TELLURIDE HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC AND COLLEGE COUNSELING GUIDE

Transcription

1 TELLURIDE HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC AND COLLEGE COUNSELING GUIDE

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION... 2 GENERAL COUNSELING TIMELINE... 3 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS... 5 DAP... 6 Advanced Placement Courses... 7 Honors Courses... 7 Grading Scale... 7 Rigor of Curriculum...8 COURSE REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION BASED UPON TYPES OF COLLEGES...8 EXCHANGE YEAR...9 STANDARDIZED TESTING...9 JUNIOR SEMINAR... 9 PREPARATION FOR STANDARDIZED TESTS... 9 TAKING THE TESTS...10 PSAT...10 ACT/SAT...10 SAT SUBJECT TESTS...11 ACT AND SAT REGISTRATION...12 SAT-ACT SCORE COMPARISONS...12 SENIOR CHECKLIST...13 THE COLLEGE APPLICATION PROCESS...19 NAVIANCE...19 SENIOR SEMINAR...19 COLLEGE COUNSELING OFFICE...19 THE ACADEMIC RESUME...20 POTENTIAL VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS STUDENTS...20 SPORTS IN COLLEGE...20 COLLEGE AND CAREER FAIRS...20 NATIONAL PORTFOLIO DAY FOR ART STUDENTS...21 DISCIPLINE RECORDS...21 APPLICATION PROCESS...21 COLLEGE APPLICATION TYPES...21 EARLY ACTION...21 EARLY DECISION...21 SINGLE CHOICE EARLY DECISION...22 ROLLING ADMISSIONS...22 LETTERS OF RECOMENDATION...23 VISTING COLLEGE CAMPUSES...25 COLLEGE ADMISSION INTERVIEWS...26 COSTS OF COLLEGE...28 FINANCIAL AID

3 Introduction This Telluride High School Academic and College Counseling Guide is intended to communicate to students and parents, the processes involved for post high school college planning. It also serves as a companion piece to an academic and college counseling evening presentation held during Back to School Night each fall. Whether your son or daughter is planning on graduating high school and immediately entering college, the work force, the military or taking a gap year, Telluride Middle-High School is first and foremost a college preparatory institution. If your child is considering other options, such as delaying college (gap year), pursuing a vocation or the military, please contact the high school counselor for information and additional resources. Throughout the course of their high school careers, students will work with their classroom teachers, Junior and Senior Seminar teachers, our high school counselor and our college counselor to make sure the process results in a college choice that is a good fit for each student s special talents, interests and goals. These individuals will be deeply involved in the process with each student. Their goal is to help each Telluride High School graduate reach their post high school goals. It All Starts in the Classroom The GPA clock starts ticking day one, period one, freshman year. This is generally considered the most important element in providing the best opportunity to attend a student s college of choice. There is no substitute for doing well in all classes and maintaining a strong GPA to position oneself as a strong college applicant. Colleges are also interested in the courses taken, the level of rigor involved, and the performance in the classes. The student's high school curriculum is crucial when looking for the best college match. It is also a key consideration for college admission departments when they are evaluating candidates. Criteria for college admission vary greatly; however, all colleges focus on the rigor and quality of the high school curriculum. Some things to keep in mind throughout high school to prepare for college: When travelling, start looking at colleges (even if you don t think your student would go to the one you are visiting). It will help you and your student determine what characteristics they may want in a college: big school vs. small school, urban vs. rural, etc. Talk to current college students about their experiences. Attend the Western Slope College Fair in October of 10 th and/or 11 th grade. 2

4 General Counseling Timeline for Telluride Middle and High School 7th Grade 8th Grade Fall Students create Naviance accounts and begin to construct ICAPs (Individual Career and Academic Plans). Update ICAP (annually) with the school counselor. Complete career and interest inventories. Students take PSAT 8/9. Spring High School Transition Night - For parents and students - general overview of high school 4-Year Plan and Graduation Requirements. 9th Grade 10th Grade 11th Grade Spring August (Prior) Fall Spring Fall The school counselor will meet with students to begin preregistration for 9th grade courses. Students will begin to create a 4-Year Plan. Individual meetings with the school counselor to review 4-Year Plan and make any changes to schedule. Students take PSAT 8/9. Begin researching and visiting colleges, including learning about each college s admission criteria. Students complete Pre-Registration Form for 11th grade courses. Students receive teacher recommendations for AP & Honors Classes. The school counselor meets with students to update their ICAP. Students take PSAT 10 in preparation for PSAT/NMSQT junior year. Take PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test). Fall/Winter Begin college admissions testing (ACT/SAT) 12th Grade Spring Spring Spring Fall November Jan/Feb. Enroll in Junior Seminar. Meet with the college counselor to begin college process. Complete pre-registration form for 12th grade courses. State mandated SAT taken by all Juniors. Enroll in Senior Seminar. Meet with college counselor. Early admission college deadlines. Regular admission college deadlines. 3

5 For complete 12th grade timeline please refer to college section. Four-Year Plan Starting in the spring of 8th grade all students will create a 4-Year Plan. The 4-Year Plan outlines the courses in which the student will enroll in order to meet graduation requirements, courses s/he would like for college preparation or career purposes, and courses of personal interest to the student. The school counselor will meet with rising freshmen in August leading up to 9th grade to review the 4-Year Plan and graduation requirements. Naviance/Family Connection Naviance is an American college and career readiness software provider that partners with high schools and K 12 institutions to provide students with college planning and career assessment tools. Each student s account in Family Connection is confidential and password-protected. The program is visible only to the student, his/her parent and the post-high school counselors. Telluride High School does not send any information to colleges without a student s permission. ICAP (Individual Career & Academic Plan) Starting in 7 th grade, all students start to create an ICAP (Individual Career and Academic Plan). Students will maintain their ICAP through Naviance. Students will complete interest inventories prior to high school and update their post high school goals annually. Students are guided through self-analysis, career exploration and educational goal setting. Course registration will take place through the course planner program with Naviance. As part of the ICAP process students will complete skills and career assessments. Students will be asked to reflect on their assessments on an annual basis. Additionally, students will begin to build a high school only resume (including work experiences, extracurricular activities, athletics, volunteer, academic achievements, etc.) in the fall of 10 th grade and will update it annually. 4

6 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS SUBJECT UNITS REQUIRED COURSES English 4.0 Social Studies 4.0 Mathematics 4.0 Science 3.0 World Studies English 9, World Studies English 10, English 11 or AP Literature, English 12 or AP Language World History/Geography 9 World History/Geography 10 U.S. History or AP U.S. History (1 req d) Civics or AP American Government (1 req d), Economics (req d) Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, Statistics, AP Statistics Minimum 2 years of lab science recommended for college-bound students Foreign Language 1.0 Minimum 3 years strongly recommended for college-bound students Technology 0.5 One semester, usually paired with Health Fine Arts 1.0 Art I, Theater classes or Band classes Physical Education.5 Health.5 PE/Art additional credit is required in either Physical Education, Fine Arts or sports (each season counts as.25 credits up to 1 credit can be earned). Electives vary TOTAL REQUIRED 26 5

7 TELLURIDE HIGH SCHOOL DISTINGUISHED ACADEMIC PROGRAM (DAP) To promote academic excellence and acknowledge students who pursue it, Telluride High School is proud to recognize the achievement of graduates who complete the Distinguished Academic Program. Students who prepare for college by merely fulfilling minimum graduation requirements may find themselves disappointed when they are denied admission to highly selective colleges and universities despite their having earned high grades. Selective colleges are looking more than just strong grades; they want applicants who have challenged themselves with four years of a rigorous college-prep curriculum. Many college admission personnel believe that students success in college is more predictable based on the degree of difficulty of their high school classes than on their overall grade point average. In light of these factors, Telluride High School will recognize and certify the completion of a Distinguished Academic Program. Students who satisfactorily meet the requirements of this program will have receive a gold cord to wear at graduation and their achievement will be noted in the graduation program. A student may not be deemed class Valedictorian unless s/he completes the DAP. The Telluride High School Distinguished Academic Program requires the completion of ALL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS with the following stipulations: 1. Mathematics must be completed through the Algebra II level. 2. Two lab sciences. 3. Three years of the same world language (must be through level 3) or demonstrated level 3 proficiency of a language by means of testing. 4. Two AP courses. 5. Three additional years (or combined semesters) in any of the following academic electives (when offered): Pre-Calculus, Physics, Foreign Language 4 th or 5 th year, any additional AP courses, or any additional academic elective. 6. A minimum weighted 3.50 GPA and a minimum grade of C or better in all courses. 7. No fewer than six class periods in both semesters of the senior year. 8. Any extra AP class beyond the required two may be substituted for a missing requirement. Advanced Placement Classes AP courses are year-long college level classes that progress at a collegiate pace. The following AP classes are offered for the school year: English Literature, English Language, American Government, US History, Biology, Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Statistics, Psychology, Physics, Environmental Science, Physics, Spanish Literature, Computer Principles and Studio Art. 6

8 AP classes are more challenging than non-ap classes, and homework loads can be 1-2 hours per night, per course. Detailed course descriptions can be found in the Telluride Middle-High School Student and Parent Handbook. Students enrolled in AP courses are required to sit for the national AP exams in May (exams are scored 1-5; 3 or higher is considered passing). When deciding to take an AP class, please keep in mind that students applying to college will be asked to report their AP scores on their college applications. Low scores could have a negative effect on one s application. Not all colleges give college credit if a student passes the exam; however, when credit is awarded, most schools require a score of 4 or 5. Some colleges will allow a student with a passing score to waive an introductory level requirement in their freshman year of college. To earn college credit, students will need to submit their AP scores. THS encourages teacher recommendations for AP class enrollment. Honors Chemistry is a pre-requisite for AP Chemistry; Honors English 10 is recommended for AP English Literature. AP Courses are weighted for your GPA as follows: A s receive a full point, B s receive.75, C s receive.5, and grades below a C- do not earn weighting. There is an initial 4-week period to demonstrate academic success in the course. Academic dishonesty will result in dismissal from the AP class. Honors Courses The following honors classes are currently offered: English 10 and Chemistry. Honors courses are not weighted in the GPA. Honors classes are more challenging than regular courses and homework loads can be 1-2 hours per night, per course. Detailed course descriptions can be found in the Telluride Middle-High School Student and Parent Handbook. Grading Scale Grades earned in Advanced Placement courses are weighted as follows: A s receives a full point, B s receive.75, C s receive.5, and grades below a C- are not weighted. 7

9 Rigor of Curriculum Colleges want to know that students have appropriately challenged themselves in high school. On the Common Applications, the counselor is asked to compare a student s level of rigor relative to his/her classmates. Students should take a rigorous and personally challenging program that still allows for his or her success. Keep in mind that it is important to challenge but not overwhelm oneself. Fit your course selection to your interests and goals. Colleges also look favorably on enrichment courses to supplement a strong academic program. Courses in art, music, applied arts and theatre offer elective opportunities for Telluride High School students who wish to enhance the traditional course of study. Different types of institutions of higher education have general requirements unique to their classification. Useful classifications include public universities, private four-year colleges, highly selective colleges, two-year colleges, and community colleges. The more selective a college, the more that college can demand in academic achievement. Minimum course requirements for entrance into four different types of colleges are shown in the following list. Use the academic prerequisites only as general minimum guidelines. Many colleges look for candidates who take a rigorous course load and achieve success in their classes. Because college expectations may change from year to year, obtain specific information directly from the college. Course Requirements for Admission Based Upon Types of Colleges Highly Selective Colleges: English 4 years Mathematics 4 years Foreign Language 3-4 years Lab Science 3-4 years (including Biology, Chemistry & Physics) Social Studies 3-4 years Academic Electives 2 years Public Universities: English 4 years Mathematics 3-4 years Science 3 years Social Studies 3 years Academic Electives 2 years (Art, Foreign Language,* Music) Private 4-Year Colleges: English 4 years Mathematics 3-4 years Foreign Language 3 years Science 3 years Social Studies 2-3 years Academic Electives 2 years Community Colleges: Requirements vary greatly from an open-door admission policy to selective admission for particular courses as specified by the different departments. *High school courses taken in grades seven and eight are included; for example, Algebra I, plane Geometry, and the first year of any foreign language are counted in this total. Colleges that require foreign language for admission will usually require three years of the same foreign language. 8

10 Exchange Year There are many exchange programs, but the two we recommend are RYE (Rotary Youth Exchange) and AFS (American Field Service). In the 9 th and 10 th grades, students can hear presentations from both organizations. Students who are interested in either program should consult with the school counselor about the consequences the program may have on their four-year plan. Students traditionally go abroad in either 10 th or 11 th grade. The decision when to go abroad is a choice each family must make. The school counselor can give guidance on what would work best for a particular student. In order for students to receive academic credit they will need to bring back a transcript that has been professionally translated into English and includes the number of hours they were enrolled in each class. Students will be given a P (Pass) as opposed to a grade for each class taken while abroad. Once a student returns, they will meet with the school counselor to review their transcript and plan for classes for the upcoming year. When planning on going on exchange the student should discuss standardized testing (including SAT Foreign Language Subject Tests or NYU School of Professional Studies language exams) and graduation credits with the counselor. Standardized Testing College admissions tests such as the ACT and the SAT continue to carry weight in the college application process (exceptions can be found at: It is easier to compare standardized test scores than to compare GPAs from high schools with different grading scales and levels of rigor. Telluride High School focuses its instructional efforts on the SAT because it is the test mandated by the state for 11 th grade Colorado students. The SAT has two sections: Math and Evidence-based Reading and Writing. Scores range from 200 to 800 per section. There is also an optional Writing section which is scored 2-8 on three subsections. The Writing section is not included in the state-mandated test. Junior Seminar Junior Seminar is a semester-long SAT prep course co-taught by an English teacher and a Mathematics teacher in which students at Telluride High School are taught strategies to improve test scores (ideally above the national average). Students work on practice problems and tests in class. Preparation for Standardized Tests Preparation and study are essential to improving standardized test scores. SAT: The College Board website contains much that can help students practice for the SAT, including a downloadable app that will allow them to get a daily test question, as well as FREE Khan Academy videos and personalized assistance. 9

11 For those who prefer books for practice, there is also a study guide put out by the College Board: The Official SAT Study Guide, 2016 Edition (this latest edition of the guide has information about the New SAT). ACT: The official study guide put out by ACT is called The Real ACT Prep Guide. The ACT website offers an interactive online test prep for $ is yet another interactive study site available for free to all students. In addition, Telluride High School often offers an after-school test preparation class. Information regarding registration for this class will be ed to families. Taking the Tests PSAT 8/9 The PSAT 8/9 tests the same skills and knowledge as the SAT, PSAT and PSAT 10, but in a way that makes sense for younger students. This test is given to 8 th and 9 th graders in the fall. THS absorbs the cost of this test and also takes care of registration. PSAT 10 The PSAT 10 is given to THS 10 th graders in the spring. In addition to serving as practice for the PSAT and the SAT, the PSAT 10 provides a tester with a score report that suggests AP classes the student may want to consider. THS absorbs the cost of this test and also takes care of registration. PSAT The PSAT is the first test of junior year. It is given in October. This exam is a practice SAT, but it is also a National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Students whose scores fall in the top 1% nationally go on to be National Merit Semifinalists. This prestigious designation looks impressive to colleges and also earns the student a chance at National Merit Scholarships; therefore, it is wise for students to familiarize themselves beforehand with the test. To do so, go to: THS absorbs the cost of this test and also takes care of registration. ACT/SAT Testing should begin sometime in the junior year once students feel they are prepared for the tests. Usually this means that they have either practiced for the tests on your own (by using either a book or online materials) or they have taken an ACT/SAT test prep course (including Junior Seminar). Something else to consider when deciding whether or not one is ready to register for the tests is the level of math reached by the student. Here s a link to the math covered on the SAT Generally, 10

12 students will want to have completed Algebra II (with a smattering of Trig) to be sure that they ve learned everything that could be tested. Students who are enrolled in Algebra II might be better off waiting until March or later to start testing. When registering for either the SAT or the ACT, students will have to decide whether or not to take the optional writing section. They should check their prospective colleges websites to find out whether the writing component is required. Most students should take each test at least once (the PSAT in October will give juniors a sense of how they feel about the SAT). By doing so, they will discern which test they prefer or do better on, and they can then focus their efforts on that exam. Students can take either test as often as they like with one caveat: while the majority of colleges allow students to submit only the scores they want the colleges to see, there are some schools that require students to submit the results of every test they have ever taken. Nationally, the SAT is offered seven times each school year (five times at THS plus the state-mandated Junior test) and the ACT is offered six times each school year (three times at THS). Students who are athletes should keep in mind that they may find themselves unable or unwilling to test during their athletic season, so they may have fewer opportunities to test. Ideally, students should finish most of their testing by the end of junior year. They can then use senior year to retest once or twice more, if necessary. Seniors may find that they want to apply early to college (early deadlines are usually in November) or to apply for early scholarships. Either of these situations may necessitate students completing their testing by early October of senior year. SAT Subject Tests Students applying to highly selective schools may need to take two or three SAT Subject Tests in addition to the regular SAT test (students should check their potential colleges' websites to find out what tests are required). The ideal time to take these tests is in May or June of junior year when students may already be preparing for an AP exam that correlates with a particular subject test. However, there are other times when students should consider taking SAT Subject Tests. Students particularly strong in a foreign language (those who have been abroad) may want to take the Spanish, French, Chinese, Japanese, Korean or German with Listening tests that are only offered in November each year. Students in advanced math classes (regardless of the grade they are in) may want to take one of the two Math Subject Tests at the end of the year in which they have taken Pre-Calculus or Calculus. Students interested in engineering or science programs may be required to submit math and science scores. SAT Subject Tests can be used for placing out of introductory courses and some colleges will grant credit for good performance on a subject test. Most students, though, will never need to take a Subject Test; but if they take one or more and do well, many colleges will allow them to submit their score(s) for consideration. 11

13 Students in their junior and senior years, with questions relative to college admissions and the ACT or SAT, should consult with the college counselor. If you have a documented disability, please talk with the counselor about testing accommodations for these exams. Middle School Practice The ACT and SAT are also available for middle school students, and some parents of highly gifted students may want their students to consider early testing for familiarity purposes. Keep in mind that both the ACT and the SAT are geared toward juniors and seniors in high school, and that the material covered may not be academically appropriate for your student. Scores earned while in middle school are not required to be reported to colleges. ACT and SAT Registration ACT registration go to: SAT, go to: If available, when registering, it is highly recommended that you request the question and answer service. SAT-ACT Score Comparisons As of September 2016, there is no concordance table available to accurately compare ACT and New SAT scores. When one is available, it will be entered here. 12

14 SENIOR CHECKLIST CALENDAR FOR (updated annually in September) Senior Year Responsibilities: Study this month-by-month schedule of deadlines and duties. All seniors must schedule appointments with the college counselor to review their plans. At these meetings, you will discuss what you have already done and what still needs to be done to select colleges and make successful arrangements for applications. September Schedule an appointment with the college counselor to: -Discuss your options for next year -Familiarize yourself with the resources in the College Counseling Office. Study for the SAT and/or the ACT by taking practice tests. If testing for ACT remember: -Sept. 10, 2016 is first ACT of the year (you must register in the summer Aug 7). Offered at THS. -Sept. 16, 2016 is the deadline to register for Oct 22 ACT (late registration is Sept. 30). Offered at THS. -Sign up for ACT if you haven t already taken a standardized test or to try to improve your scores. If testing for SAT remember: -Sept 1, 2016 is deadline for Oct 1 SAT (late registration is Sept 20). Offered at THS. -Sign up for October 1 SAT if you have not already taken a standardized test or to try to improve your scores. -Sign up for October 1, 2016 SAT Subject Tests if you need to do so. International students should sign up to take the TOEFL. Refine list of target colleges to approximately seven or eight, include: -At least two safeties (one of which should be a financial safety) -Several school matches: schools that match to your statistics -Two or three reach schools -Don t include schools you would not attend if they were the only schools that accepted you. -Consider including some colleges with early admissions. Being accepted early in the year can remove some senior year pressure. Attend college events and talk with college admissions people who visit campus. -Oct 2, 2016: Consider attending the Colorado Western Slope College Fair in Aspen. This is a great opportunity to learn about colleges and for 13

15 college admissions personnel to meet you. Start working on your applications: -Begin drafting your college essay. -Identify and ask the teachers whom you want to write letters of recommendations and remember to follow the proper protocol in requesting letters. -You may begin applying to colleges that offer Rolling Admissions (ie. Colorado School of Mines, Montana State, etc.). If you are hoping to play D-1 or D-2 sports in college, sign up with the NCAA Eligibility Center and request a transcript be sent. Request an FSA ID on the FAFSA.edu.gov website. Both the student and parent will each need one when submitting the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). FSA IDs can take some time to receive, so request them early. October If testing for ACT remember: -Oct 22, 2016 ACT test date. At THS. You must have preregistered. If testing for SAT remember: -Oct 7, 2016 is deadline for Nov 5 SAT - test is given at the Mountain School. -Oct. 1, 2016 SAT test date. At THS. You must have preregistered. -Oct 25, 2016 is LATE registration deadline for Nov 5 SAT. If you are applying early decision or early action: -Oct 1 is the HARD deadline to let the college counselor and your recommending teachers know you are submitting an early application. -List your colleges and request transcripts in Family Connection. -Provide teachers with reminders of things you might want them to highlight in your recommendation. -Complete your part of the application. -Send SAT scores directly from the College Board and/or ACT scores from ACT.org. -Most early deadlines are Nov. 1 or 15-verify the date with your school. -Check to see if your college wants financial aid forms at the same time as your early application. In Senior Seminar: You will sign up for College Opportunity Fund. 14

16 Oct 1 opening date for applications to the Cal State system (including WUE schools: Humboldt State and Cal State Chico). Cal State applications close on Nov 30!! Oct. 2, 2016 is Western Slope College Fair from 11:00 2:00 (workshops start at 10:00). Oct 6 Financial Aid: FAFSA Workshop at Ridgway High School. Kurt Martin, CMU Financial Aid Director will present. Parents are encouraged to bring their personal laptop/device, as they will have the opportunity to complete the FAFSA during the workshop. Oct 19 Senior Retreat at Nelson s property on Wilson Mesa. Continue work on your applications: -Good time to apply to colleges that offer Rolling Admissions -Refine your college essay. -Refine the resume you are working on in Senior Seminar International students should make arrangements for the preparation of a financial support declaration and sign up for the TOEFL. November If testing for SAT remember: - Nov, 2016 is deadline for Dec 3 SAT registration. Offered at THS. - Nov 5, 2016 SAT test date. Must have pre-registered. - Nov 22 is LATE registration deadline for the Dec 3 SAT. -Send your SAT scores to your colleges. By sending them early you avoid paying rush fees. If testing for ACT remember: - Nov 4, 2016 is deadline for Dec 10 ACT registration. NOT offered at THS. - Nov 18, 2016 is LATE registration deadline for the Dec 10 ACT. If you are applying early decision or early action: -Nov 15 is the Early Action application deadline for CU Boulder. Apply by this deadline to hear back by Feb 1. If you are applying to campuses of the University of California, you must do so online during this month (although, do not wait until the end of the month because you may experience computer logjam). You do not need to request transcripts for UC schools until you have been accepted and choose to attend one, nor do you need teacher recommendations. Attend college events and meet visiting admissions officials. 15

17 International students should have their parents fill out an affidavit verifying financial support (see attachment or get one at the counseling office). American institutions require foreign students to prove they can pay all educational and living costs. International students should research TOEFL requirements at desired colleges. December If testing for SAT remember: - Dec 3, 2016 is SAT test date. Must have pre-registered. - Dec 21, 2016 is deadline for January 21, 2017 SAT registration. (Offered at THS) If testing for ACT remember: -Dec 10, 2016 is ACT test date. Must have preregistered. If you are applying early decision or early action: -Dec 1 is the Early Action application deadline for Colorado State. If you would like to be considered for CSU s Honors Program, apply ASAP. If applying for financial aid: -Obtain a PIN (both you and your parent will need one) for filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. -Remind your parents to gather the financial records necessary to fill out the FAFSA. You cannot actually file the FAFSA until after January 1, but obtaining a PIN to do so can take a few days, so do it early. Some selective colleges have a December 15 deadline. Don't miss it. If you have January 1 or January 15 application deadlines, provide the college counselor and your recommending teachers with the necessary materials NO LATER THAN Dec. 1!! International students should make final arrangements for financial support declarations and bring them back to school after Winter Break. January If testing for SAT remember: - Jan 10, 2017 is LATE registration deadline for the Jan 21 SAT. - Jan 21, 2017 is SAT test date. Must have pre-registered. If testing for ACT remember: - Jan 13, 2017 is deadline for Feb 11 ACT. (Offered at THS) - Jan 20, 2017 is LATE registration deadline for Feb 11 ACT. If applying for financial aid: -File FAFSA as soon as possible after Jan

18 -Check your colleges FAFSA filing deadline. -Men must register with the Selective Service if they are 18 or over you cannot qualify for federal student aid unless you have registered. Complete work on your applications and have all items submitted: -Meet all application deadlines due this month. -Many colleges have January 1 or January 15 deadlines. -Check the status of your application at each of your colleges/universities. This verification is your responsibility. -Make sure your application is complete. -If your application is missing any of THS s materials, immediately contact the College Counseling Office. February If testing for SAT remember: - Feb. 10, 2017 is deadline for March 11 SAT registration. (Not offered at THS) - Feb 28, 2017 is LATE registration deadline for March 11 SAT. If testing for ACT remember: - Feb 11, 2017 is ACT test date. Must have pre-registered. Check the status of your application at each of your colleges and universities. Don't forget that this verification is your responsibility. Make sure your application is complete. If your application is missing any of THS's materials, immediately contact the College Counseling Office. March If testing for SAT remember: -March 11, 2017 is SAT test date. Must have pre-registered. If testing for ACT remember: - Mar 3, 2017 is deadline for April 8 ACT registration. (Not offered at THS) - Mar 17, 2017 is LATE registration deadline for April 8 ACT. Applications and acceptance information: -As you await acceptances, rank your choices in order of importance to you. This will make your final decision (due by May 1) easier. Spreadsheet with info regarding Telluride Local Scholarship Program mailed home. Prepare your local scholarship applications. April If testing for SAT remember: - April 7, 2017 is the deadline for May 6 SAT registration. (Offered at 17

19 THS) -April 25, 2017 is LATE registration deadline for May 6 SAT. If testing for ACT remember: -April 8, 2017 is ACT test date. Must have pre-registered. Applications and acceptance information: -All remaining college acceptances should reach you by mid-month, at the very latest. -Review your college acceptances and be prepared to reply to one College by May 1 (the universal reply date). -If you have decided against a college that has offered you admission, please politely decline their offer with a brief letter or . If applied for financial aid: -Examine your financial aid package to determine how much of your need is covered. -If you have any questions, see your college counselor for advice and assistance. Submit your Local Scholarship Program applications to the College Counseling Office (or directly to donor, if requested) by 8:15am on Apr 25, 2017). May If testing for SAT remember: - May 6, 2017 is SAT test date. Must have pre-registered. - May 9, 2017 is deadline for June 3 SAT registration. (Offered at THS) - May 24, 2017 is LATE registration deadline for June 3 SAT. If testing for ACT remember: - May 5, 2017 is deadline for June 10 ACT registration. (Offered at the Mountain School) - May 19, 2017 is LATE registration deadline for June 10 ACT. Applications and acceptance information: -May 1 You must reply to your colleges by this date. Send in paperwork and deposit. -Politely decline offers from schools you will not be attending by writing a brief letter or to each school. -If you have been wait-listed by your first choice, see your college counselor for advice on how to reply to your other colleges. -We will send a final transcript to only one institution and cannot send a transcript unless you request it in Family Connection. 18

20 June June 1 Senior Recognition Luncheon June 1 Senior Awards Night (local scholarships are awarded) JUNE 10, 2016 IS GRADUATION!! Respond promptly to all future requests from the college you have decided to attend. July, August, September Follow the schedule of events your college describes in the literature they send you. For the next four years you should keep in contact with the college counselor who will want to know how you are doing! The College Application Process Naviance Naviance is a confidential, password-protected program visible only to the student, his/her parent and the post-high school counselors. Telluride High School does not send any information to colleges without the student s permission. Senior Seminar Senior Seminar is intended to provide students with the time and resources to make the best "match" between students and the institution that will best fulfill their college aspirations. Senior Seminar is not required for graduation and may not be necessary. Talk to your counselor about your specific goals. This class is unique in that few public high schools offer this 'set aside' time for students to: -Research individual institutions -Generate a list of colleges and universities to look into -Prepare college application materials The teacher and students routinely meet together in seminar; however, each student is unique and much of the work will be largely self-directed. When they are not meeting individually with the teacher or the college counselor, the student will be expected to work independently on a range of tasks outlined on the class webpage. This course is provided to help the student manage their application process. College Counseling Office The College Counseling Office is devoted to college exploration. It provides resources for students and parents to use on site or to check out for three-day at-home use. Another great resource is the internet, a couple useful links are: 19

21 (especially the college search portion) The Academic Résumé A résumé is a summary of the student s educational experience and should highlight his/her scholastic honors, grade point average, standardized test scores, leadership positions and personal achievements. A résumé also provides the student with the means to assess their strengths and weaknesses. All extra-curricular activities, community service and relevant work experience should be included on a one-page résumé. Students can begin to create their résumé by going into their Family Connection account under about me and clicking on résumé. Potential Visual and Performing Arts Students Arts application procedures, selection processes and programs vary widely from school to school. Arts students should expect to do some specialized research to identify the kinds of programs that suit their interests and the application procedures for each institution. In general, students should be prepared to: Provide a detailed résumé, portfolio or other archive of their work in the arts; Complete the Arts Supplement of the Common Application. Schedule auditions and/or portfolio reviews. Arrange to take a lesson or sit in on arts classes while visiting colleges and universities. This is arranged at the time the visit is scheduled. Telluride High School teachers are superb resources for appropriate college programs, for helping select audition pieces and for assisting with the compilation and display of portfolio pieces. Sports in College Many collegiate athletic programs are regulated by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), an organization founded in 1906 that has established rules on eligibility, recruiting and financial aid. The NCAA has three membership divisions Division I, Division II and Division III. Institutions are members of one or another division according to the size and scope of their athletic programs and whether they provide athletic scholarships. If you plan to enroll as a freshman and you wish to participate in Division I or Division II athletics you must register with the NCAA Eligibility Center This can be done in the student s junior or senior year. You will also want to create an athletic résumé to present to college coaches and other athletic recruiters. College & Career Fairs The Colorado Western Slope College Fair/Aspen College Fair is the largest college fair in the region. Its mission is to provide access to post-secondary educational options (including 20

22 two and four colleges and universities) for Western Slope high school students, parents, teachers and administrators. National Portfolio Day for Art Students National Portfolio Day is an event specifically for visual artists and designers. It is an opportunity for those who wish to pursue an education in the visual and related arts to meet with representatives from colleges accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Representatives will be available to review student artwork, discuss their programs and answer questions about professional careers in art. High school students, parents, teachers, guidance counselors and college transfer students are encouraged to attend. For more information visit: Discipline Records Colleges do ask about your behavioral history. Please refer to the THS student handbook for school policies. Application Process For the most up-to-date information please look at the Senior Seminar page on Mr. Lavender s website found on the Telluride High School website: lavender/seminar/ College Application Types Early Action Early action, like Early Decision, is an accelerated college application process in which students typically must complete their applications by November 1 or 15. In most cases, students will then receive a decision from the college before the New Year. In general, early action is a much more attractive option than early decision. Some reasons to consider early action include: At many colleges, the acceptance rates are higher for early action than for regular admission. Students who are not accepted early may be considered for admission with the regular admission pool. Early action is not binding the admitted student is not required to attend. Students can apply early to other colleges. Although students receive early notification of an acceptance, they do not need to make a decision until the usual May 1 deadline. This allows time to figure out financial aid. If accepted early at a college, the spring of a student's senior year will be far less stressful. Early Decision: Early Decision, like Early Action, is an accelerated college application process in which students typically must complete their applications by November 1 or 15. In most cases, students will then receive a decision from the college before the New Year. 21

23 Early Decision has a few obvious benefits: Generally, the acceptance rate is higher for early decision than it is for regular admissions. Students who aren't accepted Early Decision may be deferred to the regular applicant pool. Students who are accepted early are done stressing about getting into college months before most applicants. However, Early Decision is not as attractive as early action for several reasons: Early Decision is binding. If admitted, a student is ethically obligated to attend the school. A student may apply to only one college Early Decision (although additional applications for Early Action and regular admissions are allowed). If accepted, a student must withdraw all other college applications. A student accepted early must decide to attend before receiving a financial aid package (colleges do allow students to break the Early Decision contract if the school fails to come up with enough aid to meet a student's demonstrated need, but one should realize that the student's need is calculated by the school and the FAFSA, not by what student thinks they can afford) Single Choice Early Action: A few colleges give applicants the option to apply Single Choice Early Action (also called Restrictive Early Action). These schools (Stanford, Harvard, Yale and some others) do not make acceptance binding. They do, however, require that applicants apply nowhere else with the exception of each applicant s state universities in the early round. Applying SCEA means that all other applications submitted by the student must go out in the regular decision round. Rolling Admissions: While many colleges and universities in the United States employ a rolling admission policy, very few of the most selective colleges use it. With rolling admission, students have a large window of time during which they can apply to a college or university. The application process typically opens up in the early fall, and it may continue right through the summer. Unlike a regular admission process with a firm application deadline, rolling admission applicants are often notified of their acceptance or rejection within a few weeks of applying. A college with rolling admission typically accepts applications for as long as spaces are available. Applicants should realize, however, that it is a mistake to view rolling admission as an excuse to put off applying to college. In many cases, applying early improves an applicant's chance of being accepted. Also, while there may be no application deadline, there typically are deadlines for scholarships, financial aid and housing. A late application may make it impossible to get decent financial aid. 22

24 Letters of Recommendation Most college candidates will need one to two teacher recommendations for college applications. These should ideally come from individuals who have taught the student in the high school classroom, preferably in his/her junior or senior year, and know the student well. Some highly selective colleges want one letter from a teacher in either English or History and another from Mathematics or a lab science. Most schools, however, do not have this requirement. If the student has decided upon a general area of college study, he or she may want to select a teacher in that discipline. The student s counselor or the Senior Seminar teacher will instruct him/her as to when and how to approach teachers in the fall of senior year. Rarely are letters from coaches or character references required. However, if a student thinks that a letter from a third party who knows the student well might enhance his/her admission consideration, one additional letter may sometimes be submitted. It is important that students be on their best behavior throughout high school, but particularly in their junior and senior years. The letter of recommendation written by the teacher puts the student in the context of learning and behaving in the educational setting of the classroom. The student s engagement in education, his disciplined study habits, his respectfulness and willingness to challenge himself are all considered in the recommendation. In short, classroom behavior counts, especially when asking a teacher to describe a student s approach to his education and its obligations. At a minimum of one month prior to needing a recommendation letter, students should ask their teachers in person if they are willing to write on the students behalf. If the teachers agree, then students must go into Family Connection and list the teachers as their recommenders. Remember you will not have access to your letters of recommendation but you will be able to confirm that a letter has been sent. Approximately one week before the letter is due, thank your teachers for writing the letters for you. If they have already written their letters, they will appreciate the thoughtfulness. If they have not yet written their letters, your comments will remind them of the deadline. When you matriculate or enter a particular college, you have a right under U.S. law to view your recommendation letters, although you can waive that right. You may want to waive the right to see the letter since some admission officers will note your waiver and may give added credibility to the honest, un-reviewed letter of your teacher or counselor. The choice is yours, but you should know that THS recommends waiving when the student completes the FERPA. The college counselor will write a counselor report about your personal, academic and intellectual participation at Telluride High School. This letter puts the student in the context of the school community. 23

25 Students Rights and Responsibilities in the College Admission Process Student s Rights (notes to student) Before you apply: You have the right to receive full information from colleges and universities about their admission, financial aid, scholarship, 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 aid until May 1. Colleges that request commitments to offers of admission, financial assistance, and/or housing prior to May 1 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 housing and/or financial aid. (This right does not apply to candidates admitted under an early decision program.) 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. Colleges may require neither a deposit nor a written commitment as a condition of remaining on a wait list. Colleges are expected to notify you of the resolution of your waitlist status by August 1 at the latest. Your Responsibilities: Before you apply: Research and understand the policies and procedures of each college or universities regarding application fees, financial aid, scholarships, and housing. Be sure that you understand the policies of each college or university regarding deposits that you may be required to make before you enroll. As you apply: Complete all material required for application, and submit your application on or before the published deadlines. Be the sole author of your applications. Seek the assistance of your high school counselor early and throughout the application period. Follow the process recommended by your high school for filing college applications. Arrange for visits to and/or interviews at colleges of your choice, if appropriate. After you receive your admission decisions: 24