Senior College & Career Newsletter
Oct 30- Nov 5, 2022
Welcome Students & Families
Scroll through for important information regarding College/Career
How to reach us?
For general questions and inquiries please email (Please do not use the link at the bottom of this Newsletter to contact us)
Ms Ignaitis: tignaitis@seq.org
All HCA, Study Skills Students and Last names A-L
and/or
Ms Yeager: tyeager@seq.org
All DAA, ELD Students and Last names M-Z
On Wednesdays, join the College & Career Center in the Quad at lunch.
Important Dates and Deadlines
UPCOMING EVENTS/DUE DATES:
October/ November- CSU/UC/Common Application Workshops (sign-up here)
November 4 - Deadline SR/LOR Form for Regular Decision to Your Counselor
November 30 - Deadline for CSU and UC Applications for Fall 2023
Need Help Applying to College? College Club on Tuesdays!
Tuesdays 4-5 PM
This Tuesday we will go over how College Club can help this application period!
If you need help applying to college, please come to College Club every Tuesday from 4-5.
If you have a sport or job after-school, please come see us in the College and Career Center to make other arrangements.
Our goal is to get something done every week and we hope to see you there!
If you have questions, please come to College and Career Center
Need a Fee Waiver for a College Application? Complete the 2022-2023 Meal Application
Fall 2022 Add/Drop Dates
11/1: Last day to drop an IB course in a testing year.
11/16: Last day to drop with penalty. No drops after this date.
Sequoia High School College Visits
Naviance is currently displaying the incorrect (AM or PM) on the College Visit list - once you register, you can see the correct (AM or PM)
Clarkson University
Tue Nov 1. 2:00 PM
Claremont McKenna College
Thurs Nov 3. 8:30 AM
San Francisco State University METRO Program - Seniors Only
Tue Nov 8. 2:50 PM
Lesley University
Thu Nov 10. 11:00 AM
OTHER COLLEGE EVENTS
Find the College for You at NACAC Virtual College Fairs
November 6th
Unpacking Financial Aid (Virtual Program) - Willamette
November 7
Audience: Parents & guardians of college-bound students
As a parent or guardian of a college-bound student, financing college can be intimidating. From the FAFSA and scholarships to grants and loans, Dean of Admission, Sue Corner will explain key financial aid terms and take participants through a financial aid offer line-by-line. (Advance Registration Required)Metro Program at SF State
November 8
The Metro College Success Program (Metro) at San Francisco State University (SFSU) looks forward to supporting senior students who are considering SFSU next fall.
What does the Metro College Success Program Provides Incoming Freshmen?
Classes that cover their G-E credit requirements w. no additional charge, academic advising and educational planning specific to each student’s major, and tutoring services from Metro’s MARC Center! Coordinators and Advisors who are committed to supporting students, and the opportunity to build community with other students who are interested in similar majors.
Sign-up on Naviance- College Visits for Nov 8th visit.
National Portfolio Day - Interested in Studying Art and Design in College?
Nov 13
14 on the 14th: Liberal Arts Colleges Across the US
Nov 14th
Fourteen liberal arts and sciences colleges across the U.S. will come together with current students and alumni to offer you fifteen minutes of tips for your college application process followed by an hour-long virtual college fair.
For the list of colleges, more information and the registration link - Click HereWhat to do after you’ve submitted your applications
After you submit your applications, the process is not over. After you’ve applied make sure to:
Create your portals and check/respond to your email.
Check that all portions of your part of the application were received
Many schools will say that you need to submit your Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) to their system, even if you already did it on the Common App.
Check each school and make sure it’s submitted.
Where do I find my California State ID and What GPA Do I Use?
What GPA Do I Use?
First Listed - Cumulative GPA
IF College Asked for Unweighted
Second Listed - Cumulative Unweighted
CSU/UC
Weighted 10-11 A-G
note - UC will not ask for GPA
Where’s my State ID?
The State ID can be found in the transcript printed by your counselor on the top left corner right underneath the GPA Summary.
Specific Four Year College Information By Type
UC/CSU COMMON ERRORS - Same for Both Applications
IB Math Applications SL/YR1 HL or IB Math Analysis SL/YR1 HL on Transcript
- If you only took one year of either IB Math Applications or Analysis, choose the course with ONLY "SL"
Math Analysis and Approaches IB SL (IB)
- If you are in your SECOND year of either course choose:
Math Analysis and Approaches IB HL2 (IB) - second year
OR
Math Applications and Interpretation IB HL1 (IB)
Math Applications and Interpretation IB HL2 (IB)
Sometimes the approved UC/CSU names are not the same name as is on your transcript
- History IB HL1 is the junior year course
- IB History of Americas HL2 is the senior year.
- If you are in a two-year course, look for HL1 for junior year and HL 2 for senior year.
- If a class gets IB or Honor status IT WILL AUTOMATICALLY appear when you add the name of the class. If you have to add the course type for CSU, ALWAYS choose – none.
World Studies 1-2 - no grade first term then add your second semester grade
- Both the quarter of WS 1 and Life Skills are not A-G eligible
NEVER CHOOSE: I do not see my class or add a course on your own that you took at SHS
CSU Application Fee Waiver
When you apply for admission to the CSU through Cal State Apply you are automatically considered for an application fee waiver based on the information requested in the application.
You must fully complete the application before the fee waiver eligibility is determined.
You will see a "Check My Fee Waiver Status" link on the Submit Application tab to determine whether you are eligible for an application fee waiver.
Eligibility Criteria for Fee Waivers
To be considered for the application fee waiver, you must be:
An undergraduate student (you cannot be in an extension program)
A California resident for more than one year
A U.S. citizen or someone without lawful immigration status who qualifies for an AB540 non-resident tuition exception
Applicants who are eligible for the application fee waiver may apply to up to four CSU campuses per application term (i.e., fall, spring).
See the Application Fee Waiver Checklist (PDF) for more guidance on how to avoid common errors.
The CSU does not accept College Board fee waivers, nor any other external waiver form.
FIGURE OUT YOUR MAJOR
One of the first questions on the application is-what the major are you applying for?
Majors/Degrees
All of the CSU are not the same and sometimes they have different names for the same subject area. Figure out HERE what degree you are applying for each school on the CSUapply website.
2022-2023 First Time Freshman Supplemental Factors by Campus
When you figure out what major you will be applying to, see if it is IMPACTED. If impacted, there will be a multiple measure selection process, again, different for each campus.
UC Application Fee Waivers
UC will waive application fees for up to four campuses for qualifying students. The online fee waiver is within the UC admission application and uses the applicant’s family size and income to determine eligibility. During the payment process, the system will apply the approved fee waiver.
If an applicant received a fee waiver from an outside source or is requesting a fee waiver based on changes in current financial circumstances, they may indicate that they will pay fees by mail and either submit a College Board or NACAC fee waiver in lieu of payment for four campuses, or email the UC Application Center at ucinfo@applyucsupport.net.
External fee waivers and requests for UC fee waivers can be submitted after filing the UC application. Fee waivers from different sources cannot be combined to cover application fees for more than four campuses. Fee waiver requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
UC’s application fee waiver program is for United States citizens, permanent residents, and applicants eligible for AB540 benefits who meet the annual Income Eligibility Guidelines.
This information is also on page 53 of the Quick Reference Guide to UC Admissions.
UC Admissions Sessions and Fairs
Campuses may offer a range of opportunities, including college fairs, appointments, admissions sessions, tours and videos on admission, housing and/or financial aid and scholarships. Some will be hosted in person, while others will be offered virtually. Programming for counselors, students and families will be available.
UC Berkeley: programming throughout October
UC Davis: programming for counselors, families and students offered throughout the fall quarter
UC Merced: Programming available throughout October and November
UC San Diego: Programming available throughout October and November
UC Santa Barbara: Programming throughout October and November
UC Santa Cruz: Programming throughout October and November
Complete Your Common Application Correctly - Ways to Get Help
Take your time and submit the best application possible
College & Career Common Errors on the Common Application Workshops
We are hosting multiple opportunities before, during and after school to go over the Common Application. Click here view the Workshop Schedule and Sign Up page.
New: Instructional application videos (From Updates from Common Application)
Just in time for back to school, we’re excited to launch our instructional applications videos for the 2022-2023 year, featuring members of the Common App team! Topics include a full application overview of first-year and transfer, how to approach each essay prompt, and the most popular questions we hear about the application process.
View the Playlist Their YouTube channel for more videos throughout the application season!
COMMUNITY COLLEGE INFORMATION
FAFSA VS. CA DREAM ACT: Which one do I complete?
Why should I complete a financial aid application?
In order to qualify for free community college in San Mateo County or the Promise program across the state of California, you have to apply for FAFSA/CADAA.
You never know when your finances may change. Creating an annual record of your income allows colleges to see when situations change.
Applying for FAFSA/CADAA is often a prerequisite to qualify for private or merit-based scholarships.
Other Resource: 7 Easy Steps to the FAFSA: click here
Are you applying to a college that requires a nomination from Sequoia for scholarships or programs?
Important Process Below:
When you are researching colleges to apply to, check to see if they have scholarships and programs that require nominations.
For example, Davidson College has the Belk Scholarships which provides 8 full-ride scholarships to students who are selected. Also, Washington University in St. Louis has the Danforth Scholars Program that awards partial and full-tuition scholarships based on merit and does not consider need as part of the award process. Both of these examples require being nominated in order to apply.
Sequoia High School PTSA: 2022-2023 Reflections VPA Contest Information
Due: Nov 11th
This year’s theme: Show Your Voice
Enter your artwork and reflect about its meaning to you in one of six categories.
Dance Choreography
Film Production
Literature
Music Composition
Photography
Visual Arts
Special Artist Division
All entries will be recognized for their artistic achievement. Participation itself is a meaningful contribution to the Sequoia community! First-place finishers in each category enter the district competition, district winners move on to the state competition, and state winners move on to compete nationally.
Be sure to review the rules and category information on the Reflections page of the PTSA website.
Submissions due Friday, Nov. 11. Click here for the online submission form.
Good Tidings Community Service Scholarship
Due: Nov. 11
Good Tidings Foundation encourages and supports the growth of marginalized children in the Bay Area by creating spaces for athletics, artistic activities, education, and wonder.
Our purpose is to provide opportunities that otherwise would be unavailable to kids regardless of their financial status, ethnic origin, or religion. Our scholarships award high school seniors based on the greatest service and financial need. Go here to find our more.Redwood City Elks Most Valuable Student Scholarship
Due: November 14th
The Elks National Foundation (ENF) awards 500 four-year scholarships based on academics, leadership, and financial need. National awards range from $1,000 per year to $12,500 per year. The national awards will be announced in April 2023. Our Redwood City Lodge will award 10 students with $1,500.
MVS scholarships are for students pursuing a four-year degree on a full-time basis (minimum of 12 semester hours), at a U.S. college or university next school year. Some important applicant details include:
Current high school seniors (or equivalent) who are citizens of the United States are eligible to apply.
Applicants do not have to be related to a member of the Elks.
Male and female students compete separately.
Students choose Redwood City Elks Lodge #1991 as their sponsoring Lodge. Our Redwood
City Lodge will send our best six students to the Bay District competition with the opportunity to
go to the state and Grand Lodge finals
Applications can be found online at enf.elks.org/MVS.
The application deadline this year is November 14th.
James Alan Cox Foundation for Student Photojournalists
Due: Nov 15th
Scholarships will be awarded to those students whose work “tells a story”. This is a fairly broad topic and may include a variety of subject matter and approaches (breaking news, sporting events, etc.) Please keep in mind that, for the still photography submissions, we are NOT looking for “art” photography. Five (5) Digital SLR Cameras will be awarded to five (5) high school students. Must be a US citizen. To find out more and apply click here.
Scholastic Art and Writing Awards
Deadlines: Dec 6, 7 and all year long
The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards allow high school students to submit art, writing and poetry for regional and national recognition.
Poetry: open all year and can submit once (there is a cost to process, but it can be waived) Frequently Asked Questions
Teens may enter work that was created this past spring or over the summer. Students should enter their current grade level, even if they are entering work that was created while they were in a different grade.
Interested in Science and/or Cardiology? Free Program for 11/12th Graders
DUE: Dec 1st
American College of Cardiology Young Scholars Program is a free program designed for students interested in a career in science, the Young Scholars program pairs participants with an ACC member mentor for a year of research and education about cardiology and cardiovascular disease. Events throughout the year virtually with a chance to meet in person in Atlanta and another two day camp in Washington, DC. Application includes a 500 word statement of interest and a letter of recommendation.
Click here for more information and to apply.Interested in Working with Rescue Dogs?
DPS Rescue is searching for new volunteers for our biweekly events in Palo Alto! We welcome volunteers of all experience levels and backgrounds, ages 14+, and offer community service credits/sign-offs if needed. Complete form on their website. Doggie Protective Services
Volunteer Tutoring at Siena Youth Center
One-on-one tutoring with elementary and/or middle school students (typically in reading but some also need support in math and other areas). This would be a weekly occurrence after 3:15pm on the weekdays. Sessions are normally 30 minutes. If interested, email mselizabeth@holyfamilyschoolrwc.org
Project Read- Redwood City Library Volunteer Opportunities
TRAINING - Nov 8th
Project Read has some upcoming training for teens who would like to volunteer on November 8. This is a great opportunity for SHS students to be matched with a younger student to tutor once or twice a week.
If interested contact:
Email - rclread@redwoodcity.org
Phone- 650 780-7077
For more information go to their website and scroll down to the Teen Volunteer Section.
(Flier in College and Career Center)
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.” Click here for more information
Volunteer Opportunity with Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity is in need of volunteers, 16 years old and older, to help at our construction site in Daly City. If you are curious about Habitat and how you can get involved, we are holding informational sessions to provide a glimpse of our work. In these sessions, you can also expect to hear about the Covid-19 protocols currently in place to ensure the safety of volunteers.
Click Here for more information on how to volunteer
Chick-Fil-A Redwood City
Find a culture that is unique. Serve with a team that cares. Whether you’re first job or the next step in your career, Chick-fil-A provides a positive environment for hardworking individuals to thrive.
KJ’s Cafe is Hiring Baristas @ Kaiser Medical Office Building in RWC
3pm-6:00pm Mon-Friday
NO WEEKEND OR EVENING WORK REQUIRED.
WE WILL WORK AROUND YOUR SCHOOL SCHEDULE.
IF YOU ENJOY/HAVE:
Experience with customer service, Genuine warmth for others, Learn quickly, Thrive in collaborative environments, Value earnest hard work, Enjoy/love being part of a team… We are looking for you!!!
Formal resume not required. Barista experience strongly preferred but happy to train the right person. Full or Part Time, Salary: $17.00- $20.00 + tips which average approx $5-6 per hour.
E-Mail:katherine@kjscafe.com
Cell: (650) 464-3111
Stanford University Residential & Dining Enterprises Food Service Positions
A lot of Sequoia Students work here!
How To Videos for students now on our website!
Hey Sequoia HS Class of 2023! Cap and Gown Info
We now have more than 350 of you that have ordered your caps and gowns, but we are still missing some of you!!
Please follow the below instructions to place your order for a FREE cap and gown TODAY!!
Use THIS LINK to place your cap and gown order. You can also use this same site to purchase additional graduation items (announcements, class rings, etc), but there is NO CHARGE for the Cap and Gown. Select GRAD PACK D from the listed options. Please use promo code 2023grad at checkout (and make sure to click APPLY) for all cap and gown orders... otherwise the system will not let you check out. Please do this immediately!! If you do choose to return to the site later and order additional packages that include a cap and gown, don't worry about that part... the system is set up so that it won't order you a duplicate gown.
Even if you are unsure if you will graduate, please complete the order form. It is better to be over-prepared than get to the Spring and not have one!!!
I'm also attaching the Herff Jones ordering packet. It has some additional links and info on how to order additional items.
Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions, or for questions specific to ordering, you can message our Herff-Jones representative:
Michael Manning
Senior Portrait Information
Past Newsletters
GENERAL FOUR-YEAR INFORMATION: Transcripts UC INFORMATION: Listing Community College Courses. FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION: WUE
GENERAL FOUR-YEAR INFORMATION: How To Videos, UC: Statement of Integrity, COMMON APP: Complete Your Common Application Correctly
GENERAL FOUR-YEAR INFORMATION: Does Submitting My Application Earlier Than The Due Date Give Me an Advantage?
CAREER: Benefits of having a job in high school, COLLEGE TIP: Ask the Same Question for Each College Visit FOUR-YEAR COLLEGE: Do I need a LOR/SR Form
September 11-17 , 2022 Click Here
4YR COLLEGE: Choosing a Major FA: Real Cost of College
September 4-11 Newsletter Click Here
4YR COLLEGE: - Requesting Transcripts, COMMON APPLICATION/PRIVATE COLLEGE: Application Help, CAREER: Firefighter Program, Motion Graphic Design
COLLEGE: Nomination Process
August 28- September 3 Newsletter Click Here
COMMON APPLICATION: What you can do now for LOR, CAREER: Careers in Art
August 21-27 Newsletter Click Here
CAREER: O'NET Career Resource, 4 YR GENERAL - Importance of College Visit