College & Career Newsletter
Week of March 19-25, 2023
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
College and Career Center will be closed on Wed March 22nd and Thurs March 23rd for testing.
Important Dates and Deadlines
UPCOMING EVENTS/DUE DATES:
March 22nd at 7pm: Meeting for Juniors planning on applying to a Private, Common App, and/or Coalition App College (see details below)
Highly Encouraged MEETING For Juniors Planning on Applying to a Private College and/or the Common Application College That Requires Letters of Recommendation and/or Counselor School Report March 22nd @ 7PM on Zoom
This meeting lays out the process early to relieve a little anxiety about what students need to do to apply to a college that requires letters of recommendation or a counselor school report instead of waiting until the beginning of senior year.
This meeting is for students, parents are welcomed – If a student can’t attend, it is OK for parents to come alone.
Private college deadlines are earlier each year so it is important to learn all the mandatory steps every SHS student must complete to successfully submit your applications including documents sent by Sequoia (counselor reports, transcripts and teacher recommendation letters).
This meeting will go over the general process using the Common Application/Coalition and the connection to Naviance. The meeting also includes information regarding; college search tips, letter of recommendations, general understanding of what admission counselors look for in an applicant and timelines.
English Meeting ID: 933 3097 6617 Pass Code: 242415
Spanish Meeting ID: 929 7370 4386
Or
If you do not go to this meeting, it will be your responsibility to read and understand the process at Sequoia on the posted PowerPoint. Similar resources from this meeting will be given out at the Senior Grade Level Meeting in the fall.
College Admission Tips with Sallie Mae
Wednesday, March 22 at 4pm PT
During this virtual event we’ll demystify the admissions process, and you’ll gain valuable insights directly from admission professionals.
Topics will include:
• Importance of high school academic choices
• To take the ACT/SAT, or not
• Applying to colleges
• Essays and letters of recommendation
• Campus visits: in-person and virtual
• Your online presence
Register here
Coalition College Virtual Events
Registration is now open for the Coalition's series of events this spring, including panel discussions on building college lists, decoding financial aid offers, and more. Each brings the expertise of our members together to help students understand the admissions and financial aid process and make smart college choices.
Decoding Your Financial Aid Offer
March 28
Ask Us Anything About Admissions
April 4
Scoir+Coalition Presents: Decoding the Admissions Process
April 12
NACAC Virtual Fairs
NACAC Virtual Fairs provide students and families the opportunity to connect with college representatives, learn about the admissions process, and discover financial aid and scholarship opportunities. These sessions support all students, including seniors who may still be weighing their college options. Click on the links below to register.
Juniors: Information About Signing Up for SAT/ACT in the Future
The California State University system and University of California system will no longer use the SAT/ACT as an admission requirement.
Colleges are still in the process of deciding on their testing policies for the next admission cycle. Please always check the website of any school you are interested in applying to find out if a SAT or ACT is required. More and more are extending their test optional policies because of the continued issue of students not having full access to test centers.
Students must register for the SAT or ACT on their own through the College Board SAT and ACT websites.
Go to the Student Opportunities and Contest Sections for More Specific Junior Opportunities
The Recommendation Letter
(in LINK for Counselors from AdmitU Consulting) Full article here
Why do colleges want them? Letters of recommendation are a unique component of the application process. They provide context for your performance in the classroom. The goal is to create a narrative based on who you are and who you are likely to become as you transition into the next phase of your education. Colleges want these letters in order to piece together your story. They have your test scores and GPA, but they want to know why you are a great candidate and fit for their institution. These recommendations go a long way towards receiving a favorable decision.
Who should you ask? It’s important to consider two teachers as you prepare to ask for your letters of recommendation. Many colleges will only require one teacher letter of recommendation, but some ask for two. You will also need a letter from your high school counselor. Additionally, if you feel someone from outside of the classroom can provide a positive and different perspective, this would be a great character reference. Consider a coach, club advisor, or even a supervisor from a summer job. So, now that you know the number required, who do you ask?
First, think about which teachers know you best. Do you have a favorite teacher and are you doing well in their class and/or demonstrating a positive work ethic? How active and engaged are you during their lessons and are you always prepared? If you find yourself nodding and answering yes, then these are the teachers you should pursue. But those are not the only questions you need to ask yourself when considering recommenders.
What is your intended major? The answer to this question can impact the teachers you might wish to ask. If you know you are applying within the STEM field, you will want to strongly consider one of your math or science teachers as a recommender. That being said, I strongly advise against focusing entirely on your math and science teachers. More colleges, even those with tech-heavy curriculums, value a well-rounded student. There’s no problem if you wish to pursue STEM and you submit recommendations from your Calculus and English teachers. In fact, that is what I recommend.
The key is to choose a teacher who can present the best version of you to the school. It doesn’t always have to be a class where you earned an “A.” Colleges value students who overcome adversity, so if there is a class that you are working hard in and improving, that could be a great choice. Remember, colleges are building communities, so they also appreciate a positive attitude in class, accompanied by your interactions with classmates.
When should you ask? The general consensus for this is April or May of your junior year. The teachers that you consider ideally should be from 11th grade, as these teachers will be able to best represent the most recent student you are as you apply to college. Sophomore year teachers are okay too, but I wouldn’t go back to freshman year – you’ve changed a lot since then! While the spring of junior year may seem early, it allows students time to provide these teachers with any forms or resumes they may require in order to write their recommendation. Educators are often bogged down with recommendation requests in the fall. It’s good manners and very thoughtful to ask early.
While recommendation requests come at the end of 11th grade, you should be thinking of it well before then. Being conscious of your classroom behavior and participation starting from 9th or 10th grade is vital. From that moment on, you should think of this like an audition for a role or a job interview. Regularly consider what makes a good student and am I fulfilling that description?
What goes into the letter? Your teacher will be doing the writing of the recommendation, but it’s always important to know the criteria by which you will be evaluated. Recommendation letters often follow a pattern of establishing a connection (i.e. how they know you), highlighting your strengths, telling an anecdote or short narrative, and then promoting you to that school. They will include details like your classroom participation, interpersonal skills with your peers, preparedness, organization, and general demeanor. It’s important to consider these parameters as you attend class each day. You want to leave your teachers with a positive impression of your time with them.
How should you ask? Like most things in life, it’s usually better to do it in-person. You’re able to convey your sincerity, emotion, and respect more efficiently through face-to-face interaction, rather than through an email. If this is a teacher you are comfortable with, this process should be no problem and can be a casual private conversation.
In summary, the letters of recommendation are an important part of the application process. Because colleges are going to use these personal letters to evaluate how you will impact their classrooms and campus, it’s vital students and parents understand and value the pivotal role that they play.
Jobs That Use Math: 10 Appealing Options for Number Crunchers
You’re good with numbers. Math has always been fun for you, and you love the way it helps clarify and solve problems. Maybe you’re beginning to consider ways that you could use this strength in a future career, but being a math teacher or a mathematician isn’t quite the direction you want. So what else is out there?
Fortunately for you, there’s a huge variety of jobs that lean on mathematics skills to some extent—likely too many to list in one place. That said, we can highlight a few compelling options that may be flying under your radar.
10 Intriguing jobs that put math skills to use
Regardless of where your interests lie, there’s an opportunity for you to leverage your love of math to make a living. Learn more about these ten options:
1. Health informatics specialists
Health informatics specialists are healthcare professionals—often nurses—who use their specific knowledge to assist in the design.
Learn more about this job in our article “What Is Nursing Informatics? The Intersection of Science and Technology.”
2. Accountant
Accountants prepare and examine accounting records, financial statements or financial reports to assess accuracy and conformity to accounting standards. These professionals manage tables of accounts, compute taxes and comb through financial data to ensure there are no mistakes.
Learn more about life as an accountant in our article “What Does an Accountant Do? A Look Beyond the Ledger.”
3. Computer programmer
Computer programmers write and test code for computer applications and software programs. Programmers use languages like Java®, Python® or C++ to write and update programs that can be designed for nearly anything—ranging from accounting software to video games.
Check out our article “Computer Programming vs. Computer Science: Experts Explain the Difference” to learn more.
4. Business intelligence analyst
Business intelligence analysts examine and report on information relevant to the organizations they work for, synthesizing data to keep management and other stakeholders aware of various trends that might affect the company’s workflow, supply chain, profits and risks. They maintain and use tools like spreadsheets and databases to create reports for various teams company wide. Basically, business intelligence analysts find answers to critical organizational questions: Does a particular workflow process have value? Who are the customers buying a specific product? Where are the gaps in the supply chain?
If you could use a more detailed look at this job, check out our article “What Is Business Intelligence? A Deep Dive into this Data-Driven Field.”
5. Financial analyst
Financial analysts advise businesses and individuals in making smart investment decisions. They assess the performance of stocks, evaluate financial positions and goals, study business trends and make investment recommendations. These analysts often work for banks, insurance companies and investment-related businesses and are the number crunchers who evaluate risk and earning potential for a variety of financial instruments.
Want to learn more? Check out our article “What Does a Financial Analyst Do? Beyond the Numbers.”
6. Pharmacy technician
Pharmacy technicians (pharm techs) help pharmacists dispense prescription medication to customers or health professionals. You can find these professionals working in hospitals, retail settings or small clinics—essentially anywhere you’d pick up a prescription. Pharm techs work under the supervision of pharmacists while measuring medications, collecting information, organizing inventory and interacting with customers. Depending on the state they work in, pharmacy technicians may also mix medications.
For a little more information on the role, check out our article “What Does a Pharmacy Technician Do? A Closer Look Behind the Counter.”
7. Supply chain manager
Supply chain managers, also sometimes called logistics managers or logisticians, are in charge of the complex chain that links products, consumers and companies together. They coordinate the production, purchasing, warehousing and distribution need of their company. They aim to limit costs, improve efficiency and accuracy, and keep everyone safe in the distribution process.
For more details, check out our article “What is a Logistics Manager? The Supply Chain Specialists You Probably Known Nothing About.”
8. Auditors
Auditors analyze and maintain financial records in order to help their organizations assess their risks, losses, revenue streams, tax liabilities and compliance issues. Auditors also prepare tax returns as well as issue payments due. Staying on top of what types of accounting systems and software is another task for auditors to ensure they are managing their data properly. Some auditors also work in an advisory capacity to management, offering recommendations on reducing costs and increasing revenue.
For more details, check out our article “What Does an Auditor Do? Examining This Financial Career.”
9. Epidemiologists
Epidemiologists are public health experts who work for healthcare organizations, academic institutions, medical facilities and government offices. They collect, analyze and interpret data from a variety of sources on disease and injury with the goal of improving general health outcomes.
For more details, check out our article “How to Become an Epidemiologist: Your Guide to This Crucial Career.”
10. Management Analysts
Management analysts, also sometimes called management consultants, are experts in organizational efficiency. They collect and analyze data and information to get a sense of organizational processes, using it to suggest improvements that can reduce waste, cut costs and improve profits.
For more details, check out our article “What Is a Management Analyst? And 4 Other Questions About This Career.”
UPDATED STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES LIST AVAILABLE
Lists are available in the bin outside of the College and Career Center or by clicking on the purple banner above this message. There are more opportunities than we can highlight each week so make sure to check it out.
Girls That Code Summer Opportunities
ALL Grades Eligible
No Experience Necessary
FREE
Girls Who Code offers two FREE programs in the summer: the virtual Summer Immersion Program and the Self-Paced Program. Applicants can apply for BOTH programs, if eligible, using this application. However, students can only participate in one summer program.
You can apply online at www.girlswhocode.com/summerapply.
INTERESTED IN LAW ENFORCEMENT?
San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue - Law Enforcement Exploring Program
The San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Programs are designed to give the youth of our community a chance to experience different levels of law enforcement first hand. This program is nationally known as “Exploring” and is part of the co-ed division of Boy Scouts of America.Explorer Post 830 specializes in Search and Rescue training.
Pick up a flier in the College and Career Center for more information.
Interested candidates can contact us via email at
Interested in Cosmetics?
GeneLab for High Schools (10th and 11th grade)
Due: March 20th
Questbridge College Prep Scholars (11th grade only)
Due: March 22nd
The College Prep Scholars Program equips high-achieving high school juniors from low-income backgrounds with the knowledge, confidence, and resources to apply to top colleges. Go here to apply and learn more.
Rotary Youth Leadership Camp (9th-11th grade)
Due: April 1
A 3-day leadership camp free to 9th-11th grade students in Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo Counties. The camp supports a participant’s personal growth as a leader and team player at school, at home, and in the community. Go here to apply.
Youth Leaders Summit (Juniors Only)
Due: April 7th
Are you interested in healthcare careers including pharmacy?
FREE ONLINE ART CLASSES AT FOOTHILL COLLEGE
These are FREE ONLINE art classes at Foothill College. Enroll NOW, Classes start April 10
Spring 2023 classes include Graphic Design (CRN 40582) and Illustration & Digital Image (CRN 40583)
The classes are:
FREE to all high school students through the dual enrollment program at Foothill College.
Completely asynchronous, students don’t come to campus
Fulfill the Area-F requirement for high school graduation.
Earn 4-units of college credit, transferable to UC/CSU.
SUMMER PROGRAMS: Do you need an official transcript?
If you need a transcript sent to a summer program, request in Naviance.
DIRECTIONS:
“Colleges” tab on the top of the homepage
Scroll down to “manage transcripts”
Click the red button “Plus”
And then click “Other transcripts”
Finally, complete the information needed for the transcript request.
There is a 5 SCHOOL day turn around to send the transcripts, so plan accordingly!
10th and 11th Graders - Need Help with the College Process? FUTURE GRADS Can Help!
Complete the interest form below or contact them for more information.
Foundation for a College Education (9th and 10th graders)
FCE is a nonprofit college access organization based out of East Palo Alto. For more than 25 years, FCE has supported low-income, first-gen students to get to and through college. We offer free tutoring, ACT/SAT prep, case management, college tours, and college application support. See flier for more information
Volunteer with City Trees
March 25th
CityTrees leads regular planting and pruning events from October through August on Saturdays in Redwood City. Our team relies on community volunteer support for the success of these events. Usually, there is no need to have experience.
Annual Pruning Workshop - March 25th: Please register here.
Spring Break Art Camp Aides (Arts for All)
Due: April 7th
Grade Eligibility: 9-12th
Complete the volunteer interest form early to secure a spot. Volunteers assist our camp programs by providing classroom support for art camps, from preparing materials and explaining lessons to working with individual students and supervising campers during breaks.
Volunteer with STEMpower
We are hosting virtual STEM workshops for elementary school students and we need more help! We have opened a volunteer application for ALL high-schoolers (freshman and above).
After filling out this application, STEMpower will reach out to you within a week about scheduling a 15-minute interview. We will be accepting volunteers on a rolling basis. If you are unable to participate or register but would still like to in the future, feel free to apply anytime as we may reach out to strong applicants when in need of volunteers.
Curriculum Designers
Curriculum Designers will develop STEM-oriented activity sheets and lab activities for virtual workshops. They are expected to maintain regular communication with the team leader. On average, this role will require a time commitment of approximately 4-5 hours a month. Note that the workload during some weeks will be higher than that of other weeks.
Interested? Please fill out the application form at tinyurl.com/stempowervolunteer. Expect to hear a reply from us within a week of submission.
Questions? Feel free to email us at stempower.ca@gmail.com!
CALLING ALL FEMALE ATHLETES to Volunteer!
Sequoia Club BAWSI (Bay Area Women's Sports Initiative) is looking for female athletes to volunteer as coaches at Hoover Elementary School. We lead sports activity stations on Wednesdays from 2:55 - 4:10pm. Spring sessions start March 22nd. Come enthusiastic about sports and ready to inspire young athletes.
Become an AYSO VIP Buddy
Healthy Cities Tutoring is Recruiting Volunteers
Become a Healthy Cities Tutor and join our community of volunteers to provide one-on-one tutoring and mentoring to a public school student to improve their academic performance, engagement in learning, and self-esteem. Tutoring sessions are held in-person, once a week for 45 minutes to an hour, on school campus or at a public library.
For 25 years Healthy Cities Tutoring has provided tutoring services to thousands of students in need. Following two years of pandemic, students are falling further and further behind in school. We need volunteers more than ever!!!!!
We hope you or someone you know will get involved in this rewarding volunteer experience.
No tutoring experience required, we can provide training. 8th grade and high school students are welcome to tutor with us. Students can receive community service hours, and use the experience for resume building and college applications.
Adult tutors are always welcome!!!
It only takes one hour a week to make a positive impact on a child’s life.
Please check out our website for the volunteer application https://healthycities.site/
Or contact Janelle Gibson, HCT Program Coordinator at 415-793-1064 or Janelle@healthycitiestutoring.org
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
NEW UPDATED SCHOLARSHIP AND CONTEST LIST AVAILABLE
While most are for seniors, it is a good practice to see what is available each month
Princeton 10 Minute Play (Juniors Only)
DUE: March 31st
Juniors submit a 10-Minute Play juried by Princeton University Theater Faculty
For More Information Click HERE
American Foreign Service Association: AFSA National High School Essay
Due: April 3
Grade Eligibility: 9-12th
2023 Topic: Select a country or region in which the United States Foreign Service has been involved at any point since 1924 and describe, in 1,500 words or less, how the Foreign Service was successful or unsuccessful in advancing American foreign policy goals – including promoting peace – in this country/region and propose ways in which it might continue to improve those goals in the coming years. Go here to learn more and submit your essay.
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
City Trees
Summer Lifeguards wanted at Emerald Lake Country Club
We’re seeking energetic, responsible individuals. You’ll supervise the lake and swimmers to ensure rules are followed.
$20/hour for new guards, with opportunities for bonuses.
$200 reimbursement for Lifeguard certification class, with our approval.
Plus snacks and bring-a-friend passes.
You must be a minimum of 15 years of age, possess a current Lifeguard Training certification (we can help connect you to training if needed), have some swimming experience, and comfort in and around water. Please note: the Lifeguard Training classes book up, so if you are interested, do not delay. The Lake season is around Memorial Day to Labor Day and hours are approximately 11:30 am to 7:30 pm (7 days/week), with 2 shifts per day. The minimum expectation is 5 shifts per week (including one weekend shift) along with at least one of the summer holidays, with opportunities to work more days/hours.
To apply or for more information, email LifeguardsELCC@gmail.com.Bay Club Hiring for Summer Camp Staff
Must be 16Yrs or Older
The Bay Club is hiring for summer camp staff (counselors, instructors, life guards, and more). I am reaching out to my athletics and personal connections to help spread the word. We will be hosting a virtual job fair for anyone interested.
Our direct hiring link is: https://www.bayclubs.com/careers/
Anyone with questions can contact me directly.
Michael Lofberg
Club Manager
Bay Club | Redwood Shores
w: 415.901-9320 ext. 32238
Interested in Working for San Mateo County Libraries this Summer?
Must be 16 yrs old or Older
San Mateo County Libraries is seeking individuals interested in make a difference in the lives of children and families. We will be hiring multiple vacancies for the position of Big Lift Inspiring Summers Learning Facilitator. The 2023 Inspiring Summers Learning Facilitator application is now open! Register for one of the Hiring Events.
Flier in College and Career Center
San Mateo-Foster City School District hiring high school students
Super Soccer Starts Looking for Coaches
Super Soccer Stars is a youth sports program currently looking for Part-Time assistants and Lead Coaches in the Bay Area for our Spring and Summer seasons (Paid training available starting immediately).
Current Openings: https://apply.workable.com/super-soccer-stars/j/52A1133161/
Flyer Here or pick up a flier in the College and Career Center
Studio Host for San Carlos Yoga Studio
Must Be 16yrs old
Yoga Health Center in downtown San Carlos at 677 Laurel Street ia a community-based culture and are seeking a studio host that is a customer service pro with great energy to help our studio soar and provide students with a phenomenal experience.
Part time, minimum of 8-hours / wk
Salary: From $17.00 per hour
If interested, can apply by calling or texting 650-209-0703 or sending an email to mila@yogahealthcenter.com
(Flier with more information in College and Career Center)
City of Palo Alto Camp Counselor
Information about the application process and requirements can be found on our website https://www.mitchellparkteenservices.org/staff-opportunity.
LaserMaxx Marshal
Must Be 16 Yrs or Older
LaserMaxx is now auditioning for the Marshal role which includes delivering an entertaining briefing to our patrons. We are looking for people who are 16 or older, have energy and enjoy working with the public.
This is a part-time role and compensation is up to $30/hr.
To apply use this link888 Monkeys Circus Camp has Full & Part Time Positions for CAMP COUNSELORS & COACHES!
Must be 16 Yrs or Older
No Circus experience required for Counselors / Coaches in Training – enthusiasm, energy, and flexibility are.
Training / Professional Development provided.
Gymnasts, Equestrians, Athletes, Thespians, Acrobats strongly encouraged to apply – skills transfer.
Experience working in one or more of the following disciplines is helpful.
Comedy/Clowning • Partner Acro/Pyramids • Tumbling • Tightwire • Stilt Walking • Unicycle • Rolla Bolla • Globe Walking • Juggling • Diabolo • Devil/Flower Stick • Poi • Tissu/Fabric • Trapeze • Rope/Web • Hula Hoop
COME INTO College and Career Center for a flier with FULL DETAILS
TechKnowHow Tech Camps for Kids
Interested in helping kids build LEGO projects or make games this summer? Positions open for assistant instructors (8:30-4 Mon-Fri) or extended care assistants (1-5:30 Mon-Fri) in Burlingame, Palo Alto and San Francisco beginning the week of June 12, at TechKnowHow technology camps for kids. Students aged 15 or older can apply by sending their resume or email noting interest to Sara at s.robertson@techknowhowkids.com. Pay is $17-$20 per hour.
Provide input to SUHSD/Stanford Youth Action Research Interns
Our Student Interns will be interviewing other students in the district to share their voices and the voices of their peers. The Student Interns have selected primary areas of research interest related to having a better understanding of students' needs and wants for their Emotional Well-Being and Sense of Belonging in their schools.
CLICK HERE to provide input.Complete the 2022-2023 Meal Application
IF YOU WANT OPPORTUNITIES FOR College Applications Fee Waivers from College Board next year, you need to complete this form and qualify.
Working to make up classes?
If you are working on making up classes (D/F grades) for graduation and/or A-G requirements through our online credit recovery program, Edgenuity, please know that the lab with Mr. Calles is now open for the 2022-23 school year.
If you are not sure if you need to make-up classes please contact your assigned counselor.
Edgenuity Teacher: Mr. Calles, jcalles@seq.org
Where: Room 210
When: Mondays and Thursdays, 4pm-6pm
How To Videos for students now on our website!
COLLEGE TIP: The College Planning Calendar – for high school freshmen and sophomores
FINANCIAL AID: Competitions and Contests Can Enhance your Admission Prospects and help you Earn Money for College
COLLEGE TIP: Virtual NACAC College Fairs and How to Prepare
CAREER: Interested in Majoring or a Career in Biology?
Feb 19- March 4 2023 (Winter Break)
COLLEGE TIP: What is the Common App? & Look at what Common App schools you have on your Naviance's Colleges I'm Thinking About list
FINANCIAL AID: Work Study Jobs in College
COLLEGE TIP: CSU/UC Average GPA
CAREER: STEM Careers
COLLEGE TIP: SUMMER Opportunities- Now is the Time to Apply
COLLEGE TIP: What's a College Education Worth, FINANCIAL AID: What is Merit Aid, CAREER: Steps to Become a Police Officer
COLLEGE TIP: Research Universities and Terms to Know
January 15-21, 2023 Click Here
College Tip: School Size JUNIORS: Girls or Boys State Info, FINANCIAL AID: How Families Pay for College
First Semester Newsletters: See school website for full list