Senior College & Career Newsletter
Week of April 2-8, 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
Important Dates and Deadlines
UPCOMING EVENTS/DUE DATES:
April 3 - Canada PEP Day Field Trip
April 20/21- Flex Help With FA Award Letters
May 1- National Student Intent to Register (SIR) Day (More Information to Come)
May 5- Submit Artwork for Cover of Graduation Program Consideration (see below)
CHECK YOUR PORTALS FOR DEADLINES
CSF Members - Important Information!
Did you turn in an application in February for Fall 2022 Semester Grades?
Please check your transcript to make sure that CSF is marked on Term 2 for Fall 2022.
You can look at your transcript by logging on to Infinite Campus, choose Reports, then Transcript. Seniors - If you have at least 4 semesters from 10-12th grade, you are NOW a Life Member (one of the semesters MUST be during your senior year).
Looking for a Female Attending a UC Studying Some Type of STEM
Please see Ms Ignaitis ASAP!
LOOKING FOR ARTISTS for the Class of 2023 Graduation Program Cover -Do you want your drawing on the cover of this year’s graduation program?
If you are interested, pick up a flier in the College and Career Center for complete details on artwork requirements.
Flier will also be in all the art classrooms after Tuesday March 22nd
Due: May 5th
Need Help Applying to College and Financial Aid?
We are suspending College Club and Moving to FLEX Application Help or Drop In Support (still can come during 7th)
You can also make an individual appointment by coming into the College and Career Center for Financial Aid (FAFSA/Dream App) or College Applications (we are available Tuesday evenings by appointment only)
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.
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.Opt-Out Form for FAFSA or CADAA State Requirement Information
Please disregard this message if you already completed your financial aid application or completed an opt out form.
As a reminder we want to encourage all seniors to submit their financial aid application for college (FAFSA or CADAA) by the priority deadline, today March 2nd. If seniors submit their application by the March 2nd deadline, they may maximize their chances of receiving federal and state financial aid opportunities, such as the Cal Grant.
Seniors that miss the priority deadline are still able to apply for FAFSA or CADAA. Students & parents/guardians may reference the Sequoia college/career weekly newsletter emails for additional information on how to get help with your application. Additionally, the California Student Aid Commission is offering virtual workshops, information is attached.
If you would like the opt-out form or have any questions please contact your assigned counselor.
https://youtu.be/vrc0u7LZN7U
Did You Apply to an International University?
International institutions can have different admissions requirements and procedures than US institutions. It is always up to the student to research what the institution/country requirements are. Please do the following if applying abroad:
Research if this institution needs IB Predicted Grades. Read through THIS slide presentation for the Predicted Grades process and policy for international institutions.
Research if the country and/or institution you are attending requires you to get your IB documents legalized. See THIS document about legalization of IB results documents taken directly from the DIPLOMA PROGRAMME ASSESSMENT PROCEDURES 2023 document published by the IB organization. This document contains a list of countries that required legalization in the past.
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.
Ask Us Anything About Admissions
April 4
Scoir+Coalition Presents: Decoding the Admissions Process
April 12
NEW ITEMS: How to Choose Where to Attend REMINDERS: Conditional Status, Financial Aid Award Letters, Appeals, Waitlists, and Check Your Portals
How to Choose Where to Attend From CollegeData.com
As you look over your college acceptances, your final decision may be obvious. But sometimes it isn't. Here are some tips for choosing which college to attend.
To start, put your rejections in the rearview mirror. As one dean of admissions said, “It’s the college’s loss, not yours.” Then focus on the colleges at which you have been accepted.
Review the factors you used when you decided where to apply. Have you changed your mind about any of the criteria you used when you put together your college list? Which college or colleges meet the criteria most important to you now?
Eliminate colleges you really can't afford. Or decide to ask for more aid (see below).
Participate in college-sponsored online events. During the pandemic, many colleges increased online and virtual programming to help students get to know the college. Take advantage of these options if you can—especially those that can connect you with current students and faculty.
Do more research. Do as much research as you can via social media, and YouTube to get a sense of the community at the schools you're interested in or think you might be interested in. Review data about the college on the college’s website or using CollegeData’s college profiles. Reach out to your admissions officer at the college to ask questions and to see about connecting with professors and current students.
Get advice. Talk over your choices with your parents, older siblings, teachers, guidance counselor and anyone else whose opinion you value.
Consider visiting. If possible, make a visit to the college campus or attend an event for admitted students. An in-person visit while school is in session can help you get a feeling for what life is like on campus. Admitted student events often include a campus tour, information about academic programs, discussions with current students, and the opportunity to meet with a financial aid officer. Many colleges hold these events online as well as in person.
How to Choose Where to Attend From College Essay Guy
Congratulations, you’re in! Even better, you’re in at multiple schools! Now, how do you pick?
First, figure out money stuff.
If you haven’t already, fill out Amanda Miller’s Award Letter Analyzer to calculate the bottom line for your first year at each school you’re considering. Then multiply by four (because you’ll be graduating in four years, right?).
Is there a considerable difference? If yes, you’ll have to weigh for yourself the benefits of choosing a more expensive school against the reality of likely living with less for longer after you graduate. Ask a counselor, parent, college financial aid officer or other trusted adult to help make real how much of a difference $10,000 (for example) in debt will make to your life after college. And if you’re planning to attend graduate school, then you will want to look even more closely at how much you want to spend on your undergraduate education.
Assuming money isn’t a big factor, or the money is similar among different schools, here are...
Three Ways to Decide What Your Heart Wants (in One Day, One Hour, or One Minute)
All three of these exercises are designed to help you tap into feelings you maybe didn’t know you had.
1. (One Day) Imagine for the next 24 hrs you’re going to attend School A. If you have a sweatshirt or hat for that school, wear it. See how it feels. Repeat with School B, then C, etc (You do not have to buy hats for each school, just say to yourself, “I’m going to [name the school]” a few times throughout the day). You can also do this with several schools over the course of one day.
2. (One Hour) Create a good old-fashioned pros and cons list. Ask: What’s my true intention in going to college (i.e., what do I value most)?
Gainful employment? Research the colleges’ post-graduation placement rates and take a look at the college’s office of career services website.
Fulfilling student life experience? Find out what activities thrive on each campus and what portion of students study abroad, play sports or create art/music/theater through the student life office. Basically: will you get to do the stuff you love?
Building a professional network? Find out through the career services office what industries recent alumni are involved in and how accessible they are to students.
Enriching academic experiences? Look up faculty for departments you’re interested in on RateMyProfessor.com. Compare course offerings in the major(s)/department(s) you're interested in. How do they measure up to other schools’?
If you wanna’ get fancy, rate each priority from 1-10 based on how important it is to you, then add up the points for each college. That’ll give each college a numerical score. Once you do this, ask yourself, “How do I feel now?” You may be surprised that the highest “score” school isn’t actually the one you wanted--in which case you have your decision.
3. (One Minute) Flip a coin. Heads you go to one school, tails you go to another. Catch the coin and hide the result. Ask yourself “Which was I hoping would/wouldn’t come up?” Then look at the coin and pay attention to how you feel. Repeat, as needed. This is my favorite, fastest way. I did this with my grad school decision and it totally helped me decide.
Once you’ve done the work to evaluate your financial priorities and (this is important) you’ve talked to your parents and heard theirs, trust your gut. Then go all in--celebrate and get ready for this exciting next step.
Conditional Status - Possible Reasons to Take Away an Admission Offer
Every year HUNDREDS of students at colleges rescind admission offers because of changes in what either was stated on the application or predicted grades changes of seniors who have been admitted CONDITIONALLY
Possible Reasons to Take Away Admissions:
Conditional Status – EVERY STUDENT NEEDS TO READ
Each college could have very specific conditions for an individual student; it is important to carefully read the fine print of each school’s message. Some scholarships or programs have GPArequirements or provisions for no Cs on your transcript
Lower than Predicted Grades (courses and IB exams)
Schools admit you on your previous grades and assume you will be receiving the same type of grades. If there is a NOTICEABLE change in your grades, you should contact the school and explain yourself.
Ds or Fs, Dropping a Course and Any Major Change or Behavior Issue
A final report will be written by each counselor that will include any required reporting to a private school including a final transcript and changes from a student’s School Report. If you think you might be getting a D or F, or have dropped a course, plan on not taking an exam listed on application or have been suspended for a behavior issue, you need to contact the schools IMMEDIATELY. Please call the admissions office and find out what their process for reporting changes
Remember
Colleges do not want to find out about low grades, changes in your schedule, and/or what you put on your application is different than what you originally told them when they receive documents from Sequoia High School in July. Admission officials often remind counselors to tell students the following; if they find out before a student tells a college, his/her offer of admissions will be taken away. Remember reporting does not mean you will be rescinded. It is your responsibility to tell a school in a timely manner.
Do You Have Your Financial Aid Award Letter?
Missing Award Letters
AT THIS POINT, if you have not received your financial aid award letter for the colleges where you were admitted, CALL the FINANCIAL AID office immediately. You need that information to make the best decision for your family.
Appeals and Waitlists
Remember – Every college is different! The first thing you should do is go to the individual website or thoroughly read through the school’s communication emails.
A. APPEALS
Carefully read how to appeal on the college’s website, every school has its own process. Some schools do not allow appeals.
Understand that they made their decision and it is not a good practice to state that they were wrong. Be polite and considerate of their time.
The letter does not need to be long.
The letter should be positive and focused on two areas; significant new information and/or an error in your original application. State the change and present evidence to back your claim.
In closing, reaffirm your interest in the college.
While most appeals are unsuccessful, if you have a claim and they allow appeals, then it does not hurt to try.
B. WAITLISTS
What is a Waitlist?
College waitlists include qualified students who might be admitted if room in the class becomes available.
Why do colleges have Waitlists?
Colleges always admit more students than they have space for because a % of students choose another college where they were admitted. If more students than predicted do not attend, colleges move to their waitlist (they want to fill 100% of their student body)
What are your chances of getting admitted off the Waitlist?
You should ask the college if they have data about past waitlists. Waitlists are tricky because sometimes they are looking for very specific students over the most competitive student. For example, a college might have a space for a nursing major or engineering major.
What to do if you are on a Waitlist?
It will be different for each school but most you have to communicate that you want to be on the waitlist. Some, make you write why you want to be on the waitlist. Ask if you can do anything to increase your chances
Understand you need to commit to another college?
You need to submit a deposit of attending at another school. If you get off the waitlist, you will lose your deposit costs. Do not assume you will get off the waitlist.
CHECK YOUR PORTALS! and REMINDERS
Check your portals and emails often and do not wait to respond!
Colleges are expecting you to be checking both your emails and portals AT LEAST once a week at this point.
When you get a TO DO item, complete the task ASAP!
Specific Four Year College Information By Type
Check Your Portal CSU, East Bay Announcement
As of March 16, 2023, The Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships turned on student access to view their Financial Aid offers for the 2023-2024 Academic Year. Students with official FAFSA and CADAA applications received an email from our office via their horizon email accounts to notify them about their aid. (Check Spam)
Additionally, please note the following:
- Students with 'Estimated' Financial Aid packages were flagged for Federal/State Verification. The Financial Aid Office is not allowed to provide them with official Financial Aid packages until the review process for discrepant information is complete and the institution has received an approved Student Aid Report from the Department of Education or the California Student Aid Commission. This can take a while to process depending on the discrepancies so please encourage your students to submit any and all documents that are being requested of them. The Administrative process of the Financial Aid Office is independent of any institutional deadlines so if the bill is due at a certain date and the student is still in the verification process, the bill is still due for the student.
Fall 2023 Extended Deadlines
The following CSU campuses are still accepting freshman applications:
- Chico (6/1)
- Cal Poly Humboldt (7/14)
- Maritime (8/11)
- Sonoma
Visit our Application Dates & Deadlines page to confirm the campus and program deadline dates.
CSU Campus Open Houses and Tours
Our campuses are hosting open houses, preview days and tours this spring. Visit our Campus Events | CSU (calstate.edu) for more details. If students cannot make it to any in-person events, they can take a virtual campus tour.
Changes to a Submitted Application
When a student submits their first application to any campus, regardless of the priority deadline, students will not be able to make any changes to any subsequent application. If students need to report any corrections, please have them contact the campuses they applied to directly.
You've Applied to the CSU: Now What?
Share this article with your students who already submitted their applications and are wondering what to expect in the near future
Have you been admitted to San Francisco State? Check out the Metro Program!
The Metro College Success Program (Metro) at San Francisco State University (SFSU) looks forward to aiding in the successful transition from high school to college this coming fall. Our application is now open and seniors can apply today!
What does the Metro College Success Program Provide 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.
Here is the Metro application link
Decisions for UC are coming out in the month of March - Make Sure you Check Your Emails and Portals a couple of times a week - Waitlists usually have a quick turnaround due date.
Freshman admission updates and resources (from UC Bulletin)
Freshman admission decision season is here! Some campuses have begun notifying freshman applicants of their admission status, while others plan to contact students later this month. Transfer applicants will learn of their admission status starting this month through late April.
For more information on the enrollment process for freshmen, including campus-specific information, reference the following two resources:
Campus events for admitted students
Admitted students will have a range of options to engage with campuses this spring. Campuses are planning multiple events in April and May. Events may include (but are not limited to) presentations on financial aid and scholarships, choosing a major, student organizations, support resources and housing.
All events listed below are in-person unless otherwise noted. Please check with the individual campuses for more information.
Freshman events
UC Berkeley
Cal Day | April 22 | Learn more
Cal Week (virtual) | April 25–27 | Learn more
UC Davis
Aggie Day | April 8 | Learn more
UC Irvine
Celebrate UCI | April 22 | Information available in UCI Admitted Student Portal
UCLA
Bruin Day | April 15 | Learn more
UC Merced
Bobcat Day | April 22 | Learn more
UC Riverside
Highlander Day | April 15 | Learn more
UC San Diego
Virtual Triton Days | April 5–6 | Learn more
Triton Day | April 8 | Learn more
UC Santa Barbara
Virtual Open House | April 10–14 | Learn more
Open House | April 15 | Learn more
UC Santa Cruz
Banana Slug Day | April 15 | Learn moreWaitlists
Fall-term freshman applicants will receive waitlist offers by the end of March, with an opt-in deadline of April 15. Waitlists could extend into the summer based on specific campus enrollment needs. You can accept waitlist offers from multiple campuses, but you can only accept one offer of admission. Even if you accept a waitlist offer at a UC campus, you should submit a Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) to ensure you have a place to attend in the fall.
Question of the month (from UC Bulletin)
Question 1: One of my students was offered admission at one UC campus but waitlisted at another. If they choose to submit an SIR for the first campus, does that decrease their chances of being admitted from the waitlist at the other?
Answer: All UC campuses make admission decisions independently from one another. Students who choose to opt in to a waitlist at a UC campus are encouraged to submit an SIR to another campus (UC or not) to which they have been admitted to ensure that they have a place to attend in the fall. This will not influence the admission decision that will be made at the waitlisted campus.
Accepting a UC offer of admission
Students can accept an admission offer by agreeing to the provisions/conditions outlined in the offer and submitting their Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) with the SIR deposit to reserve their space at a campus. The SIR deposit is $250. Some important things to keep in mind about accepting a UC admission offer:
Students can accept only one admission offer from one UC campus.
The SIR deposit is applied to the student's first enrollment term tuition.
Students that qualified for the UC application fee waiver may also qualify to defer their SIR deposit until financial aid is disbursed.
The SIR deposit is nonrefundable and non-transferable.
A Statement of Legal Residence (SLR) for tuition determination purposes may be required. Understanding Residency
Community College Help and Information
1. If you know your Social Security Number drop by the College and Career Center any lunch or sign up for Flex Time to apply - it takes 30 minutes!
2. It is important that all students submit their FAFSA/Dream Application to qualify for the Promise Scholarship/San Mateo County Resident Initiative - which pays for the first two years of college!
All about Trade Apprenticeships
More than 80,000 women and men working in one of more than 800 occupations in California construction trades began as apprentices. To enter the building trades, you must start as an apprentice.
An apprenticeship is an excellent career choice if you;
like to work with your hands
are willing to serve an apprenticeship for up to five years, depending on the trade
have dexterity, mechanical ability, problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively with a team
want to earn a living wage and good benefits
want the opportunity to advance in your career
If you are interested in pursuing a trade apprenticeship, the following are great resources to begin your search and/or learn more about opportunities within California:
California Apprenticeship Coordinators Association website
Division of Apprenticeship Standards
A local resource is Trade Introduction Program - San Mateo
San Mateo County Union Community Alliance and Local Apprenticeship Programs offer a certificated Apprenticeship-Readiness Training course to prepare you for a career in an union building trade.
Main Requirements:
18 yrs old by the time of the training
Up-to-date Covid vaccinations
Valid Driver’s License
High School Diploma
Be able to do physical work
They have multiple orientations throughout the year - Next Orientation is May 6th
Things Have Changed Financially- Need to File an Appeal? You Want to Ask for More Aid?
TIPS FOR WORKING WITH THE COLLEGE- From Sallie Mae
● Know the procedure for filing an appeal. You can usually find general guidelines for filing an appeal on the college's website. If you can't find this information online, contact the financial aid office directly.
● Decide whether you or your parent should contact the aid office. Aid officers say they are impressed with a student who takes the initiative to make the call. In many situations, however, the parent is better prepared to discuss a family's financial situation.
● Be prepared to provide documentation. The financial aid officer is likely to ask for documentation of the circumstances that have changed your financial picture. This could mean an official letter from your mom's company confirming that she was laid off or financial records for the past six months that show a steady loss of income.
● Know how attractive you are to the college. If you believe you are a desirable student, explore the possibility of getting or increasing merit aid from the college. Merit-based aid may be handled by the admissions office. If you have been in touch with a professor or coach, they might be able to put in a good word for you as well.
● Wait until you have other offers in hand. You will have more leverage with a college's financial aid office if at least one other college has accepted you and offered you a better financial aid package. If another college has offered a more attractive package, say so.
● Don't challenge the college with an ultimatum. Explain how much you really want to attend that college, but that the cost is holding you back.
● Say please and thank you. When asking for more gift aid or simply updating your eligibility factors, approach the parties holding the purse strings in a calm, professional, and reasonable manner. You're more likely to come out ahead.
Need Help Understanding your Financial Aid Offer?
Help from College & Career Center
If you need help understanding your Financial Aid Award letter, sign-up for FLEX on April 20th and 21st.
You can also set up a meeting with Ms Ignaitis or Ms Yeager for help. It might be helpful to have a parent or guardian attend too! MAKE THE APPOINTMENT IN PERSON in the College and Career Center
Help in the Weekly Newsletter
The Financial Aid Section in this newsletter also has information to help you understand the components of financial aid.
Comparing Financial Aid Award Letters Tools
The 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
College Covered also has an easy to use comparison tool.
What do you do NEXT after Submitting your FAFSA/CADAA? Make your WebGrant Account
1. Set Up Your WebGrant 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 you cannot create an account, call CSAC to fix your account.
If it states your GPA has not been submitted, contact Ms. Ignaitis or Ms. Yeager immediately.
2. 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.Other Resource: 7 Easy Steps to the FAFSA: click here
NEW UPDATED SCHOLARSHIP AND CONTEST 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.
Scholarship Opportunities
The majority of scholarship opportunities are available from January to the beginning of April.
Click on the purple bar above to get to the updated list of scholarships listed in Naviance
Highlighted LOCAL Scholarships - links on Naviance
Catalino Tapia Scholarship
Due: April 2nd
For low-income, underserved and underrepresented students. Open to AB540 recipients, undocumented, and first-generation to apply.
American Foreign Service Association: AFSA National High School Essay Contest
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.
Anne Ford & Allegra Scholarships
DUE: April 5th
Be-You-Tiful, Be Free Contest!
DUE: April 8th
Grade Eligibility: 9-12th
Contest focused on Mental Health, Self Acceptance and Social Media . Submit a poem, essay or piece of artwork. 2023 Theme: How does social media and the world around you influence how you see yourself or others?
For More Information: Be-You-Tiful, Be Free (States for Santa Clara County but San Mateo County is welcomed too!)
Econolympiad - Econ Contest!
DUE: April 8th
Grade Eligibility: 9-12th
Cooperate in a team-based competition to unravel solutions to current economic issues.
For More Information: Econolympiad
California Alarm Association
DUE: April 14
CAA Youth Scholarship Program offers scholarships to children of active duty law enforcement and fire service personnel in the State of California who are graduating from high school
Insitro Stem Zone Scholarship Contest
DUE: April 14
Eligible Grades: 9-12th
Open to 9-12 graders, writing contest around machine learning, "what is a cool and useful application of machine learning that might help solve an important social need?"
Should be 500-1,000 words.
San Mateo County Association of Grand Jurors
DUE: April 14
For high school seniors with min. 2.0 GPA who complete two essays about the grand jury system.
OCA San Mateo County Scholarship
Due: 4/14
Identify as Asian or Pacific Islander American, high school student, resident of san mateo county, intend to enroll in college/university in fall of 2023. Must demonstrate financial need, community service and volunteerism, leadership and creativity and academics.
Woodside Terrace AM Kiwanis -- multiple scholarships
Due: 4/15
Several different scholarships here. Preference given for strong educational motivation, group leadership skills through activities in school, church, youth groups, community volunteer effort and/or work experience. Download application on Naviance or pick up copy in College and Career Center)
Ravenswood HS Alumni Association Scholarship
Due: 4/15
Open to seniors who are residents of East Palo Alto or East Menlo Park, have a gpa above 2.5, enrolling in 2 or 4 year college in the fall of 2023 and show recent community involvement.
Essay, Transcript and letter of recommendation required.
OYE STEM Scholarship
Due: 4/15
Have to live in San Mateo County, attended OYE in the past or present, plan to pursue a STEM Career, will be enrolled at college/university in Fall 2023 or Spring 2024. Turn-in applications to jslater@seq.org. Applications available in College & Career Center or on Naviance.
JETAANC Scholarship
Due: 4/16
For students of any nationality who demonstrate a genuine interest in Japan, Japanese language and/or culture.
The Tang Scholarship
Due: 4/17
This award is to provide financial assistance to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Asian and Pacific Islanders for post-secondary education. Download application on Naviance or pick up in College and Career Center.
Kiwanis Club of San Carlos Scholarship
Due: 4/20
Several $1000.00 scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school seniors who excel academically and in activities. Applicants must live in San Carlos or Belmont. See application in Naviance or get from College & Career Center.
The American Library of Poetry National Student Poetry Contest
Due: 4/30
Eligible Grades: 9-12th
Each entrant may submit one poem of no more than 20 lines on any subject. Poems are judged based on originality, creativity, and artistic quality. For more information, go 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.
NEW 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.
Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) Summer Internship
DUE: April 17th
Eligible Ages: 16 years or higher
MTC offers Bay Area high school students the opportunity to discover the inner workings of a metropolitan planning organization, and start on a career path in government service Must be 16 and live in Bay Area
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
explorer830@smcgov.org or smcsosarpost830@gmail.com
Are you interested in healthcare careers including pharmacy?
Boys and Girls Club is working in collaboration with Foothill and the Palo Alto VA to host a free pharmacy technician program at their Redwood City Clubhouse.
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.
Volunteer Engineering Program Opportunity Working for Children with Disabilities
I founded Proteus, an engineering program for children with physical, mental, or behavioral disabilities. I truly appreciated your help last year in spreading the word about our organization and getting more volunteers. Due to all the support, we've been able to host our first session and create online resources for our website! Currently, I'm accepting volunteers from 9th to 12th grade, and due to the virtual nature of our programs, they do not have to reside in the area. I've linked my website here for more information: https://proteusengorg.wixsite.com/proteus.
Sincerely, Ruhi Koppula
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!
Become an AYSO VIP Buddy
The AYSO VIP (Very Important Player) program provides a quality soccer experience for young athletes ages 4+ whose differences / challenges typically prevent successful participation on traditional teams. Assist VIP players on the field as “buddies.” 1.5 hours per week on Saturday mornings in the Spring & Fall. Training is provided. Soccer experience is not necessary. Contact aramroth@seq.org for more information.
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
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
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
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
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.Interested in Working for San Mateo County Libraries this Summer?
Must be 16 yrs old or higher
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
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
After School Helper for Local Family
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
City of Palo Alto - Camp Counselors - Now Hiring!
All grade levels may apply
Our camp provides a fun and educational experience for children and teens, and our counselors play a crucial role in making this happen.
We are looking for enthusiastic and responsible individuals who are interested in working with children and making a positive impact in their lives. As a counselor, they will have the opportunity to gain valuable leadership and teamwork skills, as well as make new friends and memories that will last a lifetime.
Information about the application process and requirements can be found on our website https://www.mitchellparkteenservices.org/staff-opportunity.
Pick up flier in 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)
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
San Mateo County Parks Interpretive Team Paid Internships
Bilingual Community Engagement Intern II
This position would be based out of Flood and Friendship Parks in North Fair Oaks and Menlo Park. The person would provide fun and educational opportunities for the local communities and would manage the Friendship Park Community Garden Program. An ideal candidate would have gardening experience and good verbal communication skills.
Term: Feburary to December 2023
Hourly wage: $20.27 - $25.34
40 hours a week
Split between Work from Home and In person
Bilingual in English and Spanish
At least 18 years old with a valid CA Driver’s License
Interpretive Aide Intern II
This position would help support the interpretive programming offered by San Mateo County Parks. An ideal candidate would be someone who has enthusiasm for the environment, good communication skills, experience working with school aged children, and wants to provide environmental education opportunities and fun experiences for the public.
Term: February to December 2023
Hourly wage: $20.27 - $25.34
40 hours a week
Split between Work from Home and In person
Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred but not required
At least 18 years old with a valid CA Driver’s License
TechKnowHow Tech Camps for Kids
How To Videos for students now on our website!
Senior Portrait Information
Cap and Gown
CAREER:Jobs for Students Interested in Math
GENERAL FOUR YEAR COLLEGE: When you do not get into your first choice school
How Colleges Communicate with Students
Feb 19- March 4 2023 (Winter Break)
FINANCIAL AID: Work Study Jobs in College
CAREER: 6 Tips to Help Prepare You for College-Level STEM Courses,
FINANCIAL AID: Can I Really Afford It? Income and Financial Aid Eligibility: From University of Notre Dame
FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION: Can I Really Afford It? Income and Financial Aid Eligibility: From University of Notre Dame
CAREER: How to Become a Police Officer
FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION: Upcoming Cash for College at Sequoia
First Semester Newsletters: See school website for full list
Sequoia High School College & Career Center