Maurice J. McDonough High SchoolNovember 2018 Career Center

Newsletterwww.ccboe.com/schools/mcdonough; click Academics; click Career Center for all the links and news! follow me on Twitter @MhsCareer

Seniors, November is here, and you need to be completing college applications for admission!  And, submit that FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) at www.fafsa.gov. It opened October 1! Four-year colleges and universities wrap up recruiting tours and call their reps back into the office to start processing the admissions applications.  Preferably, you will complete all applications to your schools by Thanksgiving!  Colleges that offer rolling admissions have been accepting students as the applications arrive and that person fits the bill for one of the slots open in their freshman class.  Don't be left out of your dream college; finish the application process now.  Remember, do not let ACT/SAT test dates hold you back.  Test scores should be sent directly from testing agencies to your prospective colleges.  The application can and should be submitted even if you are not testing until December.Students are reminded that the Academic Common Market allows students to study specific majors at out-of-state colleges for in-state tuition costs. Check out the list at www.mhec.maryland.gov click on Academic Common Market. This Maryland Higher Education website is crucial for Maryland residents to learn about what is available for students with Maryland residency.

Financial Aid: About Raise.me :

Raise.me is a social enterprise working in partnership with the White House and over 180 colleges to expand access to higher education by improving the way students prepare for college—both financially and academically. Rather than waiting until the end of high school to award aid, which is often too late to impact a student’s college ambitions or choices, Raise.me enables students to earn grant aid throughout high school, starting as early as 9th grade, for doing all the things that best prepare them to succeed, whether that’s getting good grades, volunteering in the community or joining an extracurricular. The amount that students earn from a college on Raise.me represents a guaranteed minimum amount of aid they’ll receive if they apply and are admitted to that college. Go for the Micro-Scholarship! Check out……www.raise.me

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The College Board Opportunity Scholarships – The College Boardopportunity.collegeboard.org

College Board Opportunity Scholarships are microscholarships that high school students can earn by taking steps on their path to college. Be the first to know when the program launches later in 2018.

https://opportunity.collegeboard.org/?excmpid=vt-00248

Talk to a Financial Aid advisor — join us on Twitter #MPTycac visit the broadcast: http://www.mpt.org/ycac/and get answers to your questions about college financing.More info: mpt.org/ycac and www.mpt.org/college Seniors interested in attending a Historically Black College may want to take advantage of the Common Black College Application. For only $35, you can apply to all 50 member institutions. Visit www.CommonBlackCollegeApp.com for the application.Another convenient college application website:  www.commonapp.org for over 800 colleges that will take that one application and their application fee; some colleges ask for supplemental materials. Be sure to look for that detail when using the Common Application. Reduce stress---use it! Some colleges are Common App exclusive like UMBC. Please take advantage of this program as counselors are able to send your transcript electronically making it possible for your application to be reviewed without unnecessary delays. Common App has several initiatives added for 2019! Commonapp.org/ready for a free toolkit with presentations to help with the application process. Exploring scholarships to apply directly with The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation and Scholar Snapp and connecting students with virtual mentors and additional advising resources at Strive for College. Go for it........

**The Coalition for Access, Affordability, and Success platform!The University of Maryland College Park and 90 plus other great colleges and universities are utilizing a new computer internet platform for high school students to connect to colleges and submit their college paperwork for college admissions. UMD-College Park will be using this platform for their admissions application opening up August! Students in grades 9 to 11 should create an account FREE and start using the online

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tools to streamline the experience of applying to college. The Locker and Collaboration Space are now open where students can collect and organize digital material in preparation for their college search and application process. Only students have access to their own Lockers, but they can share individual items from it with counselors or mentors for feedback and guidance. Students can also choose to attach selected items from the Locker to individual college applications. College admissions officers will not see or have access to any materials in a student Locker other than those included with a college application. http://www.coalitionforcollegeaccess.org/ Visit www.CollegeWeekLive.com, the world’s largest college fair and online admissions event website. It’s

free and supported by the U.S. Department of Education Federal Student Aid Office. Register now for

CollegeWeekLive fall events. Online, for free at www.CollegeWeekLive.com

At CollegeWeekLive, you can . . . Chat live with admissions reps from 350+ colleges– show your interest! Find $2.5+ million in financial aid & scholarships from participating colleges Hear what campus life is like via student video webcasts from favorite schools Get great admissions advice from experts presenting live via video on topics like

“How to write a college application essay” and “How to find scholarships.” Be eligible to win a $10,000 scholarship from CollegeWeekLive just for logging in!

Register now at CollegeWeekLive.com FREE!

Representatives Scheduled for the Career Center in November:Nov. 2: Bowie State University, MDNov. 9: Frostburg State University, MD Nov. 13: Financial Aid Information Night, Library 6pmNov. 15: ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery Exam) Sign-Up! Nov. 19: CSM La Plata/Hughesville Industry/Vocational Programs Tour – Sign-Up!Nov. 21-23: Happy Thanksgiving Break!Dec. 4: Johnson & Wales University, FL/RI/NC/etc…

Seniors! December 10 – 14 Senior Exit Portfolio Mock Interview Week!! Wardrobe ready? Portfolio ready with all your artifacts, resume, essay about your career goals, etc….?? Ready to talk about yourself? Have some questions for your interviewer?

All students are reminded to us www.khanacademy.org to brush up on Algebra, Geometry, and Trig as well as other disciplines before ACT and/or SAT exams. Use the free, online service for tutoring and take advantage of other free classes being offered including Financial Literacy. Students are reporting back to me that this website works!

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The Gordon Croft Scholarships to Johns Hopkins UniversityHigh-achieving students living in the Port Tobacco and Ripley area along Route 225; $22,000 scholarship based on financial need; preference for engineering; apply to Johns Hopkins University and apply for financial aid. Additional Croft family scholarships are available for CSM, Randolph Macon University, Washington and Lee University, Dartmouth College and the University of Maryland College Park. Talk to the Financial Aid Office of these colleges if interested. Research these colleges as a possible college fit for you!National Scholars Program/USDA http://www.outreach.usda.gov/education/1890/ orwww.ascr.usda.gov/1890programs.html to apply for scholarships to HBCUs to study agricultural fields, animal science, botany, food sciences, farm and range management, soil conservation, etc.; seniors with a 3.0 GPA or higher, ACT score of 21 or SAT score of 1,500 or higher may want to compete for this scholarship.Deadline: 01/31MEDICAL CAREERS: Students interested in medical careers should visit the following website:  www.marylandhealthcareers.org . This includes careers in nursing, radiology, and other areas.  Also, any minority student desiring to become a doctor should visit www.AspiringDocs.org for opportunities.

Nursing Scholarships:https://bhw.hrsa.gov/loansscholarships/nursecorps/scholarshipwww.discovernursing.com Students do you want merit aid for all your hard work? Check out MeritAid.com from Cappex, Inc. (www.cappex.com) with more than $11 billion in merit aid scholarships for your chance to apply for scholarships. More than 2,000 colleges participate, and it is free.  Have you put your profile on www.chegg.com? How about SuperCollege.com? Scholarships are available!

Important:  Check out the McDonough webpage at:  www.ccboe.com/mcdonough, click on Career Center.  The Getin2College icon is a site for a wealth of great information on college admissions including internships and summer programs along with links to the NCAA Eligibility Center and multitudes of colleges.  Explore the other links that have been added for your use.  See the links for additional sources…click it… It's your future!  Look into it! Log-in/password is printed under the icon.Make sure you do not miss out on these exciting opportunities!  Remember, you've got to apply to win!  Check in the Career Center for announcements about college open houses, college fairs, college visits by admissions officers, summer jobs, enrichment opportunities, and other important information. 

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Interested in apprenticeships and vocational/trade programs with Maryland:https://www.dllr.state.md.us/employment/approcc/

Grade Level Reminders

9 th Grade: Be sure you are doing your best to earn the highest grades...freshman year counts toward your college admissions! Join a club. Please take advantage of the resources in the Career Center and online to make the most of your high school experience. Use Career Cruising, Study Island, and other resources for exploring your options. Use www.khanacademy.org for free, online instruction for help. Please get to know your counselor as well as your teachers! Save Money Now! Senior Year is expensive, not to mention college! Visit the Career Center website!!! www.ccboe.com/schools/mcdonough Career Center Under “Academics”

10 th Grade: Focus on your academics. Do extra credit whenever offered. Use tutoring services for help, such as www.khanacademy.org or tutor.com. All departments offer tutoring during HERD.Use your Career Cruising program and other resources in the Career Center to investigate possible career paths and possible college majors. Explore!Use your Study Island account for SAT/ACT preparation and College Board’s Khan Academy.Stay involved in clubs and community activities. Being involved helps you develop good time management skills. Start working on a resume filled with community service!Save Money Now! Senior Year is expensive, not to mention college!

11 th Grade: Take advantage of college fairs and information sessions to learn more about college options and scholarship information. Get to know your academic teachers well as you will need them to give you a recommendation letter for college admissions and scholarship applications.Books containing sample college application essays and information about writing the college application essay are available in the Career Center and Library.

Keep grades up and use your resources, such as Study Island, Career Cruising, College Board, and ACT to practice for college entrance exams. Map out your college entrance exam schedule being sure to include a date for SAT Subject tests if your prospective colleges require the SAT and SAT Subject Tests. World History is a most in June! So register for the May SAT in order to schedule your World History Subject test in June. Pick one or two more subject areas as three are allowed. Each subject test is one hour. Check the requirements of your colleges!

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Save Money Now! Senior Year is expensive, not to mention college!

12 th Grade: Do not miss deadlines! Save copies of your applications, and complete any college entrance exam testing your college is requesting. Look for separate applications to apply for scholarships and grants. It will be beneficial for you to complete your college applications by Thanksgiving so you can focus on your course work to keep a strong GPA—senior year counts, too!

Be sure you have registered for all the college entrance exams your prospective colleges are looking for on their admissions application. www.sat.org/register ; www.actstudent.org.

Be sure to send your test scores directly from the testing agency to your colleges, scholarship programs, NCAA, or tech schools. www.eligibilitycenter.org

Be sure to check the status of your college applications making sure all your required documents have been submitted.

Be sure to take advantage of resources in the Career Center including the newsletter under “Academic” on the McDonough HS web page to apply for scholarships and complete admissions essays. Keep working! You’ve got to apply to win! Find McDonough at www.ccboe.com and slide to schools to find McDHS.

KNOW HOW TO GO! YOU’VE GOT TO APPLY TO WIN! It Pays to Apply!

Seniors! Remember Senior Exit Portfolio Mock Interview Week is December 10 – 14!Be sure your senior portfolio is complete with all your artifacts, essay, rec letters, etc!

Writing a College Essay

Do some self-exploration.

Your college essay is all about showcasing yourself. Think about which of your strengths and interests you would most like colleges to know about you. What are you passionate about? What’s most important to you? What are you best at?

If you need to pick the topic, be focused and specific.

Writing about a single experience is usually a good idea: Your essay should prove a single point or message. Try to avoid cliché topics like "winning a big game," "taking a trip" or even dealing with a death – these will not help your application stand out from the group.

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Show your thoughtfulness.

Be thoughtful in both your topic choice and the tone of your writing. Colleges look for students who have dealt with adversity, have overcome challenges and continue to grow from their experience. Admitting shortcomings is a sign of maturity and intelligence, so there is no need to portray yourself as a superhero – they will see through it.

Get started early.

Self-exploration can be fun, but do not procrastinate on the actual writing. You do not want to rush or be up against a tight deadline; it will affect your work.

Create an essay outline.

Sometimes creating an outline for your essay can help you get started. It will also help you organize your thoughts and develop a framework.

Read the instructions and follow them.

Be conscious of any length limits, and – if the topic is provided for you – analyze the question carefully. You want to be aware of everything they ask and answer everything thoroughly.

Use your own voice.

Don’t use big words just for the sake of using big words. They can distract from the essay when misused. Remember, this essay is about you – so use words you would use.

Use quotations and examples to show personal detail.

Instead of just stating your point of view, you want to make your reader feel the experience. Adding detail will help convey your stance. However, do not use quotations simply to use them; make sure they make sense.

Try to be concise.

While adding personal detail is good, you do not want to be wordy or long-winded; short sentences can be more powerful.

Don’t use slang words.Generally speaking, slang words conjure the feeling of someone being unpolished, uncaring or not that serious. These are three things you do not want your admissions reader thinking about you. Likewise, avoid clichés and overuse of contractions.

Be honest.

The point of this essay is to show who you are, not who you wish you were. Stick to what you know and your true personality will shine through.

Don’t be afraid to use humor if it’s part of who you are.

Admissions officers can have a sense of humor too; and, when used appropriately, humor can make you stand out. However, do not make being funny one of your top goals in your college essay.

Step away from your essay and come back later.

Sometimes it helps to take a break from your work and come back in a few days. Review what you have written and make sure it still makes sense and conveys what you want it to.

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Write multiple drafts.

Sometimes you need to write a couple of drafts to get your essay right where you want it.

Type your essay.

No matter how good your essay, if people cannot read your handwriting they will not appreciate the work.

Proofread your essay.

You want to make sure you have used proper spelling, grammar and punctuation. So ask an expert to proofread your essay.

Get feedback from others.

Ask your friends and family to read your essay and tell you what they think. Be open to suggestions and ways to improve it, even if this means going back to the drawing board.

Revise if necessary. You want to edit your essay down to what is important. Make every word count!

Available Resources: Several books providing samples of great college essays are available in the Career Center including Fiske’s “Real College Essays that Work.” Check the Library as well!

Opportunities: Military News

U.S. Coast Guard Contact Information: Baltimore - Coast Guard Recruiting Office, 6499 Baltimore National Pike, 40 West Plaza, Catonsville, MD (No Walk-ins) Call 410-747-3963 and visit website at: www.gocoastguard.com.Washington, DC - Coast Guard Recruiting Office, 645 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, Washington, DC – Call 202-543-8313 or visit website.

Military Websites

Army NAVY COAST GUARDwww.goarmy.com www.navy.com www.gocoastguard.comARMY RESERVE ARMY NATIONAL GUARD NAVY RESERVEwww.goarmyreserve.com www.nationalguard.com www.navyresserve.comAIR FORCE MARINE CORPS MARINE CORPS RESERVEwww.airforce.com www.marines.com www.marines.comAIR FORCE RESERVE AIR NATIONAL GURAD COAST GUARD RESERVEwww.afreserve .com www.GoANG.com www.gocoastguard.com

http://official-asvab.com/ Practice the ASVAB Exam!www.march2success.com

www.asvabprogram.com

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SCHOLARSHIPS

Common Scholarship Application Mistakes• Missing deadlines• Failing to proofread the application• Failing to follow directions, especially regarding essay length and the number of recommendations• Omitting required information• Applying for an award when you don't qualify• Failing to apply for an award for which you are eligible• Failing to tailor the application to the sponsor• Writing a boring essay• Writing an essay that may offend the reviewer

• Including exaggerations or lies on your application

Students must use www.mhec.maryland.gov . And www.mdgo4it.org As Maryland residents, this is for you! Everything you need to know! MONEY, MONEY!

Scholarship Finder with the U.S. Department of Labor:

https://www.careeronestop.org/toolkit/training/find-scholarships.aspx

https://www.raise.me/ Over 130 colleges are participating in this scholarship program beginning in 9th grade year. Introducing Micro-Scholarships--Get scholarships from colleges for your achievements in high school.

https://www.studentscholarships.org/newsletter.php StudentScholarships.org more than 900 scholarships awards through this service. Check it out…do not miss deadlines!

New 2018!.... www.goingmerry.com Scholarship matching services made easy.

Are you a dependent (child) of a self-employed parent? The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) awards four scholarships of $3,000 each to dependents of members of this organization. Visit: www.nase.org for more details!

The WACE National Co-Op Scholarship Program has $4.5 million in merit scholarships to award students planning to attend one of the 10 participating institutions, which includes Johnson & Wales University, Drexel University and other popular destinations. Visit www.waceinc.org for a complete list of colleges and the application to apply! Deadlines vary from November 1 to February 15. You’ve Got To Apply To Win!

https://superscholar.org/50-great-college-scholarships/ A listing of 50 great scholarships according to Super Scholar.com.

http://scholarshipguidance.com/ …Another search engine…Scholarship Guidance…helping students find scholarships Multiple scholarships with November Deadlines….all grade levels.

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November Deadline:

Gates Millennium Scholarship is no longer available! You may want to consider the following websites for scholarship information:  uncf.org; apiasf.org; hsf.net; aigcs.org.

The Ben Carson Scholars Program ScholarshipEligible: Students in grades 9 – 11Criteria: 3.75 unweighted GPA and heavily involved in community serviceAward: $1,000Deadline: See your counselor by 11/02 with your resume in order to be nominated

Elks Most Valuable StudentEligible: Graduating high school seniorCriteria: Academics, Extra-curricular activities, Leadership, & Financial Need Award: Various $4,000- $60,000Deadline: 11/15 www.elks.org

Jack Kent Cooke Foundation ScholarshipEligible: SeniorsCriteria: 4-year college bound, 3.5gpa unweighted26+ ACT/SAT 1200+ Math and ReadingAward: $30,000 possible Deadline: 11/20 visit: www.jkcf.org

National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT)Eligible: Females grades 9-12Criteria: computer sciences, information technology, information sciencesAward: Trophy recognition and entered in scholarship offeringsDeadline: 11/15 apply at www.bit.ly/AiCHSAward

Prudential Spirit of Community Award Eligible: Students in grades 5 - 12 Criteria: has engaged in a volunteer activity that occurred at least in part after September 1, 2016, school nomination required Award: $1,000, medallion & all expense paid trip to Washington, D. C. with parent in May 2018. Deadline: 11/06 application due to school Principal or College & Career Advisor at your school; http://spirit.prudential.com or www.nassp.org/spirt.

Ron Brown Scholar ProgramEligible: African American SeniorsCriteria: academic achievement, leadership, community service, financial needAward: 10,000 for 4 years www.ronbrown.orgDeadline: 11/01

Why Education MattersEligible: 9th-12th grade studentsCriteria: Submit a 250-word essay on What would you say to someone who thinks education doesn’t matter, or that college is a waste of time and money?Award: $3000Available: 11/30 https://www.unigo.com/scholarships/our-scholarships/education-matters-scholarship

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December Deadline:

http://scholarshipguidance.com/Scholarship Guidance…helping students find scholarships Multiple scholarships with December Deadlines….all grade levels

AXA Achievement Scholarship ambitious students; awarding more than $1.3 million outstanding, significant service projects or business projects, www.axa-achievement.com Deadline: 12/14 Only first 10,000 accepted.

Comcast Leaders & Achievers Scholarship Program Eligible: High School Senior Criteria: 2.8+GPA, demonstrate leadership abilities in school activities or through work experiences, strong commitment to community service involvement Awards: $1,000

Deadline: 12/07 https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/leadersandachievers/

FIRE: Foundation for Individual Rights in EducationEligible: Juniors and SeniorsCriteria: Essay of 800 and 1000 words on a provided topicAward: $10,000 first prize, $5,000 second prize, and three $1,000 runner-up prizes, four $500 drawings.Deadline: 12/31 visit: https://www.thefire.org/k12/essay-contest/ to enter

Hispanic Heritage Fund Scholarships www.hsf.nethttp://hsf.net/en/scholarships/programs/graduating-high-school-seniors/Eligible: SeniorsAward: Multiple awardsDeadline: multiple scholarships check for deadlines 12/15

Towson UTeach Kahlert Foundation ScholarshipEligible: Seniors matriculating to Towson UniversityCriteria: Pursuing teaching certification in secondary school science or mathematics, Maryland resident, 3.25 unweighted GPA, preference to current or former Evapco employee family members, official transcript, two letters of recAward: renewable $4,000Deadline: 12/1 www.towson.edu/fcsm/departments/uteach/scholarships.html

January Deadline:

Distinguished Young Women Scholarship Program High School Juniors females, 3.3 + GPA; Deadline: ?Award: $1,500 www.ajm.org

GE-Reagan Foundation ScholarshipEligible: SeniorsCriteria: Leadership, Drive, Integrity, Citizenship, 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, financial needAward: $10,000-$40,000Deadline: 01/4 apply online at www.reaganfoundation.org/scholarships or http://facebook.com/GEReaganScholarships .

Princeton Prize in Race RelationsEligible: 9-12th gradersCriteria: actively involved in a volunteer activity within the last 12 months that has a significant positive impact on race relations;Deadline: 01/31

Award: $1,000 www.princeton.edu/princetonprize call: 1-800-742-1036

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United States/Maryland JCI Senate FoundationEligible: SeniorsCriteria: leadership, extra-curricular activities, honors, awards, employmentAward: $500 - $1,000 Deadline: 01/11 www.usjcisenate.org

February Deadline:

American Society of Military ComptrollersWashington ChapterEligible: High School SeniorsCriteria: Must be entering a field of study directly related to business or financial management, business management, economics, public administration, accounting, for related area of study. Three letters of recommendation, official transcript & SAT/ACT scores. Award: $1,000 Deadline: 2/5 Scholarships@Washington-ASMC.org or see Mrs. Welch for an application

The Bill of Rights InstituteEligible: 9-12 gradersCriteria: Essay www.billofrightsinstitute.orgAward: $1,250-$5,000Deadline: 02/14

Black College Expo Essay ContestEligible: Juniors and Seniors, US citizen or lawful residentCriteria: 500 word essay, “Why is a College Education Important to ME” Award: multiple, must attend the March 16, 2019 college expo at Bowie State University to winDeadline: 02/20 www.thecollegeexpo.org Stop in the Career Center for more details.

Maryland Farm Bureau ScholarshipEligible: SeniorsCriteria: Parents member of Farm Bureau, essay, GPAAward: $2,000Deadline: 02/01 application: lstorm@mdfarmbureau.com send to: Scholarship@mdfarmbureau.com

National Co-op Scholarship ProgramEligible: Seniors Criteria: GPA 3.5+ on a 4.0 GPA scale, one-page, 200 word essay, to qualify for the merit co-op scholarship, students must complete all the required admissions material and be accepted for the academic year at one or more of the ten NCCE Partner Colleges & Universities. Apply online at www.waceinc.org Award: $4.5 million available and renewable Deadline: 02/15 (various deadlines for some colleges)

National Society DAR Scholarships Multiple scholarships, pursuit of degrees in diverse disciplines including history, law, nursing, and education. For information and applications:  http://dar.org/natsociety/edout_scholar.cfm Deadline: 02/15

Starlit ScholarshipEligible: SeniorsCriteria: Charles County resident, priority to 3.0 GPA and above, essay about your academic and career goals, transcript, letters of recommendation from an academic source and non-related adult, SAT/ACT score sheetAward: Deadline: 02/28 contact justusllc15@gmail.com or see Mrs. Welch

TeenDrive365 Video ChallengeEligible: high school studentsCriteria: Create a 30-60 second video to end distracted drivingAward: multiple up to $15,000 and a reshoot with a Discovery film crewDeadline: 2/28 www.teendrive365inschool.com/teens/video-challenge

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March Deadline:

Automotive Scholarship Gateway Eligible: SeniorsCriteria: career in the automotive industry. Applications will be accepted to March 31.Apply online at www.automotivescholarships.com.

Hispanic Heritage Fund Scholarships www.hsf.net http://hsf.net/en/scholarships/programs/graduating-high-school-seniors/Eligible: Seniors who complete the FAFSACriteria: 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 GPA scale, U.S. Citizen, Permanent Legal Resident, DACA or Eligible Non-Citizen Award: Multiple awards up to $5,000Deadline: 3/30

Create-A-Holiday-Card Scholarship Design a greeting card and win a $10,000 scholarship, high school students, Apply: Deadline: 03/01 https://www.gallerycollection.com/greeting-cards-scholarship.htm

Washington Regional Transplant Consortium Legacy of Life ScholarshipEligible: SeniorsCriteria: Write a 1,000-word persuasive argument on the theme “Organ & Tissue Donation: Persuade Someone to give the Gift of a Lifetime. The essay may be fiction or non-fiction, with sources cited. Award: $1,000-$5,000Deadline: 3/31 www.beadonor.org

Washington Regional Transplant Consortium DONE VIDA ScholarshipEligible: Latino Seniors Criteria: Video entries on the topic of Encouraging people in your community to become an organ, eye and tissue donors.Award: $500-$3,000 Deadline: 3/31 www.beadonor.org

April Deadline:

Maryland Emergency Management Eligible: SeniorsCriteria: pursue a career in emergency management like meteorology, disaster relief, public services, etc.Award: $1,000Deadline: 04/01 www.mhec.maryland.gov

Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) ScholarshipEligible: Graduating high school seniors residing within the SMECO service areaCriteria: Based on Scholastic Achievement (40%), Financial Need (50%), Community Involvement & School Involvement (10%) Essay required, see application for topic. Parents: a copy of pages 1 and 2 of your 2018 tax forms is needed!Award: $1,500 Applications in the Career Center or online.Deadline: 04/12 For more information call 1-888-440-3311 ext.4340 or www.smeco.coop .

May Deadline:

Sun Trust Scholarship Eligible: High School Seniors, two winners will be chosen every two weeks from October 30 through May 13.Award: $500Apply online: https://www.suntrust.com/loans/student-loans no purchase necessary to enter to win

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June Deadline:

Aspiring Pharmacy Technician Scholarship Program Eligible: SeniorCriteria: interested in pursuing a pharmacology career path at an accredited post-secondary school or collegeAward: $1,000Deadline: 6/1, apply: http://www.pharmacytechnicianreview.com/  Aspiring Fashion Professional ScholarshipEligible: SeniorCriteria: interested in pursuing a fashion degree at an accredited post-secondary school or collegeAward: $1,000Deadline: 6/1, apply: http://www.fashion-schools.org/  Aspiring Animation Professional Scholarship ProgramEligible: SeniorCriteria: interested in pursuing an animation career path at an accredited post-secondary school or collegeAward: $1000Deadline: 6/1, apply: http://www.animationcareerreview.com/

Big Sun Athletics ScholarshipsEligible: SeniorsCriteria: student involved in a sport in high school or the communityAward: $500Deadline: 06/19 www.bigsunathletics.com

July Deadline

Legal Scholarships 2018Eligible: SeniorsCriteria: 3.0GPA or higher, pursuing law degree, U.S. citizenAward: $1,000Deadline: 07/15 http://www.myinjuryattorney.com/legal-scholarship-2017-2018/

Ongoing:

You may want to consider the following websites for scholarship information:  uncf.org; apiasf.org; hsf.net; aigcs.org.

Kids’ Chance of Maryland, Inc.Eligible: Student with a parent or guardian who has suffered a catastrophic or fatal accidental injury or occupational disease while working for a Maryland employerAward: Varies, depending on need and educational expenses, covers tuition and books, may also include housing and meals Apply: www.kidschance-md.org

Another search engine advertised is www.studentscholarships.org; Newsletter: www.studentscholarships.org/newsletter.php

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Do not forget to use the Career Center webpage to gain access to financial aid information such as the Academic Common Market (paying in-state tuition at an out-of-state college) on the Maryland Higher Education website link, Statewide Programs, Getin2College.com and CareerCruising.com with log-ins posted. Contact Mrs. Welch in the Career Center for additional details.

By School To be eligible for scholarships offered by individual schools, the student must apply and be planning to attend that particular college or university.

Black Male Teachers needed. Are you a Black Male who is a senior in high school and want to go to college out of state for FREE (not all programs offer full tuition) and want to become teacher? The CALL ME MISTER program is offered by many colleges across the country. Details about national partners are online at www.callmemister.clemson.edu or call 1-800-640-2657.

Boston University Trustee Scholarship Competition four year, full tuition scholarship to BU, top 10% of the senior class, very active leaders in school and community, also Alexander Graham Bell Scholarship for students interested in engineering, the School of Education Presidential Scholarship; and the Dr. Martin Luther King Scholarship for students dedicated to community service. See College & Career Advisor

Harvard University is offering free tuition to families of HONOR STUDENTS if their income is less than $60,000 per year. Visit www.fao.fas.harvard.edu or call 617-495-1581.

Architecture Scholarships to Syracuse University Ten full ride scholarships for African-American men and women studying architecture at Syracuse University in New York is available for qualified students. Contact Mr. Mark Robbins, Dean of Architecture, at 315-443-2256 for more information or visit http://soa.syr.edu/index.php.

United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Scholarships UNCF has various scholarships with eligibility criteria, open/close dates and required documentation. Apply online: https://scholarships.uncf.org/ Villanova University Presidential Scholarship, renewable, merit-based award covering full tuition, room, board and fees, GPA 4.19, SAT 1450/1600, ACT 33/36, must submit a completed application for admission by 12/01, see your College & Career Advisor, Villanova Scholarship, awarded on the basis of exemplary academic achievement and accomplishments outside the classroom, top 5% of graduating class or GPA 3.85, SAT 1380/1600, ACT 31/36, Award: beginning at $1000 per year www.villanova.edu/scholarships .

Washington College (MD) National Honor Society Scholarship Eligible: High school senior who is a member of the National Honor Society. Award: $15,000- $50,000 Deadline: more information call 1-800-422-1782x7700.

Many, many more programs and scholarships exist in colleges across the United States. Looking at a certain geographic area to pursue you education? Research the college and their offerings! Freshmen… this includes you!

SCHOLARSHIP and COLLEGE Information online… a few more links: www.mhec.state.md.uswww.finaid.comwww.fastweb.comwww.blackstudents.blacknews.com www.studentaid.ed.gov www.meritaid.com www.collegexpress.comwww.MDgo4it.org https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college/scholarships-grants www.studentscholarships.org www.going2college.org www.federalstudentaid.ed.gov www.uncf.org www.mapccs.org www.chegg.com

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Merit ScholarshipsContact the Financial Aid Office of your prospective colleges to see if separate applications for aid are due this fall. Early October dates are common.  UVA, Davidson, Emory U., and NYU, to name a few, have merit deadlines this fall. Some of these scholarships require a counselor or principal nomination. Do not miss these financial opportunities.  Ask your prospective colleges' financial aid office for merit scholarship applications. Online: www.meritaid.com Career One Stop Search more than 7,000 scholarships, fellowships, loans, and other financial aid opportunities:http://www.careerinfonet.org/scholarshipsearch/ScholarshipCategory.asp?searchtype=category&nodeid=22

Central Scholarship Bureau seniors planning to attend college full time in the fall who meet other eligibility requirements may apply for scholarships and loans through this Maryland agency. Visit www.central-scholarship.org to apply.

Are you looking for a college with a strong cyber security major -- check out Longwood University, VA. Digital forensics is an area of focus in cyber security. Students can be hired to support demands security.This college is designated nationwide as a National Center of Digital Forensics. www.longwood.edu/business/LCCs.htm.

Financial Aid information

Seniors! Planning on going to college? Wondering how to pay for it? Don’t know where to start?

Checkout this link from the U.S. Department of Education to get an cost estimate: http://collegecost.ed.gov/netpricecenter.aspx

It cannot be said enough: There is plenty of FREE information and help... do not pay for scholarships, scholarship searches or FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) application completion.

For FAFSA the only website to go to is http://www.fafsa.ed.gov . On this site you can access help by clicking contact and then you have three choices: you can e-mail, call toll free, or live chat. Mrs. Welch, College & Career Advisor in the Career Center, can answer some general questions or you can contact the local community college, College of Southern Maryland, for assistance. All seniors received a FA packet from Mrs. Welch with the step-by-step process for completing the Federal financial aid process and other sources by last week of October. File that FAFSA now using 2017 tax information! www.fafsa.gov

Guaranteed Access Partnership Program (GAPP):GAPP provides a matching award for eligible students who receive a State Guaranteed Access grant and attend a participating institution, for a total grant award up to $35,800 per year for four years. Johns Hopkins University, Stevenson University, Hood College, Goucher College, Capitol Technology University, Washington College and others are participating in the program. Visit: www.micua.org/GAPP for more details.

Testing:

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Seniors if you are planning to go to a four-year college in the Fall 2019 and you have not taken the SAT or ACT... you will need to register online and pay online at the time of registration with a credit card. This should be done before you miss registration deadlines. ACT and SAT no longer accept walk-in registrations. Do not miss the registration deadlines. November 2 is the Regular Deadline for the December ACT and SAT.

If you are going to a trade, technical school, art or music school, you need to check the website of the school to see if you need to take a test or schedule an audition or interview. Some institutions require you take their institution’s test only or sometimes no test is needed at all.

If you are going to a community college, you do not need to take the SAT or ACT. Community colleges will administer their own placement test. The CSM placement test will be given at McDonough High School in March. Look for the sign-up sheet in the Career Center mid February. Practice Now at csmd.edu test prep!

NCAA Eligibility Center Information

Student-Athletes wishing to play sports at the Division I or Division II level need to know what courses taken in high school constitute a core course. Not all classes you take to meet high school graduation requirements are core courses.

Check your high school’s List of NCAA Courses located on the Resources page of the NCAA Eligibility Center website at www.eligibilitycenter.org and work closely with your high school counselor to make sure you know how to go!

Keep track of your courses and the units that apply towards eligibility. Use the www.CoreCourseGPA.com program paid for by Charles County Public Schools to monitor your progress towards eligibility. Speak to your Coach, Athletic Director, Ms. Thornton, Mrs. Welch in the Career Center, or Counselor for further information.

Athletically Related Financial Aid:

NCAA Divisions I and II colleges and universities award athletic scholarships. Division III colleges and universities do not award financial aid based on athletic ability, but you may be eligible to receive academic scholarships or need-based financial aid.

In fact, according to the NCAA Eligibility Center, very few high school athletes earn athletic scholarships. According to recent statistics, about two percent of high school athletes are awarded athletic scholarships to compete in college. This small number means high school student-athletes and their parents need to have realistic expectations about receiving an athletic scholarship to play college sports. Academic, not athletic, achievement is the most reliable path to success in life. (2017-18 Guide for the College-Bound Student-Athlete)

NSDAR Scholarships: Deadline: February 15 www.dar.org

Any questions, please contact: Victoria T. Kelly

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DAR Scholarship Chair NSDAR Port Tobacco Chapter301-752-6104 vtkelly7@verizon.net

General ScholarshipRICHARD AND ELIZABETH DEAN SCHOLARSHIP—The Richard and Elizabeth Dean Scholarship awards two scholarships in the preferred amount of $5,000 each year for up to four consecutive years to graduating high school students. The selection process shall be based on academic merit with an initial 4.0. Renewal is conditional upon maintenance of a GPA of 3.25. This scholarship is renewable only after review and approval of the annual official transcript. Renewal transcript must be submitted to the Office of the Reporter General by July 1 of the year of renewal or the scholarship is forfeited.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Richard and Elizabeth Dean Scholarship4015 Ocean DriveCorpus Christi, TX 78411

Political Science, History, Government, and Economics ScholarshipsA separate application must be submitted for each scholarship in this group.DR. AURA-LEE A. PITTENGER AND JAMES HOBBS PITTENGER AMERICAN HISTORY SCHOLARSHIP—A scholarship in the amount of $2,000 each year for up to four consecutive years to a graduating high school senior who will have a concentrated study of a minimum of 24 credit hours in American History or American Government, while in college. This award is intended to promote the study of history among our finest students. United States citizens residing abroad may apply through a Units Overseas Chapter. Renewal is conditional upon maintenance of a GPA of 3.25.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Dr. Aura-Lee A. and James Hobbs Pittenger American History Scholarship5134 29th Ave NSaint Petersburg, FL 33710

ENID HALL GRISWOLD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP—The Enid Hall Griswold Memorial Scholarship is awarded to two deserving juniors or seniors enrolled in an accredited college or university in the United States who is pursuing a major in political science, history, government, or economics. This is a one-time award in the amount of $5,000Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Enid Hall Griswold Memorial Scholarship4242 Greentree WaySand Springs, OK 74063

DAR CENTENNIAL SCHOLARSHIP—The DAR Centennial Scholarship is awarded to two outstanding students pursuing a course of graduate study in the field of historic preservation at a college or university in the United States.  This scholarship was established from a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Centennial Pin. This is a one-time award in the amount of $2,500.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair DAR Centennial Scholarship10837 SW 80th CTOcala, FL 34481THE LUCINDA BENEVENTI FINDLEY HISTORY SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time $2,000 scholarship awarded to two graduating high school seniors that have demonstrated advance interest in history and are planning to major in or pursue the study of history in a full-time accredited college or university in the United States.  The applicant must have a GPA of 3.25.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair The Lucinda Beneventi Findley History Scholarship

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372 Sundial Rd.Madison, MS 39110

Nursing School ScholarshipsThe following scholarships are one-time awards of $1000. Each scholarship applied for must have its own application submitted.

CAROLINE E. HOLT NURSING SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time $2,500 scholarship is awarded to three students who are in financial need and are accepted and enrolled into an accredited school of nursing.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Caroline E. Holt Nursing Scholarship368 Stanley AveShenandoah, VA 22849

MILDRED NUTTING SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time $2,000 scholarship for two students who are in financial need and who have been accepted or are currently enrolled in an accredited school of nursing. A letter of acceptance into the Nursing Program or the transcript stating that the applicant is in the Nursing Program must be enclosed with the application. Preference will be given to candidates from the Lowell, MA area.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Mildred Nutting Nursing Scholarship1234 Waterside LnVenice, FL 34285

OCCUPATIONAL/PHYSICAL THERAPY SCHOLARSHIP—The Occupational/Physical Therapy Scholarship, in the amount of $2,000, is awarded to two students  who are in financial need and have been accepted or are attending an accredited school of occupational therapy (including art, music, or physical therapy).Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Occupational/Physical Therapy Scholarship1001 Castlemaine DrBirmingham, AL 35226

MADELINE PICKETT (HALBERT) COGSWELL NURSING SCHOLARSHIP—The Madeline Pickett (Halbert) Cogswell Nursing Scholarship, in the amount of $2,500, is awarded to two students who are accepted or enrolled in an accredited school of nursing. Applicants must be members, descendents of members or be eligible for membership in NSDAR. The DAR member number of the mother, who is a current dues paying member, must be on the Application.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Madeline Pickett (Halbert) Cogswell Nursing Scholarship417 Loril StGeorgetown, SC 29440

Medical ScholarshipsThese awards are in the amount of up to $5,000. An application form must be completed for each scholarship you are applying for.IRENE AND DAISY MACGREGOR SCHOLARSHIP—The Irene and Daisy MacGregor Memorial Scholarship is awarded to two students of high scholastic standing and character who have been accepted into or are pursuing an approved course of study to become a medical doctor (no pre-med, veterinarian or physician assistant) at an approved, accredited medical school. Renewal is conditional upon maintenance of a GPA of 3.25.This scholarship is also available to students who have been accepted into or who are pursuing an approved course of study in the field of psychiatric nursing at the graduate level at accredited medical schools, colleges, or universities. There is a preference to females "if equally qualified."Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Irene and Daisy MacGregor Memorial Scholarship200 Foston Chapel RdHopkinsville, KY 42240

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ALICE W. ROOKE SCHOLARSHIP—A $5,000 scholarship awarded to one student who has been accepted into or who are pursuing an approved course of study to become a medical doctor (no pre–med, veterinarian, or physician assistant) at approved, accredited medical schools, colleges, and universities. The scholarship is not automatically renewable; however, applicant may reapply for up to four years.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Alice W. Rooke Scholarship88 Andre AvePeace Dale, RI 02879

DR. FRANCIS ANTHONY BENEVENTI MEDICAL SCHOLARSHIP—A preferred amount $5,000 scholarship awarded to one student either attending or planning to attend an approved, accredited medical school, college, or university. The applicant must have a minimum GPA of 3.25. This scholarship is not automatically renewable; however, recipients may reapply for consideration each year for up to four consecutive years, pending receipt of proof of continued enrollment (no pre–med, veterinarian, or physician assistant), and after the first semester, an annual transcript review indicating a minimum GPA of 3.25.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Dr. Francis Anthony Beneventi Medical Scholarship545 Fox Ridge LnLebanon, PA 17042

LESLIE ANDREE HANNA MEDICAL SCHOLARSHIP-A one-time preferred amount of $5,000 to a deserving female student who is a U.S. citizen attending medical school .  The selection process is based on academic merit with a minimum GPA of 3.25 on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent GPA on the scale used by the applicable educational institution.  The recipient may reapply for the scholarship each year, but is not guaranteed the award.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Leslie Andree Hanna Medical ScholarshipIsabelle Smith79 Tullamore Rd.Garden City, NY 11530-1131

Specific ScholarshipsA separate application must be submitted for each scholarship in this group.MARGARET HOWARD HAMILTON SCHOLARSHIP—A $1,000 scholarship awarded for up to four years to a graduating high school senior who has been accepted into the Harvey and Bernice Jones Learning Center, housing the Ben D. Caudle Learning Program, University of the Ozarks, Clarksville, Arkansas. Applications must be requested directly from the Learning Center upon acceptance into their program for learning disabled students.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Margaret Howard Hamilton Scholarship29 Oates RdOppelo, AR 72110

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time $1,000 award is given to two graduating high school seniors, one who has been accepted into the field of nursing and one who has been accepted into the field of occupational therapy, who reside in the District of Columbia, the home of NSDAR Headquarters.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair District of Columbia Scholarship3603 Faircastle DrChevy Chase, MD 20815

LILLIAN AND ARTHUR DUNN SCHOLARSHIP—The Lillian and Arthur Dunn Scholarship is a $2,500 scholarship awarded for up to four years to two well qualified, deserving sons and daughters of members of the NSDAR for four years of college. Renewal is conditional upon maintenance of a GPA of 3.25. Outstanding recipients pursuing graduate study may reapply each year for an additional period of up to four years of study. The DAR member number of the mother, who is a current dues paying member, must be on the application.

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Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Lillian and Arthur Dunn Scholarship9 Coachman DrTaylors, SC 29687

NELLIE LOVE BUTCHER MUSIC SCHOLARSHIP—A $5,000 scholarship shall be given annually to a male or female music student who is pursuing an education in piano or voice. Special consideration shall be given to students currently attending the Duke Ellington School of the Performing Arts, Washington, DC. This substantial scholarship is for one year, and is not automatically renewable; however, recipients may reapply for consideration each year for four years based on maintaining a 3.0 grade point average. Click here for CD submission instructions.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Nellie Love Butcher Music Scholarship18 Country Club DrDanville, IL 61832

ARTHUR LOCKWOOD BENEVENTI LAW SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time preferred amount $2,000 scholarship awarded to a student who is either enrolled in or attends an accredited law school and has a minimum GPA of 3.25. The scholarship is not automatically renewable and recipients may reapply for consideration each year.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Arthur Lockwood Beneventi Law Scholarship1207 Waggoner DrRushville, IN 46173

MARY ELIZABETH LOCKWOOD BENEVENTI MBA SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time preferred amount $2,000 scholarship for a student attending graduate school full time in an accredited college or university and majoring in business administration. The applicant must have a minimum GPA of 3.25. The scholarship is not automatically renewable; however, recipients may reapply for consideration each year.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Mary Elizabeth Lockwood Beneventi MBA Scholarship9386 Dick Woods RdAfton, VA 22920

WILLIAM ROBERT FINDLEY GRADUATE CHEMISTRY SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time preferred amount $2,000 scholarship for a student attending graduate school full time in an accredited college or university and majoring in chemistry. The applicant must have a minimum GPA of 3.25. The scholarship is not automatically renewable; however, recipients may reapply for consideration each year.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair William Robert Findley Graduate Chemistry Scholarship55 Longfellow RdWorcester, MA 01602

MICHAEL T. AND MARY L. CLOYD SCHOLARSHIP—A one-time only, preferred amount award of $3,000 to two students with a minimum 3.0 average at the third year level of undergraduate study or studying at the graduate level studying in the field of American History/Archives Management.Mail completed scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Michael T. and Mary L. Cloyd Scholarship7804 Stratford RdBethesda, MD 20814

EDWARD G. AND HELEN A. BORGENS ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY TEACHER EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIPS—Two one-time, preferred amount awards of $1,500 for students twenty-five (25) years of age or older. One award is given to students studying to teach at the elementary school level, the other to students studying to teach at the secondary level. All applicants must have at least a 3.50 GPA, be at least a college sophomore, and attend or plan on attending an accredited college or university. The award is based on academic merit and is not automatically renewable, though recipients may reapply for consideration as long as they meet the eligibility requirements.Mail completed ELEMENTARY scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Edward G. and Helen A. Borgens Elementary Teacher Education Scholarships

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204 Bratton StWinnsboro, SC 29180

Mail completed SECONDARY scholarship application form to:National Vice Chair Edward G. and Helen A. Borgens Secondary Teacher Education Scholarships1394 Lakeview DrBountiful, UT 84010Chair Name: Nelly Galloway Shearer, National ChairCommittee Name: DAR Scholarship Committee

More web links that connect:

http://www.collegeandfinance.com/32-weird-scholarships-almost-anyone-can-get/  Another Website Resource:

The whole point of College Majors 101 is to teach students what these majors ACTUALLY are.Most students have never heard of 1/2 of them   

www.collegemajors101.com  Male Students interested in playing sports beyond high school and learn a trade that pays high wages and provides excellent benefits.....for FREE..... check out the trade education offered at Williamson Free School of Mechanical Trades in Media, Pennsylvania. Visit:http://www.williamson.edu and learn about entering a program with an ASVAB exam score in carpentry, masonry, turf management and other horticulture programs, machinist training, power plant technology, etc. Check out all the athletic programs including FOOTBALL at:http://www.williamsonathletics.com Eight varsity sports programs to choose from!

Check out these and thousands of other higher education opportunities in the Career Center!**Study Habits Tip: Don’t just read the material over and over again....think of questions to ask yourself during the read-through and write down answers. Have a friend quiz you and make use of the questions at the end of the chapter! Research shows students who are tested on a reading passage remembered over 60% of it one week later, while those who weren’t tested after reading the passage recalled only 40%. www.CollegeXpress.com Check out the website….another great source.

College Planning Tips:

Early Decision (ED): What Is It?Early Decision is an application opportunity offered by many of the nation’s selective institutions that provides the promise of early feedback (an admission decision) in exchange for the student’s commitment to enroll if accepted. A student may only be active as an ED candidate at one college. If admitted ED, a student is expected to withdraw all other Regular Decision applications that might have been active and enroll at the ED school.

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Who Benefits?Whereas it has been a long-held notion that ED was reserved for only the very best candidates, it is now the case that “reasonably competitive” candidates can also benefit from the ED option as colleges seek to build their enrollments with “high yielding” students. In addition, ED will be an attractive option at many schools for the following:

Students who do not require financial assistance Athletic recruits Legacy candidates

Early Action (EA): What Is It?Early Action also affords students the opportunity to submit credentials to some highly selective colleges in return for notification ahead of the Regular Decision process. The big difference: students who choose this option are not presumed to be declaring a first-choice interest in the colleges to which they apply EA. As a result, they are not committed to enroll if admitted and may, in some cases, apply EA to multiple schools. That said, a handful of institutions offer EA as a restrictive, “single choice” option that prohibits students from applying EA to any other school. Be sure to read the fine print regarding each institution’s EA program.EA Inside the NumbersIf you are still thinking selectivity and rankings, you are right on the mark! While EA candidates do not enroll at the same rate as admitted ED candidates (presumably 100%), they are still likely to enroll at a much higher rate than students who apply Regular Decision. Colleges know this because they track their yields on EA offers from year to year. That said, they tend not to bend their academic standards for EA candidates. Rather, they are banking on the opportunity to realize higher conversion rates among high profile admitted students by making strong, positive connections with them early in the process.Possible EA OutcomesMuch like the case with ED, EA outcomes include acceptance, deferral and denial. The only difference is that acceptance does not involve a commitment to enroll.Who Benefits?Unlike ED, EA really does not improve one’s chances of admission. Why? Institutions are reluctant to commit places in the class to strong, but not superior students without first being able to compare them with the larger pool of candidates. EA does, however, provide peace of mind for those who use it early in the process.Tips for Potential ED/EA Applicants

Read the fine print for each institutional offering and understand your commitments before initiating an early application of any sort.

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Rather than looking for an “ED school,” focus on finding colleges that fit you well as you arrive at your short list of schools. If one of them becomes your absolute first choice, then ED should be a considered option.

Do not apply ED unless you are dead certain of your commitment to enroll if accepted. Do not apply ED if you have not visited the campus first! Ideally, your visit will have

included an overnight stay that enabled you to also attend classes and experience the campus culture.

Resist the temptation to act on impulse. The feelings you have for a college now might change greatly over time leaving you committed to a place that is no longer where you want to be. Give yourself at least a month to reflect on your intended application before applying ED.

Remember the ED Round II option. Many schools will give you the opportunity to “convert” your Regular Decision application during a second round of ED in January. The conditions are the same as with ED Round I, but you might be better prepared to make a commitment later in the year.

Resolve all $$ questions and concerns before applying ED. Once you are admitted, there can be no contingencies. Ask the school’s financial aid office to provide an “early estimate” of your expected family contribution (EFC) before you submit your ED application. Apply ED only if you are completely satisfied with the information you receive regarding your EFC.

Sprint to the finish! Even though you might hold an EA or ED acceptance letter, it is likely to be conditional on your completion of the senior at the same level of achievement that earned you the offer of admission. More than a few colleges are known to rescind offers of admission when final transcripts show performances that drop measurably after offers of admission are secured.

THE RUSSELL GORDON CROFT SOUTHERN CHARLES COUNTY SCHOLARSHIP ELIGIBLILITY -must be incoming freshman who are graduates of Charles County, Maryland public high schools and who enroll in the A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland, College Park

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-must be residents in southern Charles County, defined as south of Rt. 225 from La Plata to Mason Springs and south of Rt. 6 from La Plata to the St. Mary’s County line and south of La Plata only - must demonstrate financial need If you are interested, please email egrmoney@umd.edu with the subject “Russell Gordon Croft S.C.C Scholarship”

Also available: The Kent Gordon Croft Scholarship and The Carol Croft Linde Engineering Scholarships to UMDCP! egrmoney@umd.edu (Other Croft Family scholarships available at CSM, Dartmouth, Washington and Lee, Johns Hopkins, etc…see the October newsletter.)

See you in the Career Center,Mrs. Wanda N. Welch, College and Career AdvisorThese programs and scholarships are provided as a courtesy. Charles County Public Schools and McDonough High School do not rate the quality or value of any of these listings. For more information on items in this newsletter, please contact Mrs. Welch in the Career. Center.  Nondiscrimination statement – July 1, 2018 The Charles County public school system does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or disability  in its programs, activities or employment practices. For inquiries, please contact Kathy Kiessling, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (students) or Nikial M. Majors, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 coordinator (employees/ adults), at Charles County Public Schools, Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building, P.O. Box 2770, La Plata, MD 20646;  301-932-6610/301-870-3814. For special accommodations, call 301-934-7230 or TDD 1-800-735-2258 two weeks prior to the event.

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