Pickerington High School North

Class of 2017: Junior Handbook

District Website: www.pickerington.k12.oh.us Check out our College and Career Readiness Web Site called Naviance at

http://connection.naviance.com/phsn

School Counseling Office Phone Number: 614-830-2720

Department Head: Mrs. Debbie Clinger

Counselors: Mrs. Linda Kelly (A-D) Mr. Chris Peirano (F-La)

Mrs. Debbie Clinger Le-Ri) Mr. Chad Gill (Ro-Z)

Secretary: Mrs. Susie Murphy

September, 2015 Dear Students, The Pickerington High School North Junior Handbook is designed to provided assistance to you as you venture through the college and career decision-making process. This book is divided into three sections:

1. Graduation Information- Please review to make sure you are on track for graduation. 2. College Information- Includes 2 and 4 year college information and timelines, testing requirements &

financial aid and scholarship information. 3. Career Information- Includes resume writing, career exploration resources and military information.

Our goal is to support you along with others including your parents; assistant principals, teachers and peers in helping you make the best decisions based on your individual needs and goals. Remember, that while your counselor is responsible for helping you through the process, many others will help to influence what you decide to do after high school. The counseling department has a College and Career Readiness tool to help you navigate through career and college information and help you make informed decisions regarding your future. Please visit our Naviance web site http://connection.naviance.com/phsn frequently throughout the remainder of your junior and senior year to keep up-to-date on the many tasks, deadlines and decisions that need to be made to reach your career, college, and personal goals. During our visits with you through the coming months, we will discuss an array of issues related to the college and career selection process. This handbook is intended to be a supplement to those meetings. The following pages are a starting point. Please refer to this handbook as questions arise and review the information with your parents. We look forward to working with you during one of the most stressful and exciting times of your high school career. We wish the upcoming Class of 2017 a successful and fun year! Sincerely, Your PHS North School Counselors Linda Kelly Chris Peirano Deborah Clinger Chad Gill (A-D) (E-La) (Le-Ri) (Ro -Z)

Pickerington High School North Class of 2014 and beyond

Minimum Ohio Core Graduation Requirements

DATE: ______________________ NAME: ________________________________ Total credits earned: __________ Credits still needed: ______________________ REQUIRED CLASSES UNITS EARNED ENGLISH: English 9 ❒ English 10 ❒ English 11 ❒ English 12 ❒ __________ (4) WORLD HISTORY (Honors/AP) ❒: __________ (1) AMERICAN HISTORY (Honors/AP) ❒: __________ (1) ECONOMICS (Econ./AP Econ.) ❒: __________ (.50) PRINCIPLES OF GOVERNMENT ❒: __________ (.50) (Principles of Democracy POD./Honors POD./AP Govt.) MATH: ____________, ____________, ____________, ___________ __________ (4) (Must include Algebra 2 or its equivalent) SCIENCE: __________ (3)

❒ Integrated Science (1) (Physicsl Science credit) ❒ Biology (1) (Life Science credit) ❒ Advanced Study of Science (1) (one credit of Chemistry, Physics or other Advanced science credit)

HEALTH ❒: __________ (.50) PHYSICAL EDUCATION: __________ (.50) ❒ PE 1 (.25) ❒ PE 2 (.25) *Or have PE replacement paperwork on file and complete two seasons of Marching Band Cheerleading or OHSAA approved athletic team participation. FINE ARTS ❒: __________ (1) (1 unit from Art, Music or Theatre) ELECTIVES: __________ (4) OGT TESTS PASSED: ❒ WRITING ❒ READING ❒ MATH ❒ S. STUDIES ❒ SCIENCE Must successful ly complete the fol lowing to graduate:

Electives Taken

The Ohio Department of Education has designated that two types of diplomas will be awarded to graduates: 1. Standard Diploma To be awarded the standard diploma, the student shall be required to meet the following criteria:

a. meet all criteria established by the Pickerington Board of Education. b. meet all requirements established by the state of Ohio.

2. Honors Diploma To be awarded an Honors Diploma, the student shall be required to meet at least 7 of the 8 criteria listed below in a college preparatory curriculum. A student shall not be required to meet more than the specified number of criteria, nor shall any student be required to meet any one specified criterion.

1) Earn four credits of English. 2) Earn four credits of mathematics that include Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry and another higher level course 3) Earn at least four credits of science that include one credit of Physics and one credit of Chemistry. 4) Earn four credits of college preparatory social studies. 5) Earn either three credits of one foreign language or two credits each of two foreign languages. 6) Earn one credit of fine arts. 7) Maintain an overall high school grade point average of at least 3.5 on a four-point scale up to the last grading period of the senior year. The Honors diploma criteria is based on the unweighted cumulative grade point average (GPA). 8) Obtain a composite score of 27 on the American College Test (ACT) or an equivalent composite score on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT).

PRESIDENTIAL EDUCATION AWARDS PROGRAM Awarded to seniors who meet the following criteria: 1. Attained a 3.50 GPA or equivalent accumulated over seven semesters. 2. Received a score in the 11th or 12th grade placing the student at or above the 85th percentile on any nationally recognized standardized test such as the ACT or SAT.

GPA DISTINCTIONS DECEM DÉCORI: Top Ten Students in the class OPTIMA SUPRA: Students with a cumulative GPA of 4.0 or higher DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR: Students with a cumulative GPA of 3.75-3.99

COLLEGE CREDIT PLUS PROGRAM (CCP)

(Replacing the former Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) Program)

The College Credit Plus Program (CCP) replaces Ohio’s Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) program beginning in the 2015-2016 school year. Eligible high-school students can earn credits through Ohio Institutions of higher education at no cost and earn high school and college credits simultaneously while making the successful transition from high school to college. More information about the College Credit Plus program will be available at an informational meeting for interested students in February. Please listen for announcements regarding the date and time for the College Credit Plus Program meeting.

More information is available about the College Credit Plus program on the Ohio Board of Regents web site at: www.ohiohighered.org. Search for College Credit Plus to learn more about this exciting opportunity for high school students to maximize their potential for earning college credits while in high school.

COLLEGE ENTRANCE EXAMS: The ACT and/or the SAT In order to enter into college, you will need to take the ACT or the SAT college entrance exams. Most colleges and universities will accept either entrance exam. Please be aware that some of the highly competitive and prestigious universities require that you take one or more of the SAT Subject Tests as well. Refer the college or university web sites for specific testing requirements. When should you take the ACT/SAT? Students may register for the ACT/SAT at any time. It is recommended that juniors take the ACT/ SAT sometime during their junior year. Many students take it earlier and retake it at the end of their junior year to maximize their scores. How many times should a student take the ACT/SAT? You may take them as many times as you wish up to 12 times for the ACT. How do you register to take the ACT/SAT? Students register online by going to the following web sites: ACT www.actstudent.org SAT www.collegeboard.com Registration brochures with all the information you will need to register are available in the School Counseling Office.

ACT Test Dates Registration Deadline Late Registration Deadline Sept. 12, 2015 Aug. 7, 2015 Aug. 8 – 21, 2105 Oct. 24, 2015 Sept. 18, 2015 Sept. 19 – Oct. 2, 2015 Dec. 12, 2015 Nov. 6, 2015 Nov. 7 – 20, 2015 Feb. 6, 2016 Jan. 8, 2016 Jan. 9-15, 2016 April 9, 2016 Mar. 4, 2016 Mar. 5 – 8, 2016 June 11, 2016 May 6, 2016 May 7 – 20, 2016 SAT Test Dates Registration Deadline Late Registration Deadline Oct. 3, 2015 Sept. 13, 2015 Sept. 18-22, 2015 Nov. 7, 2015 Oct. 9, 2015 Oct. 23 -27, 2015 Dec. 5, 2015 Nov. 5, 2015 Nov. 20 - 23, 2015 Jan. 23, 2106 Dec. 28, 2015 Jan. 8 – 12, 2016 Mar. 5, 2016 Feb. 5, 2016 Feb. 19-23, 2016 May 7, 2016 April 8, 2016 April 22 -26, 2016 June 4, 2016 May 5, 2016 May 20-26, 2016 What is the CEED code for Pickerington High School North? 365-013 This is the code that tells the testing company to send your scores to North. Which test should I take? We suggest taking both if you can. Some students do better on the ACT while others score higher on the SAT. How do colleges get your scores? When registering to take the ACT or SAT, you can identify up to four colleges that you would like to receive your scores FREE. It is recommended that you enter the codes for four colleges when you register for the test. Do not worry about sending your scores to colleges; they will look at your highest scores when making a decision regarding your admission. If you enter our high school code, your scores will be posted on your high school transcript unless you request they be taken off. Many colleges require that you have your scores sent directly from the ACT or SAT testing company and will not accept them from your high school transcript. How should I prepare for the test? Doing well in your high school classes and practicing the tests are the best ways to prepare for the ACT and SAT. Practice will lead to higher scores as you become familiar with test questions, format, and timing of the tests. Test preparation resources vary in format and cost. A list of some of the ACT/SAT resources is on the next page. Other important test information:

• Fee waivers (up to 2 per test) are available for students who qualify and receive free and/or reduced lunch. See your school counselor for fee waivers.

• Take the ACT writing test at least once, it is required by some colleges. • Check with colleges to see if they require SAT Subject tests.

ACT AND SAT TEST PREPARATION RESOURCES

ACT PrepMe by Naviance: This online ACT prep program is available to all PHS North juniors FREE through their Naviance account 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is a free ACT prep course that is individualized and customized to your strengths and weaknesses based on 4 short diagnostic tests. Go to your Naviance home page, click on PrepMe under Resources to access your ACT prep course and begin working toward a higher ACT score. PrepME includes 84 lessons, 75 quizzes and several full-length practice tests. ACT online prep: www.actstudent.org/onlineprep/index.html for online practice tests, diagnostic test, study plans, and comprehensive content review. www.actsudent.org/testprepbook.html for 5 practice tests and test-taking strategies and study plans. www.actsutdent.org/qotd for Free ACT question of the Day. SAT online prep: www.collegeboard.com for online practice tests, test taking strategies and study plans. If you took the PSAT, you will also have access to www.collegeboard.org/quickstart for individualized study plans and practice tests. ACT Review: Call 614-834-8886 to get a schedule of test preparation classes and to register online go to www.actreview.com. The Tutor Center: Practice testing situations, one-on-one tutoring, small group coaching with flexible scheduling. Call 614-862-4321 for more information. Free Test Prep: go to www.freetestprep.com Princeton Review: go to www.princetonreview.com/SAT SAT-ACT-Prep.com: go to www.act-sat-prep.com Kaplan Test Prep: go to www.kaptest.com BWS Consulting: go to www.BWSEducationConsulting.com Online course: go to www.QualityACTprep.com Method Test Prep: go to www.methodtestprep.com The school counseling office and local bookstores carry a variety of ACT/SAT/AP test prep books with sample problems and full-length practice tests.

NCAA STANDARDS FOR STUDENT-ATHLETES Any student who intends to participate in Division I or II athletics as a college freshman, must register and be certified by the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Center. Student-athletes should register with the NCAA eligibility center before the end of their junior year. Under the NCAA standards, students will not be eligible to participate in collegiate athletics unless they have met GPA, standardized test score (ACT/SAT), and core course requirements. For further information regarding these rules and/or to register with the NCAA Eligibility Center, please check their web page at www.eligibilitycenter.org. The NCAA Guide for the college-bound student-athlete is a must read for the student-athlete who wants to play in college. The Resources section of the web site has many helpful videos, guides, and brochures for student-athletes and their parents regarding participation in collegiate athletics.

ACADEMIC HELP AND STUDY SKILLS SUPPORT Panther Point: The Panther Point is open periods 1- 4 and periods 6 – 8 in room 204. Academic help, homework help and National Honor Society tutors are available for all students. Students sign in to Panther Point from Study Hall if they need assistance. Math Lab: Math Lab is open for students every period in Room 204. Homework help and peer tutoring are available on a walk-in basis. The math lab is staffed by certified math teachers every period of the school day. OGT Tutoring/Study Island: Tutoring is available to students who have not passed one or more of the OGT tests. Study Island online preparation is available for content review. See your school counselor or assistant principal if interested. OGT Practice Tests: go to http://ogt.success-ode-state-oh-us.info/studentsOGT.htm Other helpful web sites for homework and study skills: www.how-to-study.com/

SUMMER ENRICHMENT AND PRE-COLLEGE OPPORTUNITIES

Juniors looking for a pre-college on campus experience during the summer before their senior year and those looking for summer enrichment opportunities should go to their Naviance account and go to the Colleges Tab and click on Enrichment Programs. http://connection.naviance.com For more pre-college and summer programs go to http://www.studenteducationprograms.com INFORMATION FOR COLLEGE BOUND STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES Go to http://www.collegeacademicsupport.com for academic and support programs and services on Ohio college campuses for students with learning disabilities and/or ADHD.

COLLEGE ADMISSION STANDARDS

Typical ACT composite score average

OPEN – All high school graduates are accepted until 16-21 The school’s enrollment capacity is reached. LIBERAL- Some freshman who are accepted are in 17-22 lower half of their graduating class. TRADITIONAL – The majority of the freshman accepted 18-24 are in the top 50% of their high school graduating class. SELECTIVE – The majority of the freshman accepted are 21-26 In the top 25% of their high school graduating class. HIGHLY SELECTIVE – The majority of the freshman 25-30 acceptedare in the top 10% of their graduating class

WHAT ELSE DO COLLEGES CONSIDER WHEN MAKING AN ADMISSION DECISION?

Besides ACT scores, colleges also consider: 1. Rigor or strength of your high school courses including senior year – willingness to

challenge yourself with honors or AP/College Credit Plus/dual enrollment courses. 2. Grade point average – academic achievement and hard work! 3. Class rank – how you compare to others in your class. 4. School and extra-curricular activities: athletics, music, theatre and other clubs and

activities. 5. Leadership positions or demonstration of leadership qualities – be a leader, not

just a member! 6. Community service and volunteer work – give back in some way! 7. Employment or work experience – demonstrates responsibility, work ethic, and

time management skills! 8. Letters of recommendation – they read them! 9. Written essays - they really do read them!

NAVIANCE COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS WEBSITE

Remember to check our Col lege and Career Readiness web site at: http://connection.naviance.com throughout your junior and senior year! USERNAME: One of three options: FirstNameLastName (no spaces/lower case) First Name (space) Last Name First Name_Last Name PASSWORD: Student ID Number ( lunch code)

COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS CALENDAR

Junior Year

• Attend the Fairfield County College Fair in September or other local College Fairs. • Contact colleges for information and visit their web sites on Naviance • Visit the College/Career Resource Center in the School Counseling Office to obtain

college and career information • Complete a Career and a College Search on Naviance (or utilize other career/college

resources like FastWeb, and/or the Ohio Means Jobs website. Create a list of potential colleges on your Naviance account.

• Sign up for the PSAT test in October and utilize your results to access My College QuickStart for SAT preparation resources and career/college information

• Student-athletes should register with the NCAA eligibility center if they plan to participate in Division I or Division II college athletics. Register at www.eligibilitycenter.org

• Register to take the ACT and/or the SAT • Visit several colleges on your prospective college list and take campus tours. • Explore ACT/SAT test preparation resources and courses to increase your score. • Review your 4-year academic plan, check graduation requirements and explore college

entrance requirements for colleges on your list. • Re-take the OGT if necessary. • Select rigorous courses for your senior year that will prepare you for college level

academic work. Consider Honors/AP classes/College Credit Plus classes if qualified. • Research college and scholarship information on Naviance and in the College Resource

Center in the School Counseling Office. • Take AP exams in May • Take ACT/SAT in spring of Junior year or retake again to raise your score. • Participate in school activities and community service projects- take on a leadership role

in a club or organization, when possible. • Create your resume on Naviance to use for letters of recommendation. • During the summer, work on college essays AND visit colleges on your list.

Senior Year

• Retake the ACT/SAT late summer or early in the fall. • Attend Senior Presentations with School Counselors during English classes and read

your Senior Handbook from cover to cover. • Update your Naviance prospective college list and narrow down your potential college

list and begin completing online applications. • Update your resume in Naviance for teachers and/or your counselor to use when writing

letters of recommendation for you. • Make an appointment with you school counselor to discuss your career and college

goals. • Take a Career Interest Survey and complete a College Search on Naviance (or utilize

Fastweb or Ohio Means Jobs • Attend the Fairfield County College Fair in September. • Visit college campuses and take campus tours if you haven’t already • Re-take the OGT if necessary. • Finalize your list of colleges and complete and submit your online college applications

before Thanksgiving break. • Notify your counselor when submitting online applications and request they send your

official high school transcript. Follow procedures for submitting these requests and watch all deadlines. College deadlines are your responsibility!

• Register for SAT:I and SAT II and Subject Tests/ACT if necessary • Have parents attend a local Financial Aid Meeting or view podcast on the website. • Pick up financial aid information and attend College Goal Sunday in February. • Apply for Scholarships! Listen to Morning Show for announcements. Watch for postings

on Naviance (College tab/Scholarship List) of local scholarships available to North students. Check the scholarship list on Naviance frequently as it is updated weekly.

• In January, notify your school counselor if 7th semester grades are to be sent to the colleges you have applied to – submit the required request forms.

• Study for AP exams. • Monitor and update your Naviance account when you are notified of admissions

decisions. • Enter into Naviance account any scholarships you are offered. Make your college

decision and pay deposit to the college you will attend in the fall by May 1st. • Apply for housing early - check refund policy. • Don't develop "senioritis" - colleges have been known to revoke admission.

o Slacking off your senior year can jeopardize your graduation, your college plans and your future.

• Apply for the Honors Diploma and the Award of Merit if you qualify. Applications will be available during 2nd semester.

• Request your final transcript be sent to the college you will be attending by completing a Final Transcript Request form .

• GRADUATE!!!

SENIOR YEAR TO DO LIST * Review Career Plans and narrow down your college list. * Visit colleges and watch application deadlines

* Register for ACT/SAT- Remember to take 6 weeks prior to college application deadline * Contact colleges, visit web sites and attend the College Fair * Make a calendar of key application and financial aid deadlines * Ask those who know you well to write letters of recommendation * Take ACT/SAT (last chance for seniors)

* Work on essays, ask teachers to write letters of recommendations * Visit your top schools. Begin submitting your applications. * Continue to research and apply for scholarships * Ask teachers for letters of recommendation * Obtain financial aid applications from your colleges of choice. * Prepare your college applications and submit before Thanksgiving. * Start gathering information for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), available at fafsa.ed.gov. Enjoy your holiday break!!!

* Attend Financial Aid Night at PHS or view podcast. Submit the FAFSA as soon after Jan. 1 as possible

* Make sure your 7th semester transcripts have been sent to all schools you have applied to * If you are in AP classes, prepare for your AP Exams * Look for your student aid report (SAR) in the mail. If you do not receive 4 weeks after completing the FAFSA, please contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-433-3243. * Watch the mail for acceptance letters and financial aid award letters. * Compare financial aid packages * Choose a school and send in your deposit by the deadline. Notify other schools that you will not be attending. * Contact your financial aid office at your chosen school to make certain your application is complete * Make final decision of which college you will be attending by MAY 1st! * Take AP Exams * Have fun and celebrate your HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION!!!!

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

COLLEGE VISIT CHECKLIST

IMPORTANT THINGS TO DO WHEN VISITING A COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY CAMPUS:

Meet with an Admissions Counselor at the College Verify admission requirements, procedures, and application and scholarship deadlines Determine actual college cost (tuition, room, board, books, fees, transportation costs)

Ask about financial aid opportunities (loans, grants, scholarships, work study)

Take a campus tour, eat at the student dining facilities, and see a typical dorm room Investigate the program you want to major in Attend a class in your major if possible Visit the library, computer and technology resources and academic support services) Talk with college students and faculty members. Discuss your chances of: Being admitted Receiving financial aid Graduating Placement in a job after graduation

Ask a lot of questions! See the next two pages for a list of questions to ask!

Important Questions to Ask While on a Campus Visit:

Academic:

• What are the admission requirements and deadlines? • What are the testing requirements? GPA requirements? • What majors are offered? Any new majors being added? Dropped? • What is the average class size? • What is the ratio of faculty members to students? • What percent of classes do graduate assistants teach? • What opportunities are there for students to conduct research? • When must a student declare a major? • What academic support services are offered to students? Tutoring? • What computer labs or other technology are available for student use? • What are the most popular majors? Which ones are rated highly? • What is the honor code? • Do students have academic advisors in their major field of study? • What opportunities are there for internships? Study abroad?

Financial Aid:

• What is the cost of attendance? Tuition? Room? Board? Books? Transportation? Fees? Other costs?

• What financial aid options are available? • What percent of students receive financial aid? • When is the financial aid deadline? • Estimate the percentage of students who receive grants, loans, work-study, and

scholarships as part of their financial aid packages?

Housing and Food:

• What housing options are available? On campus? Off campus? • Is on campus housing guaranteed for four years? • Are single rooms available? How are roommates assigned? • Do all dorms have dining facilities? Laundry facilities? Computer access? • What is the quality of the food on campus? • What restaurants are within walking distance of campus? • What meal plans are available to students?

Student Life:

• Are there sororities and fraternities on campus? • What percent of students live on campus? • What do students do on the weekends for fun? • What intramural, club and varsity sports are available? • What access do students have to athletic and sports facilities? Fitness center? • Where do students hang out? • What student organizations exist for students to be involved in? • What do students like most about the campus? What do they complain about? • What are the political, social and academic issues that students are concerned about? • What social and cultural events does the university sponsor? • What is the alcohol and drug policy on campus and how is it enforced?

Campus Facilities and Safety:

• What is campus security like? • What are the most frequent reports to the campus police? • What is the safety rating on campus and in the surrounding area? • What recreational facilities are there? Bowling Alley? Skating Rink? Other special

facilities? • How would you rate the fitness center? • Is the campus well maintained? • Are the dorms clean and safe? • Is there a campus hospital? Are doctors available? Nurses? • Are counseling services available to student

General Questions:

• What is the university known for? • What is the academic stress level of the students on campus? • What is the one thing students like most about the university? • What do graduates say was the best thing about their experience? • What is the job placement rate for graduates?

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?

HERE IS A QUICK GLANCE AT WHAT OHIO COLLEGES ARE LOOKING FOR IN PROSPECTIVE HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES!

University of Akron: Kent State: Mean GPA: 3.33 Mean GPA: 3.31 Mean ACT: 20-26 Mean ACT: 20-25 Application Deadline: March 1 Mean SAT Reading + Math: 950-1160 Application Deadline: March 1 Bowling Green: Kenyon College: Mean GPA: 3.31 Mean GPA: 3.32 Mean ACT: 20-25 Mean ACT: 28-32 Mean SAT Reading + Math: 930-1120 Mean SAT Reading: 630-730 Application Deadline: Feb. 1 Mean SAT Math: 600-690 Application Deadline: Jan. 15 Capital University: Miami University: Mean GPA: 3.44 Mean ACT: 26-29 Mean ACT: 21-27 Mean SAT Reading + Math: 1170-1320 Mean SAT Reading: 440-580 Application Deadline: Feb. 1 Mean SAT Math: 490- 610 Application Deadline: May 1 Case Western: Mt. Carmel School of Nursing Mean ACT: 29-33 Mean GPA: 3.50 Mean SAT Reading: 620-710 Mean ACT: 20-24 Mean SAT Math: 670-760 Application Deadline: April 1 Application Deadline: Jan. 15 University of Cincinnati: Muskingum College: Mean GPA: 3.45 Mean GPA: 3.2 Mean ACT: 22-27 Mean ACT: 18-24 Mean SAT Reading + Math: 1030-1230 Mean SAT Reading: 380-500 Application Deadline: March 1 Mean SAT Math: 420-540 Application Deadline: June 1 Denison University: Ohio Dominican University: Mean GPA: 3.21 Mean GPA: 3.34 Mean ACT: 27-31 Mean ACT: 20-24 Mean SAT Math: 600-670 Mean SAT Math: 480-580 Mean SAT Reading: 590-660 Mean SAT Reading: 430-520 Application Deadline: Jan.15 Application Deadline: Rolling

The Ohio State University (Columbus campus): Xavier College: Mean ACT: 27-31 Mean GPA: 3.62

Mean SAT Reading + Math: 1210-1350 Mean ACT: 23-27 Application Deadline: Feb. 1 Mean SAT Reading: 490-590

Mean SAT Math: 510-610 Application Deadline:Rolling

Ohio University: Ohio Northern University Mean GPA: 3.4 Mean GPA: 3.7 Mean ACT: 22-26 Mean ACT: 23-29 Mean SAT Math: 490-610 Mean SAT Reading 500-620 Mean SAT Reading: 470-610 Mean SAT Math: 530-650 Application Deadline: Feb. 1 Application Deadline: Rolling Otterbein College: Ohio Wesleyan University Mean GPA: 3.50 Mean GPA: 3.44 Mean ACT: 21-26 Mean ACT: 22-27 Mean SAT Reading: 470-570 Mean SAT Reading: 490-610 Mean SAT Math: 490-585 Mean SAT Math: 500-630 Application Deadline: March 1 Application Deadline: March 1 University of Toledo: Wright State University Mean GPA: 3.23 Mean GPA: 3.19 Mean ACT: 19-25 Mean ACT: 21.8 Application Deadline: Rolling Mean SAT Reading + Math: 1026 Application Deadline: Feb. 1 Wittenberg University: Youngstown State University Mean GPA: 3.48 Mean GPA: 2.97 Mean ACT: 23-28 Mean ACT: 17-23 Mean SAT Math: 520-620 Mean SAT Reading: 400-530 Mean SAT Reading: 520-620 Mean SAT Math: 420-540 Application Deadline: Rolling Application Deadline: Rolling Wright State: University of Dayton: Mean GPA: 3.19 Mean GPA: 3.58 Mean ACT: 21.8 Mean ACT: 24-29 Mean SAT Reading + Math: 1026 Mean SAT Math: 530-630 Application Deadline:Rolling Mean SAT Reading: 500-590 Application Deadline: Mar. 1 The College of Wooster: Ashland University Mean GPA: 3.66 Mean GPA: 344 Mean ACT: 25-30 Mean ACT: 20-25 Mean SAT Reading: 560-650 Mean SAT Math: 440-550 Mean SAT Math: 550-660 Mena SAT Reading: 440-530 Application deadline: Rolling

FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION

There are three forms of federal student aid: grants, work-study, and loans. To qualify for financial aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA form). All students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA even if they do not feel they will qualify for any financial aid. How do you apply for federal student aid?

1. In December of your senior year, you should apply for a Personal Identification Number or PIN number at www.faa.ed.gov

2. Attend the Financial Aid Presentation at PHS in January of 2013 to learn more about the types of financial aid and tips for completing the FAFSA.

3. Please note: You cannot apply for financial aid prior to January 1, 2015. 4. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid on-line at

www.fafsa.ed.gov. Make sure to complete the FAFSA before the college’s financial aid deadline.

5. Attend College Goal Sunday or take advantage of any number of free services that will assist you in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. You should not have to pay for your application to be completed and submitted.

6. Review your Student Aid Report (SAR), which contains information you provided on your FAFSA application as well as your Expected Family Contribution (EFC).

7. Contact the college you wish to attend to make sure all necessary information is complete and that you are eligible for financial aid consideration.

Other Helpful Financial Aid Resources:

www.studentaid.ed.gov publications explaining all types of financial aid. www.finaid.com for additional financial aid information www.act.org/fane for ACT’s free Financial Aid Need Estimator

www.ed.gov/finaid.html for the U.S. Dept. of Educations most comprehensive resources on student financial aid.

In addition, you should check the college’s web site for financial aid deadlines and additional financial aid forms and procedures.

SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION The amount of money you can get in scholarships is relative to the amount of work and research you put into the process. Please be proactive and start looking early at what specific scholarships require. All scholarships that the school counselors encounter will be posted on the Naviance web site: http://connection.naviance.com/phsn Go to the colleges tab and scroll down to the Scholarship List. Most scholarships have online applications. Students are responsible for all scholarship deadlines and applications. Juniors should begin reviewing the posted scholarships to see which ones they may qualify for next year. Students can also do scholarship searches using Naviance that are specific to them Other Helpful Web Sites for scholarship information: www.college.gov www.collegeanswer.com www.studentaid.ed.gov

www.scholarships.com www.fastweb.com

www.finaid.com www.collegeboard.com http://www.scholarshiphelp.org/scholarship_opportunities.htm www.collegenet.com

http://www.studentcollegescholarships.com/ohio.html for scholarships offered by Ohio colleges and universities.

Students should follow the same procedures for submitting transcript requests for scholarship applications that they do for college applications. Students are responsible for all deadlines and should give the school counselor 10 school days to process their scholarship applications.

CAREER INFORMATION

Know you want to go to college, but not sure what you want to major in? RELAX! The majority of college freshman change their major several time or enter college as undecided. Most colleges require you choose a major by the end of your sophomore year in college. Having a plan before entering college could save you a lot of time and money. Research college majors to be sure the college you decide to go to has the academic major you are interested in. Once again, students should use the Naviance web site to research and explore career opportunities and college majors. Go to the Careers tab to take career interest surveys, research specific occupations and complete career searches that match your personality and interests.

The Naviance web site is: https://connection.naviance.com/phsn Other Helpful Resources for Career Information: www.ohiomeansjobs.com Ohio Means Jobs is the premier resume and job bank website in Ohio. Through a joint partnership between the Ohio Departrment of Education and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, this free and easy to use site includes career exploration tools designed specifically for junior high and high school students and teachers. www.bis.gov Occupational Outlook Handbook/Department of Labor Statisitcs www.usnews.com Explore sections such as “Career Rankings” and “Money & Business” www.myfuture.com Find assessments, personality tests and occupational information

HELPFUL ARTICLES AND WEBSITES FOR CAREER EXPLORATION:

• College Applications: https://commonapp.org/commonapp • Naviance Family Connection: https://connection.naviance.com/phsc • Ohio’s Top High Wage Jobs: http://OhioMeansJobs.com • Information about Salaries: https://www.payscale.com/research/us/state=Ohio/Salary • 2015-2020 Occupational Trends: Search Ohio Occupational Trends-Ohio Department

of Job and Family Services, click and open; http://www.odjfs.state.oh.us./forms/file.asp?id=2250&type=application/pdf

• Ohio Job Outlook: http://ohiolmi.com/proj/OhioJobOutlook.com • Collegeboard Career Exploration: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/majors=careers • Explore Military Careers & Training: http://www.myfuture.com • Resume Builder: http://www.livecareer.com • Explore Career Rankings: www.usnews.com • Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook: www.bls.gov/oco • Diversity One Careers: www.diversityonecareers.com • Ohio Careers: https://www.careers.ohio.gov • Career & Trade Schools: http://www.study.com/vocational_courses.html • How to Choose a Career: http://careerkey.org • Apprenticeship Information: http://fjs.ohio.gov/apprenticeship/index.stm • Website with many study skills and tips: www.how-to-study.com

MILITARY INFORMATION Release of Information All high schools are required to release directory information for juniors and seniors (name, address, and phone number) to all branches of the military. This information can then be used for recruitment purposes. The law allows a student who is 18 years of age or older to deny the release of this information if the request is made in writing to the school principal. If a student is not yet 18 years old, the student’s parent must make the request. Your name, address and phone number will be released to all branches of the military on October 1st of your senior year unless you deny that release in writing. Military Academies Juniors who are interested in applying for admissions to any of the Armed Forces Academies (West Point, Annapolis, Air Force Academy, or Coast Guard Academy) should begin the application process in the spring of their junior year. Admission to the military academies is extremely competitive. With the exception of the Coast Guard Academy, admission requires an appointment by a congressman, senator, vice-president, or the academy commandant. The student must also be accepted for admission to the academy. More specific information can be obtained at the following web sites/phone numbers: www.usafa.st.mil/ - United States Air Force Academy at 1-800-433-9266 www.usna.edu/ - United States Naval Academy at 1-410-293-4361 www.usmma.edu/ - United States Merchant Marine Academy www.usma.edu/ - United States Military Academy at Westpoint at 1-800-822-USMC www.cga.edu/ - United States Coast Guard Academy at 1-800-883-8724 Other Valuable Web Sites www.todaysmilitaryy.com/app/tm/careers www.af.mil/careers/ - Air Force www.marines.com - Marines www.goarmy.com - Army www.navy.com - Navy Reserve Officer Training (ROTC) Juniors who are interested in Reserve Officer Training Scholarships should begin the application process in the spring of their junior year. Information about ROTC scholarships can be obtained by calling the following numbers: Army 1-800-USA-ARMY Navy/Marine Corp 1-800-USA-NAVY or 1-800-MARINES Air Force 1-800-423-USAF Selective Service Registration All male U.S. citizens and male aliens residing in the U.S. and its territories must register within the period starting 30 days before, and ending 30 days after their 18th birthday. Register online at: www.sss.gov

Skills and Characteristics Employers look for in their Employees

Communication Skills Good Listener Speaks Effectively

Writes Clearly

Research Skills Quickly Assesses Situation Gathers Information and Data

Analyzes Relevant Data for Decision Making

Computer Skills Word Processing Spreadsheets

Databases Email

Adaptability Manage Multiple Tasks at Once

Sets Priorities Flexibility

Interpersonal Skills Work Well with a Team

Resolves Conflicts Effectively

Goal Driven Stays Focused on Personal and Company Goals Meets Deadlines

Personal Values Employers look for in their Employees

Honesty

Positive Attitude

Dedication

Professional

Willingness to Learn

Initiative

Reliability

Confidence

Correlation between Education Level/College Major and Lifetime Earnings

On the next page is a chart of median lifetime earnings, by college major. This is helpful for students as they prepare to enter the workforce and college. This chart does not include majors that require advanced degrees like doctors, lawyers and other professionals with advanced degrees. It shows the median lifetime earnings of 4-year college graduates in various college majors. There is a direct correlation between the amount of education one

receives as well as what you choose to major in has impact on your lifetime earnings. Students should be aware of the potential for job growth and employment with different college majors as they make decisions about what to

study in college.

CREATE A RESUME OR CURRICULUM VITAE

All high school juniors should begin building their resume. Having a resume or curriculum vitae is extremely important as you prepare to apply for college or enter the workforce. Every junior should begin putting together resume of their work experiences, high school achievements and honors, participation in school athletics, clubs and activities, part-time jobs, community, leadership positions, church and volunteer work, and other important achievements. This is not a time to be shy or modest about your accomplishments. List everything you do and then prioritize in order of importance and/or chronological order. Students can create and save their personal resume on their Naviance account. Having a resume written before the end of your junior year will help you with college applications, letters of recommendation, and applying for jobs. Log on to your Naviance account and begin documenting your achievements and activities. Click on the About Me tab and then click on resume and begin building your resume. You can customize your resume and save different resumes for different purposes or save them in various formats. Creating a solid resume your junior year will save you time and stress during your senior year. This is an excellent winter break or spring break project. You can continue to update and add to your resume throughout your junior and senior year as you participate in new activities or take on leadership positions.

See a sample resume on the next page!

Sample Resume - High School Student – With Work Experience

First Name Last Name 6 Oak Street, Pickerington, OH 43147

Home: 555.555.5555 Cell: 566.666.6666

Email: phjones@vacapp.com

Education Pickerington High School North – 7800 Refugee Road Pickerington, Ohio 43147 2008 – 2012 Took 8 Honors courses and 3 Adavanced Placement classes Work Experience

Sales Associate, The Retail Store June 20010 – Present (approximately 15-20 hours per week)

• Maintain and restock inventory. • Provide customer service. • Operate computerized cash register system.

Food Service Worker 2009 – Present (approximately 10 hours per week) • Provided customer service and assisting in preparing and cooking food for customers. Child Care 2008 – Present (as needed) • Provide child care for several families after school, weekends and during school vacations. Achievements National Honor Society: 2008, 2009, 2010 Academic Honor Roll: 2008 – 2009 Volunteer Experience Big Brother / Big Sisters Arlington Literacy Program Run for Life Interests / Activities Member of Pickerington High School North Tennis Team Ski Club Club Hope member Drug Free Clubs of America member Computer Skills Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and the Internet References

Include teachers, coaches, ministers, employers, etc. Make sure you ask permission prior to putting their name on your resume.