Central Catholic - Find Your Path
Class of 2024 - College, Life & Career - November 2023
***CAREER EXPLORATION***
Portland Workforce Alliance (PWA) Career Days
PWA Career Days are in-person opportunities for students to learn about high-demand career fields. Spots fill quickly. Submit your Student interest Form and Parent/Guardian Permission Form at the link below as soon as possible. Tansportation is not provided.
November 15 from 9 am to Noon - AWS Elemental Career Day - Dream of having a job in the tech industry? Come meet the engineers, designers, data scientists, program managers, and software architects who work together at Amazon Web Services (AWS) Elemental in Portland to build everything on the Internet. Connect directly with professionals for career insights, including inspiring women and first-gen professionals.
November 16 from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm - Microchip Career Day - Are you fascinated by the world of microcontrollers, mixed-signal technologies, and cutting-edge solutions that power the devices we use every day? Look no further! Microchip Technology invites you into the heart of technological innovation. Students will explore the lab, hear from professionals what it's like to work in the semiconductor/electronics industry, and engage in hands-on learning.
Community Partners Needed
We are looking to partner with the Central Catholic community as we seek to educate and celebrate the multiple pathways available to our students after high school. If you or your organization are interested in providing career learning opportunities, please complete our Interest Form HERE
AREAS OF INTEREST
Job Information
Internship Opportunities
Job Mentoring or Shadowing
Apprenticeship Education
Classroom Presentations
Career Paths Meeting the Needs of Industry - Microelectronics Technology
Community colleges are often at the forefront in offering training programs to get individuals trained and ready to work in high demand fields in one to two years and sometimes less. Microelectronics at Portland Community College is a great example of such a program. PCC enjoys a strong partnership with local semiconductor manufacturers. The job placement rate is close to 100% and starting salaries are around $55,000 per year. Check out their degree and certificate programs:
- Associate Degree: Microelectronics Technology - Program length: 2 years
- Associate Degree: Microelectronics Technology – Automated Manufacturing - Program length: 2 years
- Associate Degree: Microelectronics Technology – Solar Voltaic Manufacturing - Program length: 2 years
- Certificate: Mechatronics - Program length: Less than 1 year
- Career Pathway Certificate: Solar Voltaic Manufacturing- Program length: Less than 1 year
Interested? Attend an online information session to learn more about the Microelectronics Industry, the Microelectronics Technology program, and how to get your career started at https://www.pcc.edu/programs/microelectronics/info-sessions/.
***PREPARING FOR COLLEGE***
College Application Drop-In Sessions
We are continuing to host sessions for seniors who would like assistance completing their college applications. No sign-up is required and seniors are welcome to join us for any or all of the following sessions:
- November 8 from 2:40 to 3:30 pm in the Commons
- November 14 from 2:40 to 3:30 pm in the Commons
- November 29 from 2:40 to 3:30 pm in the Commons
Transcripts & Recommendation Requests
Need recommendation letters? Be sure to link your Common Application to Naviance first. Click on the Recommendation Request Process button below for instructions. Pleae keep in mind, we are unable to get transcripts sent and/or recommendation requests started until seniors complete the required steps linked below.
Parents/Guardian: Click HERE to share input about your senior to help with the counselor recommendation. It's optional by much appreciated by us!
***UPCOMING EVENTS***
November 1 through November 17 - Virtual Christian College Fair
Explore the comprehensive virtual college booths at any time through November 17. Attend financial aid and paying for college webinars on November 13 & 16 from 3 to 4 pm PT. Available on-demand afterwards. Click HERE for details and registration information.
Interact LIVE with reps from each college from 4-7 pm PT
• Thursday, November 9
• Monday, November 13
• Thursday, November 16
November 5 - National Portfolio Day
Launch your future in art and design! Visit with counselors, admissions team members, and faculty from art and design schools for a portfolio review before applying to colleges or universities. The event will be at Willamette University's Pacific Northwest College of Art and Design campus in Portland (511 NW Broadway) from Noon to 4 pm. Click HERE for details and registration information.
November 12 - NACAC Virtual College Fair from 10 am to 3 pm PT
Learn, connect, ask questions, and discover a wide range of colleges and universities. Click HERE for registration information and a list of participating institutions.
Coalition for College Virtual Events
The Coalition for College is hosting a variety of free virtual workshops for students and families. Click HERE for registration information and access to past events.
November 7 at 5 pm PT - Succeeding in College as a First-Generation Student
Are you the first in your family to attend college? Join us to hear from admissions counselors and current students who were first-generation college students themselves. They’ll share insight and guidance on the admissions process, as well as how to be successful in college. Hear their stories and ask your questions.
November 28 at 5 pm PT - Preparing to Complete the FAFSA
Have questions about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)? Confused about the process or even what certain terms mean? Join us at this event featuring admissions and financial aid professionals at Coalition schools to better understand the FAFSA – and to ask your questions.
***PAYING FOR COLLEGE***
November 11 - University of Portland Investing in YOU
Join staff from the University of Portland on November 11 from 9:30 to Noon at the UP Bauccio Commons. Atendees will received information about admissions and financial aid. Particpants are welcome to attend some or all of the sessions. Investing in YOU Schedule:
- 9:30-10 am - Admissions Overview and Application Process
- 10-11:30 am - Financial Aid Presentation
- 11 am-12 pm - Campus Tour
Click HERE for details and registration information.
Create Your FSA ID today!
Every eligible, college-bound student and at least one parent, will need an FSA ID to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). It's very important to create an FSA ID (username and log in) for PRIOR TO completing the FAFSA when it opens in December. Families who attempt to create FSA IDs at the time of FAFSA completion may not experience the benefits of FAFSA simplification or be able to consent to the use of Federal Tax Information.
Here's how to start!
- The FSA ID is needed to sign and submit your FAFSA. Students will need their own FSA ID plus one parent must also create a FSA ID.
- Use your legal name exactly as it appears on your Social Security Card.
- Gather your 2022 tax return data.
When the FAFSA goes live in December:
- Complete the FAFSA for the 2024-2025 school year.
- Add all the colleges you are applying to this year. If you add colleges to your list after you have completed the FAFSA -- just edit it and add to your FAFSA.
Concerned you're not eligible to file the FAFSA? ORSAA and WASFA are alternate forms for undocumented students living in Oregon and Washington respectively. Not sure? Click HERE for the FAFSA/ORSAA Filter Tool. Keep on mind, you do not need to create a FSA ID if you are not using FAFSA.
Scholarships Awarded by the College or University
Check the Financial Aid and Scholarship webpage for each college on your list. Are there any additional applications needed (besides the admission application)? Are there any scholarships that fit your profile and need an additional application?
Complete a Net Price Calculator for every college on your list! Net Price Calculator's, available on every college's website, are an easy tool to use to estimate how much each college might give you in scholarship money! Search for Net Price Calculators on each college's financial aid page or search HERE.
Scholarship Search Suggestions
THINK LOCAL
Your parent, guardian or grandparent might work for a company or belong to an organization that offers scholarships to dependents or descendants. There is often less competition for these, since they have to be awarded locally.- OSAC Scholarships (primarily OR residents) -OSAC awards more than $10 million in scholarships annually. Oregon residents planning to attend a two- or four colleges as well as trade schools. The application is now open; however, it cannot be submitted until after first semester. The Early Bird deadline is February 15 by 5 pm PST. Error-free applications will be entered into a drawing for one of several $1,000 Early Bird scholarships. You can also check out the Oregon Promise Community College Grant - HERE.
- Ford Scholars Program (OR residents) - The Program Supports students who have significant financial barriers to college. Students must plan to enroll full-time in an institution located in Oregon.
- The WashBoard (WA residents) - Washington residents have access to a database of scholarships that might be a good fit. Create an account and start your search today.
SEARCH FOR OUTSIDE SCHOLARSHIPS
There are lots of free search sites for scholarships. You should never have to pay to find or apply for scholarships. Here are some helpful sites:
Fastweb
Oregon GearUP Scholarship List
STAY ORGANIZED
It can challenging to keep track of all the different scholarship deadlines and requirements. Check out the scholarship tools including the Scholarship Tracking Worksheet developed by the University of Portland HERE. You'll find it under the "Scholarship Application" section.
UPCOMING SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINES
Black United Fund of Oregon Scholarships are open to seniors who identify as Black, African-American, or of African descent. Additionally, ACCESS Scholarships are available to seniors applying to specific universities in Oregon. Deadline varies (Create an account for details)
NOVEMBER
Act Six Scholarship looks for young people who want to use their college education to make a difference on the George Fox University campus and in their communities at home. Applicants should be committed to anti-racism and compelled to work for justice and equity, passionate about learning, and eager to foster intercultural relationships. Deadline: November 28
Dr. Juan Andrade Jr. Scholarship for Young Hispanic Leaders seeks to recognize Hispanic students who share Dr. Andrade’s lifelong commitment to servant leadership. At least one parent must be of Hispanic ancestry. Non-U.S. citizens are eligible to apply (DACA or Undocumented). Deadline: November 30 at 9:59 PM PT
Driver Education Initiative Award is sponsored by the National Driving and Traffic School. The essay contest “In The Driver’s Seat” seeks to have applicants highlight the importance of being a safe and educated driver. The essay must be a minimum of 750 words. Deadline: November 30
Elks Most Valuable Student Scholarship is open to high school seniors who are U.S. citizens. Scholarships ranging from $4000 to $50,000 are awarded based on academics, service, leadership and financial need. Deadline: November 13 at 11:59 pm PT
Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards honor Latino high school seniors who excel in the classroom and community and for their excellence in various categories including: Community Service, Education, Engineering, Entrepreneurship & Business, Green Sustainability, Healthcare & Science, Media & Entertainment, Public Service & Social Justice, and Technology. Deadline: November 13
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship is an undergraduate scholarship program available to high-achieving high school seniors with financial need. They will consider applicants with family annual gross income up to $95,000; however, last year's recipients had a median family income of approximately $35,000. Deadline: November 16 at 11:59 pm PT
National Honor Society Scholarship is open to senior NHS members with a verified NHS student account. Please plan ahead for the verification process. Deadline: November 30 at 2 pm PT
SchoolHouse Connection’s Youth Leadership and Scholarship Program offers scholarship and ongoing support to seniors who have experienced homelessness at some point in the last six years. Deadline: November 24
Weber Shandwick Scholarship is a scholarship that can be put toward your future college tuition or any educational needs. Winners will also receive one year of free access to all ES.AI tools. Deadline: November 27
DECEMBER
National Space Club and Foundation Keynote Scholarship for students interested in STEM fields with a preference for those with space-related interests. Deadline: December 4
Point Flagship Scholarship empowers LGBTQ students with financial support, access to multiple leadership development programs, mentorship or coaching, and the support of a community of scholars and alumni. Deadline: December 5 at 9 am PT
Science Ambassador Scholarship is a full–tuition scholarship from Cards Against Humanity for a woman in science, technology, engineering, or math who creates a three–minute video explaining a topic in STEM. Deadline: December 13 at 9:59 pm PT