdential.] If you answered “yes” to either or both questions, please attach a separate sheet of paper that gives the approximate date of each incident, explains the circumstances, and reﬂects on what you learned from the experience.

SIGNATURE

Application Fee Payment If this college requires an application fee, how will you be paying it? Online Payment Will Mail Payment Online Fee Waiver Request Will Mail Fee Waiver Request Required Signature I certify that all information submitted in the admission process-including the application, the personal essay, any supplements, and any other supporting materials-is my own work, factually true, and honestly presented, and that these documents will become the property of the institutions to which I am applying and will not be returned to me. I understand that I may be subject to a range of possible disciplinary actions, including admission revocation, expulsion, or revocation of course credit, grades, and degree should the information I have certified be false. I acknowledge that I have reviewed the application instructions for each college receiving this application. I understand that all offers of admission are conditional, pending receipt of final transcripts showing work comparable in quality to that upon which the offer was based, as well as honorable dismissal from the school. I affirm that I will send an enrollment deposit (or equivalent) to only one institution; sending multiple deposits (or equivalent) may result in the withdrawal of my admission offers from all institutions. [Note: students may send an enrollment deposit (or equivalent) to a second institution where they have been admitted from the waitlist, provided that they inform the first institution that they will no longer be enrolling.]

Signature ______Date ______mm/dd/yyyy

Common Application member institution admission offices do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, creed, sex, age, marital status, parental status, physical disability, learning disability, political affiliation, veteran status, or sexual orientation. 85 © 2010 The Common Application, Inc. AP-5 / 2010-11 2010-11 Teacher Evaluation TE For Spring 2011 or Fall 2011 Enrollment

TO THE APPLICANT After completing all the relevant questions below, give this form to a teacher who has taught you an academic subject (for example, English, foreign language, math, science, or social studies). If applying via mail, please also give that teacher stamped envelopes addressed to each institution that requires a Teacher Evaluation.

Female Legal Name ______ Male Last/Family/Sur (Enter name exactly as it appears on official documents.) First/Given Middle (complete) Jr., etc.

Birth Date ______Social Security # ______mm/dd/yyyy (Optional)

Address ______Number & Street Apartment # City/Town State/Province Country ZIP/Postal Code

School you now attend ______CEEB/ACT Code ______

IMPORTANT PRIVACY NOTICE: Under the terms of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), after you matriculate you will have access to this form and all other recommendations and supporting documents submitted by you and on your behalf, unless at least one of the following is true: 1. The institution does not save recommendations post-matriculation (see list at www.commonapp.org/FERPA). 2. You waive your right to access below, regardless of the institution to which it is sent: Yes, I do waive my right to access, and I understand I will never see this form or any other recommendations submitted by me or on my behalf. No, I do not waive my right to access, and I may someday choose to see this form or any other recommendations or supporting documents submitted by me or on my behalf to the institution at which I'm enrolling, if that institution saves them after I matriculate. Required Signature ______Date ______

TO THE TEACHER The Common Application membership finds candid evaluations helpful in choosing from among highly qualified candidates. You are encouraged to keep this form in your private files for use should the student need additional recommendations. Please submit your references promptly, and remember to sign below.

Teacher’s Name (Mr./Ms./Dr., etc.) ______Subject Taught ______Please print or type

Signature ______Date ______mm/dd/yyyy

Secondary School ______

School Address ______Number & Street City/Town State/Province Country ZIP/Postal Code

Teacher’s Telephone (______) ______Teacher’s E-mail ______Area/Country/City Code Number Ext.

Background Information How long have you known this student and in what context? ______

What are the ﬁrst words that come to your mind to describe this student? ______

List the courses you have taught this student, noting for each the student’s year in school (10th, 11th, 12th; ﬁrst-year, sophomore; etc.) and the level of course difﬁculty (AP, IB, accelerated, honors, elective; 100-level, 200-level; etc.).

______

86 8686 TEACHER EVALUATION 1 Ratings Compared to other students in his or her class year, how do you rate this student in terms of:

Very good One of the top few Good (well above Excellent Outstanding I’ve encountered No basis Below average Average (above average) average) (top 10%) (top 5%) (top 1%) Academic achievement Intellectual promise Quality of writing Creative, original thought Productive class discussion Respect accorded by faculty Disciplined work habits Maturity Motivation Leadership Integrity Reaction to setbacks Concern for others Self-conﬁdence Initiative, independence OVERALL

Evaluation Please write whatever you think is important about this student, including a description of academic and personal characteristics, as demonstrated in your classroom. We welcome information that will help us to differentiate this student from others. (Feel free to attach an additional sheet or another reference you may have prepared on behalf of this student.)

8 7 TEACHER EVALUATION 1 2010-11 SECONDARY school report SR For Spring 2011 or Fall 2011 Enrollment

TO THE APPLICANT After completing all the relevant questions below, give this form to your secondary school counselor or another school ofﬁcial who knows you better. If applying via mail, please also give that school ofﬁcial stamped envelopes addressed to each institution that requires a Secondary School Report. Female Legal Name ______ Male Last/Family/Sur (Enter name exactly as it appears on official documents.) First/Given Middle (complete) Jr., etc. Birth Date ______Social Security # ______mm/dd/yyyy (Optional) Address ______Number & Street Apartment # City/Town State/Province Country ZIP/Postal Code School you now attend ______CEEB/ACT Code ______

Current year courses—please indicate title, level (AP, IB, advanced honors, etc.) and credit value of all courses you are taking this year. Indicate quarter classes taken in the same semester on the appropriate semester line. First Semester/Trimester Second Semester/Trimester Third Trimester or additional ﬁrst/second term courses if more space is needed

______

IMPORTANT PRIVACY NOTE: By signing this form, I authorize all schools that I have attended to release all requested records covered under the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) so that my application may be reviewed by the Common Application member institution(s) to which I am applying. I further authorize the admission ofﬁcers reviewing my application, including seasonal staff employed for the sole purpose of evaluating applications, to contact ofﬁcials at my current and former schools should they have questions about the school forms submitted on my behalf. I understand that under the terms of the FERPA, after I matriculate I will have access to this form and all other recommendations and supporting documents submitted by me and on my behalf, unless at least one of the following is true: 1. The institution does not save recommendations post-matriculation (see list at www.commonapp.org/FERPA). 2. I waive my right to access below, regardless of the institution to which it is sent: Yes, I do waive my right to access, and I understand I will never see this form or any other recommendations submitted by me or on my behalf. No, I do not waive my right to access, and I may someday choose to see this form or any other recommendations or supporting documents submitted by me or on my behalf to the institution at which I’m enrolling, if that institution saves them after I matriculate. Required Signature ______Date ______

TO THE SECONDARY SCHOOL COUNSELOR Attach applicant’s ofﬁcial transcript, including courses in progress, a school proﬁle, and transcript legend. (Check transcript copies for readability.) Use both pages to complete your evaluation for this student. Be sure to sign below.

Counselor’s Name (Mr./Ms./Dr., etc.) ______Please print or type Signature ______Date ______mm/dd/yyyy Title ______School ______

Class Rank ______Class Size ______Covering a period from ______to ______. How many courses does your school offer: (mm/yyyy) (mm/yyyy) AP ______IB ______Honors ______The rank is weighted unweighted. How many students share this rank? ______If school policy limits the number a student may take, please list the maximum allowed: We do not rank. Instead, please indicate quartile ______quintile ______decile ______AP ______IB ______Honors ______Is the applicant an IB Diploma candidate? Yes No Cumulative GPA: ______on a ______scale, covering a period from ______to ______Are classes taken on a block schedule? Yes No (mm/yyyy) (mm/yyyy) In comparison with other college preparatory students This GPA is weighted unweighted. The school’s passing mark is ______. at your school, the applicant’s course selection is: Highest GPA in class ______Graduation Date ______most demanding (mm/dd/yyyy) very demanding demanding Percentage of graduating class immediately attending: ______four-year ______two-year institutions average below average

How long have you known this student and in what context? ______

What are the ﬁrst words that come to your mind to describe this student? ______

Ratings Compared to other students in his or her class year, how do you rate this student in terms of: Very good One of the top few Good (above (well above Excellent Outstanding I’ve encountered No basis Below average Average average) average) (top 10%) (top 5%) (top 1%) Academic achievement Extracurricular accomplishments Personal qualities and character OVERALL

Evaluation Please provide comments that will help us differentiate this student from others. Feel free to attach an additional sheet or another reference you’ve prepared for this student. We especially welcome a broad-based assessment and encourage you to consider describing or addressing: • The applicant’s academic, extracurricular, and personal characteristics. • Relevant context for the applicant’s performance and involvement, such as particularities of family situation or responsibilities, after-school work obligations, sibling childcare, or other circumstances, either positive or negative. • Observed problematic behaviors, perhaps separable from academic performance, that an admission committee should explore further.

Has the applicant ever been found responsible for a disciplinary violation at your school from 9th grade (or the international equivalent) forward, whether related to academic misconduct or behavioral misconduct, that resulted in the applicant’s probation, suspension, removal, dismissal, or expulsion from your institution? Yes No To your knowledge, has the applicant ever been adjudicated guilty or convicted of a misdemeanor, felony, or other crime? Yes No [Note that you are not required to answer “yes” to this question, or provide an explanation, if the criminal adjudication or conviction has been expunged, sealed, annulled, pardoned, destroyed, erased, impounded, or otherwise ordered to be kept conﬁdential by a court.] If you answered “yes” to either or both questions, please attach a separate sheet of paper or use your written recommendation to give the approximate date of each incident and explain the circumstances. Check here if you would prefer to discuss this applicant over the phone with each admission office.

I recommend this student: No basis With reservation Fairly strongly Strongly Enthusiastically 89 © 2010 The Common Application, Inc. SR-2 / 2010-11 2010-11 MIDYEAR Report MR For Spring 2011 or Fall 2011 Enrollment

TO THE APPLICANT After completing all the relevant questions below, give this form to your secondary school counselor or another school ofﬁcial who knows you better. If applying via mail, please also give that school ofﬁcial stamped envelopes addressed to each institution that requires a Midyear Report. Female Legal Name ______ Male Last/Family/Sur (Enter name exactly as it appears on official documents.) First/Given Middle (complete) Jr., etc. Birth Date ______Social Security # ______mm/dd/yyyy (Optional) Address ______Number & Street Apartment # City/Town State/Province Country ZIP/Postal Code School you now attend ______CEEB/ACT Code ______

______

TO THE SECONDARY SCHOOL COUNSELOR Please submit this form when midyear grades are available (end of first semester or second trimester). Attach applicant’s official transcript, including courses in progress, a school profile, and transcript legend. (Please check transcript copies for readability.) Use both pages to complete your evaluation for this student. Be sure to sign below.

Counselor’s Name (Mr./Ms./Dr., etc.) ______Please print or type Signature ______Date ______mm/dd/yyyy Title ______School ______

School Address ______City/Town State/Province Country ZIP/Postal Code Counselor’s Telephone (______) ______Counselor’s Fax (______) ______Area/Country/City Code Number Ext. Area/Country/City Code Number Secondary school CEEB/ACT code ______Counselor’s E-mail ______90 © 2010 The Common Application, Inc. MR-1 / 2010-11 Background Information If any of the information on this page has changed for this student since the Secondary School Report was submitted, please enter the new information in the appropriate section below. If your recommendation for this student has changed, please comment in the space below or on a separate sheet. If nothing has changed, you may leave this page blank. However, your signature is still required.

How long have you known this student and in what context? ______

What are the ﬁrst words that come to your mind to describe this student? ______

Evaluation Please use this space to elaborate on any changes in the student’s academic record, personal demeanor, or status at your school.

I recommend this student: No basis With reservation Fairly strongly Strongly Enthusiastically 91 © 2010 The Common Application, Inc. MR-2 / 2010-11 2010-11 ﬁnal Report FR For Spring 2011 or Fall 2011 Enrollment

TO THE APPLICANT After completing all the relevant questions below, give this form to your secondary school counselor or another school ofﬁcial who knows you better. If applying via mail, please also give that school ofﬁcial a stamped envelope addressed to the institution you plan to attend. Female Legal Name ______ Male Last/Family/Sur (Enter name exactly as it appears on official documents.) First/Given Middle (complete) Jr., etc. Birth Date ______Social Security # ______mm/dd/yyyy (Optional) Address ______Number & Street Apartment # City/Town State/Province Country ZIP/Postal Code School you now attend ______CEEB/ACT Code ______

______

TO THE SECONDARY SCHOOL COUNSELOR Please submit this form when final grades are available (end of second semester or third trimester). Attach applicant’s official transcript, a school profile, and transcript legend. (Please check transcript copies for readability.) Use both pages to complete your evaluation for this student. Be sure to sign below.

Counselor’s Name (Mr./Ms./Dr., etc.) ______Please print or type Signature ______Date ______mm/dd/yyyy Title ______School ______

School Address ______City/Town State/Province Country ZIP/Postal Code Counselor’s Telephone (______) ______Counselor’s Fax (______) ______Area/Country/City Code Number Ext. Area/Country/City Code Number Secondary school CEEB/ACT code ______Counselor’s E-mail ______92 © 2010 The Common Application, Inc. FR-1/ 2010-11 Background Information If any of the information on this page has changed for this student since the Midyear Report was submitted, please enter the new information in the appropriate section below. If your recommendation for this student has changed, please comment in the space below or on a separate sheet. If nothing has changed, you may leave this page blank. However, your signature is still required.

How long have you known this student and in what context? ______

What are the ﬁrst words that come to your mind to describe this student? ______

Evaluation Please use this space to elaborate on any changes in the student’s academic record, personal demeanor, or status at your school.

APPLY EARLY

BE ACCURATE AND COMPLETE

MAKE COPIES OF EVERYTHING YOU SUBMIT

MEET DEADLINES

The following is a brief summary of the admission process:

1. Complete accurately the application for admission and any other document as required by the college by the requested deadline. In some instances, the student will be required to write an essay or an autobiography. Students may also be required to include a photograph.

2. Attach the application fee, if required. Since this fee is non-refundable, it is advisable for the student to narrow choices before applying.

3. Refer to the Instructions For Submitting College and Scholarship Applications to get your Complete applications in a timely manner and applications processed efficiently. Give the copy everything registrar’s office sufficient time to process a transcript request.

4. Take the required tests needed for admission and have the score report sent to the colleges by the testing company.

5. Complete any required health forms.

6. Apply for housing by completing an application and submitting the required fee. The time to apply for housing varies from college to college.

7. Apply for financial aid. This is a separate procedure. Direct such requests to the Office of Financial Aid. Please note: Before a student can be considered for financial aid, he must be accepted for admission. An application for financial aid does not constitute an application for admission and vice versa.

8. Some colleges may require recommendations from high school teachers and the principal or counselor. Select teachers who know you well to write letters which will be sent to the college along with the transcript and applications.

94 9. Consult with the college admissions officer or the college catalog to be sure you have done all that is required before the deadline date for applications has passed.

10. If letters of recommendation are required, give at least three (3) weeks notice before the application deadline. See sample on the next page.

11. It is your responsibility to keep track of the status of your application, either through contact with a college admissions representative or on-line.

12. Arrange with the registrar’s office to have a final transcript sent upon graduation.

95 Resumes Some colleges and most employers will require a resume as part of the application package. This resume is a concise summary of your education, accomplishments, experience, and skills. It serves as a personal advertisement, enabling a prospective employer or college admissions counselor quickly to get a sense of who you are – your goals, your interests, your abilities.

All resumes contain much of the same information, such as:

• Name, address, phone number, social security number, e-mail address • Educational History • Honors and Achievements • Skills and Abilities • Organizations and Activities/Leadership Positions • Community Service • Work Experience

However, the resume you write to accompany your college or scholarship application will probably vary in organization and emphasis from one you would send with a job application. Just remember that the overall purpose is the same – to generate interest in you by highlighting your achievements and strengths. The following tips apply to all resumes.

• Be brief. Limit your resume to two pages. • Be neat and accurate. Proofread carefully. Remember that this resume is a reflection of you. • Emphasize your most significant achievements. Put your “best stuff’ first. • Be specific, offering examples when appropriate. • Be honest. • Add current information about all activities as they occur (A sample follows.)

Getting Started Before you begin writing your resume, you will need to gather and organize all pertinent facts about yourself. If you completed the Self-Assessment Worksheet and the Personal Activity Checklist from this handbook, you already have a great start.

One good organizational tool is the Activities Sheet from the Texas Common Application, located in this handbook. Completing it accurately and thoroughly is time- consuming, but it is well worth the effort because most college applications include a similar form. One hint: As you list individual activities, be sure to include your responsibilities. For example, as a club officer you might have coordinated a community service project by contacting a local social service agency, recruiting and training volunteers, designing publicity materials, developing a work schedule, and purchasing supplies.

96 Student Resume for College and Scholarship Applications

Your resume will be useful supplement to a college or scholarship application. Of course, the resume should never be sent in place of the comparable sections of the application form, unless the application instructions specifically give you that option. The information to include in your resume is listed below and a sample resume illustrates the format. Always list the most recent or most significant activities first, and be sure to include dates and numbers of hours per week when appropriate. Keep in mind that the goal is to accentuate your strengths, so feel free to eliminate sections that do not apply to you.

• Name, Address, Phone Number, e-mail address • Major Goal or Objective (Optional; include if you know your major) • Academic Information: • High School Name, Address, Phone Number • CEEB Code # • Counselor’s Name, if applicable • Graduation Date • GPA • Class Rank • Test Scores • Senior Year Schedule • Academic Awards and Honors. Include the date you received the award. Always list the most significant honors first. • Athletic Participation. Include dates of participation, leadership roles, special awards. • Extra-curricular Activities. Include dates of participation, responsibilities, leadership positions, special awards, time commitment. • Part-time Employment. Include dates of employment, name of company, responsibilities, hours worked per week. Emphasize leadership or supervisory experience. • Community Service. Include dates of participation, names of organizations, leadership responsibilities, time commitment. • Special Conferences / Camps / Summer Programs. Include dates attended, skills acquired • Special Skills / Training

97 Sample Resume for a College Application

Mary E. Smith 7200 Spring Cypress Road Klein, Texas 77379 936-555-9999 [email protected]

GOAL: To attend a four-year university and major in engineering.

ACADEMIC High School Klein Forest High School INFORMATION: 11400 Misty Valley Houston, Texas 77066 832-484-4500 CEEB Code 443-394

Graduation Date June, 2015 GPA / Class Rank 3.81 Top 25% Test Scores SAT Verbal 610 Math 690 ACT Composite 28

Senior Schedule Marching Band Concert Band Government Honors AP Calculus AP Physics Economics Honors Advertising Marketing English IV Honors Computer Sci. II Honors

ACADEMIC AWARDS Mu Alpha Theta Outstanding Member 2013-2014 AND HONORS: High School Physics/Engineering Competition 1st place, 2013 Science and Engineering Fair of Houston 3rd place, Jr. Computer Division,2013 National Honor Society Grades 11,12 2 Year Mu Alpha Theta Letterman Grades 11,12 3 Year Academic Letterman Grades 10, 11, 12

EXTRA-CURRICULAR Klein Forest High School Marching Bank Grades 9, 10, 11, 12 ACTIVITIES Klein Forest Section Leader. All-District 2014 Mu Alpha Theta Grades 11, 12 Coordinator for After-School Tutoring 2010-2011 National Honor Society Grades 11, 12 DECA Grades 11, 12 Treasurer; Chairperson of fund-raising committee 2012-2013

COMMUNITY Math Tutor, Barbara Bush Elementary School Grades 11, 12; 2 hrs./wk SERVICE: Math Tutor, Klein Forest High School Grades 11, 12; 2 hrs./wk. Habitat for Humanity Grades 10, 11, 12

PART-TIME Papa John/s Pizza, cashier and delivery June – August, 2014 EMPLOYMENT: Cutten Green Community Pool, June – August, 2013 Lifeguard

SPECIAL TRAINING/ Computer Literacy (MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel) SKILLS: Fluent In Spanish

98 Student Resume For A Job Application

Many employers require a resume as part of the job application. Most experts agree that there are two basic types of resumes: chronological and functional. The chronological format is the most traditional, beginning with the most recent accomplishment and emphasizing past employment experience. The functional resume, on the other hand, focuses on a person’s abilities rather than his or her work history. It might be most appropriate for high school and college students who want to highlight their skills rather than their limited job experience. The sample which follows uses the functional resume format.

Whichever format you use, you will want to include the following components.

• Heading: Your name, address, phone number, e-mail address • Objective: In one sentence, tell the employer what type of work you are looking for • Education: Name and address of high school, date of graduation. Include any additional training (i.e., workshops, seminars, internships) outside of high school. If you took any courses that particularly apply to the type of work you are seeking, include them. Mention GPA and class rank if they are especially impressive. • Skills and Abilities • Activities / Leadership • Awards • Work Experience. Begin with the most recent job, including the company name, address, and date you left the job. Include notable accomplishments. Note: Work experience also includes part-time or summer jobs and volunteer/community service activities. • References: Most experts agree that references should not be included in the resume. Simple state that references are available upon request. However, you do want to have the name address, and phone number of no more than three references available if an employer asks for that information. Be sure to inform these individuals that you are listing them as references.

99 Sample Resume for Job Applications

Mary E. Smith 7200 Spring Cypress Road Klein, Texas 77379 936-555-9999 [email protected]

OBJECTIVE: Seeking a position in retail sales

EDUCATION: Klein Forest High School 11400 Misty Valley Houston, Texas 77066 832-484-4500.1 CEEB Code 443-394

Graduation Date June, 2015

Specialized Courses:

Marketing Entrepreneurship Advertising International Marketing Desktop Publishing Business Computer Information Systems Spanish IV AP

SKILLS AND Computer Literacy (Microsoft Word, Page Maker, Excel, PowerPoint, Photoshop ABILITIES: Fluent in Spanish Attended summer study abroad program in Costa Rica, July, 2014.

ACTIVITIES/ Varsity Soccer Grades 10, 11, 12 LEADERSHIP: Team Captain 2013-2014

Spanish Club Vice-President Grades 11, 12 (Coordinated Cinco de Mayo Festival 2007)

Students Against Destructive Grades 11, 12 Decisions (SADD)

WORK EXPERIENCE: Bed Bath and Beyond August, 2014 - Present Cashier 15 hrs. / week

Office Depot Business Services (Copy Center) Associate January – June, 2014

REFERENCES: Available on Request

100 Writing your college essays Introduction If you are like most students, you see the college essay as another hurdle that you must jump on the way to being accepted at the college of your choice. In fact, the essay is not a hurdle but a rare opportunity; it is a chance for you to “talk” directly to the college’s admissions committee and to help them “see” you as a thinking and feeling person, rather than simply a set of impersonal statistics. Except for the interview, it is your only chance to share your thoughts, insights, and opinions; to highlight your accomplishments, and to convey your maturity and outlook on life. If you see the college essay in this way – as an opportunity, then it is clearly worth the effort to put some extra time, thought, and energy into writing it. Purpose of the Essay The college essay is extremely important for two major reasons: 1. It enables the college admissions office to evaluate your communication skills. Through your essay they can assess the clarity of your thinking and your ability to convey your thoughts in written form. 2. It enables the admissions office to learn more about you as a person, beyond what grades and SAT scores can convey. A well-written essay can speak worlds about your attitudes, feelings, personal qualities, imagination, and creativity. For the admissions staff, it adds another important piece to the puzzle because it distinguishes you as an individual, different from any other student who is applying.

The choice of a topic is frequently not an issue, because many colleges and universities will either give you a topic to write about or present several specific topics from which you must choose. Other colleges may simply “suggest” broad general topics or give you total freedom to write about something that interests or concerns your. Regardless of whether you must respond to a prescribed topic or come up with one of your own, here are a few general hints about the most effective way to approach your topic: • Narrow your topic and try to be as specific and as illustrative as possible. • The easiest topic to write about is yourself. Since one important purpose of the essay is self-revelation, it is no place to be shy or modest, although you should not exaggerate. If you choose to write about yourself remember that little incidents and facts are often the most revealing of character and outlook. • Do not be afraid to write about something you think is a little different. A unique topic or approach is often refreshing to a college admissions officer Copied with who has been reading applications all day. Further, an unusually permission of or off-beat essay is an excellent way to show your creativity. Be Randolph-Macon sure that whatever you write is in good taste. College, Ashland, Virginia

101 Preparing to Write Before actually sitting down to write a first draft of your essay, spend some time organizing your thoughts. Develop a framework for your essay so it will have a smooth and logical progression from one idea or incident to the next. Consider your purpose in writing, what you want to convey, and the tone that you think is most appropriate for the topic. Decide on a style that is comfortable for you, not one that you think the college admissions committee prefers. Finally, remember that organizing your thoughts and deciding on a framework does not mean you must be overly rigid at the start; leave room for flexibility and creativity as you begin writing. Writing the Essay You do not have to get it right the first time! Instead, write the first draft of your essay with the main focus on content – communicating your thoughts. Then set it aside for a day or two, reread it with a fresh perspective, and make any necessary changes. This is also the point at which you should consider matters of organization, style, grammar, spelling, and tone. Once you have rewritten your first draft, you may wish to try it out on your family, friends, or English teacher. While the final product and final “voice” should be yours, they may be able to offer helpful suggestions for technical or other improvements. Within this general outline for actually writing the essay, there are some “do’s” and “don’ts” which should be highlighted:

Do’s • Do think “small” and write about something that you know about. • Do reveal yourself in your writing. • Do show rather than tell. By giving examples and illustrating your topic, you help being it to life. • Do write in your own “voice” and style. Don’ts • Don’t write what you think others want to read. • Don’t exaggerate or write to impress. • Don’t use a flowery, inflated, or pretentious style. • Don’t neglect the technical part of your essay (grammar, spelling, sentence structure). • Don’t ramble – say what you have to say and conclude. Your college essay, along with your high school record, standardized test scores, and extracurricular involvement, will provide the bases upon which the college makes its admissions decision. A thoughtful well-written essay can affect in a very positive way that final decision. Keep this in mind and take full advantage of the opportunity which the college essay affords you.

John C. Conkright Dean of Admissions Randolph-Macon College

102 STUDENT BRAG SHEET

Student’s Name SS

Address Home Phone

Email Address Cell Phone

Counselor Today’s Date

Standardized Testing Information (If you have not yet taken the SAT or ACT, or if you plan to take them again, indicate the date here.)

PSAT: Verbal Math SAT: Date Verbal Math ACT: Composite Date Date Verbal Math ACT: Composite Date

Senior Year Schedule Remember that one factor in college admissions is your senior curriculum.

FALL SPRING

1. 1. 2. 2. 3. 3. 4. 4. 5. 5. 6. 6. 7. 7.

Please answer the questions below as thoroughly as possible; use additional sheets of paper if necessary. I will use this information when writing your college recommendation letter-the more information I have, the more personal the letter.

Academic/Personal 1. What two or three (academic and personal) accomplishments are you most proud of? Why?

2. What do you see as your greatest academic strengths? Weaknesses? Strengths and weaknesses in personal characteristics? For each strength you list, describe a time when you demonstrated that trait.

3. List three adjectives you would use to describe yourself. Why? a. b. c. List two adjectives your friends would use to describe you. Why? a. b.

103 4. List at least two of your Klein ISD high school teachers or staff members who know you well and who can speak confidently about your academic ability. What adjective do you think each would use to describe you. Why? a.

5. Of all the classes you have taken in high school, which have you enjoyed most? Why?

Which has been the most difficult for you? Why did you take it?

Describe one significant educational experience in detail.

Extracurricular 6. Complete the attached Activity Sheet (or attach a resume if you already have one). THEN discuss which of the activities you listed (extracurricular, volunteer/community service, employment) has had the most meaning for you and why.

7. What are your reading interests? Discuss a book which has made an impact on you. Why? A movie or play? Why?

8. Describe any special hobbies or interests.

College Admissions Colleges are interested in knowing how prospective students react to difficulty. Questions 9-11 will help me address that in your recommendation letter.

9. How do you react to setbacks or disappointments? Describe any significant obstacles or hardships which you have had to overcome.

10. Are there any factors related to your grades that colleges should know?

11. Are there any factors about admissions test scores that you want addressed in your letter of recommendation?

12. List 5 characteristics you are looking for in a college. Why is each important to you? (examples: location, college major, size, facilities, extracurricular activities, study abroad/internship opportunities, cost, student/faculty ratio, sororities/fraternities, etc.) a. b. c. d. e.

104 13. List your college choices, in order of preference. a. b. c. d.

14. What college majors are you considering? Why? What have you done to explore these career interests? (Example: academic courses, employment, internships, etc.)

15. The charts below are from the teacher and counselor evaluation forms of a college application. They are examples of how we will be asked to evaluate you. Imagine that you are your own counselor and complete the chart, rating yourself in comparison to all seniors in Klein.

One of the Good Very Good top few Below (above (well above Excellent encountered No Basis Average Average average) average) (top 10%) in my career

Creative, original thought

Motivation

Self-confidence

Independence, initiative

Intellectual ability

Academic achievement

Written expression of ideas

Effective class discussion

Disciplined work habits

Potential for growth

Extracurricular Accomplishments

Personal Qualities and Character

Creativity

I recommend this student: With Reservation Fairly Strongly Strongly Enthusiastically

16. Discuss anything else that you consider special or unique about yourself, something that I might not know, something you feel will help me with I am writing a letter of recommendation.

105 Activities Sheet

Name SS# Last First

Extracurricular Activities Were you Elected to this Hours Per Week/ Position? Weeks Per Year Organization Your Position/Year (circle Yes Level Description of Activities (3/32=three hours per or No) week/32 weeks per year)

Examples: Examples: Examples: Examples: Fresh. Soph. Jr. Sr. Speech/Debate Club Committee Chair/senior Regional Hosted Speech Tournament 3/32 3/32 6/32 6/32 Basketball team Captain/junior Local Played Forward 5/16 5/16

yes/no

Community Service Service/Volunteer Work Your Specific Role From-Thru Hours Examples: Examples: Per Week Habitat for Humanity Helped build houses 5/00-5/01 8 Hospital Volunteer Helped nurses and visited patients 6/00-8/01 36

Talents/Awards/Honors Talent/Award/Honor Description Level Year Received Examples: Examples Fresh. Soph. Jr. Sr. Voice Sang in school choir X X X Regional Qualifier (speech) 1 of 3 chosen for regional team (UIL) Regional X All-State Basketball Team 1 of 5 in state chosen for first team State X X

Employment/Internships/Summer Activities Job/Title Your Specific Role From-Thru Hours Examples: Examples: Per Week Sacker Sacked groceries, helped customer 6/00-5/01 10 Exchange Program Spent two months with host family in Spain 6/01-7/01 n/a

106 PARENT BRAG SHEET

Student’s Name SS Date

Parent’s Name Counselor

Email Address

Parents: Please complete this form so that your child’s counselor will have information which may be helpful in writing letters of recommendation. Feel free to use additional pages if necessary. This form should be returned to your child’s counselor upon completion.

1. What do you consider to be your child’s outstanding accomplishments during the past three or four years/ Why did you select these as most important?

2. In what areas has your child shown the most development and growth during the past three or four years?

3. What do you consider to be his/her outstanding personality traits? Describe a situation in which these qualities were evident.

4. If you had to describe your son/daughter in five adjectives, what would they be? Please include an example to illustrate each one. a. b. c. d. e.

5. Based on your observations over the last three years, what classes has your son or daughter enjoyed most? Least? What does that say about his/her approach to learning?

6. Describe an activity (school, community, athletic, extracurricular) to which he/she has devoted extensive time and effort during the last two years. What do you think was gained from participation in this activity?

107 7. Describe a particular challenge or disappointment which your son/daughter has handled effectively.

8. Are there any other unusual circumstances that have affected your child’s educational or personal accomplishments? If so, please explain.

9. Please list specific colleges your child is considering attending. a. b. c. d.

What can he/she contribute to this college(s) if selected for admission?

10. Use the space below to tell us anything else about your son or daughter that you think we need to know.

Thank you for your time. Please return the completed form to your child’s counselor. It will become part of the student’s college application file.

108 TEACHER RECOMMENDATION FORM

• Complete this form and give it to your teacher at least 3 weeks before deadline. • For College Applications, provide your teacher with a stamped addressed envelope as well as any forms required by the college. • For Scholarship Applications, provide your teacher with any forms required by the specific scholarship. • Teachers will mail the college recommendation letter(s) directly to the college. They will return scholarship letters to the appropriate counselor.

Student’s Name SS# E-Mail Address Teacher’s Name Today’s Date

Thank you for agreeing to write this letter of recommendation. I think you are a teacher who knows me well and who can accurately evaluate my potential for academic success in college. This information may be helpful to you as you write the recommendation for the following schools/scholarships.

Name and Address of School/Scholarship Official Deadline

Postmark or Received by Date Date

109 STUDENTS: If you have already submitted this form to the same teacher, it is not necessary to complete the information below, unless you wish to change or give additional information.

1. I think my academic strengths are . . . a. b. c.

2. I think my personal strengths are . . . a. b. c.

3. My most memorable academic experiences in your class were . . . a. b. c.

4. The most important things I learned in your class were . . . a. b. c.

5. I am considering the following college majors because . . . a. b.

6. Things I would like the college admissions and/or scholarship committee to know about me are . . . a. b. c. d.

7. The specific things I hope you will discuss in this letter are . . . a. b. c.

8. Additional information that might be helpful . . . (You may attach a resume to this form if you wish. But remember that the teacher recommendation will focus on you as a student in this teacher’s classroom.)

Again, thank you. I know this is a big time commitment. I appreciate it.

110 Financial aid information

Financial aid programs help students pay for college. With financial assistance from the state or federal government, civic groups and even the colleges themselves, students have found they can afford to go to college. Many resources are available in the counseling office to assist students with finding money for college. School announcements and newsletters are used to inform seniors of scholarships mailed directly to the schools.

Colleges may offer aid through programs not described here. Check the school’s catalog and financial aid office for more information about such programs. For eligibility determination, application guidelines, and deadlines, the financial aid director at the colleges under consideration can answer questions you may have regarding the college’s financial aid information at the colleges of your choice.

Because of the large number of aid programs and the lengthy titles of many programs, financial aid literature is filled with acronyms. Consult with individual college financial aid offices to determine what is required and complete a FAFSA form. A financial aid application is generally required. Some colleges may require additional information to help determine the student’s eligibility for institutional or state aid.

Financial aid application – A form provided by financial aid offices at institutions of higher education. Most financial aid offices require the student to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Many offices also ask students to provide additional information to help determine the student’s eligibility for institutional or state aid. To know which form(s) are needed at your institution, contact your college financial aid office.

111 Determining Financial Aid Eligibility

General Rules Students should always keep copies of forms they submit to the school, governmental entity, or lender as part of the financial aid process. This will help them keep track of what they have done and will make it easy for them to resubmit the required information if a form is lost. Students should keep in touch with the financial aid office where they are applying for aid. Most problems arise when deadlines are missed. The school would rather the student call too often than to not hear from the student until after deadlines have passed.

The Process Get a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) from the counseling office or the college financial aid office. Find out from your college aid office whether there are additional forms you need to complete to be considered for institutional or state aid. Also, you may want to check online and see what is available. Complete the forms as instructed and mail them to the appropriate office(s).

Find out the college’s priority deadline for applying for aid. This information will be in the School’s catalog, or can be obtained by calling the financial aid office. Count back four to six weeks for processing time. Prior to that date, send your federal application to the processor as indicated in the form instructions. (For example, if the priority deadline is FAFSA applications should be filed as April 1, your federal application should be sent to the processor soon as possible By mid-February.) Federal applications may not be filed after January 1 Before January 1 of the year in which aid is sought. The application should be filed as soon as possible after that date. The form asks for federal income tax information. The relevant tax return is the one for the most recently completed calendar year prior to the college term for which aid is requested. If your family has not filed its income tax return early enough for you to use the tax form data in filling out the financial statement, use an estimate of the income tax information so that you can allow four to six weeks for the forms to be processed and still expect the results to reach your college before its priority deadline. If you use estimated data, plan on resubmitting actual data as soon as they are available. Please be sure to keep accurate records all along the way.

Student financial aid may be grouped into the following categories:

• Scholarships or grants – These are gifts and require neither repayment nor performance of a service. • Service awards – These awards are based on a service which the student renders the college, as in athletics or music. • Work-Study Programs/Jobs – Part-time jobs are often available for students who need to earn money to pay college costs and for those who choose to work even though

112 they have adequate financial resources. Some work-study programs alternate periods of work with academic terms. For information about co-operative education programs, check with the dean of the department in which you enroll. • Loans – Loans are available from state and federal governments, educational foundations, industrial organizations and private lending agencies such as banks, credit unions and savings and loan associations. Student loans must be repaid, usually with interest.

Use fafsa4caster to estimate possible eligibility: www.fafsa4caster.ed.gov

113 Examples of awards/grants/loans available for Texas high school graduates

Please keep in mind that this list is JUST A SAMPLING and not complete by any means, but it does give you an overview of items that are available. Please remember to contact the financial aid office at the college(s) of your choice to see what is available, check the school’s website, read your newsletters, and check senior classes for postings.

Texas Tuition Promise Fund

Program Purpose The Texas Tuition Promise Fund is a Section 529 prepaid tuition plan. It allows you to lock in the cost of undergraduate college tuition and required fees, protecting you against future tuition inflation.

Please refer to http://www.texastuitionpromisefund.com for further information on Texas Tuition Promise Fund.

Early High School Graduation Scholarship

Program Purpose To increase efficiency in the Foundation School Program and provide tuition assistance to students completing grades 9-12 in three rather than four years; thus, enabling and encouraging the student to attend college in Texas.

Who can apply? Individuals who:

• Completed the requirements of high school graduation (grades 9-12) with a Recommended or Distinguished Diploma in no more than 36 continuous months;

• Completed all coursework at a public high school in Texas;

• Graduated from a public high school in Texas;

• Are Texas resident; and

• US citizen

TEA –A guide for students and parents: http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/taa/comm101005a.pdf

Or search the internet for Early High School Graduation Scholarship Texas

114 Check the following sites on the Internet to determine if any of these apply to you:

Exemption for Highest Ranking High School Graduate Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund Tuition Rebate for Certain Undergraduates Texas B-ON-TIME Program Toward Excellence, Access & Success (TEXAS) Grant Program Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership Program Federal PELL Grant Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant Texas Public Educational Grant Tuition Equalization Grant Program Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS) Perkins Loan Hinson-Hazelwood College Access Loan Program (CAL) Exemption for the Surviving Spouse and Dependent Children of Certain Deceased Public Servants Military: Children of U.S. Military who are Missing in Action or Prisoners of War Blind/Deaf Student Exemption Program Students in Foster or other Residential Care Children of disabled or Deceased Firemen, Peace Officers, Game Wardens, and Employees of Correctional Institutions

Hope Tax Credit

Program Purpose Provide a tax credit (a reduction in the amount of taxes to be paid for the year) to families with students (taxpayer, spouse, or dependent children) in the first two years of college or vocational school to make postsecondary education more affordable.

Who can apply? Individuals whose families have paid educational expenses for an eligible student. Eligible students are those students who were:

• Enrolled at least ½ time in an eligible institution in a program leading to a degree, certificate, or other recognized educational credential,

• Had not completed the first two years of undergraduate education as of the beginning of 2001,

• Have not been convicted of a felony for possessing or distributing a controlled substance.

How much can be awarded? 100% tax credit for the first $1,000 of tuition and required fees; and a 50% tax credit on the second $1,000. The maximum tax credit for the 2001 tax year is $1,500 per eligible student. The Hope credit is subtracted from your federal income tax. It is nonrefundable. This means that if the credit are more than your tax, the excess is not refunded to you.

115 Tax Deductions for Interest Paid on Educational Loans

Program Purpose To reduce the cost of education loans for borrowers during the first five years of repayment.

Who can apply? Individuals who:

• Meet the IRS requirements.

You can only deduct interest paid during the first 60 months that interest payments are required. This deduction is an adjustment to gross income, so you can claim it even if you did not itemize deductions. The requirements to take this deduction are:

• If a qualified loan is refinanced, the new loan can qualify for the tax deduction, but refinancing does not extend to 60-months period of eligibility, which is based on the original loan;

• Loan origination fees (other than service fees) and capitalized interest are deductible as student loan interest if all other requirements are met by the loan;

• Interest on loans made under a qualified employer plan or under a contract purchased under such a plan cannot be deducted; and

• Borrowers whose filing status is “married-filing separate returns” and dependents for whom an exemption is claimed on the tax return of another taxpayer are not eligible.

How much can be awarded? Deductions may be applied against the first 60 months of required interest payments of an eligible loan. Full deductions may be applicable for individuals with a modified adjusted gross income (AGI) of $40,000 or more ($60,000 in the case of a joint return). Limited deductions may be applicable for individuals with adjusted gross income of $55,000 ($75,000 in the case of a joint return). The maximum limits for interest deductions are $2,500 in the 2001 tax year.

Where can I get additional information?

• For information on including this tax deduction on your tax return, contact the IRS at 800-829-1040 or visit http://www.irs.gov.

116 Students’ rights and responsibilities

When You Apply To Colleges and Universities You Have Rights

Before You Apply • You have the right to receive factual and comprehensive information from colleges and universities about their admission, financial costs, aid opportunities, practices and packaging policies, and housing policies. If you consider applying under an early decision plan you have a right to complete information from the college about its process and policy.

When You Are Offered Admission • You have the right to wait to respond to an offer of admission and/or financial assistance prior to May 1. Colleges must clearly offer you the opportunity to request (in writing) an extension until May 1. They must grant you this extension and your request may not jeopardize your status for admission and/or financial aid. (This right does not apply to candidates admitted under an early decision program.) Please check with your college and with your scholarship or financial aid source to ensure that this information is accurate in your case.

If You Are Placed On A Wait List Or Alternate List • The letter that notifies you of that placement should provide a history that describes the number of students on the wait list, the number offered admission, and the availability of financial aid and housing. This article is reprinted • Colleges may require neither a deposit nor a written with the permission of commitment as a condition to remaining on a wait list. the National Association for College Admission Counseling • Colleges are expected to notify you of the resolution of your (NACAC). wait list status by August 1 at the latest.

117 Best Bookmarks for High School Students Getting Into College

Picking a School Peterson’s College Search – http://www.petersons.com/college-search.aspx Embark College Search – http://www.embark.com/ My College Guide: – http://www.mycollegeguide.org/ College Net – www.collegenet.com/ College View – www.collegeview.com/ Careers and Colleges – www.careersandcolleges.com

College Directories U.S. Universities, Alphabetic - http://www.utexas.edu/world/univ/alpha/ U.S. Universities, by State - http://www.utexas.edu/world/univ/state/ Universities.com (international, searchable) - http://www.universities.com/ Campus Tours Index of Interactive College Tours – http://www.campustours.com/ Community College Web –http:// www.classesusa.com/schools/30661-page1.cusa/

Admissions Tests College Board Online – http://www.collegeboard.com/ ETS Net The Educational Testing Service Network – http://www.ets.org Kaplan SAT – http://www.kaptest.com/ Princeton Review SAT – http://www.review.com/ ACT Home Page – http://www.act.org/ , http://www.actstudent.org Kaplan ACT – http://www.kaptest.com/ Vocabulary.com – http://www.vocabulary.com/

Resources and Publications Dept. of Education’s Web site – http://www.ed.gov FinAid: The Financial Aid Information Page – http://www.finaid.org/ National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) – http://www.nasfaa.org Financial Aid Search Through the Web (fast WEB) – http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/

EFC Calculators FinAid’s Financial Aid Estimation Form – http://www.finaid.org/finaid/calculators/estimate.html

Free application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) FAFSA Online – http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/

118 Federal Aid and Loans Direct Loan Program – http://www.ed.gov/offices/OSFAP/DirectLoan/index.html Student Guide – http://studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/index.jsp Getting Ready for College Early - http://www.ed.gov/pubs/GettingReadyCollegeEarly/ FinAid’s List of Alternative Loans for Undergraduates – http://www.finaid.org/loans/privateloan.phtml

Scholarships and Private Aid USNews Scholarship Search –http://www.usnews.com/usnews/edu/dollars/tools/scholarship_search.htm FastWEB – http://www.fastweb.com Sallie Mae’s Online Scholarship Service – http://scholarships.salliemae.com/ Federal Trade Commission’s Scholarship Scam Information – http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scam-alerts FinAid’s Scholarship Scam Alert – http://www.finaid.org/finaid/scams.html Scholarship Resource network – http://www.studentscholarshipsearch.com

ROTC Army ROTC – http://www.armyrotc.com/ Navy ROTC – http://www.navy.com/navy/joining/education-opportunities/nrotc/

119 ADDRESSES OF PRIVATE SENIOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES IN TEXAS NOTE: Include Office of Admissions in all addresses

Abilene Christian University Huston - Tillotson College St. Mary’s University ACU Box 29000, Station 900 Chicon Street One Camino Santa Maria Abilene, TX 79699-9100 Austin, TX 78702-2795 San Antonio, TX 78228-8503 915-674-2650 or 800-460-6228 512-505-3000 or 877-505-3028 210-436-3011 or 800-367-7868 http://www.acu.edu http://htu.edu/ http://www.stmarytx.edu

Amberton University University of the Incarnate Word Schreiner College 1700 Eastgate Drive 4301 Broadway 2100 Memorial Boulevard Garland, TX 75041-5595 San Antonio, TX 78209-6397 Kerrville, TX 78028-5697 972-279-6511 210-829-6000 or 800-749-9673 830-896-5411 or 800-343-4919 http://www.amberton.edu http://www.uiw.edu http://www.schreiner.edu

Austin College Jarvis Christian College South Texas College of Law 900 N. Grand Avenue P.O. Box 1470 1303 San Jacinto Sherman, TX 75090-4400 Hawkins, TX 75765-9989 Houston, TX 77002 903-813-2000 or 800-526-4276 903-769-5700 713-659-8040 http://www.austincollege.edu http://www.jarvis.edu http://www.stcl.edu

Baylor University LeTourneau University Southern Methodist University P.O. Box 97008 2100 Mobberly Ave – PO Box 7001 6425 Boaz Street Waco, TX 76798 Longview, TX 75602 Dallas, TX 75205 254-710-1011 or 800-229-5674 903-233-3000 or 800-759-8811 214-768-2000 or 800-323-0672 http://www.baylor.edu http://www.letu.edu http://www.smu.edu

Concordia Lutheran College Lubbock Christian University Southwestern Adventist College 3400 IH-35 North 5601 19th Street 100 Hillcrest Dr. – PO Box 58 Austin, TX 78705-2799 Lubbock, TX 79407-2099 Keene, TX 76059 512-486-2000 806-796-8800 or 800-933-7601 x260 817-645-3921 or 800-433-2240 http://www.concordia.edu http://www.lcu.edu http://www.swau.edu

Dallas Baptist University McMurry University Southwestern University 3000 Mountain Creek Parkway South – 4th and Sayles 1001 East University Avenue Dallas, TX 75211-9299 Abilene, TX 79697-0001 Georgetown, TX 78626 214-333-7100 or 800-460-1328 915-793-3800 or 800-460-2392 512-863-6511 or 800-252-3166 http://www.dbu.edu http://www.mcm.edu http://www.southwestern.edu

East Texas Baptist University Our Lady of the Lake University of San Antonio Texas Christian University 1209 N. Grove 411 Southwest 24th Street 2800 South University Drive Marshall, TX 75670-1498 San Antonio, TX 78207-4689 Fort Worth, TX 76129-0002 903-935-7963 210-434-6711 or 800-436-6558 817-257-7000 or 800-823-3764 http://www.etbu.edu http://www.ollusa.edu http://www.tcu.edu

Hardin-Simmons University Paul Quinn College Texas College 2200 Hickory Street 3837 Stuart Road 2404 North Grand Avenue Abilene, TX 79698-0001 Dallas, TX 75241-4331 Tyler, TX 75712 915-670-1000 or 800-568-2692 214-376-1000 or 800-237-2648 903-593-8311 http://www.hsutx.edu http://www.pqc.edu http://www.texascollege.edu

Houston Baptist University Rice University Texas Lutheran College 7502 Fondren Road P.O. Box 1892 1000 West Court Street Houston, TX 77074-3298 Houston, TX 77252-1892 Sequin, TX 78155-5999 281/649/3000 – 800/969/3210 713-348-7423 or 800-527-6957 830-372-8000 or 800-771-8521 http://www.hbu.edu http://www.rice.edu http://www.tlu.edu

Howard Payne University St. Edward’s University Texas Wesleyan University 1000 Fisk Avenue 3001 South Congress Avenue 1201 Wesleyan Street Brownwood, TX 76801-2794 Austin, TX 78704-6489 Forth Worth, TX 76105-1536 915-646-2502 or 800-880-4478 512-448-8400 or 800-555-0164 817-531-4444 or 800-580-8980 http://www.hputx.edu http://www.stedwards.edu http://www.txwes.edu/

NOTE: Include Office of Admissions in all addresses

120 ADDRESSES OF PRIVATE SENIOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES IN TEXAS *NOTE: Include Office of Admission in all addresses

Trinity University 715 Stadium Drive San Antonio, TX 78212-7200 210-999-7011 or 800-874-6489 http://www.trinity.edu

University of Dallas 1845 East Northgate Irving, TX 75062-4736 972-721-5266 or 800-628-6999 http://www.udallas.edu

University of Mary Hardin Baylor 900 College Street Belton, TX 76513 800-727-8642 http://www.umhb.edu

University of St. Thomas 3800 Montrose Boulevard Houston, TX 77006-4696 713-522-7911 or 800-856-8565 http://www.stthom.edu

Wayland Baptist University 1900 West 7th Street, Box 712 Plainview, TX 79072-6998 806-291-1000 or 800-588-1928 http://www.wbu.edu

Wiley College 711 Wiley Avenue Marshall, TX 75670-5199 903-927-3300 or 800-658-6889 http://www.wileyc.edu

121 ADDRESSES* OF PUBLIC SENIOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES IN TEXAS

Angelo State University Texas A&M University University of Houston 2601 West State University P.O. Box 30014 4800 Calhoun San Angelo, TX 76909 College Station, TX 77843-0100 Houston, TX 77204-2161 325-942-2041 979-845-3211 713-743-2255 http://www.angelo.edu http://www.tamu.edu http://www.uh.edu

Lamar University Texas A&M University – Commerce University of Houston – Clear Lake 4400 Martin Luther King Parkway 2600 South Neal Street 2700 Bay Area Blvd. Beaumont, TX 77710 Commerce, TX 75428 Houston, TX 77058-1098 409-880-7011 903-886-5081 281-283-7600 http://www.lamar.edu http://web.tamu-commerce.edu/ http://www.uhcl.edu

Lamar State College at Orange Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi University of Houston – Downtown 410 Front Street 6300 Ocean Drive One Main Street Orange, TX 77630 Corpus Christi, TX 78412 Houston, TX 77002 409-883-7750 361-825-5700 713-221-8000 http://www.lsco.edu/ http://www.tamucc.edu http://www.uhd.edu

Lamar State College at Port Arthur Texas A&M University – Galveston University of Houston – Victoria 1500 Proctor Street P.O. Box 1675 3005 North Ben Wilson St. Port Arthur, TX 77640 Galveston, TX 77553-1675 Victoria, TX 77901-4450 409-983-4921 or 800-477-5872 409-732-4443 or 877-322-4443 361-570-4848 or 877-970-4848 http://www.lamarpa.edu/ http://www.tamug.edu http://www.uhv.edu

Midwestern State University Texas A&M University – Kingsville University of North Texas 3410 Taft Boulevard 700 University Blvd. P.O. Box 311277 Wichita Falls, TX 76308 Kingsville, TX 78363-8202 Denton, TX 76203-1277 800-842-1922 or 940-397-4334 361-593-2111 940-565-2000 or 800-735-2989 http://www.mwsu.edu/ http://www.tamuk.edu http://www.unt.edu

Prairie View A&M University Texas A&M University – Texarkana University of Texas – Arlington 188 University Drive 2600 North Robison Road 701 S. Nedderman Dr. Prairie View, TX 77446 Texarkana, TX 75501 Arlington, TX 76019-0111 936-857-2626 903-223-3069 817-272-2011 http://www.pvamu.edu http://www.tamut.edu http://www.uta.edu

Sam Houston State University Texas Southern University University of Texas P.O. Box 2418 3100 Cleburne Avenue P.O. Box 8058 Huntsville, TX 77341-2418 Houston, TX 77004-4584 Austin, TX 78713 936-294-1828 713-313-7011 512-475-7348 http://www.shsu.edu/ http://www.tsu.edu http://www.utexas.edu

Stephen F. Austin State University Texas State University University of Texas – Brownsville 1936 North St., Rusk Bldg. Room 206 601 University Drive 80 Fort Brown Nacogdoches, TX 75962 San Marcos, TX 78666-5709 Brownsville, TX 78520-4991 936-468-2504 or 800-731-2902 512-245-2111 956-544-8200 http://www.sfasu.edu http://www.txstate.edu http://www.utb.edu

Sul Ross State University Texas Tech University University of Texas – Dallas East Highway 90 2500 Broadway P.O. Box 830688 Alpine, TX 79832 Lubbock, TX 79409-5005 Richardson, TX 75083-0688 432-837-8053 or 888-722-7778 806-742-2011 972-883-2111 http://www.sulross.edu http://www.ttu.edu http://www.utdallas.edu

Tarleton State University Texas Woman’s University University of Texas – El Paso 1333 West Washington 304 Administration Drive 500 West University Avenue Stephenville, TX 76402 Denton, TX 76204-3589 El Paso, TX 79968-0001 800-687-8236 940-898-3188 or 866-809-6130 915-747-5000 http://www.tarleton.edu http://www.twu.edu http://www.utep.edu

*Note: Include Office of Admission in all addresses 122 ADDRESSES* OF PUBLIC SENIOR COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES IN TEXAS

University of Texas – San Antonio 6900 N. Loop, 1604 West San Antonio, TX 78249-0617 210-458-4011 or 800-669-0919 http://www.utsa.edu

University of Texas – Tyler 3900 University Boulevard Tyler, TX 75799-0001 903-566-7000 or 800-888-9537 http://www.uttyler.edu

University of Texas – Pan American 1201 West University Dr. Edinburg, TX 78541 959-381-8872 http://www.panam.edu

University of Texas – Permian Basin 4901 East University Odessa, TX 79762-0001 432-552-2020 http://www.utpb.edu

West Texas A&M University 2501 4th Avenue Canyon, TX 79016-0001 806-651-2020 or 800-999-8268 http://www.wtamu.edu

*Note: Include Office of Admission in all addresses 123