Senior College & Career Newsletter
Week of March 28- April 10, 2021
Welcome Students & Families
Scroll through for important information regarding College/Career
How to reach us?
For general questions and inquiries please email us at sequoiaccc@seq.org
Student Appointments:
Ms. Ignaitis, All HCA and Study Skills Students and Last names A-L
Ms. Rocha, All DAA and ELD Students and Last names M-Z
Important Dates and Deadlines
April 12 (extended) - Class of 2021 Senior Scholarship (See Scholarships section below)
Get Help with College Applications, Follow Up and/or Financial Aid Applications
We want to support each and every one of you through this process! Below are ways to get help:
Students make Individual Appointments via Calendly with college counselors by clicking on their corresponding counselor’s name below. (if you have a free period, email your counselor directly and state the time you have a free period).
Check out the How-To videos (At the bottom of the Newsletter)
Student Appointments:
Ms. Ignaitis, All HCA and Study Skills Students and Last names A-L
Ms. Rocha, All DAA and ELD Students and Last names M-Z.
Upcoming District Wide Career Speakers
Click the link to see list of Upcoming District Wide Career Speakers in March
Careers for Art Majors: Four jobs people are doing with their degrees
Art Therapy – Work with children and adults with disabilities and/or have gone through a traumatic experience. “Art therapy is a way for people to express emotions when they don’t have the word”
EDUCATION: Master of Science, Major – Art Therapy
Graphic Designer – Companies either hirer their own or contract one to design everything from websites to emails
EDUCATION: Bachelor of Fine Arts, Graphic Design
Exhibit Designer – Designing and maintaining exhibits. Industrial designers develop the concepts for manufactured goods for everyday use.
EDUCATION: Bachelor of Fine Arts, Industrial Design
Video Game Art Director – Work with game writers and designer to create 2D and 3D visual concepts
EDUCATION: Bachelor of Fine Arts, Illustration and Graphic Design
Resource site to share?
Other Virtual Events
Mindfulness - Teen Resource Center
All students are welcomed to join Ms. Judy from the Teen Resource Center (TRC) for 15 minutes of Mindfulness on Wednesdays! Practice breathing exercises and guided visualizations!
When: Every Wednesday
Time: 12pm until 12:15pm
Zoom Link: https://seq-org.zoom.us/j/92956681963
General Four Year College Bound Information
ADVICE From Pace University – When you do not get into your first choice school
With college acceptance letters set to go out in early April, many students are hoping they get into their first choice. But with a record number of applications at some of the nation’s most-competitive schools, coupled with unusually high numbers of deferrals due to the pandemic, some students and families will inevitably have to consider an alternative.
There are many things parents and students should consider when their top choices are no longer on the table. In fact, such a circumstance can provide some merit opportunities for qualified students.
In curating a revised list of target schools, there are many tools where families can assess the schools with the best return on investment for tuition. Sometimes these schools are not the most selective or the ones with the well-known brand. More importantly, they provide a good fit and a strong return on investment. Use Payscale.com and the Georgetown Center for Education and the Workforce as guides.
Here are some tips to share with students and families:
Don’t give up. Several good schools are still accepting applications after the regular deadline.
In creating a list of additional schools, students should look for colleges that provide the kind of experience that they are seeking. Questions to consider include:
a. Did the college have students living on campus this academic year?
b. Were any of the classes in-person?
c. How well did the college manage the Covid-19 situation on campus?
As students determine that they will be applying to more schools, advise them to take a virtual visit or an in-person visit, and encourage them to update the list of colleges that should receive their FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) information.
PRIVATE COLLEGE/COMMON APPLICATION SCHOOLS
From Reed College, Choosing with Confidence and Why to Choose a Small College
Choosing with Confidence:
Virtual programming has expanded opportunities to make meaningful connections
Taking the time to participate in virtual programming with any college will help applicants make an informed decision they can feel confident in.
If a school has in person visit options, students should consider both virtual and in person opportunities if possible
Five reasons to choose a small college:
Small class sizes
Lower student to faculty ratio (allowing students to get to know the faculty, build meaningful connections)
Unique academic programs and dual degree options- allowing students to combine bachelor’s degree with master’s degree. More opportunities to do more in a shorter amount of time.
Less competition, both in academic spaces and co-curricular involvement - more collaborative environment vs competitive with a lot of support.
Career conversations and internship opportunities are abundant - happen very personally within career center on campus
BONUS: many small colleges successfully opened for In Person learning during the pandemic
UC INFORMATION
Admitted Students - Next Steps From the UC Counselor Bulletin
For newly admitted freshman students, each University of California campus has important deadlines and procedures for students to accept the offer of admission and prepare for enrollment.
1. Admission Decisions – All campuses notify students of admission decisions on their admissions portal. For admitted students, all campuses will also notify via the U.S. Mail.
2. Financial Aid Offer – All campuses notify students of their official or preliminary financial aid award in the student portal. The timing of the offers relative to the admission decision (e.g., with the admission decision or after) varies by campus.
3. To Accept an Admission Offer–Submission of the Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) by May 1st at 11:59 pm (PST)
4. SIR Deposit Deferral – All campuses automatically grant an SIR deposit deferral for students who qualified for an application fee waiver.
5. Housing – Plans for fall housing will be announced by campuses in compliance with local/state health and safety guidelines. Students interested in living on campus are encouraged to apply for housing. The application date is listed on this table, but campus housing will have the most current information.
6. To Submit Final, Official Transcripts, Exam Results & Doc - BY JULY 1st
Check your UC Portals - This is How You Will Receive Your Decisions
Each campus you applied to will email you to create a username and password for access to the campus’ applicant portal. This is the site where the admission decision will be posted along with other important information. You should check each campus portal frequently.
CSU Information
What’s Next Virtual Events
Most CSU are having some type of event for admitted students - What’s Next virtual online session. To learn more information on the next steps and receive important dates and deadlines. They are sending you invitations through your email and/or portal. Click on the link for a list of all events offered throughout the CSU system.
List of Welcome Days or Preview Days at CSU Spring of 2021
Check Portals and Emails Often
Every school is a little different so make sure to keep track of your login information. To meet all deadlines, check your email and portals weekly and DO NOT WAIT to complete your “To Do” list.
COMMUNITY COLLEGE APPLICATION WORKSHOPS AND INFORMATION
PEP/Steps to Enrolling and UPCOMING Application and Promise Scholarship WORKSHOPS
FROM College of San Mateo - BUT PEP program is for Canada and Skyline Too!
PEP (Priority Enrollment Program) allows current seniors to complete all the steps to attend college in the fall WHILE in high school
Applying to College of San Mateo?
Priority Enrollment Program (PEP) is OPEN. A wonderful group of Counselors and Staff are here to help students with the steps to enrollment and registering for classes for summer/fall 2021. Students sign up for (PEP) Priority Enrollment Program to complete the matriculation steps and receive Priority Registration. Once students sign up for PEP, you will get an email with a link to register for a Group Counseling Session and their English and Math course placement.
Here are the steps.
Step #1: Admissions Application
Apply to College of San Mateo and complete the application. You will receive a welcome letter from College of San Mateo which contains your username and student id number (G number).
Step #2: Student Online Orientation/Welcome Orientation
Visit WebSmart and log into your account using your Username and Password. Select the Student tab, then select the Student Online Orientation.
Step #3: English and Math Assessment
Once you register for PEP, CSM staff will send you a confirmation of your English and Math course placement and registration opportunity for PEP Group Counseling Sessions.
Step #4: PEP Group Counseling Session
Sign up for a PEP counseling session (Zoom-video conferencing). You will discuss your classes for Summer/Fall, create a Student Educational Plan (SEP) and any other topic like careers, majors, and transfer.
Step #5: Register for courses and pay school fees on your Priority Registration Date
You will receive an email providing you with your priority registration date (April 2021). Log onto WebSmart to register for courses online. School fees are also payable on your WebSMART.
COLLEGE OF SAN MATEO Application Workshops/Promise Scholarship
The CSM Promise Team will host Promise Application Workshops throughout this semester. Our Promise Team, including staff, counselors, and student assistants, will provide a step-by-step process to apply for the program, financial aid assistance, as well as answer questions you may have. Students, family members, and community partners are welcomed to drop-in for assistance. We look forward to seeing you there:
Tuesday, March 30th 6:30pm-8:00pm
Wednesday, April 14th 7:00pm-8:30pm
Zoom Workshop information:
Meeting ID: 816 0217 6459
Passcode: 866277
Lastly, this is the CSM Promise Scholars Program promotion video, which includes more information regarding the program:
CANADA COLLEGE Priority Engagement Program (PEP)
This event provides an easy transition from high school to college for students that have applied to Cañada College and are planning to begin attending in the Summer and/or Fall 2021 semesters. This year PEP events will be open to ALL high schools. Students are to attend whichever date works best for them.
Wednesday, April 14, 4:30 – 6:30pm
Wednesday, April 21, 4:30 – 6:30pm (this session will be in SPANISH)
Wednesday, April 28, 4:30 – 6:30pm
Saturday, May 8, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Canada Application Workshops and Help
Cañada College Outreach, now has LIVE Drop In Zoom hours! For students/parents that have any questions about Cañada College, or need assistance with applying, Campus Ambassadors are available via zoom to help!
Mondays and Wednesdays: 9am - 5pm
Tuesdays and Thursdays: 9am - 6pm
Fridays 9am - 2pm
Zoom Link: https://smccd.zoom.us/j/81729634506
Need Help Understanding your Financial Aid Offer?
If you need help understanding your Financial Aid Award letter, please set up a Zoom meeting with Ms. Ignaitis (A-L, HCA) or Ms. Rocha (M-Z, DAA) for help. It might be helpful to have a parent or guardian attend too!
The Financial Aid Section in this newsletter also has information to help you understand the components of financial aid.
Comparing Financial Aid Award Letters Tool
College Board has a great site to compare your awards letters to help your family make the best choice for college. Go to their financial aid section and click on Compare Your Award Letters
Understanding Components of a Financial Aid Award Letter and Reminder from Last Week
What’s in a financial aid offer?
Following information from Sallie Mae;
Financial aid offers usually contain this information:
Cost of attendance (COA), an estimate of what you can expect to pay for one year of school. This includes tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation, and even personal expenses.2 If the COA isn’t included in your offer, check the school’s website or call the financial aid office.
Expected Family Contribution (EFC), a number that your school uses to determine how much financial aid you’re eligible for. It’s not (despite its name) how much your family will have to pay for college.3
College grants are typically need-based and can be given by state or federal governments.
College scholarships can be need-, merit-, or interest-based and are awarded by a school, company, or private organization.
Federal work-study is a program, implemented by the school, where you work to earn your financial aid.
Federal student loans let you borrow money directly from the federal government; you pay this financial aid back with interest. A financial aid offer may also list the amount you can borrow with a credit-based loan (like a federal Direct PLUS Loan or a private student loan).
Short Video on How to Read Financial Award Letters
What do you do NEXT after Submitting your FAFSA/CADAA?
Set Up Your Cal Grant Account
After completing your FAFSA, go to the WebGrants 4 Students website
And create an account, and check that your GPA has been received.
IF it states your GPA has not been submitted, contact Ms. Ignaitis/Ms Rocha immediately.
Check Your Status for FAFSA or CADAA
Log back into your FAFSA or CADAA account and make sure your application has been processed and there are no messages that changes need to be made.
FAFSA
TWO AND FOUR-YEAR COLLEGE BOUND SENIORS, COMPLETE THIS FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID ONLINE TODAY REGARDLESS OF YOUR FAMILY INCOME.
CA DREAM ACT
CSS PROFILE
Scholarship List for April
If you find a scholarship you're interested in, get more information on Naviance!
NOW is the Time to Apply for Scholarships!
SO MANY LOCAL SCHOLARSHIPS DUE IN NEXT COUPLES OF WEEKS
Do not wait until you get your financial aid letter from colleges!
San Carlos Lions Clubs Scholarship
DUE: March 31st
The San Carlos Lions Club will give three scholarships to senior high school San Carlos residents. The students who write the most compelling essays outlining their background, college they plan to attend, future aspirations and why they should be selected for this scholarship.
San Mateo County Trial Lawyer Association
DUE: March 31st
The San Mateo County Trial Lawyer Association will award three awards (a $3,500 award, $2,500 award, and a $1,500) for students interested in law or criminal justice careers. In order to be eligible for one of these scholarship awards, you must submit an essay, not to exceed 750 words, describing your reason for choosing your career path. If you are interested, go to the scholarship list on Naviance
Philip Tran Scholarship Award
Due: March 31st
A merit-based scholarship that promotes values such as family, generosity, hard work, and humility. Eligibility Requirements: 3.5 GPA or higher and acceptance to 4-year (by April). Application was scanned and attached on Naviance. If you have a problem accessing scholarship, email tignaitis@seq.org
Bay Area Gardeners Scholarship
Due April 4
To promote the educational attainment of all diverse students. For seniors with financial need, community recipients will receive $2,000 per student, plus a Chromebook (for first time awardees only).
Sequoia’s Class of 2021 Senior Scholarship EXTENDED - it takes 20 minutes
Application Due: April 12th
There is a group of about twenty scholarships given to seniors each year by our scholarship committee made up of teachers and counselors. These memorial scholarships are looking for different types of students so all should apply. The scholarship is available on Naviance on the About Me tab. Go to Surveys and then Surveys Not Started.
It takes about 15 minutes to complete!!
Directions to Request an Official Transcript for a Scholarship or Program
- Log in to your Sequoia Naviance account
- Click the Colleges Tab (Right top corner)
- Scroll down
- Click on Manage Transcripts (Left hand side)
- Click on the Red Plus Icon and choose Other Transcript
- What Type Requesting? (Unless after graduation, click either Initial or Mid-Year)
- What For? (Scholarship or Other)
- Note: We do not send unofficial ACT/SAT
- Click to watch a short How To Request a Transcript for a Scholarship or Program
Upcoming Contests
Deadline: April 1
An essay and video contest for high school students in the western United States and Pacific Islands. 2021 Topic: What Does our American Community Ask Us For?
Student-Led Opportunity on Climate Change
April 15 and April 22nd
Climate NOW, a youth-led organization dedicated to educating and empowering youth to take climate action is hosting a 4-part Climate Action Crash Course Webinar Series. The webinars will provide attendees with a safe haven for learning about the causes of global warming and the impacts of climate change. Discussions will include careers in climate action and talks on the future of activism. Webinars will last for approximately 45 minutes each on Zoom.
Climate Action Crash Course webinar for AGES 15 - 21
Thursday April 15th 4pm PST/7pm EST
Climate Action Crash Course Earth Day webinar for ALL AGES
Thursday April 22nd 4pm PST/7pm EST
Interested in Politics or Government? Two Opportunities
Interested in Politics or Studying Political Science?
Rishi Kumar for Congress Fellowship program
Find a unique opportunity this summer by applying today to an internship program. Get involved in a high energy campaign by joining the Rishi Kumar for Congress Fellowship program. To join the internship, submit your info at RishiKumar.com/Fellowship and you will be invited to a short interview. We highly recommend applying early and leveraging the early opportunity to showcase your skills before the summer madness and competitive landscape.
Josh Becker is the newly elected California State Senator for the 13th District
Although they do not have a formal internship system right now, Senator Becker’s Nicole Fernandez said
“Any interested parties can email me their resume if interested, and I will be in touch once we are looking for interns. They can reach me at nicole.fernandez@sen.ca.gov.”
Boys and Girls Club of the Peninsula
BGCP is seeking high school students who might be interested in supporting their in-person summer programs by interning. For more information contact Remi Sobomehin at remi@bgcp.org.
JOB OPPORTUNITY
Summer Job: City of RWC’s Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department
The City of Redwood City’s Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department is looking for Camp Leaders, Assistant Camp Directors, Camp Directors who are interested in working 25-40 hours per week during the summer, planning, organizing and conducting basic recreation activities in a variety of settings
Girls That Code - Online Activities
They “release activities bi-weekly— some online, some offline, of varying levels of difficulty. Each activity features a woman in tech who pioneered innovative technology.”
EPATT (East Palo Alto Tennis and Tutoring)
EPATT recruiting high school students for its College and Career Readiness (CCR) Program. At EPATT it is important to meet all of our students where they are academically and create a targeted plan for them. Our approach consists of academic support, one-on-one tutoring, mentoring, college/career advising and parent/family support. Our goal at EPATT is for all our students, to possess the academic and personal skills to be successful not only in college but in life.
Visit myepatt.org to check-out our offerings.
Boys and Girls Club of the Peninsula - Homework Help
Daily at 3pm
BGCP is offering daily homework help and support for all BGCP students to drop in.
To join via zoom click here: http://tinyurl.com/ForestHWHelp If you cannot join you can submit a homework help ticket by clicking here: http://tinyurl.com/BGCPhwhelp
They are also offering small group Math Support (Geometry, Alg II, Pre Calc, Calc and Statistics) - If you are interested email Lauren Kang at lkang@bgcp.org
How To Videos for students available on our website!
All Newsletters Available Online!
Senior Newsletter Contents Week of March 21-27
Senior Newsletter Contents
Upcoming Events and Deadlines
Virtual Events: Tech Girls United Workshop on Responsible AI, Mindfulness TRC
Financial Aid - Get help understanding financial aid award letters, Understanding Financial Aid Letters and Completing a college’s FA Required Documents, What to do next?
Career Information - Zoom Career Speakers -Plumber/Electrician
General 4 Year - Appeals and Waitlist Information
UC - Accepting a UC Admissions Offer
CSU - Check your Portals
Community College College of San Mateo & Canada College Workshops (PEP, Promise, Application) Help
Student Opportunities - BGCP Summer Interns, Student Mindfulness Training
Scholarships - Palo Alto Medical Foundation PreMed Scholarship, Rotary Club of San Carlos Scholarship, Philip Tran, Bay Area Gardeners, Sequoia’s Class of 2021 Senior Scholarship, and Rotary Club of Redwood City Scholarship and MORE, and How to Request a Transcript for Scholarships