PHONE INDEX General Information 309-694-5-ICC Advisement & Counseling 309-694-5281 Career Services 309-694-5153 Financial Assistance 309-694-5311 Placement & Testing 309-694-5234 Scholarships 309-694-5324 Illinois Central College offers students a choice Student Service Center 309-694-5600 of more than 160 programs of study. Four - Enrollment campuses serve more than 10,000 students - Tuition Payment each year. For more information about ICC, Transfer Center 309-694-5330 call 309-694-5-ICC or visit icc.edu. The college serves all or parts of 10 counties ACADEMIC DEPARTMENTS in the Peoria area and offered its first Agricultural & Industrial Technologies 309-694-5510 classes in 1967. Arts & Behavioral Sciences 309-694-5113 Business, Legal, & Information Systems 309-694-5558 College & Career Readiness 309-690-6863 Health Careers 309-690-7530 Humanities 309-694-5342 Math, Science, & Engineering 309-694-5365

East Peoria Campus RESOURCES 1 College Drive, East Peoria, IL 61635 Free Application for Federal Student Aid Peoria Campus fafsa.edu.gov 5407 N University Street, Peoria, IL 61635 Illinois Department of Employment ICC Pekin Security ides.illinois.gov Riverway Business Park College Board (SAT information) 225 Hanna Drive, Pekin, IL 61635 collegeboard.com

Illinois Central College is an AQIP Participant, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association. To contact the Higher Learning Commission, go to http://www.ncahlc.org or call (800) 621-7440. It is the policy of this College that no person, on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or veteran's status, shall be discriminated against Sponsored by in employment, in educational programs and activities, or in admission. Inquiries and complaints may be addressed to the Vice President of Diversity, International and Adult Education, Illinois Central College, PCCS/PERKINS 1 College Drive, East Peoria, Illinois 61635-0001, (309) 694-5561. Copyright © 2016 Illinois Central College, All rights reserved. Printed in USA SUCSTCARETSS HES RE

Think Education.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PREPARE FOR COLLEGE SUCCESS STARTS HERE This booklet, developed by Illinois Central College (ICC), TABLE OF CONTENTS is designed to help high school students like you: Introduction 2 • Think about life after high school. Preparing for College 3 • Identify interests, abilities, and career options. Recommendations and Requirements 4 • Select classes, activities, and work experiences Early Credit Options 5 now that support your goals later. Steps to Prepare for ICC 6 • Learn about ICC academic program options, Career Clusters 8 requirements, and services to help you succeed. Illinois Central College Programs of Study 10 Portfolio 11

NOTE TO PARENTS : It is easy to put off thinking about your child’s future. But, as a parent, it is important to help your child identify his or her interests, strengths and abilities. You can also encourage your child to learn about educational options and seek resources available to help. You are an important advisor and regardless of what you think . . . your child does listen to you.

Now is the time 2 to prepare to succeed. PORTFOLIO You will use this information to build your resume and applications. 9TH 10TH 11TH 12 TH SAVE FOR EDUCATION PORTFOLIO: Subjects & Electives Report Cards Awards & Honors Class Projects Writing Assignments

Extracurricular Activities

CAREER EXPLORATION Career Information That Inte rests You Career Activities Interviews Job Shadowing College Brochures College Visits

Work Experience Awards & Certificates Community Service Newspaper Articles Leadership Activities

CONTACTS Name and Business Cards Contact Information Letters of 11 Recommendation ICC PROGRAMS OF STUDY ICC offers programs to meet the educational needs of students. Students working within each of the programs of study complete coursework requirements for various majors toward career or educational goals. The programs of study include:

UNIVERSITY TRANSFER DEGREE Transfer programs are designed for students who wish to pursue a bachelor degree beyond ICC. Students complete 60-64 credits of transferable coursework at ICC in general education, requirements in specific majors, and ICC degree requirements. Steps to prepare for college There are 3 transfer degree programs at ICC: Associate in Arts, THINK ABOUT MONEY. Review college budget with due dates for tuition, room and board, etc. Associate in Science, and Associate in Engineering Science. FINALIZE HOUSING PLANS. GET EQUIPPED. Investigate computer needs and options. CAREER & TECHNICAL DEGREE IT IS NOT TOO LATE. Undecided students may sign up for free career exploration workshops at ICC. Career & Technical programs prepare students for the work - MANAGE YOUR TIME. Work your personal schedule around your school schedule. force. These programs train students to seek employment in a NEED SCHOOL SUPPLIES? Even though you are heading to college, you’ll still need things like note- specific field such as agriculture, health care, or business, plus books, pencils, paper, etc. Check out ICC’s Bookstore for supply lists and purchase your textbooks others. The degree earned in this program is an Associate in prior to the beginning of classes. Applied Science. UPDATE YOUR PORTFOLIO. Remember, you will want to keep this current in college too. MARK YOUR CALENDAR. You’ll want to note important dates (tell your parents, too) such as CERTIFICATE orientation, first day of school, vacations, etc. – NOTE TO PARENTS – An Occupational Certificate is awarded to students who com - This is a good time to establish exactly what is expected in terms of college expenses. plete all the requirements for organzied programs of more Determine exactly who is paying for what and how money will be transferred between home and school. Also, discuss how your child will obtain necessary items such as computers, personal items than a single course (3-4 credit hours) but fewer than 50 total and other essentials needed at college. Be sure to mark your calendar with dates of important events credit hours. such as orientation, first day of school, and vacations.

NOTE TO PARENTS: Help your child identify the Program of Study that best suits his or her educational and career needs. For more information, contact ICC Career Services at 309-694-5153 or visit icc.edu/academicDepartments. Before entering ICC, students should talk to their counselor to see if they need a placement test for math and reading. It would be best to check early in their senior year of high school. Plus: Make sure to understand the requirements and prerequisites when enrolling. 10 PREPARING FOR COLLEGE High school graduation isn’t a stopping point. Experts say that • Check out early credit options that let you complete college by 2020, 65 percent of all jobs will require some college, and work while you are still in high school. they predict there will be 55 million new jobs in the workplace • Use the SUCCESS STARTS HERE Portfolio on page 11 to chart from newly created jobs and openings due to retirements. your progress. • Visit ICC’s Career Services for help identifying careers that fit your For students who prepare themselves, the transition from high strengths, interests, and abilities. school into college is an easy one. But it is up to you to map • Start or add to your educational savings account. out your strategy over the next four years to be ready for the In addition to this overall checklist, there are specific steps you must next step! take each year during high school to prepare for ICC. Steps for freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors can be found on pages CHECKLIST FOR HIGH SCHOOL: 6 and 7 of this booklet. • Develop good study habits. • Pay attention to your grade point average (GPA). • Talk to friends and family about their careers. • Talk with your teachers and guidance counselor about NOTE TO PARENTS : Many students entering colleges are deficient in the basics your interests. like math, reading, English, and foreign languages. That means repeating high • Check into volunteer and work opportunities that tie in school level work in college, which is costly and time-consuming. Make sure with your goals. your child is on track to complete required college prep classes. • Keep an open mind – there are many career choices that • For success in college, your child needs to be in class regularly and you may not even know about yet. learn to complete assignments during high school. He or she also needs • Learn what type of education is required for jobs that to learn to collaborate, treat others with respect, and appreciate a job interest you. well done. Your support by acknowledging these efforts is very valuable. • Keep track of your high school coursework to make sure • Start the dialog about your child’s future. Talk about career choices. you are fulfilling the requirements of colleges and majors Take a tour of a local business of interest. Visit ICC’s Career Services. you may choose.

Source: cew.georgetown.edu/recovery2020

Over half of today’s jobs 3 require some college. MAKE SURE YOU ARE ON TRACK REQUIRED COURSE WORK FOR HIGH SCHOOL Talk to your counselor to better understand the specific STUDENTS IN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS requirements and recommendations for your chosen field 4 years language arts (or those you are considering) so that you can plan your high 2 years writing (1 year of which is English) school course work accordingly. 3 years math (1 must be algebra and 1 geometry) 2 years science START A PORTFOLIO (including 1 semester civics, 1 year US history A portfolio is a place you organize records and documents you’ll 2 years social studies or US history and American government) 1 year chosen from any of the following: art; music; need to prepare for college, throughout your college career and 1 1 foreign language; or vocational education beyond. You’ll use your portfolio to compile a resume, apply for 1 semester health scholarships, launch your job search, and prepare for interviews. 9 weeks consumer education Here are some sample items for a portfolio: Physical education • Copy of report cards STRONGLY RECOMMENDED ADDITIONS • List of awards, certificates, and honors FOR COLLEGE PREP • List of school and community activities 4 years of English • Descriptions of your jobs and activities 3 years each of social studies, mathematics, and science • Lists of skills and abilities 2 years of art, music, or a foreign language (some colleges/professions require 4 years of foreign language) • Work samples, such as published 1-2 years of electives that meet college major requirements writing or art pieces as appropriate Career-oriented technical electives • Notes about careers that interest you Keyboarding • Written career and life goals • Educational plan TWO OR FOUR YEARS OF COLLEGE? Certain professions require four-year college degrees for entry- level positions, while others need two-year college degrees or technical certificates. Whether you plan to pursue a four-year NOTE TO PARENTS : Allow time for your high school student to or two-year degree or a certificate program will determine study in a quiet place in your home. Help your child organize assignments to meet deadlines. Discuss what your child is what coursework to take in high school. For example, if you are learning and reinforce lessons with real-world situations. For pursuing a four-year degree in a health or medical area, example, if your child is studying government, attend a city chemistry is required by most colleges even though it is not council meeting together or visit your county courthouse. 4 necessarily required to graduate from high school. The jobs in this cluster prepare learners for The jobs in this cluster involve design, The jobs in this cluster prepare learners for The jobs in this cluster involve planning, careers in the management, marketing and development, support and management careers in planning, managing, and performing managing and providing scientific research operations. of hardware, software, multimedia and the processing o materials into intermediate or and professional technical services including • Restaurant and Food and Beverage systems integration services. final products. Useful products, services laboratory and testing services and research Services • Programming and Software Development and/or repair of machines or products. and development. • Lodging • Network systems • Production • Science and Mathematics • Recreation, Amusement and Attractions • Information support services • Manufacturing Production Process • Engineering and Technology • Travel and Tourism • Interactive Media Development Occupations Occupations Occupations • Maintenance, Installation and Repair Chemist, Engineers: Aerospace, Agriculture, Event Planner, Chef, Recreation Director. Security Specialist, Analysts, Engineers, • Quality Assurance Chemical, Computer Hardware, Electrical, Lodging Manager, Food Service Manager, Administrators, Computer Support Specialists, • Logistics and Inventory Control Health, Industrial, Mechanical, Food Science Self-Enrichment Education Teachers, Cooks, Computer Security Specialists, Database Safety and Environmental Assurance Technician, Microbiologist, Environmental Institution, Cafeteria, Restaurants, Meeting Administrators, Network and Computer Occupations Scientist, Technical Writer, Drafters: and Convention Planners, Reservation and Systems Administrators, Computer Software Electrical and Electronic Repairers, First Line Electronic, Architectural, Civil Transportation Ticket Agents, Travel Clerks, and System Engineers Supervisors, Production, Planning/Expediting Tour Guides and Escorts Clerks, Industrial and Mechanical Engineering Technicians, Welders, Purchasing Agents

The jobs in this cluster help move people The jobs in this cluster provide legal and and/or things by road, pipeline, air, railroad, The jobs in this cluster prepare individuals protective services for people and property. and/or water. for employment in career pathways related • Correction Services The jobs in this cluster prepares learners • Transportation to families and human needs. • Emergency and Fire Management Services for careers in planning, managing and per - • Logistics Planning and Management • Consumer Needs • Security and Protective Services form marketing activities. Selling products • Warehousing and Distribution Center • Early Childhood Development and Services • Law Enforcement Services or services. Operations • Management and Entrepreneurship • Personal Care • Legal Services • Facility and Mobile Equipment Maintenance • Professional Sales and Marketing • Family and Community Occupations • Transportation Systems/ Infrastructure • Buying and Merchandising • Counseling and Mental Health Detective, Lawyer, Fireman, Paralegal, Emer - Planning, Management and Regulations • Marketing Communications and Promotion Occupations gency Management Specialists, Emergency • Health and Safety Management • Management and Research • Sales and Service Counselors, Social Services, Childcare, Medical Technicians and Paramedics, Fire • E-Marketing Occupations Massage Therapist, Marriage and Family Fighting and Prevention Supervisors, Police, Occupations Automotive Body and Repair, Service and Therapists, Counselors, Social Workers, Fire, and Ambulance Dispatchers, Criminal Market Research Analysts, Customer Specialty Technicians, Bus and Truck Engine Fitness Trainers, Aerobics Instructors, Investigators and Special Agents, Police Service, Real Estate Brokers and Sales Specialists, Logistics, Pilots, Flight Engineers, Personal and Home Care Aides Identification and Records Officers, Agents, Sales Engineers, Wholesale and Transportation Managers, Drivers, Freight Security Guards 9 Retail Buyers and Sales Rep, Demonstrators and Cargo Inspectors, Storage and and Product Promoters Distribution Managers

The Career Clusters resources are being used with permission of the: States’ Career Clusters Initiative, 2007, careerclusters.org Career Clusters

The jobs in this cluster prepare learners The jobs in this cluster help make, create, The jobs in this cluster prepare learners for The jobs in this cluster prepare learners for for careers in planning, implementation, and/or communicate ideas and thoughts careers in planning, managing and providing careers in local, state and federal govern - production, management, process and or through performing arts, design, or education and training services and related mental organizations. marketing of commodities and services. journalism. learning support services. • Governance • Food Products and Processing Systems • Performing Arts • Administration and Administrative Support • National Security • Plant Systems • Audio and Video Technology & Film • Teaching and Training • Foreign Service • Animal Systems • Visual Arts • Professional Support Services • Planning • Power, Structural and Technical Systems • Journalism & Broadcasting Occupations • Revenue and Taxation • Natural Resource Systems • Printing Technology Educational Administrators, Instructional • Regulation • Environmental Service Systems • Telecommunications Coordinators, Counselors, Psychologists, • Public Management and Administration • Agribusiness Systems Occupations Librarians, Teachers, Adult, GED and Occupations • Food Products and Processing Systems Graphic Designers, Multi-Media Artists and Remedial Teachers, Preschool, Special Statistical Assistants, Urban and Rural Occupations Animators, Telecommunications Line and Education, Audio - Visual Planners, Detectives and Criminal Investiga - Financial Managers, First Line Supervisors, Repair Installers, Actors, Musicians, Editors, tors, Appraiser and Assessors of Real Veterinarians, Environmental Engineers, Copy Writers, Commercial and Industrial Estate, Economists, Government Property Health & Safety Specialist Designers Inspectors, Legislators, Postal Worker

The jobs in this cluster prepare learners for careers in financial and investment planning, banking, insurance and business financial The jobs in this cluster prepare learners The jobs in this cluster prepares learners for management. The jobs in this cluster prepare learners for for careers in design, planning managing, careers in planning, organizing, directing and • Financial and Investment Planning careers that promote health, wellness, and building and maintaining the built environment. evaluating business functions essential to • Business Financial Management diagnosis as well as treat injuries and diseases. • Construction business operations. • Banking and Related Services • Therapeutic Services • Maintenance/Operations • Management • Insurance Services • Diagnostic Services • Design/Pre-Construction • Business Financial Management and Occupations • Support Services Occupations Accounting Credit Analysts, Loan Officers, Bill and • Biotechnology Research and Development Electric Power line Install/Repair, Heating • Human Resources Account Collectors, Personal Finance • Health Informatics and Air Conditioning, Architects, Civil Engi - • Business Analysis Advisors, Sales Agents, Claims Adjusters, Occupations neers, Landscapers, Mechanical Drafters • Marketing Underwriters, Actuaries Biomedical Engineer, Medical Scientist, • Administration and Information Support Cardiovascular, Medical and Clinical Techni - Occupations cians and Technologists, Radiologic, Medical Accountants, Managers, Public Relations, Records and Health Information, Doctors, Executive Secretaries, Budget Management Dentists, Pharmacist, Nurse 8 Operations Research Analysts, Sales, Training and Development STARTING COLLEGE EARLY Students who are 16 years or older and have met course re quirements may enroll in ICC courses during their junior and senior years. ICC offers two ways to earn college credit early while you are still in high school: 1) Career and Technical Education (CTE) begins at high school and continues at ICC. The current CTE program offers a Nursing Assistant certification for those students interested in health occupations. These careers often require advanced math, science, and communications skills.

2) Dual Credit is a partnership between ICC and high schools so NOTE TO PARENTS : Early credit programs are not intended to students can earn both high school and college credit at the rush students. But they can mean saving time and tuition same time. Students gain confidence in their own abilities as during college. They are a good option for motivated, mature , they learn to adjust to the rigor and expectations of college- responsible students with good study habits. For information, level work. contact the Dual Credit coordinator at 309-694-5534.

Jumpstart your 5 college experience. STEPS TO PRE

Sophomore GET THE FACTS ABOUT YOUR DREAM JOB. Will you need a four-year bachelor degree or a two-year associate degree to obtain the job you want? Or, maybe it is vocational training that will prepare you for your career? Freshman Talk to your counselor about classes you need now to prepare you. REALIZE YOUR GRADES COUNT. Your high school freshman grade point average (GPA) starts what is called BE FLEXIBLE. The process of making educational and career choices is different for everyone. Don’t be surprised your “permanent transcript”. College admission people look at your transcript to help decide if you are prepared if your interests shift or you change your mind as you learn about career options. Making adjustments along to succeed after high school. So grades count. Even now. the way is common. PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR INTERESTS OUTSIDE OF CLASS. Perhaps you love being part of student government, FIND A JOB. Early work experience is important to help you identify your likes and dislikes. It will also show participating on the robotics team, or keeping score at sports events. Extra-curricular activities often help identify future employers that you are a motivated person with experience. Look for positions that will teach you careers you might enjoy. something about possible careers. BE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR PATHWAY. You are an individual with your own talents, abilities, ideas, interests, START NETWORKING . Build relationships with professionals in careers that interest you. Find a role model or and dreams. It is up to you to decide what you want to pursue in life, and then make choices to succeed. mentor (an adult with experience in your field) who is willing to guide you. CHOOSE CLASSES WISELY. Discuss potential career choices with your guidance counselor or teachers. BECOME A LEADER . Participate in activities that help you grow. Volunteer to help organize your basketball Find out what high school classes will lead you in the right direction. team’s fundraiser. Coordinate your spring dance. Host a club meeting at your home. These are just examples REACH OUT. Perhaps you have a family friend with experience in your chosen field or maybe your aunt knows of ways you can build your leadership skills and abilities. an employee at a company where you’d like to work. These contacts can help open doors. Don’t be afraid to VISIT CAMPUS. Talk to your guidance counselor about arranging a visit to the ICC campus, along with other accept or request help to reach your goals. schools you are considering. Ask your parents to accompany you because they’ll have different questions and START YOUR PORTFOLIO. See pages 4 and 11 for ideas on what records and information to organize and views. Visit college websites and look for sections designed especially for future or prospective students. keep to help you prepare for college. You’ll be gathering lots of information about occupations and people to TAKE THE PRACTICE TESTS. You’ll take your actual college entrance exams during your junior or senior year, contact over the next few years. but check with your school counselor about taking the PSAT and SAT practice tests now. – NOTE TO PARENTS – UPDATE YOUR PORTFOLIO. Freshman year is the ideal time to start good habits and help students understand that learning requires dedication and discipline. – NOTE TO PARENTS – The more quickly your child starts achieving success in high school, the more likely they will remain on track. Your child should start to hone in on educational and career options during his or her sophomore year. Don’t hesitate to talk with your child’s teachers and guidance counselor to learn more about what you can do It is not too early to start to talk about and visit possible colleges. to help your child succeed early in high school. Work experience can be valuable in helping students discover their likes and dislikes and instill strong work ethics. Sophomores are encouraged to take ACT or SAT prep classes and practice tests. 6 PARE FOR ICC

Senior CHECK YOUR TRANSCRIPT. Make sure you have all the credits you need to graduate and meet admission requirements for schools of your choice. Junior REQUEST TRANSCRIPTS BE SENT. Coordinate with your guidance counselor to have your final test scores and ATTEND ICC COLLEGE NIGHT. ICC sponsors its College Night each October to put high school students in touch with transcripts sent to each college you are considering. representatives from colleges across the country. SURF THE INTERNET. Research colleges and print fact sheets from websites of programs you are considering. RETAKE TESTS IF DESIRED: You may elect to retake SATs, ACTs, and PARCC if you believe you could improve your score on a second try. FIND OUT DEADLINES. Compile a list of admission deadlines and fees. APPLY TO COLLEGES. Be sure to meet the DEADLINES and keep copies of all applications. Make an appointment SURF SOME MORE. Type into your favorite internet search engine “What can I do with a major in _____?” and see with the academic advisor in the college program to which you are applying. what you find. Don’t forget to dream big! VISIT CAMPUS. Spend some time at ICC and other colleges that interest you. But don’t just drive around campus. VISIT COLLEGES. Meet with a program advisor. Call 309-694-5281 for ICC Information. Schedule interviews with admission counselors. Take a tour. Meet with advisors for financial aid, student living, and REQUEST RECOMMENDATION LETTERS. Distribute requests for letters of recommendations for college academics. Be sure to send thank you notes to those people that spend time with you. admission, scholarships, awards, etc., to teachers and others with stamped, addressed envelopes. Be sure to thank PREPARE FOR TESTS. Take SAT and ACT prep classes. See your counselor to obtain schedules and forms for SAT I, them formally with a letter. SAT II, ACT, PARCC, and AP exams. Include ICC on your list of colleges to receive your ACT or PARCC scores (ICC’s college FILL OUT FAFSA. October 1 – January 1. Free Application for Federal Student Aid, fafsa.edu.gov. Use the Data code is 006753). Retrieval Tool for tax information for parents and students. Students should receive the Student Aid Report (SAR), CHECK FOR GAPS. Ask your guidance counselor to review your academic record to determine if there are things which describes your financial need, within four weeks of completing the FAFSA. Review and return any necessary you are missing. corrections to FAFSA. (ICC college code: 006753) SPORTS ANYONE? If you are an athlete, determine if you qualify for Division I or Division II sports programs in college. CHECK OUT FINANCIAL AID OPTIONS. Research scholarships and grants, work-study and loan options. JOB SHADOW. Look for opportunities during summer to meet professionals in jobs that interest you. Spend time (Deadlines are typically before March 1.) Contact ICC’s Financial Assistance Office 694-5311 for more information. observing what they do. TAKE PLACEMENT TESTS. Take placement exams. ICC placement tests may be available at your high school. INTERVIEW EVEN IF THERE ARE NO OPENINGS. Set up informational interviews at companies to learn types of Call 309-694-5234 to make a testing appointment. positions they offer, what makes a qualified candidate, and the company’s outlook for the future in the career area. SEND YOUR FINAL TRANSCRIPTS. Contact your high school guidance counselor to have your final transcripts READ COLLEGE MAIL. Be sure to watch your mailbox for correspondence from colleges. sent to the college you are definitely attending. DON’T COME UP SHORT. Review high school curriculum needed to satisfy requirements at college(s) of your choice. FOUR THINGS TO DOUBLE CHECK: Enroll in the right classes. Take college prep, vocational, dual credit, or advanced placement classes as appropriate. • Academic requirements and admission items for all colleges where you plan to apply. CONSIDER DUAL CREDIT CLASSES. Check with your counselor about enrolling in dual credit classes at your high • Application deadlines and fees. school. After age 16, students may enroll in traditional college classes. • If college admission offices received your application materials. UPDATE PORTFOLIO. Keep track of skills and abilities achieved and compile information in resume format. • If financial assistance offices received all necessary materials. GOING FOUR YEARS? Look into transfer options from community colleges to universities. – NOTE TO PARENTS – – NOTE TO PARENTS – Beware of senioritis . . . students tend to be ready to move on and may overlook the importance of keeping up with Your mailbox will soon be flooded with college information. grades and activities during their senior year. Help your child keep track of the important dates for college and Make sure your child pays attention and reads about college application requirements and early admission opportunities. financial aid applications, including scholarships and grants. Be sure your child takes the college placement tests. 7 This is also the big year to visit college campuses so reserve some vacation time so you can accompany your child. Take time to review finances and talk to your child about a budget for college years. Celebrate both your accomplishments! Finally, this year your child will take college entrance exams including the SAT or the ACT. Help them prepare by making sure they get good sleep the night before and a nourishing breakfast in the morning.