CMHS

College Planning

Guidebook

Caddo Mills High School

Counseling Office

2710 Gilmer / Caddo Mills, TX 75135

Revised 5/03
Table of Contents

Introduction 3

Introduction 4

How to Use This Guidebook 4

How to Utilize Your Counselor 5

Overview of Educational Options 6

Educational Options 7

Admission Requirements and Procedures 9

Sizes of Colleges & Universities 10

College Requirements 10

College Admission Considerations 11

Student Transcript 12

Types of Tests 13

Frequently Asked Questions about College Testing 14

Test Dates 16

Step by Step through the Admission Process 17

Preliminary Decisions 18

Campus Visits and Choosing a College 19

The Campus Visit & Evaluating a College 20

Choosing a College 21

Overview of the Financial Aid Process 22

The Financial Aid Process 23

Types of Financial Aid 24

Applying for Scholarships 24

Top 10 Ways NOT to Get a Scholarship 26

Websites for Financing College 26

Appendix 28

Sample Letter for College Inquiries

Letter Requesting Information Concerning LD Programs

Personal Data Sheet: Parent Recommendation

Personal Data Sheet: Student Recommendation

Scholarship Resume: Suggested Form

Scholarship Resume Sample

Introduction

“Dream, but keep one foot on the ground.”

INTRODUCTION

Why has this guidebook been written?

This book has been written to help the students of Caddo Mills High School explore and answer the many questions and concerns that they may have as they begin the college exploration process. There are more than 3,500 two- and four-year colleges in the United States, which can make choosing the right college even more difficult. How will you pick the right one? Beyond taking the right courses and doing well in high school, what steps will you need to follow to get into college? How can your counselor be of help?

Preparing for college will be an extremely exciting period in your life. This transitional period is filled with challenge, opportunity, and decision-making. It can also be a difficult and confusing time. Because the process of selecting a college is very personal, it must begin with self-reflection. You must examine a number of things, including goals, strengths, weaknesses, and reasons for going to college. Then, you must consider the many criteria that will be used in choosing colleges to explore.

When you are going through this awareness or assessment period, it is important to be realistic. As an experienced counselor once said about the college exploration process: “Dream, but keep one foot on the ground.”

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDEBOOK

How can I use this guidebook to get the most from it?

It is recommend that you read this guidebook straight through, then continue to use it as a resource as you follow the suggestions. Each step may require effort over a period of time. It is also suggested that you purchase a crate with hanging folders or an expando to organize the information you will collect as you proceed in the college exploration process.

HOW TO UTILIZE YOUR COUNSELOR

How can the school’s guidance counselor help me?

The school’s guidance counselor is one of the best ongoing resources you have. He/She is your ally throughout the entire admissions process. It is in your best interest to visit with him/her regularly. The guidance counselor can:

· Begin the admissions process with you by identifying the questions and finding honest answers to questions such as—do I want to stay near home, does the college have my major, how important is size?

· Review your transcript (academic achievement record) and suggest areas that need improvement, and recommend courses needed to qualify for college admission.

· Help you with information for completing testing registrations and taking standardized tests.

· Provide specific information on your high school performance. Items such as rank-in-class, test scores, and grade point average are all details that colleges ask for when a student applies.

· Provide the necessary forms for financial aid assistance (FAFSA).

· Provide you with scholarship applications and guidance in completing them.

· Show you where to find more information such as books, catalogs, websites, and videotapes that deal with testing, the admissions process and specific colleges.

· Write a letter of recommendation to colleges and assist you with applications.

· Offer emotional support, warmth, and encouragement that you will need during one of the most important periods of your life.

Contact the Counselor:

Heather McGregor

903-527-3164

hmcgrego@ednet10.net

Overview of Educational Options

“Over 80% of all careers require education or training beyond a general high school education.”

EDUCATIONAL OPTIONS

What are my educational options after

high school?

COMMUNITY OR JUNIOR COLLEGE

Offers career-oriented programs that enable students to begin their careers after only one or two years of college. Students completing one-year programs receive certificates or diplomas; those completing two-year programs earn associate degrees. Students can also start at a community college and then transfer to a four-year college or university.

Considerations:

· Offer one & two-year programs to prepare for a specific career field

· Affordable

· Small classes

· Accept all high school graduates

· Offer courses that transfer to a 4-year college or university

· ACT / SAT tests may not be required

Careers: