Senior College & Career Newsletter
Week of January 17-23, 2021
Welcome Students & Families - Happy New Year!
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
- January 15 - Deadline to Submit Community College Transcripts for Fall Semester Transcripts
- January 22- Transcripts will be uploaded to Naviance
- Feb 1- Deadline for Counselors to Submit MYR (see Private/Common App Section)
- Feb 4 - Senior Community College Fair and Information Night
- January-March- Various CSU Applications Deadlines (see 'CSU Section)
- March 2 - Priority Deadline for FAFSA or CADAA
- March 2 - Deadline for Cal Grant
Tuesdays, 4 pm- Have questions? Need help with college portals or Financial Aid? Drop by College Club by clicking here: Join us on zoom!
Messages From Counseling Office! Schedule Changes
Requesting a schedule change for the 2nd semester.
Please keep in mind that we generally discourage students from making schedule changes, however, we also understand that there may be circumstances that warrant a change. Additionally, as a reminder, Sequoia High School cannot accommodate requests for elective switches, teacher preference, or period preference.
Please use this google form to request a schedule change and your counselor will be in touch with you: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScKzHSKO7yk611Fcsnp-xB26x4QS50A10Dq9xWf7MCe5n6V_Q/viewform
Remember that this is a REQUEST and that parent permission may be required. Your counselor will be in touch with you about your request.
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).
Join us every Tuesday for College Club at 4pm on zoom: https://seq-org.zoom.us/j/92359863949
Check out the How-To videos (link below)
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.
Preparing an art school portfolio for college admission: Alberta University of the Arts
Saturday, January 23 at 9 am
Alberta University of the Arts is hosting a virtual Portfolio Review Day. A great opportunity to have your work reviewed and to get some one-on-one time with their faculty. During your timeslot you will learn how portfolios are evaluated and get some helpful tips on how to make your portfolio stand out.
Everyone’s invited to participate! Outstanding portfolios have the opportunity to be waived as part of the application process for anyone applying to First-Year Studies. It is recommended to have prepared a maximum of 12 pieces for your review and have your academic transcript on hand to be reviewed by an Admission and Recruitment Officer. Portfolio reviews will be hosted online through Microsoft Teams - access to the internet and a smart device/laptop/desktop is required to participate. To register click here.
National Hispanic Institute Virtual College Fair
February 2
NHI is thrilled to announce its first digital college fair and expo of this program year. This college fair will allow students and families to: Uncover new college options through a robust search tool, Experience virtual campus tours, Watch videos and download materials helpful for in the decision process, Schedule meetings and interviews with admissions representatives. No matter where you are in the college search process, you can learn more about your options at the National Hispanic Institute Virtual College Fair and Expo! To learn more and to register click here
CSU Eastbay Education Summit 2021 for African Am, Latino, Native Am, & Pacific Islanders
Saturday Feb 6th
Learn how to prepare for college through presentations and workshops for middle school, high school and community college students. Hear from current East Bay students as they share their experience at East Bay, including the transition to campus, what school has been like during the pandemic, and advice they have for students going into college. Financial aid workshops, including FAFSA and Dream Act application tips. Attend informative workshops for parents of students. To learn more and to register click here.
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
TWO AND FOUR YEAR BOUND SENIOR INFORMATION:
General Four-Year College Information
REMINDERS
Add All College Applications – To “Colleges I’m Applying To” on Naviance
Please list every school that you applied to on Naviance including CSUs and UCs. We can’t submit documents until you list them on Naviance. Also, make sure you note that you submitted your application as well.
IF you see a CANCELED TRANSCRIPT request message on your Naviance account – it is because the Counseling department takes out all unnecessary requests (UC, CSU, and Common Application Schools)
If you have any questions:
- Email either Ms Ignaitis (A-L and HCA) or Ms Rocha (M-Z and DAA) or
- Watch How to Request a Transcript/What Colleges do you NEED to Request a Transcript at Sequoia or
- Watch Requesting a Transcript for a Scholarship at Sequoia
REPORTING CHANGES IN YOUR APPLICATIONS
You must report any Ds or Fs on your 7th-semester transcripts OR changes in course work you reported on your application. Either call or email to find out what the procedure for each specific school.
- IF you do not do this step and you are admitted, your admission will likely be taken away if you decide to go there, when they require your final transcripts
OTHER REMINDERS
Check your Transcript on Infinite Campus (Reports tab). If there is a mistake, email your counselor as soon as possible. We will be sending out 7th-semester transcripts starting Jan 21st .
Mid-Year Reports include the 7th Semester Transcript.
Non-Common Application Schools that Required a School Report
If the school requires a Mid-Year Report, please email your counselor.
COMMON APPLICATION and PRIVATE COLLEGE INFORMATION
INTERVIEW HELP
If a college offers an interview process, you should sign up for one even if not required.
Some colleges do not let you sign up for an interview until you submit your application so you need to call or read the college’s website to see what steps you need to take to get an interview.
Here is some advice from the publication Link for Counselors
(There is another great resource – College Essay Guy and Ms. Ignaitis is always a little skeptical of going to College Confidential mentioned in the article below.)
- College Interview Season is Upon Us How to help your students prep for their college interview.
- Other GREAT RESOURCE: The Essay Guy’s College Tips and Strategies: The Ultimate Guide (College Interview)
REMINDER ABOUT MID YEAR REPORTS (MYR)
All MYR will be completed by February 1st
Common Application Schools Require a Mid-Year Report (MYR) Information
Most MYR include only your new GPA and 7th-semester transcripts. They also include any change in course work listed on your School Report (SR).
MYRs will be sent automatically if you requested a SR through Naviance IF YOU HAVE LISTED THE COLLEGE AS A COMMON APP School (if there is a ? mark –EDIT it to Common Application if the school needs a MYR
If you need to speak to your counselor about your grades or some personal situation that should be included in your MYR, please make an appointment right away.
UC INFORMATION
NEXT STEPS: AFTER YOU SUBMIT APPLICATION
Soon after you apply, you will receive an email from UC with directions on how to set up its portal. 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.
REPORTING D & F OR SCHEDULE CHANGES
You must tell each UC if you changed your schedule (dropped courses) or received a D or F during the Fall 2020 semester.
Minor changes to your activities, awards, volunteer work or employment are unlikely to have an impact on your admission decision.
NOTE Each Campus has a different policy:
CSU INFORMATION
Next Steps: AFTER YOU SUBMIT APPLICATION
Soon after you apply, you will receive an email from the CSU with directions on how to set up its portal. 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.
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.
CSU Application Deadline EXTENDED
Many CSU have extended their deadlines (some only allow certain majors)
Click on link for more information Extended Dates
COMMUNITY COLLEGE INFORMATION
COMMUNITY COLLEGE Information Night and College Fair –
Feb 4th
IF You Did Not Apply to a Four Year College – You Should Be Attending This EVENT!
There will be important information about upcoming workshops and due dates you need to successfully attend community college next fall. There will be representatives from our local community colleges Canada College, College of San Mateo, Foothill and Skyline. These representatives will present overviews of their respective programs and their admission process. Canada College will also have a financial aid representative to present information and answer questions. Students and parents will be able to speak to schools individually. In Spanish and English. Zoom links will be available in our next newsletter.
Cañada College Outreach, now has LIVE Drop In Zoom hours!
Any students/parents that have any questions about Cañada College, or need assistance with applying are encouraged to visit with campus ambassadors via zoom for help!
Mondays & Wednesdays 9am - 5pm
Tuesdays & Thursdays 9am - 6pm
Fridays 9am - 2pm
ZOOM Link: https://smccd.zoom.us/j/81729634506 (Please note that you must be logged in to your zoom account)
For issues with the zoom link, please email cortezfigueroao@smccd.edu or call 650-306-3209
Get your FAFSA/CADAA Application in!
Seniors, you have only a couple of months left to get either your FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application in! Do not wait until the last minute.
FAFSA - DUE MARCH 2, 2021
For students with a Social Security Number
-or-
CA Dream Act- DUE MARCH 2, 2021
For students without a Social Security Number.
Click for Financial Aid Information: English or Espanol
Families who would like assistance with the FAFSA or CADAA can make an appointment with College Counselors (appointment links above).
CALIFORNIA STUDENT AID COMMISSION: CASH FOR COLLEGE WEBINARS
Complete the Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) now! Learn about the FAFSA and CADAA application and get your questions answered via the Cash for College hotline! Register for this FREE webinar here!
Please have the following documents available during the webinar:
• Your parents and your FSA ID (For FAFSA filers ONLY) or Dream Act Account (For CADAA filers) • Driver's License, if you have one
• Social Security Card, if you have one
• Alien Registration Card, if you have one
• ITIN, if you have one
• List of colleges you are interested in to list on the applications
• Most current bank statements
• Any records of untaxed income
• 2019 tax information (1040’s and W2’s)
• This includes your parents' tax information if you are a dependent student.
You will have an opportunity to ask questions via chat box (general questions only) or via our Cash for College hotline after the webinar. Please have your FSA ID or Dream Act Account completed and ready for the webinar so you can follow along and complete the application.
FAFSA
TWO AND FOUR-YEAR COLLEGE BOUND SENIORS, COMPLETE THIS FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID ONLINE TODAY REGARDLESS OF YOUR FAMILY INCOME.
DEADLINE MARCH 2, 2021
CA DREAM ACT
DEADLINE MARCH 2, 2021
CSS PROFILE
Al Teglia Jobs for Youth Scholarship
Due: Feb 2nd
Al Teglia Jobs for Youth Scholarship provides college and vocational scholarships to Jobs for Youth participants. Each year, the program awards scholarships to deserving youth who would like to pursue their college/vocational education. Applicants must obtain a GPA of 2.0 and have attended a Jobs for Youth workshop and have registered as a Member.
For more information or to apply please visit their website: http://jobsforyouth.org/SCHOLARSHIPS/
Bank of America Student Leaders Program
DEADLINE January 29, 2021
OVERVIEW: The B of A Student Leader Program is a summer 8-week paid internship with a nonprofit organization selected by the bank. It is designed to help students develop and apply leadership skills through hands-on work experience. Also a week-long all-expense paid student leadership summit in Washington DC to introduce students to civic, social and business leadership.
For more information or to apply click here
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.
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.
For More Information Click Here
Leyla Beban Young Authors Creative Writing Contest - open to all grades
DUE Feb 1st
Welcome aspiring young authors, and thank you for your interest in the $1000 for 1000 Words Creative Writing Contest! We’re looking for an outstanding piece of short fiction that consists of exactly 1000 words. While there are no specific guidelines beyond that, we encourage you to tell a story that matters. Write something you believe in. Tell a story that only you can tell. Our judges have no specific criteria in mind other than to look for excellence. In other words, write something that moves you that dazzles you that says precisely what you want to say in precisely the way you want to say it. As long as you do so in precisely 1000 words. For More Information click here
2021 EngineerGirl Writing Contest
DUE Feb 1st
Every year EngineerGirl hosts a writing contest to encourage students (all genders), grades 3-12, to investigate engineering and the ways that it shapes our world. Their hope is that the competition can spark discussion and activities that can enhance or extend the love for STEM. Students must create a creative fiction story of a female main character using an engineering skill to solve a problem. For more Information click here
How To Videos for students available on our website!
All Newsletters Available Online!
Jan 10-16, 2021
Upcoming Events and Deadlines
Financial Aid - FAFSA or CADAA Deadline March 2
General 4 Year - Check your portals, Transcripts and communicating with your colleges
Private - Interview Help Mid Year Reports/Transcripts
UC - Reporting D/F or Schedule Changes
CSU - Deadline Extended, Set Up Portals if Submitted
Community College - Canada College Workshops
Student Opportunities - Girls that Code Activities, Habitat for Humanity, Bank of America Leaders Program
Contests- Profiles in Courage Essay Contest
Scholarships -January Scholarship List Available, Pursuit of Excellence Scholarship