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Senior College & Career Newsletter

February 16-March 1, 2025 (Midwinter Break Edition)

Senior College &Career NewsletterFebruary 16-March 1, 2025 (Midwinter Break Edition)
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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

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Important Dates/Deadlines & Upcoming Events
Scroll through for more detailed information!

Important Dates and Deadlines

UPCOMING EVENTS/DUE DATES:

January-March- Various CSU Applications Deadlines (see 'CSU Section)

March 2nd - Priority Deadline for FAFSA/Dream Application

March 2nd - Deadline for Cal Grant (Last Day to Submit FAFSA/Dream Financial Aid Application for Cal Grant Eligibility)

March 14th- Foothill College Application Workshop-FLEX

THIS WEEK'S Flex Offerings

Come to Flex Sessions for help with financial aid and community college applications.

A representative from Canada College will be in the College and Career Center during Friday Flex Periods (Can help with community college applications)

Launch Your Financial Aid Applications from California Colleges

REMEMBER TO LAUNCH YOUR FAFSA/CADAA through CaliforniaCollege.edu

Login using your seq.org email (no password or username)

Click on sign in with Google

Hover over Financial Aid tab and choose Launch with either FAFSA or CADAA

Cash for College Workshop with Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley

Date: Wednesday, February 26th, 2025

Time: 5:30-7:30 PM

Location: Online (Zoom) | Students will receive an email confirmation after registration

Registration Link: https://bit.ly/C4CHFSV

FROM THE COUNSELING OFFICE

Edgenuity Lab is open!

Students completing Edgenuity credit recovery online courses for graduation and/or UC/CSU A-G requirements are required to take unit tests and cumulative tests in the Edgenuity lab in-person. The lab is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4pm-6pm in Room B-8 with Mr. Calles. The deadline for seniors is May 30, 2025.

Sequoia High School College Visits
In Naviance go to the College tab and then click on 'College Visits' for a complete list of visits and to register!
OTHER COLLEGE EVENTS

Did you Apply to San Francisco State? Check out the Metro Program on Tues 3/4

Information Session on Tuesday March 4th at 2:05pm in Room 128


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

COLLEGE INFORMATION

GENERAL FOUR YEAR COLLEGE INFORMATION GENERAL FOUR YEAR COLLEGE INFORMATION

Understanding How Colleges Communicate With Applicants

Whether you like it or not, most colleges use both email and portals to communicate with applicants.

They are expecting that you check your email at least a couple of times a week for any college information sent to you AND respond to their requests in a timely manner.

- If they do have a portal, most know exactly how many times you login so there are not any excuses about not having enough time to respond to a request on your “To Do” list.

- Make sure to carefully read due dates and requests. If you have a question, call the admissions office for clarification. IF you are worried, call the admissions for help.

Past problem examples:

- Students on a waitlist to UC Berkeley/Santa Cruz have 5 days to respond and missed the deadline because they did not regularly check their email and did not get into Berkeley.

- Students were told to submit 7th semester transcripts, and did not respond and got their applications pulled.

- Students were told that the college did not receive their SAT or ACT. Students sent them in so did not respond to request (Should Call if this is the case) and got their applications pulled.

REMEMBER TO SCROLL DOWN TO THE SCHOLARSHIP SECTION

Scholarship Opportunities

The majority of scholarship opportunities are available from January to the beginning of April.

  • You should be applying for scholarships before you even know if you are admitted to a college


Click on the link in the scholarship section below for the updated list of scholarships listed in Naviance

CHECK YOUR PORTALS

At least once a week!

Complete all To Do's as soon as possible!

Add All College Applications – To “Colleges I’m Applying To” on Naviance

Please list every school that you applied to on Naviance including CSUs and UCs. We can’t submit documents until you list them on Naviance. Also, make sure you note that you submitted your application as well.

REMOVING a College From Colleges I’m Applying to on Naviance

Email your counselor, Ignaitis/Yeager, and teachers of the colleges you are not applying (one email to all) and complete this FORM (Only Students using their seq email can complete the form)

Process of Submitting Application and School Documents

When we submit documents for your 1st due date, we submit them to all the schools on your list and there is NO way we would know if you added or removed a school, unless you tell us.

SPECIFIC FOUR YEAR COLLEGE INFORMATION BY TYPE
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CSU

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UC

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The Common Application

CSU INFORMATION

Set Up Portals and Check Them Regularly!

Check Portals and Emails Often

Every school is a little different so make sure to keep track of your login information. To meet all deadlines, check your email and portals weekly and DO NOT WAIT to complete your “To Do” list.


Changes or updates to a submitted application (For Example -Report D/F on Transcript or Change in Coursework)

When a student submits their first application to any campus, regardless of the priority deadline, they will not be able to make any changes to any subsequent application. If students need to report any corrections or updates, please have them contact the campuses they applied to directly.

After You Submit and Some CSU Deadlines Extended

Next Steps: AFTER YOU SUBMIT APPLICATION

Soon after you apply, you will receive an email from the CSU with directions on how to set up its portal. Every school is a little different so make sure to keep track of your login information.

Check Portals and Emails Often

Every school is a little different so make sure to keep track of your login information. To meet all deadlines, check your email and portals weekly and DO NOT WAIT to complete your “To Do” list.

Campuses will send out notice of their admissions decision by March 31, 2025.

Lastly, applicants should apply for financial aid as soon as possible. At the CSU, about 80% of students receive some kind of financial aid, and 60% of undergraduates have their tuition completely covered by grants or other non-load aid.


Find out more about what to expect after you’ve submitted a CSU application.

CSU Application Deadline EXTENDED for some schools:

Later Deadlines are available for some CSUs, visit the Application Dates & Deadlines page for more information on which campuses are still open and their deadlines.

Fall 2025 Admission - Extra time to apply! - From Cal State Apply Counselor Bulletin

The following CSU campuses continue to accept freshman applications:

  • Bakersfield
  • Channel Islands
  • Chico
  • Dominguez Hills
  • East Bay
  • Humboldt
  • Maritime
  • Monterey Bay
  • Northridge
  • Sacramento
  • San Bernardino
  • San Francisco
  • San Marcos
  • Sonoma
  • Stanislaus

Visit our application dates & deadlines page and use the “Is Your Campus Still Accepting Applications?” feature to view open campus programs and their deadlines.

UC INFORMATION

Canceling/withdrawing a UC application (From UC Counselor Bulletin)

Did you get in ED or EA and have decided to attend a specific college?

Each campus has specific instructions for their individual process if an applicant wishes to cancel or withdraw their application from further consideration. This only applies to students canceling or withdrawing prior to admission.

See campus instructions for canceling/withdrawing a UC application.

Reporting D & F or Schedule Changes

You must tell each UC if you changed your schedule (dropped courses) or received a D or F during the Fall 2024 semester.

Minor changes to your activities, awards, volunteer work or employment are unlikely to have an impact on your admission decision.

NOTE Each Campus has a different policy:

Campus instructions & websites for reporting changes

COMMON APPLICATION/PRIVATE COLLEGE INFORMATION

Mid-Year Reports (MYR) Information

All MYR were submitted by your counselor by Friday, January 31st


Non Common Application Private Colleges

If you had a school report sent to a non- Common Application college, send an email to your counselor ASAP, if a MYR is required.

How to Complete CSS Profile

CSS Profile is an online application that collects information used by hundreds of colleges, universities, professional schools, and scholarship programs to award financial aid from sources outside of the federal government. After you submit your application, the College Board sends it to the colleges and scholarship programs you have chosen.

Who Should Complete

Not all colleges and scholarship programs require the CSS Profile. Check with the ones you’re interested in to see if they require it.

When to Complete

Start your CSS Profile by visiting cssprofile.org at least two weeks before the earliest college or scholarship priority application date you need to meet. This date is the college or program’s deadline for submitting a completed CSS Profile application.

How Much It Costs

CSS Profile is free for families who make up to $100,000 a year. First-year domestic undergraduate students may submit CSS Profile for free if your family adjusted gross income is up to $100,000 or you qualify for an SAT fee waiver, or you are an orphan or ward of the court under the age of 24. CSS Profile fee waivers cover all application and reporting fees. If you do not qualify for a fee waiver submitting your CSS Profile to one college or scholarship program costs $25. Additional reports are $16 each. To qualify for the SAT-based fee waiver, students must log in to CSS Profile using the same College Board account used for the SAT. Providing eligible students with fee waivers for College Board programs and services is integral to our mission of connecting students to college success and opportunity.

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Sequoia School Information for Common Application

For the Education – Grades Section of the Common Application

  • Class Rank Reporting – Do not rank

  • Graduating Class Size – 464

  • GPA Scale – 4

  • GPA Weighting – Weighted

  • Guidance FAX – (650) 306-8893

  • Graduation Date – June 6, 2025

  • Your Official GPA- Overall weighted GPA - first one listed on your transcript

COMMUNITY COLLEGE INFORMATION

Application Workshops

March 14th: Foothill College Application Workshop-FLEX


If you have a social security number, please bring a copy or a picture of your card.

How to Apply to Community College

The steps to enroll are different for each site. Go to the websites below for more information.

  • Canada College: https://canadacollege.edu/admissions/new-student.php

  • College of San Mateo: https://collegeofsanmateo.edu/admissions/new-returning-students.php

  • Skyline College: https://skylinecollege.edu/outreach/pep.php

  • De Anza: https://www.deanza.edu/apply-and-register/index.html (not available for Fall 2025 until the spring)

  • Foothill: https://foothill.edu/reg/admission/highschool.html (not available for Fall 2025 until the spring)

Student Scholarships
Updated monthly scholarship list is available on the College and Career page on the school website for all grades

Monthly SHS Scholarships & Student Opportunities Lists

Updated February list is NOW AVAILABLE. The March list is a work in progress so check back for updates.


Click HERE to go directly to the Sequoia High School website for the most updated scholarship and student opportunities lists. How to Access Scholarships on Naviance (9-12th Grades)


If you find a scholarship you are interested in and want the link to the website or more information be sure to log in to your Naviance account, under the College tab, click on Scholarships and Money, then Scholarship list, and put the name of the scholarship in the search box, then click on the name of the scholarship.

Gordon A Rich Memorial Scholarship

Due: Feb 20th

For children of full-time employees in the financial services industry. Must demonstrate financial need. 4-yr college only. GPA 3.5+. Must be US citizen or legal resident

Eula May Jett Scholarship

Due: Feb 23rd

For students interested in the paralegal, legal assistant, legal secretary, court reporter or law office administrator fields. Not for those planning to go to law school.

Pursuit of Excellence Renewable Scholarship for High Achieving Low Income Students

DUE: February 28th

This scholarship is renewable (you get money for all four years in college) and has strict income guidelines around $65,000. Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 It is local and every year more than one senior from Sequoia receives this scholarship.

Silicon Valley Community Foundation (SVCF) - Multiple LOCAL Scholarship Opportunities

DUE: February 28th

Go to their website to apply. When you apply to one scholarship, you could be considered for others as well. All links are listed on Naviance


The Marie A. Calderilla Scholarship

Enable women pursue a course of study that they would otherwise be unable to follow due to limited financial means. Going to either, Canada, CSM, or Skyline Community College


Bobette Bibo Gugliotta Memorial Scholarship for Creative Writing

Lives in San Mateo County, passion for Creative Writing, enroll in 4 yr


Crain Scholarship Program

Lives in San Mateo County, Financial Hardship, Years of Community Involvement GPA 3.5, enroll in 4 yr, must be a USA citizen


Curry Award for Girls and Young Women

Woman between 18-26, GPA 3.3, Financial Hardship, Resident of San Mateo County-preference to EPA and SHS, 2 or 4yr


Harold Johnson Law Enforcement Scholarship

For students who plan to pursue a career in police work, corrections or other criminal justice fields. Must be a US citizen. 2 or 4 yr bound. GPA 2.5


Hazel Reed Baumeister Scholarship

GPA 3.5, graduating from HS in San Mateo County, enrolling in 4yr college demonstrates community service of period of years


K.C. Kinch Scholarship

For EPA residents who show academic success and financial hardship GPA 3.0-3.75 Enrolling in 2 or 4 yr college


Krishnan Shah Family Scholarship

First generation college student (neither parent earned a four-year college degree), pursuing first undergraduate degree. Support financially needy students with academic potential and demonstrated community involvement, and provide meaningful and ongoing financial support to ensure that students complete their undergraduate degree.


The Bright Futures Scholarship

Current resident of CA, Demonstrate academic promise, enrolling in 2 or 4 year institution in fall


Ralph Hale and Martha Ruppert Educational Scholarship

Late-bloomer - grade improvement last years of HS - GPA 3.3, demonstrate community involvement, Graduate in San Mateo County, enrolling in 2 or 4 yr college


Immigrant Justice Scholarship

Seniors Planning on enrolling in 2-4 yr college demonstrated interest in social justice and demonstrated interest in community service, school activities and leadership. Minimum 2.5 gpa


Alice Kleeman and Joe Buttram Scholarship

Students with challenges and obstacles, with high levels of motivation and potential but low levels of financial resources, who might be the first in their families to go to college, and who need a helping hand to make their college dreams attainable.

Current graduating high school senior attending Sequoia are eligible. Min GPA of 2.75, Work, extracurricular, or volunteer experience, Demonstrated financial need


Kuo Family Scholarship

CA resident. Plan to enroll at 4-yr college. GPA 3.5+. Demonstrated financial need.

SWE-SCV Scholarship (Society of Women Engineers - Santa Clara Valley Chapter

February 28th

For female seniors pursuing engineering or computer science.

SAE International

February 28th

Nine scholarships available to students interested in engineering or the STEM field.

Big Futures Scholarship, College Board

February 28th

ELIGIBLE GRADES: 10-12th

Earn entries in monthly drawings for $500 and $40,000 scholarships by completing steps to plan for college. The sooner you start and the more steps you complete, the more chances you’ll have to win

Scholarships Due March 1st

Luso-American Scholarships & Grants

Multiple scholarships available. Applying to enroll in a Junior or 4-year college or university, or a Trade or Business School. Official US Resident. Be of Portuguese ancestry or taking Portuguese language classes in high school


Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) Scholarships

Multiple scholarships available. Above average grades and intending to pursue a college curriculum directed toward a career in applied geophysics.


Horatio Alger Scholarships

Multiple Scholarships. REQUIRED: pursue a bachelor's degree, career tech, 2 yr degree in the United States. Demonstrate critical financial need ($65,000 or lower adjusted gross family income is required). Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities. Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity. (GPA) of 2.0; and Be a United States citizen


Sons of Italy Scholarships

Of Italian descent; enrolled in an accredited trade school, college/univ. , or community college next Fall. Two types of scholarship available: * Academic awards for HS seniors, and *Grants for Italian language summer study in Italy for HS seniors


Ryan Stripling "Words Create Worlds" Scholarship for Young Writers

open to students pursuing any major, as long as they are interested in continuing to write throughout college. Students must plan to attend a college or university within the US


Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA)Teen Alzheimer’s Awareness Scholarship

AFA’s Teen Alzheimer’s Awareness Scholarship applicants are asked to describe ways in which Alzheimer’s has impacted them.

Scholarships due March 3rd

Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) Scholarship Program NATIONAL LEVEL

Multiple Scholarships. Students can be any ethnic background. Full-time college, university, trade school, business school, or any other institution of higher learning. Must be a member of JACL


USPAACC US Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce

Multiple scholarships awarded. Must be of East, South, Southeast Asian, or Pacific Island heritage. Min GPA 3.3. US Citizen or permanent resident. Community and activity involvement, financial need.


Friends of the CA State Fair Scholarship

Numerous scholarship categories here -- see website. Min GPA 3.0. Preference given to those with broad personal, civic and academic experience.

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.

After you research your colleges, if you find a scholarship or program you want to be nominated for, complete this form three weeks prior to the nomination deadline to be considered.

CONTESTS

World of 8 Billion Video Contest

Due: March 5th

Grades Eligible: 9-12th

Create a 60 seconds video about Global Challenges. This year's topic: Explain how population growth impacts one of the following global topics and offer an idea for a sustainable solution. The global topics are: Child Wellbeing, Rainforest Ecosystems, or Sanitation WEBSITE

Ninth Circuit Civics Contest

Due: March 7th

Grades Eligible: 9-12th

An essay and video contest for high school students. 2025 Topic: When Duty Calls: Why Exercising the Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship is Important to Me" WEBSITE

GET INVOLVED! Student Opportunities
click on the images below for opportunities to learn more and get involved virtually on and off campus! New list available for February.

Marine Mammal Center Stewardship Saturday

  • Theme: A Walk through the Marshes with Cafe Ohlone
  • Event Registration Link: bit.ly/febstsat25
  • When: Saturday, February 22nd from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
  • Where: Coyote Hills Regional Park
  • Cost: FREE (free lunch and snacks will be provided)
  • Description: Join Cafe Ohlone co-founders and chefs Vincent Medina and Louis Trevino and The Marine Mammal Center as we take a walk through the marshes, build our own miniature tule boats, and taste some pickleweed. Learn about Ohlone language, culture, and history; how the Ohlone people use shoreline plants; and the importance of diversifying our diet and material choices to support humans and animals long term. Our hope is that you leave this event knowing more about Ohlone culture, as well as what you can do to conserve local ecosystems and traditions.
  • We sign community service hours for youth if needed!

Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

Summer program, 8 weeks

Due: Feb 22nd

16 yrs or older

The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is an eight-week program in which high school students with a broad range of experiences, interests and backgrounds are invited to perform basic research with Stanford faculty, postdoctoral fellows, students and researchers on a medically-oriented project. The goals of the program include increasing interest in biological sciences and medicine in high school students and helping students to understand how scientific research is performed. US Citizen or Permanent Resident to Apply. There is a $40 application fee to apply. The application fee will be waived if your gross family income is under $80,000 or if you have special circumstances that make it difficult to pay. If you need to waive the fee, you can indicate this on the online application. WEBSITE

Health Science Immersion Program (HSIP)

Virtual Spring

Due: Feb 23rd

Grades Eligible:9-12th

9 Saturday afternoons via Zoom, high school students gain an introduction to the health sciences field. Students will hear from graduate students, research professors, and various health professionals as they learn more about the health sciences' academic, research, and professional components. Free if qualify for Family Guidelines for Free or Reduced Lunch Program WEBSITE

Genomics Research Internship Program at Stanford (GRIPS)

DUE: February 28th

ELIGIBILE AGES: 16yr and older

A free, research-intensive summer internship program open to Bay Area high school students. Program participants will be placed in a research laboratory for 8 weeks over the summer and conduct genomics research under the supervision of a lab mentor. WEBSITE

Elon University's Emerging Journalists Program

Due: March 1st

Grades Eligible: 9-12th and 11th only

Program is a way to inspire high school students to pursue a career in journalism. Two summer programs - Exposure and Immersion. Immersion is for rising seniors from diverse socio-economic, racial and ethnic backgrounds. Exposure is virtual and open to all. Fill on a first come basis. WEBSITE

Golden Gate National Park Conservancy Youth Leadership Program: LINC Summer High School Program

Due: March 10th

Grades Eligible: 9-12th

Linking Individuals to their Natural Community (LINC) is a summer program for high school students focused on service learning and conservation in local communities and parklands. Upon successful completion of LINC summer program you will receive an educational award of up to $2,400. WEBSITE

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ELIGIBLE GRADES: 9-12th

Rhizome, a nonprofit is offering a community service, leadership, and civic engagement opportunity through their Civic Service Fellowship. Year round opportunities! website

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ELIGIBLE GRADES: 9-12th

free and open collection of material from thousands of MIT courses, covering the entire MIT curriculum. No registration. WEBSITE

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ELIGIBLE GRADES: 9-12th

Weekly activities 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

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Saturday Homework and Tutor Help at the Boys & Girls Club

Dates for the first semester of the year. LUNCH INCLUDED!
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Volunteer with Peninsula Bridge: Teacher Assistant

Due: February 28th

Grades Eligible:9-12th

Looking for motivated and committed high school and college-aged students to be Teaching Assistants for our Middle School Academy Summer Program. See flier in newsletter and in the College & Career Center. WEBSITE

Second Harvest Silicon Valley

Volunteer

all year

Grades Eligible: 9-12th

To sign up to volunteer, visit our website by selecting one of the following options:

Sort food at our warehouses, Distribute food to community members - Distribution sites are located in nearly every neighborhood in Silicon Valley,

Deliver food to homes – Load your vehicle and deliver healthy groceries to homes of seniors and other homebound clients in Santa Clara or San Mateo County. You must be 18 years old to volunteer for this activity. WEBSITE

Do you love dogs? Doggie Protective Services (DPS) Volunteer Opportunity

ELIGIBLE AGES: 14+

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.

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Camp Volunteer Opportunities at Marine Science Institute

ELIGIBLE GRADES: 9-12th

This is a great place for volunteers interested in science to help younger students learn about science.Year round opportunities! WEBSITE

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City Trees Volunteer Opportunities

CityTrees loves working with volunteers from our community. The easiest way to volunteer with City Trees is to sign up for an upcoming event. Year round opportunities! WEBSITE

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San Mateo County Historical Association

all year

Eligible Grades:9-12th

Volunteer for free public programs throughout the year: Lunar New Year, Happy San Mateo County Day, Fourth of July (half-price admission), Victorian Days, Día de los Muertos, and Hometown Holidays. Interested students can email carmen@historysmc.org for upcoming volunteer opportunities. WEBSITE

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Friends of the Redwood City Library

Eligible Grades:9-12th

Volunteer to staff the Bookstore in the Downtown Library. This requires a 2-hour per week commitment. Volunteers chat with customers and accept payment. There are Saturday shifts plus shifts from 4 to 6 and 6 to 8 in the afternoon/evenings. WEBSITE

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Must be 16yr+

Help families able to stay close to their sick children

Families with critically ill children are going through some of the hardest moments of their lives.Year round opportunities!

For more information, click here

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Volunteer Opportunity with Habitat for Humanity

Must be 16yr+

Help at their construction site in Daly City.

Click Here for more information

Cal Grant Update - Make your WebGrants account

From California Student Aid Commission (CSAC)


After your FAFSA or CADAA application is processed, you’ll receive an email letting you know it’s time to create your WebGrants4Students account. When you create your account, it will still show INCOMPLETE for Cal Grant but if you click on details, you will be able to see your GPA which means you've done your part.


The deadline is March 2nd for Cal Grant Priority.

If you have any questions call CSAC- 888-224-7268

Nine surprising facts about the cost of attending the University of California from UC Newsroom

1. The majority of UC’s California undergrads get financial aid.

A full 70 percent of UC’s California undergrads get grants and scholarships — the average amount is about $20K. We’re not talking loans. This is money for school that doesn’t need to be paid back.


2. UC tuition is fully covered for more than half of California students.

That’s no typo. For most in-state students, if your household income is $100K or less, your UC tuition payment is ZERO. In fact, more than 50 percent of UC’s California undergrads pay no tuition at all.


3. A debt-free path is possible.

Not only do a majority of California undergrads get help with tuition, but more than half of the Class of 2022 graduated completely debt-free, without any student loans at all.

If you do take out loans, know that UC students borrow far less than the national average. And special low-interest loans are available to both parents and students.


4. There’s help for middle-class families too.

Costs are on the rise for just about everything, and middle-income families are feeling the pinch. Through its Middle-Class Scholarship program, California provides college dollars for families with annual incomes up to $234K.


5. You’re likely to get money. And more than you realize.

Lots of college applicants don’t think they’ll qualify for aid. But UC has one of the best financial aid programs in the country, and it’s a good bet you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Another surprise: Many financial aid applicants get more than they expected.


6. You can count on tuition staying flat.

There are no surprises with UC tuition. What you pay as a first-year is likely to be the same thing you’ll pay as a senior, making it easier to plan and budget.


7. Financial aid goes beyond tuition.

For California students, the average undergrad financial aid award covers more than tuition, providing about $4,500 more in grants and scholarships to help with costs like food, housing and living expenses.


8. There’s money for undocumented students, too.

Everyone should have access to education. If you’re an undocumented Californian, you may be eligible for state and UC dollars through the California Dream Act.


9. UC is an investment with a high return.

UC graduates out-earn other California college grads and take in 84 percent more in lifetime earnings than their peers without degrees.


Don’t just take our word for it: All nine UC undergraduate campuses just earned top marks for their combination of excellence and affordability from Money magazine. With all the economic, social and personal advantages that come with a UC degree, it’s a value that’s hard to beat.


Full article available here.

Next Steps After Submitting Your Financial Aid Application

  1. Check your email for confirmation that your application has been submitted.

    1. If you do not receive an email, log back into your application, and verify that you submitted it. Also, verify that you submitted an application for the correct school year. It should be for the year you will be in college.

  2. After a few days, check your email for confirmation that your application has been processed.

    1. If you do not receive an email, log back into your account, and check for any error messages.

    2. For FAFSA filers, contact Federal Student Aid for questions about processing your application. For CADAA filers, contact CSAC for questions about processing your application.

See this document for full instructions about Next Steps. Copies available in College and Career Center.

Parents: Some General Financial Aid Information at Sequoia High and CA Assembly Bill 132

  • Students were given a FAFSA/CADAA Worksheet in their Social Studies Class. This is just as a guideline for what information you will need to have in order to complete the FAFSA/CADAA starting in December. (sorry for any confusion)



  • The district will be sending out information about AB 132, that requires all public school districts and charter schools in California to confirm that all high school seniors have completed a FAFSA or CADAA, unless the student opts out



  • If families do not want to complete the FAFSA/CADAA, you can go to the district's Financial Aid Resources webpage to complete an opt-out form (scroll all the way to the bottom of the page)

Cal Grant Verification

Sequoia Union High School District submitted your GPA to Cal Grant November 6, 2024

Make sure your Infinite Campus information (name and address) is correct to avoid matching problems. If something needs to be change, contact the counseling office

No Verification Form is needed AFTER submitting your FAFSA/Dream Application!

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FAFSA

Two and four-year college bound seniors, complete this Free Application for Federal Student Aid online today regardless of your family income.

Go here to learn more.

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CA Dream Act

California Dream Act allows undocumented and nonresident students to receive certain types of financial aid funded through public universities, state administered financial aid, university grants, community college fee waivers, and cal grants.

Go here to learn more.

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CSS Profile

The CSS Profile is an online application that collects information used by nearly 290 private colleges and some public university scholarship programs to award non-federal aid.

Go here to learn more.

Think About Getting a Summer Job You Can Do While You Are Going to School/College - Get Certified As a Lifeguard

Here are some of the best benefits of becoming a lifeguard from the YMCA

1. Become Part of a Fun Team

You’ll learn to work together with every member of the lifeguarding team and help each other out from everyday routines to life-threatening emergencies.

2. Stay Fit

Being a lifeguard means you get to kill two birds with one stone; making money while staying in shape!

3. Make a Difference

When you work as a lifeguard, you get the satisfaction of going into work every day knowing that you will actively make an impact.

Most first jobs don’t give you that kind of fulfillment and a sense of accomplishment.

4. Challenge Yourself

You don’t just fill out an application and become a lifeguard like you would any other part-time job. You have to take a lifeguarding course and pass a rigorous certification test in order to even be qualified to apply as a lifeguard.

You’ll be trained in CPR, First Aid, and water rescue, plus consistently participate in water drills with other lifeguards. Being a lifeguard isn’t for everyone, so take on the challenge to better yourself and reach this goal.

5. Learn Lifelong Skills


Lifeguarding gives you a lot of transferable skills that are important in many other jobs as well as in everyday life. Lifeguards must be responsible and alert, plus able to assert themselves in situations where people’s lives are at risk. As a lifeguard, you’ll interact with people multiple times a day, so you’ll naturally build your communication and interpersonal skills. In an emergency situation, you’ll be trained to make quick decisions and stay calm under pressure, which is applicable in any job.

Job Opportunities

Recreation Leaders I/II and Program Coordinator positions with San Carlos Parks and Recreation Summer Camp programs

Must be 16 or older to apply

San Carlos Parks and Recreation is looking for individuals who are passionate about giving back to the community, motivated, enthusiastic, and responsible. Engage a fun and positive leadership experience while also having the opportunity to make an impact on kid’s lives. Come join our Parks and Recreation staff as a Recreation Leaders I/II or Program Coordinator in our Summer Camp Programs! Learn more and apply today at https://www.calopps.org/city-of-san-carlos

Goetz Bros. Sporting Goods Customer Service Part-Time Job

Goetz Bros. Sporting Goods is looking to hire part-time sales associates. Students usually work 6-10 hours a week, after school and on Saturdays. Sports experience is nice but not a must and no work experience is required. Tasks will include customer service, inventory management and assistance with custom decoration. For more information or to apply contact Brent Goetz, brent@goetzsports.com or 650-366-4082

Part-time Grader Assistants Needed San Carlos Math and Reading Center Kumon Tutoring Center

ELIGIBLE GRADES/AGE: Juniors and Seniors

$17.00 hour Looking for students with good math and reading skills who are available to work approximately 6 - 8 hours per week on Monday and Thursday afternoons. Ideal part time job for high school or college students. Pick up a flier in the College and Career Center


If interested email qualifications and resume to kumonsancarlos@gmail.com

Mathnasium of Redwood City, a Math-Only Learning Center

ELIGIBLE AGE/GRADE: 16yr+ (Must have own transportation)

Looking for high school students with exceptional math skills through Algebra I and Geometry to join our team! We offer competitively paid part-time jobs at Sequoia Station with flexible scheduling and ongoing training opportunities. Join us for the opportunity to make a REAL difference in a child’s life by passing on a love for math!

Our starting salaries are $17.00-$19.00 depending on what level of math the instructors can teach.

If interested, please apply online

Pick up a flier in the College and Career Center

Hummingbird Music School is looking for fun and talented high school musicians to join our team of Music Teachers!

ELIGIBLE AGE/GRADE: 15yr+

Part-time work is available teaching after-school group Piano Classes at local elementary schools, as well as private lessons (in all instruments) in-person or online. Pay is $60/hour for group classes and $45/hour for private lessons. Please apply online at http://hummingbirdmusicschool.com/about

FAQs/How To Videos
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How To Videos for students now on our website!

Students: visit the website for a number of How-To videos that Sequoia Counselors made for help with common application, scholarships and much more!
REMINDERS From Previous Weekly Newsletters
Click here for a list of past newsletters links

Do you need free or reduced costs for College Applications, IB Exams, Prom Tickets and more?

Complete the 2024-2025 Meal Application

We want all families to complete this confidential meal application so that qualifying students can receive reduced cost bus passes, internet, prom tickets, grad night tickets, college application fees and IB testing registration. To complete the meal application, click here.

Needs to be completed every year!

Missed the Grade Level College/IB Meeting on August 28th

If you missed the Grade Level 4YR College & IB Meeting on August 28th

The grade-level presentation in English and Spanish ( without the recording) and handouts are available on the Sequoia College and Career webpage.

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Past Newsletters

Dec 8-14, 2024 ANNOUNCEMENTS: PCF Info Meeting FINANCIAL AID- Sequoia’s Cash for Colleges (Help with FAFSA/CAADA), Sticker Price v What you Pay GENERAL 4 YR: What to do after you’ve submitted your applications: Some Schools Require Self-Reported Academic Record, Add all Colleges to Naviance UC: Random LOR CSU: Fee Waivers PRIVATE/COMMON APP: Deferred What to do next

Dec 15-21, 2024 CSU: Changes or updates to a submitted application UC: Supplemental Applications From UC Counselor Bulletin COMMON APP: What is Early Decision 2 and Which Colleges Offer It? - From Maia Learning

Dec 22, 2024-Jan 11, 2025 CSU: Changes to Application UC: Supplemental App, Application Verification, Common App Transcripts and Mid Year Reports, FINANCIAL AID: Next Steps After Submitting your FA

SECOND SEMESTER

Jan 12-18, 2025 CAREER: Career in Radiology

Jan 19-25, 2025 Mid Year Reports & Transcript Info, FINANCIAL AID: WUE Tuition, Applying for Scholarship NOW

Jan 26- Feb 1, 2025 CAREER: Careers in Gaming

Feb 2-8, 2025 Click Here Common App: Mid Year Reports Four Yr: Transcript and Reporting D/F or Changes FA: How to Talk to Your Parents About FA

Feb 9-16, 2025 CAREER:Think About Getting a Summer Job You Can Do While You Are Going to School/College - Get Certified As a Lifeguard

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Sequoia High School College & Career Center

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