This newsletter is distributed through English 12 classes and is available on the WGHS website. Go to www.gcsnc.com/schools/high/western/index.html, then go to WGHS web site, counseling department, then Senior Scoop newsletter.
COLLEGE APPLICATION WEEK
• Western Guilford will host College Application Week during the week of November 10-14. Our goal is to provide an opportunity for every WG senior to apply online to a NC college.
• If you have not applied to college yet, sign up in your English class for a time in the computer lab.
• These colleges will have no application fees during the week of Nov. 10-14: Barton, Belmont Abbey, Bennett, Brevard, Cabarrus College of Health Sciences, Campbell, Chowan, Catawba, Gardner-Webb, Greensboro, Guilford, Lenoir Rhyne, Louisburg, Mars Hill, Meredith, Methodist, Montreat, Mount Olive, NC Wesleyan, Peace, Pfeiffer, Queens, St. Andrews, St. Augustine’s, Salem, Shaw, Warren Wilson, Wingate
• There is never a charge to apply to GTCC, RCC, or other community colleges.
• We can offer fee waivers for other colleges for students who have free and reduced lunch, this includes NC Central, WSSU, and NC A&T (this week only).
• If you have questions, see Teresa Miller.
Cap and Gown Orders
Be sure to order a cap and gown on November 20 or 21 in the commons area during lunch. The cost is about $47.00 for a cap, gown, and tassel. You can order just a tassel, if you are borrowing a cap and gown from a former WG graduate. You can also order announcements and name cards. Herff Jones also has many other items that they would like to sell you; however, be careful not to purchase more than you need or can afford. The $10.00 senior fee that is included in your order pays for your diploma, holder, miniature diploma, and other senior expenses. Be sure to order your cap and gown in November, because the cost goes up every month until graduation.
FINANCIAL AID MEETING
College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) will conduct a meeting for parents in the WG media center on Monday, December 1 from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Ms. Barnes will talk about finding money to pay for college and about applying for federal financial aid.
What are my chances of getting into one of the 16 UNC schools?
Many students and parents are curious about their chances of getting into a certain college. This site gives statistics, including the class rank and SAT scores of admitted freshmen, at the sixteen UNC schools. The website is www.northcarolina.edu/content.php/assessment/reports/profiles/current.htm
North Carolina Independent Colleges
Similar information is available for the 36 private, liberal arts colleges and universities in North Carolina at www.ncicu.org. NC students receive the North Carolina Legislative Tuition Grant of $1950 per year.
www.cfnc.org
College Foundation of North Carolina’s website, www.cfnc.org, is an excellent site that provides links and applications for North Carolina colleges, universities, and community colleges. The CFNC site also has a scholarship search engine and the booklet, “Student Financial Aid for North Carolinians.” This site has many other services including career information, predicted college aid calculator, and SAT preparation. If you do not have internet service at home, access is available in our media center, any library, and our office.
TRANSCRIPTS
Complete a yellow transcript request form in the counseling office to request a transcript. If you are not 18 years old, your parents must sign the request form. You will receive an unofficial copy of the transcript and a sealed, official transcript to send to the college. Transcripts are free, if you list where you plan to send them. A few schools (UNC, UNCW, Duke, Davidson, Elon, Meredith, Wake Forest, etc.) require a counselor statement or school report. If you are applying to a school that requires an additional form, please leave the form with the transcript request.
COMPETENCY/COMPUTER SKILLS TESTS
Seniors will have three opportunities to pass these required tests. Tentative dates are:
• Reading Competency Test – Tuesday, November 18
• Math Competency Test – Wednesday, November 19
• Computer Skills Test – November
College Open House Dates
Colleges schedule open house dates on weekends and evenings for the convenience of seniors, underclassmen, and parents. Get a feel for the campus and learn about the school by going to Open House.
Hampton University will be conducting an information session in Greensboro. Qualified students will have the opportunity to meet with an Admissions Officer and submit an application at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 16, 2008 at the Church of the Redeemer, 901 E. Friendly Avenue, Greensboro (a block away from Hayes Taylor YMCA). Information session is free; application fee is $35. Students should bring their ACT and/or SAT scores and an official copy of their transcript. Students scoring above an 1100 on the SAT (reading and math only) are eligible for academic scholarships. Academic scholarships for ACT scores are also available. The university website is www.hamptonu.edu.
NCAA Clearinghouse
Students planning to participate in Division I or Division II athletics must be certified by the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse. The Clearinghouse charges a fee of $50.00. Register online at www.ncaaclearinghouse.net. Students who qualify for free lunch may receive a fee waiver.
Selective Service
Young men are required by law to register with the Selective Service System upon reaching 18 years of age. You must register to be eligible for many important benefits, such as federal financial student aid, federal job training programs, and federal employment. You may register yourself online at www.sss.gov.
Career Information
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook, at www.bls.gov/oco/, is a great resource for career information. Find out what you do in a particular job, what education is needed, and what the job typically pays. If you need help with your future plans, this is a good place to get some ideas!
Another great resource for career information is the Career Center on www.cfnc.org.
Practice Interviews
We would be glad to schedule a practice interview for you, if you have a scholarship interview coming up.
Federal Financial Aid
You may apply for federal money on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.ed.gov in 2009. Your parents must complete 2008 income tax forms before applying for federal aid. This money is based on need, not grades. Students and parents may get assistance in English or Spanish by calling the Federal Student Aid Information Center toll-free at 1-800-4-FED-AID. FAFSA Day is Saturday, February 21. Colleges will provide free help in completing and submitting federal financial aid (FAFSA) forms. Register at www.cfnc.org.
PROFILE
PROFILE. A few colleges require an additional form, the PROFILE Needs Assessment Form, to help them award student aid. The colleges in NC which require the PROFILE are: UNC, Davidson, Duke, Elon, and Wake Forest. The Aubrey Lee Brooks Scholarships (to UNC, NCSU, and UNCG) and Jagannathan Scholarships also require the PROFILE. There is a cost of $25.00 to send information to one college and an additional charge of $16.00 for each additional report. Fee waivers are available. You should complete the PROFILE as soon as you know the schools where you will apply for aid. The registration must be done online at www.collegeboard.com.
GENERAL SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS NOW AVAILABLE
The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program is pleased to offer this opportunity to a U S citizen or lawful resident of the United States. The first place prize is $18,000. For more information, please visit www.legion.org, go to legion programs, then oratorical.
The Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship Program awards $1500 scholarships which are renewable. Applicants must have a 3.50 unweighted GPA and an 1860 SAT combined score or a score of 28 on the ACT. Each applicant must be a United States citizen, be a NC legal resident, rank in at least the top 20% of the graduating class, and plan to enroll at an accredited institution of higher education. Please pick up a half-page self- nomination form from counseling. Nomination sheets are due by Monday, December 15.
The "Call Me MISTER" program is an effort to address the critical shortage of African American male teachers. Program participants are selected from among under-served, socio-economically disadvantaged and educationally at-risk communities. The program is collaboration between Clemson University and four historically black colleges in South Carolina: Benedict College, Claflin University, Morris College, and South Carolina State University. Black males who are willing to teach can receive four years of education for free. Visit www.callmemister.clemson.edu/index.htm for the online application or call (800) 640-2657.
Mental Floss Tuition Giveaway Scholarship is a $10,000 scholarship for students pursuing a two-year or four-year degree in the fall of 2009. Applicants must write a 750 words or less essay on “why you (most deserving on the planet) should win a $10,000 prize for tuition/books in the fall of 2009.” Applicants must be at least 18 years old by August 15, 2009 and legal residents of the US. For more information, please visit www.tuitiongiveaway.com. The deadline for the entries is January 31.
Miss Cheerleader of America scholarship information is at www.misscheerleaderofamerica.com.
National Multiple Sclerosis Scholarship Program offers scholarships of $1000 to $3000 to seniors who have MS or have a parent with MS. Applications are at www.nationalMSsociety.org/scholarship or by calling 1-800-344-4867. The deadline to apply is January 15.
North Carolina State United States Bowling Congress Association (NCS USBCA) offers a $1,500 scholarship to a senior who is a member of the NCS USBCA and bowling in a youth league. Applications are at www.ncbowls.com and are due with transcripts and letters of recommendation by February 28.
Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine offers the Cut Above Awards of $1000 to a student and an educator who try to implement nonanimal learning methods in a curriculum or promote understanding of the advantages of dissection alternatives. Visit www.DissectionAlternatives.org.
Sam Walton Community Scholarships are awarded for $3,000. Applicants must have at least a 2.5 unweighted, cumulative GPA and have taken the ACT or SAT. Selection will be based on financial need, academics, leadership, and school/community activities. The deadline is January 31. Information is at http://walmartstores.com/Community/Giving/8732.aspx.
The Toyota Community Scholars Program will award 100 renewable scholarships in the US. WG may nominate one student for this scholarship. These scholarships are based on academic record, leadership, and community or school service. Submit a self-nomination form by Thursday, November 20. You may list your leadership experience and community or school service activities or use a self-nomination form.
SCHOLARSHIPS TO SPECIFIC COLLEGES/UNIVERSITIES
All colleges and universities offer scholarships. If you cannot find information on a school, come to the counseling office for help.
Appalachian State University Scholarships require applications by December 1. Apply at www.scholarships.appstate.edu.
The Art Institutes (with branches all over the US, closest to us is Atlanta) offer two competitions. The Passion for Fashion competition, deadline of November 21, offers scholarships to students interested in fashion design or marketing at artinstitutes.edu/passionforfashion. The Best Teen Chef competition offers scholarships to nine culinary arts students; submit your entry at ArtInstitutes.edu/BTC by February 6.
The Citadel is looking for minority students who might be interested in a military college and would be successful in their academic environment to apply for academic scholarships. Let Dr. Miller know if you would like to be nominated.
Common Black College Application allows students to apply to all 33 member institutions for one fee of $35. Johnson C. Smith, Bennett, St. Augustine’s, SC State, Norfolk State, Virginia State, and Virginia Union are included in this fee. Visit www.eduinconline.com.
Duke and UNC offer the Robertson Scholars Program which gives outstanding students courses on both campuses. The deadline to submit an application is December 1 at www.robertsonscholars.org.
East Carolina University offers merit scholarships. Students must mail an application available at www.ecu.edu/cs-acad/admissions/apps.cfm by December 1.
Johnson and Wales offers 25 merit co-op scholarships for $24,000 to students who have at least a 3.5 GPA and other scholarships and chef competitions. See www.jwu.edu.
UNC Asheville offers leadership and merit scholarships to students who apply by November 15. Visit www.unca.edu/financialaid to learn more.
University of NC at Greensboro Merit Awards Program is open to students who have at least 1200 on the SAT (reading + math) and 3.5 GPA. The deadline to apply is January 5 at www.uncg.edu/fia. Seniors who have a cumulative GPA of 3.25 and a minimum SAT score of 1100 are eligible for an application fee waiver to UNCG (you can apply with no fee). Come to counseling to get the waiver form.
Wake Forest University awards academic, talent, and need-based scholarships. Separate applications are required for many competitive scholarships. Eighteen Poteat Scholarships are awarded to NC students active in the Baptist church. See www.wfu.edu/finaid.
GTCC College Tech Prep Scholarship
All students who have taken four courses in the same career/technical area qualify as College Tech Prep completers. The GTCC CTP scholarship pays for all tuition and fees (not books) for GTCC for two years. This offer is good for two years from the student’s high school graduation. These students qualify for a GTCC CTP Scholarship if they meet these criteria and follow these steps:
• Have at least a 2.0 cumulative weighted GPA,
• Have grades of C or better in the four courses that qualify the student as a CTP completer,
• Fill out an application for GTCC,
• Fill out an application for the GTCC CTP scholarship,
• Go into a course of study that GTCC recognizes in their pathway,
• Mail (or hand deliver) the two completed applications and a transcript to Mr. Bill Eversole,
• Take the COMPASS placement test (see below),
• Complete a FAFSA in February, March, or April. After students complete FAFSA, they should check with GTCC Financial Aid Office in April or May to make sure their FAFSA file is complete.
• Attend a Student Orientation and Registration (SOAR) session by July 15.
• All steps (except for SOAR) must be completed by June 15 to guarantee the student will receive this scholarship. All students who qualify will receive this scholarship.
• Students must enroll in a college course linked to their high school major.
• The college transfer curriculum is not an eligible program for the GTCC CTP Scholarship.
SCHOLARSHIPS REPEATED FROM THE LAST NEWSLETTER
AFS Awards for Excellence includes Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange which awards 50 full scholarships to students from the Eastern US to study a year in Germany. Applications are due in early December. Visit www.afs.org/usa/scholarships to learn more.
AXA Achievement Scholarship. Amount: $210,000 and $25,000. The deadline to apply is December 15. Applicants must demonstrate ambition, drive, determination to set and reach goals, respect for self, family and community, and an ability to succeed in college. Apply at www.axa-achievement.com.
Ron Brown Scholar Program awards twenty $40,000 scholarships to African American students. Applications must be postmarked by January 9.
Burger King Scholars Program will award 700 scholarships for $1000 each. Applications are online at www.bk.com/scholars. Applicants must have a 2.5 or higher GPA, need financial assistance, be involved in community service, and work an average of 15 hours per week in a part time job (the job can be at Burger King or any other employer). The deadline is February 2. Access key is BKS.
Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship Contest - Prudent Publishing Company is sponsoring its first Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship Contest. The winning entry receives a $10,000 scholarship. All high school, college and university students are eligible to participate. The submission deadline is Jan. 15. For scholarship rules and an entry form, go online to www.gallerycollection.com/scholarship.htm.
Elks National Foundation “Most Valuable Student” Scholarship is sponsored by the Greensboro Lodge of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, a “Most Valuable Student” will be selected for the Greensboro area and entered in national competition. The value of the scholarships is $2000 or $1000. Criteria: academics, leadership, financial need. Application requires essay from student and parent, transcript, counselor statement, and family financial profile. Application available on the website: www.elks.org, or call 288-5100. Deadline: January 9.
The Gates Millennium Scholars Program will assist 1200 minority (African American, American Indian, Asian Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American) students who are citizens or legal residents, with unweighted GPA of 3.3, have leadership ability, have community service and extracurricular activities, and meet Federal Pell Grant eligibility criteria. The deadline to apply at www.gmsp.org is January 12.
The Hispanic Scholarship Fund is designed to assist students of Hispanic heritage obtain a college degree. See their website for available scholarships and applications: www.hsf.net/scholarship/seniors.php
McKelvey Foundation Entrepreneurial Scholarships are awards of up to $40,000 to sixty high school seniors who have owned their own business for at least one year and have at least one paid employee. Apply online at mckelveyfoundation.org by January 25. Awards are not based on grades or financial need.
A list of 200 Minority Scholarships is at www.blackexcel.org. Copies are also in counseling.
Naval Helicopter Association Scholarships are awarded for $3,000 per year. Applicants with any type of military affiliation (regardless of the branch) are given special consideration in this scholarship competition. Information available at www.nhascholarship.org. Deadline: November 15.
NFIB Young Entrepreneur Awards are given to 400 students in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. An established business is not a requirement for these scholarships. Students must show an entrepreneurial spirit through community service, starting a business, or participating in DECA, FBLA, or other initiatives. The deadline to apply at www.NFIB.com/YEA is December 15.
Your parent’s employer may offer scholarships to employees' children. Ask your parents to check with their employers.
Ayn Rand Essay Contest. 236 awards ranging from $50 to $10,000 are given to winners in the essay contest on Ayn Rand’s Novel, The Fountainhead. Participants may choose one of three essay topics. Submit essays online at www.aynrand.org/contests by April 25.
The Society of Automotive Engineers offers competitive scholarships for students who plan to earn a degree in engineering or a related science (math, chemistry, physics, biology, technologies, computer science). The deadline is December 1 at www.sae.org/students/engschlr.htm.
Young Epidemiology Scholars Competition increases awareness of public health while presenting career options to talented high school students. 120 students will be selected to receive scholarships valued up to $50,000. Students must submit a research project that sheds light on a health problem, using the methods employed by epidemiologists. The application deadline is February 2 at www.collegeboard.yes.
The Army, Navy, Air Force, National Guard, Coast Guard, and Marines all offer money to help pay for college. As a service member, you may be eligible for up to $4,500 per year in tuition assistance to pay for a college degree or professional certificate.
ROTC Scholarships are offered by the Army, the Air Force, and Navy/Marines. Students who receive these scholarships are obligated to pay back the military with four years of active duty as an officer.
The North Carolina Police Corps offers college scholarships for students who agree to work for a law enforcement agency for at least four years. Students may receive up to $7500 per year and must attend a four-year college or university. Recipients serve a 4-year commitment with a NC law enforcement agency.
The North Carolina Lions Foundation, Inc. offers scholarships to children whose parents are legally blind. Awards are based on financial need, scholastic record, and character.
The American Cancer Society offers scholarships to students who are cancer survivors.
The Suntrust Off To College Scholarship Sweepstakes awards students $1,000. Apply online at www.offtocollege.info. High school seniors can win a $1,000 scholarship, plus a $100 SunTrust Gift Card. One winner will be chosen every two weeks from October 31 through May 15. Registration is open now.
Vocational Rehabilitation offers scholarships to students with academic, physical, emotional, or mental difficulties. Ask a counselor to arrange an appointment to see a Vocational Rehabilitation counselor.
Veteran’s Scholarships are awarded to children of disabled, deceased, combat, POW, or MIA war veterans. Call the Guilford County Veterans Service Office at 294-1222 for information. The deadline to apply for some of these scholarships is March 1. Visit www.doa.state.nc.us/vets/benefits-scholarships.htm.
TUTORING
• Teachers provide free tutoring before and after school.
• If you don’t have a computer and need access to one after school, contact Dr. Miller.
• These people have contacted us to say they will provide tutoring:
• Leila Wolfrun, lwolfrun@gmail.com, 919-308-3686
• Mammoth Tutoring, Daniel Shirley, Daniel@mammothwriting.com, 336-899-0239
• Proehlific Park Sports Complex, www.proehlificpark.com or call 209-0203.
Websites to Look for Financial Aid
www.fastweb.com
www.cfgg.org
www.cfnc.org
www.scholarshipplus.com/guilford/
www.meritaid.com
www.scholarships.com/educators - a free scholarship search site with a college research database, online FAFSA guide, and details on federal and private education loans.
TESTS FOR COLLEGE
Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)
• Students who plan to attend a four-year college must take the SAT or the ACT.
• The registration deadline for the January 24th SAT is December 26th. The registration fee for the SAT is $45.00. If you qualify for free or reduced lunch, you may also qualify for a free SAT; ask for forms in the counseling office. You may register by mail with a paper registration form and send in a check for $45.00. You may register online at www.collegeboard.com and pay with a credit card. Extended time is available for students with disabilities; applications are in the counseling center.
• When you register to take the SAT, please use Western Guilford’s school code, 341675. We need SAT scores from College Board to add them to your transcript.
• List four colleges to receive your scores; four score reports are included in the cost of the SAT; however, you pay $10.00 if you ask College Board to mail a report to a college at a later date.
• Help - You will find the Official SAT Question of the Day, practice tests, and helpful hints on the College Board website, www.collegeboard.com, under Prepare for the SAT. NC Virtual Public School, www.ncvps.org, and College Foundation, www.cfnc.org, also have SAT practice modules. The school and local libraries have test prep books available. Ms. Blackmon has cards for free test prep site. WG’s PTSA also has SAT prep classes that cost $25 for four Saturdays.
• Get a good night’s sleep before the test, and take a snack and drink to this marathon test.
American College Test (ACT)
• The ACT is also a college admissions test. If you did not score as well as you hoped on the SAT, you may want to try the ACT. Most colleges in North Carolina accept both tests.
• The ACT includes grammar and science reasoning tests as well as math and reading comprehension tests. The registration fee for the ACT Plus Writing is $46.00.
• The deadline to register for the February 7th test is January 6th.
• Register online and find practice tips at www.actstudent.org. Fee waivers are available for the ACT.
Community College Placement Tests
All community colleges in North Carolina, including Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC) and Rockingham Community College (RCC), require students to take placement tests in reading, grammar, and math, instead of the SAT or ACT. The best time to take the COMPASS is in the spring, since seniors are taking both math and English courses that will help them on the test.
GTCC
• The COMPASS placement test is given in reading, math, and grammar in the GTCC Assessment Center. Tests are given on a walk-in basis at GTCC. The test is on a computer and is not timed. Most people complete the test in two hours.
• Before you take the test, you must have applied, mailed or hand delivered a transcript, and met with an admissions representative. You will receive a placement test card; take the card and a photo ID to the Assessment Center.
GTCC Placement Test Hours
Days Walk-in Hours Close at:
Monday - Thursday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm 8:00 pm
Friday 8:00 am - 1:30 pm 3:30 pm
Saturdays 9:00 am - 10:00 am 12:00 noon
CONTACT INFORMATION
Senior counselor contact information is: Teresa Miller
Email: millert4@gcsnc.com Telephone: 316-5802, extension 4
SENIOR SCOOP
October 2008
This newsletter is distributed through English 12 classes and is available on the WGHS website. Go to www.gcsnc.com/schools/high/western/index.html, then go to WGHS web site, counseling department, then Senior Scoop newsletter.
FINANCIAL AID MEETING
College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC) will conduct a meeting for parents in the WG media center on Monday, December 1 from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Ms. Barnes will talk about finding money to pay for college and about applying for federal financial aid.
What are my chances of getting into one of the 16 UNC schools?
Many students and parents are curious about their chances of getting into a certain college. This site gives statistics, including the class rank and SAT scores of admitted freshmen, at the sixteen UNC schools. The website is www.northcarolina.edu/content.php/assessment/reports/profiles/current.htm
North Carolina Independent Colleges
Similar information is available for the 36 private, liberal arts colleges and universities in North Carolina at www.ncicu.org. NC students receive the North Carolina Legislative Tuition Grant of $1950 per year.
Application deadlines
College Foundation provides a quick reference chart of all NC colleges and their application deadlines at www.cfnc.org/static/pdf/home/sc/pdf/2009-10_admissions_deadlines.pdf or at www.cfnc.org then go to Downloadable Resources.
Now is the Time to Apply to College on www.cfnc.org
College Foundation of North Carolina’s website, www.cfnc.org, is an excellent site that provides links and applications for North Carolina colleges, universities, and community colleges. The CFNC site also has a scholarship search engine and the booklet, “Student Financial Aid for North Carolinians.” This site has many other services including career information, predicted college aid calculator, and SAT preparation. If you do not have internet service at home, access is available in our media center, any library, and our office.
TRANSCRIPTS
Complete a yellow transcript request form in the counseling office to request a transcript. If you are not 18 years old, your parents must sign the request form. You will receive an unofficial copy of the transcript and a sealed, official transcript to send to the college. Transcripts are free, if you list where you plan to send them. A few schools (UNC, UNCW, Duke, Davidson, Elon, Wake Forest, etc.) require a counselor statement or school report. If you are applying to a school that requires an additional form, please leave the form with the transcript request.
REQUIRED TESTS
Four tests are required to graduate from a NC high school in 2009. Most students passed these tests in the eighth grade. Students who have not passed the tests and new students to NC public schools will be notified of testing dates. Seniors will have three opportunities to pass these tests. Tentative dates are:
• Reading Competency Test – Tuesday, November 18
• Math Competency Test – Wednesday, November 19
• Multiple Choice Computer Skills Test – early November
• Performance Computer Skills Test – early November
ASVAB
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery is an aptitude test which is used by the armed services to place recruits into fields where they will succeed. This battery is also useful for students who do not plan to enter the military. The test is scheduled for Friday, October 24, at 9:00 a.m. The test is free. The results will give students insight into careers for which they are best suited. There is no obligation to the military. See Ms. Fahnestock, Career Development Coordinator, if you have questions or to register for the ASVAB.
College Open House Dates
Colleges schedule open house dates on weekends and evenings for the convenience of seniors, underclassmen, and parents. Get a feel for the campus and learn about the school by going to Open House.
Register for NC A&T’s University Day Academic Expo 2008 at www.ncat.edu/~admit/ and take English and math placement tests, plus learn about the university.
Yale University will host information sessions on Tuesday, Oct. 21, at 7:00 p.m. at Durham County Main Library and Thursday, Oct. 23, at 7:00 p.m. at the Charlotte County Day School. Register at http://admissions.yale.edu/events.
NCAA Clearinghouse
Students planning to participate in Division I or Division II athletics must be certified by the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse. The Clearinghouse charges a fee of $50.00. Register online at www.ncaaclearinghouse.net. Students who qualify for free lunch may receive a fee waiver.
Selective Service
Young men are required by law to register with the Selective Service System upon reaching 18 years of age. You must register to be eligible for many important benefits, such as federal financial student aid, federal job training programs, and federal employment. You may register yourself online at www.sss.gov.
Career Information
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook, at www.bls.gov/oco/, is a great resource for career information. Find out what you do in a particular job, what education is needed, and what the job typically pays. If you need help with your future plans, this is a good place to get some ideas!
Another great resource for career information is the Career Center on www.cfnc.org.
Federal Financial Aid
You may apply for federal money on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.ed.gov in 2009. Your parents must complete 2008 income tax forms before applying for federal aid. This money is based on need, not grades. Students and parents may get assistance in English or Spanish by calling the Federal Student Aid Information Center toll-free at 1-800-4-FED-AID. FAFSA Day is Saturday, February 21. Colleges will provide free help in completing and submitting federal financial aid (FAFSA) forms.
PROFILE
PROFILE. A few colleges require an additional form, the PROFILE Needs Assessment Form, to help them award student aid. The colleges in NC which require the PROFILE are: UNC, Davidson, Duke, Elon, and Wake Forest. The Aubrey Lee Brooks Scholarships (to UNC, NCSU, and UNCG) and Jagannathan Scholarships also require the PROFILE. There is a cost of $25.00 to send information to one college and an additional charge of $16.00 for each additional report. Fee waivers are available. You should complete the PROFILE as soon as you know the schools where you will apply for aid. The registration must be done online at www.collegeboard.com.
GENERAL SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS NOW AVAILABLE
AFS Awards for Excellence includes Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange which awards 50 full scholarships to students from the Eastern US to study a year in Germany. Applications are due in early December. Visit www.afs.org/usa/scholarships to learn more.
AXA Achievement Scholarship. Amount: $210,000 and $25,000. The deadline to apply is December 15. Applicants must demonstrate ambition, drive, determination to set and reach goals, respect for self, family and community, and an ability to succeed in college. Apply at www.axa-achievement.com.
Ron Brown Scholar Program awards twenty $40,000 scholarships to African American students. Applications postmarked by November 1 are considered for the Brown Scholarships and forwarded to other scholarship programs; applications postmarked by January 9 are considered for the Brown Scholarship.
Burger King Scholars Program will award 700 scholarships for $1000 each. Applications are online at www.bk.com/scholars. Applicants must have a 2.5 or higher GPA, need financial assistance, be involved in community service, and work an average of 15 hours per week in a part time job (the job can be at Burger King or any other employer). The deadline is February 2. Access key is BKS.
Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship Contest - Prudent Publishing Company is sponsoring its first Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship Contest. The winning entry receives a $10,000 scholarship. All high school, college and university students are eligible to participate. The submission deadline is Jan. 15. For scholarship rules and an entry form, go online to www.gallerycollection.com/scholarship.htm.
Elks National Foundation “Most Valuable Student” Scholarship is sponsored by the Greensboro Lodge of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, a “Most Valuable Student” will be selected for the Greensboro area and entered in national competition. Value: two scholarships for $2000; two for $1000. Criteria: strong academic record, show strong leadership, and have financial need. Application requires essay from student and parent, transcript, counselor statement, and family financial profile. Application available on the website: www.elks.org, or call 288-5100. Deadline: January 9.
The Hispanic Scholarship Fund is designed to assist students of Hispanic heritage obtain a college degree. See their website for available scholarships and applications: www.hsf.net/scholarship/seniors.php
McKelvey Foundation Entrepreneurial Scholarships are awards of up to $40,000 to sixty high school seniors who have owned their own business for at least one year and have at least one paid employee. Apply online at mckelveyfoundation.org by January 25. Awards are not based on grades or financial need.
A list of 200 Minority Scholarships is at www.blackexcel.org. Copies are also in counseling.
Naval Helicopter Association Scholarships are awarded for $3,000 per year. Applicants with any type of military affiliation (regardless of the branch) are given special consideration in this scholarship competition. Information available at www.nhascholarship.org. Deadline: November 15.
NFIB Young Entrepreneur Awards are given to 400 students in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. An established business is not a requirement for these scholarships. Students must show an entrepreneurial spirit through community service, starting a business, or participating in DECA, FBLA, or other initiatives. The deadline to apply at www.NFIB.com/YEA is December 15.
Your parent’s employer may offer scholarships to employees' children. Ask your parents to check with their employers.
Ayn Rand Essay Contest. 236 awards ranging from $50 to $10,000 are given to winners in the essay contest on Ayn Rand’s Novel, The Fountainhead. Participants may choose one of three essay topics. Submit essays online at www.aynrand.org/contests by April 25.
Young Epidemiology Scholars Competition increases awareness of public health while presenting career options to talented high school students. 120 students will be selected to receive scholarships valued up to $50,000. Students must submit a research project that sheds light on a health problem, using the methods employed by epidemiologists. The application deadline is February 2 at www.collegeboard.yes.
SCHOLARSHIPS TO SPECIFIC COLLEGES/UNIVERSITIES
All colleges and universities offer scholarships. If you cannot find information on a school, come to the counseling office for help.
Appalachian State University Scholarships require applications by December 1. Apply at www.scholarships.appstate.edu.
The Art Institutes (with branches all over the US, closest to us is Atlanta) offer two competitions. The Passion for Fashion competition, deadline of November 21, offers scholarships to students interested in fashion design or marketing at artinstitutes.edu/passionforfashion. The Best Teen Chef competition offers scholarships to nine culinary arts students; submit your entry at ArtInstitutes.edu/BTC by February 6.
Davidson offers ten John Montgomery Belk Scholarships. WG can nominate one student for this scholarship, which will be based on integrity, intellectual enthusiasm and ability, global awareness, and leadership ability and potential. Return the self-nomination form (or write a statement about each of these qualities) by Friday, October 17 at 1:45 p.m.
Duke and UNC offer the Robertson Scholars Program which gives outstanding students courses on both campuses. The deadline to submit an application is December 1 at www.robertsonscholars.org.
East Carolina University offers merit scholarships. Students must mail an application available at www.ecu.edu/cs-acad/admissions/apps.cfm by December 1.
Gardner Webb offers twelve University Fellows Scholarships. Nominees must have a 3.6 or higher GPA and at least 1130 on the SAT (reading + math). WG may nominate all students who qualify. For a nomination, please see Dr. Miller by October 21.
Johnson and Wales offers 25 merit co-op scholarships for $24,000 to students who have at least a 3.5 GPA and other scholarships and chef competitions. See www.jwu.edu.
Applicants to N.C. State University by November 1 are considered for merit scholarships. For details, go to www.ncsu.edu/finaid.
Randolph College in Lynchburg, VA invites WG to nominate students for their Presidential Scholars. Let Dr. Miller know by October 21, if you plan to apply and would like a nomination.
UNC Asheville offers leadership and merit scholarships to students who apply by November 15. Visit www.unca.edu/financialaid to learn more.
Students who apply to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill by November 1 will be considered for honors and merit scholarship programs. Check their website http://studentaid.unc.edu/. The Thomas Wolfe Scholarship application is available at http://english.unc.edu/creative/tws; the deadline is Nov. 2. Students must have literary ability and promise in poetry, fiction, play, or literary non-fiction.
University of NC at Greensboro Merit Awards Program is open to students who have at least 1200 on the SAT (reading + math) and 3.5 GPA. The deadline to apply is January 5 at www.uncg.edu/fia. Seniors who have a cumulative GPA of 3.25 and a minimum SAT score of 1100 are eligible for an application fee waiver to UNCG (you can apply with no fee). Come to counseling to get the waiver form.
University of Virginia offers the Jefferson Scholars program to outstanding students (average SAT 2204 on three parts). If you are interested, please submit your name to Dr. Miller by October 17.
Wake Forest University awards academic, talent, and need-based scholarships. Separate applications are required for many competitive scholarships. Eighteen Poteat Scholarships are awarded to NC students active in the Baptist church. See www.wfu.edu/finaid.
SCHOLARSHIPS REPEATED FROM THE LAST NEWSLETTER
Coca Cola Scholars Foundation awards 50 $20,000 scholarships and 200 $10,000 scholarships. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and must show evidence of exemplary service through school and community activities. Apply at www.coca-colascholars.org by October 31.
The Gates Millennium Scholars Program will assist 1200 minority (African American, American Indian, Asian Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American) students who are citizens or legal residents, with unweighted GPA of 3.3, have leadership ability, have community service and extracurricular activities, and meet Federal Pell Grant eligibility criteria. The deadline to apply at www.gmsp.org is January 12.
The Horatio Alger Association awards scholarships to students who have financial need and who have exhibited integrity and perseverance in overcoming personal adversity. Students must plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Only students with US citizenship or permanent residency may apply. Scholarships range from $1000 to $20000. Apply online at www.horatioalger.org/scholarships by October 30.
The North Carolina Teaching Fellows Scholarships are worth $26,000. Completed applications are due in the counseling office by 3:45 on Friday, October 17. The 500 students chosen as Teaching Fellows must attend Appalachian, Campbell, Catawba, East Carolina, Elizabeth City, Elon, Lenoir Rhyne, Meredith, NC A&T, NC Central, NC State, Queens, UNC-Asheville, UNC-Chapel Hill, UNC-Charlotte, UNC-Greensboro, UNC-Pembroke, UNC-Wilmington, or Western Carolina. Applicants must score at least 900 on the reading and math portions of the SAT.
The Society of Automotive Engineers offers competitive scholarships for students who plan to earn a degree in engineering or a related science (math, chemistry, physics, biology, technologies, computer science). The deadline is December 1 at www.sae.org/students/engschlr.htm.
The Army, Navy, Air Force, National Guard, Coast Guard, and Marines all offer money to help pay for college. As a service member, you may be eligible for up to $4,500 per year in tuition assistance to pay for a college degree or professional certificate.
ROTC Scholarships are offered by the Army, the Air Force, and Navy/Marines. Students who receive these scholarships are obligated to pay back the military with four years of active duty as an officer.
The North Carolina Police Corps offers college scholarships for students who agree to work for a law enforcement agency for at least four years. Students may receive up to $7500 per year and must attend a four-year college or university. Recipients serve a 4-year commitment with a NC law enforcement agency.
The North Carolina Lions Foundation, Inc. offers scholarships to children whose parents are legally blind. Awards are based on financial need, scholastic record, and character.
The American Cancer Society offers scholarships to students who are cancer survivors.
The Suntrust Off To College Scholarship Sweepstakes awards students $1,000. Apply online at www.offtocollege.info. High school seniors can win a $1,000 scholarship for first year expenses at an accredited college or private career school, plus a $100 SunTrust Gift Card. One winner will be chosen every two weeks from October 31 through May 15. Registration is open now.
Vocational Rehabilitation offers scholarships to students with academic, physical, emotional, or mental difficulties. Ask a counselor to arrange an appointment to see a Vocational Rehabilitation counselor.
Veteran’s Scholarships are awarded to children of disabled, deceased, combat, POW, or MIA war veterans. Call the Guilford County Veterans Service Office at 294-1222 for information. The deadline to apply for some of these scholarships is March 1. Visit www.doa.state.nc.us/vets/benefits-scholarships.htm.
MISCELLANEOUS
These people have contacted us to say they will provide tutoring:
• Leila Wolfrun, lwolfrun@gmail.com, 919-308-3686, Duke and Columbia graduate, worked in Duke writing center, tutoring in all subjects, SAT, and assistance with writing college essays.
• Mammoth Tutoring, Daniel Shirley, Daniel@mammothwriting.com, 336-899-0239, former GCS teacher with Master’s degree, tutoring in all subjects + SAT, ACT test prep.
• Proehlific Park Sports Complex offers classes and tutoring in literature, reading, math, study skills, SAT math, SAT verbal beginning in November. www.proehlificpark.com or call 209-0203.
The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) offers an award (certificate) to celebrate the spirit of volunteerism. If you have participated in community service activities over the past year and wish to be considered, fill on an online application form at www.principals.org/prudential (access key: spirit). Print out the completed form, sign it, and submit it to the counseling office by October 31. One student from WG will be chosen to receive the President’s Volunteer Service Award and to compete for a trip to DC in the spring.
Websites to Look for Financial Aid
www.fastweb.com
www.cfgg.org
www.cfnc.org
www.scholarshipplus.com/guilford/
www.meritaid.com
www.scholarships.com/educators - a free scholarship search site with a college research database, online FAFSA guide, and details on federal and private education loans.
TESTS FOR COLLEGE
Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)
• Students who plan to attend a four-year college must take the SAT.
• The registration deadline for the December 6th SAT is November 5th. The registration fee for the SAT is $45.00. If you qualify for free lunch, you may also qualify for a free SAT; ask for forms in the counseling office. You may register by mail with a paper registration form and send in a check for $45.00. You may register online at www.collegeboard.com and pay with a credit card.
Extended time is available for students with disabilities; applications are in the counseling center.
• When you register to take the SAT, please use Western Guilford’s school code, 341675. We need SAT scores from College Board to add them to your transcript.
• List four colleges to receive your scores; four score reports are included in the cost of the SAT; however, you pay $10.00 if you ask College Board to mail a report to a college at a later date.
• Help - You will find the Official SAT Question of the Day, practice tests, and helpful hints on the College Board website, www.collegeboard.com, under Prepare for the SAT. NC Virtual Public School, www.ncvps.org, and College Foundation, www.cfnc.org, also have SAT practice modules. The school and local libraries have test prep books available. Ms. Blackmon has cards for free test prep site. WG’s PTSA also has SAT prep classes that cost $25 for four Saturdays.
• Get a good night’s sleep before the test, and take a snack and drink to this marathon test.
American College Test (ACT)
• The ACT is also a college admissions test. If you did not score as well as you hoped on the SAT, you may want to try the ACT. Most colleges in North Carolina accept both tests.
• The ACT includes grammar and science reasoning tests as well as math and reading comprehension tests. The registration fee for the ACT Plus Writing is $46.00.
• The deadline to register for the December 13th test is November 7th.
• Register online and find practice tips at www.actstudent.org. Fee waivers are available for the ACT.
Community College Placement Tests
All community colleges in North Carolina, including Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC) and Rockingham Community College (RCC), require students to take placement tests in reading, grammar, and math, instead of the SAT or ACT. The COMPASS placement test is given in the computer lab at the GTCC Assessment Center. The best time to take the COMPASS is in the spring, since seniors are taking both math and English courses that will help them on the test.
GTCC College Tech Prep Scholarship
All students who have taken four courses in the same career/technical area qualify as College Tech Prep completers. The GTCC CTP scholarship pays for all tuition and fees (not books) for GTCC for two years. This offer is good for two years from the student’s high school graduation. These students qualify for a GTCC CTP Scholarship if they meet these criteria and follow these steps:
• Have at least a 2.0 cumulative weighted GPA,
• Have grades of C or better in the four courses that qualify the student as a CTP completer,
• Fill out an application for GTCC,
• Fill out an application for the GTCC CTP scholarship,
• Go into a course of study that GTCC recognizes in their pathway,
• Mail (or hand deliver) the two completed applications and a transcript to Mr. Bill Eversole,
• Take the COMPASS placement test (see above),
• Complete a FAFSA in February, March, or April. After students complete FAFSA, they should check with GTCC Financial Aid Office in April or May to make sure their FAFSA file is complete.
• Attend a Student Orientation and Registration (SOAR) session by July 15.
• All steps (except for SOAR) must be completed by June 15 to guarantee the student will receive this scholarship. All students who qualify will receive this scholarship.
• Students must enroll in a college course linked to their high school major.
• The college transfer curriculum is not an eligible program for the GTCC CTP Scholarship.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Senior counselor contact information is: Teresa Miller
Email: millert4@gcsnc.com Telephone: 316-5802, extension 4
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