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Senior College & Career Newsletter

April 6-19, 2025 (Two-week edition)

Senior College &Career NewsletterApril 6-19, 2025 (Two-week 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:

April-May Various CSU Applications Deadlines (see 'CSU Section)

April 24th- Permission Slip due for Super Registration Field Trip to Cañada College

May 6th and 9th- Super Registration Field Trip to Cañada College- see details below

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)

Going to Cañada Next Year? - SUPER REGISTRATION Field Trip May 6th/9th

PERMISSION SLIPS DUE: April 24th

Field Trip will be May 6th or 9th depending on your IB Exams.

Have you applied to Cañada College or are planning to?

Pick-up a permission slip in the College and Career Center to attend a field trip to Cañada to complete all enrollment steps.

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

Coalition for College Webinars: Cracking the Code: Financial Aid Offers

April 8: . 8 p.m. ET

Admissions and financial aid experts from Reed College, Skidmore College, St. Mary’s College of Maryland, and Washington and Lee University will offer guidance to help you interpret your financial aid packages, compare costs, and ask the right questions to make the best decision for your future. Come along with your questions so that you can leave ready to take the next step in making your college decision.

Register →

Cafecito con Colegios - Saturday, April 12

Saturday, April 12

We look forward to meeting your Spanish-speaking families at WACAC's Cafecito con Colegios webinar series! Our final session for the academic year, Ayudando a Su Estudiante a Tomar Decisiones Colegiales (Helping My Student Make College Decisions), is on Saturday, April 12 at 9:00 a.m. In this virtual session, we will discuss how we can help our students make decisions about their college list and where to enroll.

We invite you to share this event with any Spanish-speaking families in your community.

Learn more and register today!

COLLEGE INFORMATION

GENERAL FOUR YEAR COLLEGE INFORMATION GENERAL FOUR YEAR COLLEGE INFORMATION

How to choose a college: Key tips for students from College Essay Guy

  • Congratulate yourself for getting this far! Having multiple college options is a good position to be in.

  • Have honest financial conversations and understand support. Be realistic about what you and your family can afford. In particular, research things like average student loan debt for graduates—student loans are frequently more of a burden than students expect.

    • Resource: For more on how to pay for college, check out these modules

    • Resource: How to write a financial aid appeal letter

  • If possible, visit campuses. Experiencing the environment firsthand can be invaluable. If in-person visits aren't possible, explore virtual tours. Resources like the Fiske Guide or Colleges Worth Your Money can also provide insights.

    • Resource: How to get the most out of your college visit

    • Resource: 60+ possible questions to ask on a college tour

  • Prepare for your independence! College is a time of significant personal growth. Spend some time reflecting on the human being you want to be in five years. How does college help you on that path?

  • Don’t rush your decision. Take your time to weigh the factors below.

  • Think about best fit qualities, not simply prestige. Focus on what truly matters to you in a college experience. (College ranking systems like those of US News or Niche can be fairly poor indicators here, since many of the things that go into those rankings may not actually line up with what matters to you specifically.)


The "Six F's" of college fit—factors for choosing a college to attend

Susan Tree introduced six key "F's" to consider when determining college fit:

Focus: What are your academic and non-academic priorities? What are your "must-haves"?

Fellowship: Who do you want to share your college experience with?

Financial: Not all loans are created equal.

  • Be aware of federal student loan limits. For example, the freshman year limit is $5,500.

Future: How successful is the college in supporting students' aspirations?

Family: Is anything happening in your family that takes priority at this time?

  • Consider the distance from home and how it intersects with cultural

Feeling: These are questions to ask yourself directly:

  • How do you feel on campus? Excited? Safe? Explorative?

  • Do you have a magnetic pull?

  • Are these your people?

  • Is there a gut feeling that this place is right or wrong?

  • What is the vibe, and does it match you?

Additional Points for First-Generation and/or Low-Income Students

  • If you can't visit campus, remember that many colleges have virtual admitted student day programming.

  • If affordability is the main criteria, make it a central focus of your decision. Look at the total cost of attendance and aim to keep loans to a minimum. Understand long-term financial commitments.

  • Don't be afraid to ask questions about quality of life, diversity, safety, affinity, and support services.

  • Connect with affinity groups in April.

  • Look at average earnings for graduates in your major.

  • Explore resources like Forbes' "How to Calculate the ROI of Your College Choice" Guide and Washington Monthly's college rankings (based on social mobility).


Final Steps

As you near your decision, consider these final steps:

  • Create a pros and cons list. Make a list of your priorities and give each school a 1-5 rating on each of the Six Fit Dimensions.

  • Look at the schools with the highest ratings. But remember, you don't have to pick number one. Don't discount your likely schools.

  • Forget about waitlisted schools and do not factor them into your decision.

  • Be sure to emphasize the non-negotiables when rating.

  • Make a decision by the college's deadline.

Choosing a college is a personal journey.

By considering these factors and reflecting on what truly matters to you, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and find the college that's the best fit for your future.

Full article

FA Award Letters

Do you Have all of Your Financial Aid Award Letters?

Missing Award Letters


AT THIS POINT, if you have not received your financial aid award letter for the colleges where you were admitted, CALL the FINANCIAL AID office immediately. You need that information to make the best decision for your family.

Conditional Status - Possible Reasons to Take Away an Admission Offer

Every year HUNDREDS of students at colleges rescind admission offers because of changes in what either was stated on the application or predicted grades changes of seniors who have been admitted CONDITIONALLY


Possible Reasons to Take Away Admissions:

Conditional Status – EVERY STUDENT NEEDS TO READ

  • Each college could have very specific conditions for an individual student; it is important to carefully read the fine print of each school’s message. Some scholarships or programs have GPA requirements or provisions for no Cs on your transcript

  • Lower than Predicted Grades (courses and IB exams)

Schools admit you based on your previous grades and assume you will be receiving the same type of grades. If there is a NOTICEABLE change in your grades, you should contact the school and explain yourself.

  • Ds or Fs, Dropping a Course and Any Major Change or Behavior Issue

A final report will be written by each counselor that will include any required reporting to a private school including a final transcript and changes from a student’s School Report. If you think you might be getting a D or F, or have dropped a course, plan on not taking an exam listed on application or have been suspended for a behavior issue, you need to contact the schools IMMEDIATELY. Please call the admissions office and find out what their process for reporting changes


Remember

Colleges do not want to find out about low grades, changes in your schedule, and/or what you put on your application is different from what you originally told them when they received documents from Sequoia High School in July. Admission officials often remind counselors to tell students the following; if they find out before a student tells a college, his/her offer of admissions will be taken away. Remember reporting does not mean you will be rescinded. It is your responsibility to tell a school in a timely manner.


Appeals and Waitlist


Remember – Every college is different! The first thing you should do is go to the individual website or thoroughly read through the school’s communication emails.

A. APPEALS

Carefully read how to appeal on the college’s website, every school has its own process. Some schools do not allow appeals.

B. WAITLISTS

What to do if you are on a Waitlist?

It will be different for each school but most you have to communicate that you want to be on the waitlist. Some, make you write why you want to be on the waitlist. Ask if you can do anything to increase your chances

Do you need to commit to another college?

You need to submit a deposit to another college. If you get off the waitlist, you will lose your deposit costs. Do not assume you will get off the waitlist.



*Report D/F orChanges in Your Application


*Check your portals and emails often and do not wait to respond!


*Make sure you complete all financial aid requirements for each college

Update Your Admit Status on “Colleges I’m Applying To” in Naviance

As you get decisions from the colleges you applied to, please update your College's I'm Applying To


  • College Tab
  • Colleges I'm Applying to
  • Go through each college listed (add colleges if not already listed) CLICK on EDIT
  • Pop Up - CLICK on RESULT and choose from the dropdown options (admit, denied, waitlisted)


REMINDER

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.

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 April 2nd for Cal Grant Priority.

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

CHECK YOUR PORTALS

At least once a week!

Complete all To Do's as soon as possible!

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

2025 Admitted Student Days

From CSU Counselor Bulletin

Our campuses are hosting admitted student days this month and in April for students and their families to experience and immerse themselves at their future Cal State campus. View our campus events webpage for more details

CSU Statement of Intent to Register/Enroll

From CSU Counselor Bulletin


To view a list of the Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) or Admission Acceptance or Enrollment Confirmation deadlines and deposit requirements, visit our Statement of Intent to Register webpage.


Make sure you apply for HOUSING asap!

Did you Apply to San Francisco State? Check out the Metro Program

The Metro College Success Program (Metro) at San Francisco State University (SFSU) looks forward to aiding in the successful transition from high school to college this coming fall. Our application is now open and seniors can apply today!


What does the Metro College Success Program Provide Incoming Freshmen?

Classes that cover their G-E credit requirements w. no additional charge, academic advising and educational planning specific to each student’s major, and tutoring services from Metro’s MARC Center! Coordinators and Advisors who are committed to supporting students, and the opportunity to build community with other students who are interested in similar majors.

Here is the Metro application link

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.

CSU Deadlines Extended

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.

UC INFORMATION

First-year admission updates and resources (Next Steps for Admitted Students/Waitlists & Appeals)

From UC Counselors and Advisers Bulletin

Admission decision season is here! Some campuses have begun notifying first-year/freshman applicants of their admission status, while others plan to contact students later this month. Transfer applicants will learn of their admission status starting this month through late April.
For more information on the enrollment process for first-years, including campus-specific information, reference the following two resources:


  • Next steps from admission to enrollment
  • First-year waitlist and appeals fact sheet

Campus events for admitted students

From UC Counselors and Advisers Bulletin


Admitted students will have a range of options to engage with campuses this spring. Campuses are planning multiple events in April and May for students to learn more about the campus experience and resources available. View a list of the spring 2025 campus events.

Unless otherwise linked, further event information and registration details can be found in the host campus’ applicant portal.

Events denoted with an asterisk (*) are also open to prospective students.

Make Sure You Check Your Emails and Portals - Time Sensitive Information is Communicated There!

From UCSD

Triton Days Open House on April 12. We have plenty of in-person and virtual events where admitted students can engage with our team and the greater Triton community, all outlined on the Events tab of their portal.

If students have questions about next steps after receiving an offer of admission or an offer to join our waitlist, please visit the first-year timeline or FAQ page for more information.


From UCLA

  • First-Year New Student Checklist
  • Yield, or likelihood of enrolling, is difficult to predict. We are conservative in our initial decisions with hopes of taking students from the waitlist. Waitlist activity won’t be known until after May 1st. Students offered the waitlist must decide by April 15th whether to opt in and should accept another university’s offer prior to the commitment deadline. For more information about this process, please visit the First-Year Waitlist page on our website.


  • While we have a decision appeal process, very few decisions are reversed (last year, only five). We advise students to make alternative plans and consider carefully before submitting an appeal

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

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

Steps to Enroll at Cañada College

We will complete Steps 4-6 at Canada College on the May 6th or 9th field trip. Come by the College and Career Center to get help with the process.

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 April and May lists are NOW AVAILABLE.

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.

Tzu Chi Scholarship

DUE April 10th

For outstanding college-bound seniors. Criteria: financial need, academic achievement, and community involvement. GPA 3.0

JETAANC Scholarship

DUE: April 13th

Seniors living in Northern CA & NV, of any nationality, who demonstrate a genuine interest in Japan, Japanese language and/or culture. Going to 2-yr o4 4-yr college

Monterra Credit Union Scholarship (formally San Mateo Credit Union)

Due: April 4th (Extended to April 15th)


For graduating seniors with GPA 3.0+, 500+ word essay; see website for topic.

Scholarships DUE April 15th

Vietnamese Physician Association of No. CA Scholarship

Students of Vietnamese descent living in Northern CA. Must have 3.7 GPA. Financial need, essay, extracurricular activities, interpersonal communication skills.

OCA San Mateo County Scholarship

Identify as Asian Pacific American, resident of san mateo county, intend to enroll in college/university in fall of 2025. Criteria include financial need, community service and volunteerism, leadership and creativity and academics.

Hearing Loss Association of America Peninsula Chapter Scholarship

For graduating seniors in San Mateo County with documented hearing loss. 4-yr college, community college, or trade school. Send email to request application.

Looking for a Female Attending a UC/CSU Studying Some Type of STEM

Come speak to Ms Yeager by April 18th at lunch!

Scholarships Due: April 25th

CA Association of Supervisors of Child Welfare and Attendance (CASCWA) Bay Section Scholarship

For graduating seniors who have overcome unique challenges and difficulties, who may have had to overcome barriers to success early on due to personal or family challenges, excessive absence or discipline concerns.


Kiwanis Club of San Carlos Scholarship

Several $1000.00 scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school seniors who excel academically and in activities. Applicants must live in San Carlos or Belmont. See application in Naviance or get from College & Career Center.


San Mateo County Association of Grand Jurors

For high school seniors with min. 2.0 GPA who complete two essays about the grand jury system.


Sequoia Stamp Club Collector's Scholarship

For seniors collecting stamps or a similar hobby/activity. 2.0+ GPA and will go to a 2-yr or 4-yr college. Write an essay on your particular hobby. Application on Naviance or pick up in College and Career Center. Turn-in to Ms. Ignaitis


Sequoia High School Dreamer's Scholarship

For AB-540 students. Scholarship Application available on the school website. Please turn in your completed application to Ms. Slater in room 201 or at jslater@seq.org

Scholarships Due: April 30th

The Tang Scholarship

Provides financial assistance to Bay Area lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Asian and Pacific Islanders for 2- or 4-yr college or vocational program. Min GPA 3.0. Download application on Naviance or pick up in College and Career Center


HENAAC Great Minds in STEM Scholarship

For students pursuing a STEM degree at 2-yr or 4-yr college. MIN GPA of 3.0 (2.5 for non-merit-based scholarships). Must be of Hispanic descent and/or must demonstrate significant leadership or service within the underserved community.


Love Lotus Foundation Renewable Scholarship

Sequoia Senior who demonstrates outstanding achievement and is part of the first generation of their family pursuing college (community or 4 yr) Local scholarship, must have at least a 3.0 GPA Renewable for 4 years -

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
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The 2025 Competition is Here! US House of Representatives - Congressional Art Competition

DUE: April 6

ELIGIBLE GRADES: 9-12th

Each spring, a nation-wide high school arts competition is sponsored by the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. The Congressional Art Competition is an opportunity to recognize and encourage the artistic talent in the nation, as well as in our California 15th Congressional District.

The competition is open to all high school students in our District. The winning artwork of our district’s competition will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. The exhibit in Washington will include the winning artwork from all participating districts from around the country. The winning artwork is also featured on House.gov’s Congressional Art Competition page. The second and third place winners may be featured in our District Office.

Art Competition Rules


Please view the full set of rules and criteria on the Congressional Art Institute’s website.

Contests Due: April 30th

Digital Responsibility: E-Waste Scholarship

9th-12th grade

Complete the application form and include a 140-character statement that completes this sentence: The most important reason to care about e-waste is…


Be-You-Tiful, Be Free Multimedia Contest, From the Eating Disorders Resource Center

9th-12th grade

Submit a poem. essay, artwork, or video

THEME: How does social media and the world around you influence how you see yourself or others?

pdf
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Centennial Art Contest Flyer (2).pdf
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How to Review and Compare Your Financial Aid Awards from College Board

Full Article

How much financial aid you receive may vary between colleges and may change with each year you attend. It’s important to understand how much your college expects you to pay. Reviewing your financial aid award letter is one way to identify the amount of aid you’ll receive to help pay for college.

How to compare your financial aid offers

To help determine which college makes the most sense for you financially, start with these questions when comparing your college options.

How much will each college cost for one year?

Compare the estimated bill before loans are applied. This will help you understand the breakdown of your bill and ensure you know how much each college is asking you to pay per year.

How much will you need to borrow in loans for each college?

Borrowing money in the form of student loans is the reality for many students who plan to attend college, but what you’ll need to borrow at each college may vary. Consider the cost of each college after subtracting grants, scholarships, and other available resources (such as contributions from any college savings accounts), to determine how much you may need to borrow.

What are the different indirect expenses of attending each college?

These indirect expenses will vary based on a few factors, such as what’s included in tuition and fees and the location of the campus. If one college covers books in their tuition and fees, it could save you a significant amount of money over the course of a degree. Don’t forget to consider specific costs related to traveling to and from college. For example, going to an out-of-state college may require you to buy multiple plane tickets. While not paid directly to the college, these costs impact how much you’ll pay.


Once you’ve received the information from all the schools you’re interested in, start reviewing and comparing your financial aid offers to determine which colleges are affordable for you. Once you’ve made your college decision, there are still some next steps to take before you get on campus, such as paying a tuition deposit, attending orientation, and others that you can read more about here.


Tools

Scholarships360

NASFAA Worksheet

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.

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 March.

Doctors on Board Pipeline Physicians Medical Forum

Due: April 11th

Grades Eligible: 9-12th

African American/Black, Native American, Samoan, Tonga, Fiji, Guam, Filipino, and Hispanic/Latino students who want to become a physician. WEBSITE

Girls who Code

Due: April 11th

Grades Eligible: 9-12th

Girls Who Code offers two FREE programs in the summer: the virtual Summer Immersion Program and the Self-Paced Program. Applicants can apply for BOTH programs, if eligible, using this application. However, students can only participate in one summer program. Self-Paced Program/6-week flexible computer science course. Earn beginner-level badges in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for web development or an intermediate-level badge in Python for cybersecurity. Early decision deadline: Feb 26th WEBSITE

Calling all high school students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare! 22nd Annual UCSF ADEA HSOC

April 12th

ELIGIBLE GRADES/AGES: 9-12th

Come spend a day with current UCSF students to explore healthcare career options! The day will include presentations and hands-on activities from medical, dental, physical therapy, graduate division, pharmacy, students as well as the clinical sciences team. Don't miss out on this opportunity! Registration is free and currently limited to the first 250 students. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Details are listed below.


Date: Saturday (4/12/25)

Time: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Location: UCSF Parnassus campus, Cole Hall (513 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, California 94143)

Registration Link: https://bit.ly/ucsfhosc2025

Future Construction Leaders Camp Teen Girls- Silicon Valley

Summer

Due: April 15

Grades Eligible:9-12

Through hands-on projects, teen girls will handle power tools and learn the essential elements of various construction trades. They’ll develop a “can-do” attitude and greater self-confidence as they tackle challenging projects. Seasoned mentors and role models are on hand to ensure campers perform tasks safely and accurately. WEBSITE

PLEDGE high school internship program

Internship

Due: 4/18/2025

9-12th grade

PLEDGE initiative focuses on reducing gun violence in schools through evidence-based education and brings together diverse perspectives from across the community. The internship is offered through the Stanford School of Medicine and students will have the opportunity to work with each other to shape how gun injury prevention is taught. Students will have the opportunity to work with Stanford Surgery faculty and nurses.

For more information about the program, please visit takethepledge.stanford.edu or

contact Navleen Naru at takethepledge@stanford.edu.

Students can apply directly here

Skyline’s Jump Start Program

Summer

Due: April 18th

Grades Eligible:10-12

Jump Start is a six-week summer program designed to help high school students with college potential upgrade their skills in English, math, critical thinking, and college success skills. Students will be concurrently enrolled at Skyline College, receiving college credit for the courses they take when they complete the program. WEBSITE

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Youth Summer Leadership Academy (Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action)

Summer

Due: April 21

Grades Eligible:9-12

The Academy is a powerful three-week program for high school students passionate about climate action, leadership, and making a difference. Participants will build knowledge, develop skills, and connect with a network of like-minded peers and mentors. WEBSITE

Econolympiad

Three weeks course

Due: April 24

Grades Eligible:9-12

Cooperate in a team-based competition to unravel solutions to current economic issues. 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

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

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

Earn and Learn Occupations From State of California EDD

Earn and learn occupations can include a blend of workplace experience and classroom training. These types of occupations offer opportunities for job seekers to gain real-life work skills and increase their career options.


The State of California has a tool: The California Earn and Learn Occupations Tool is a web-based, interactive tool designed to assist job seekers, workforce partners, and businesses identify potential occupations in which you could earn a wage and learn new skills at the same time.

You can search opportunities by region

You can look at a list of Earn and Learn Occupations

You can find training centers for the education programs associated with the occupation.

Job Opportunities

Rock Band Summer Camp Counselor with Hummingbird Music School

Eligible Age: 16+


We are looking for talented musicians to lead rock band groups at Rock Band Summer Camp! Must have a knowledge of guitar/bass/keys/vocals and the ability to create simple and fun song arrangements.


Rock Band Camp runs in weekly sessions, each Monday-Friday from 9am-3pm throughout June, July and August. Counselors can choose to work one week or all summer long. $600/week. To apply, send a cover letter to info@hummingbirdmusicschool.com


See Flier Below

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

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

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

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

Feb 17-March 1, 2025 FA: Webgrant for Students Account & UC FA Advice 4 YR: How Colleges Communicate with Applicants

Mar 2-8, 2025 CAREER:Should You Pursue an Associate or a Baccalaureate Nursing Degree? From NurseJournal

MARCH 9-15, 2025 FA: Overlooked Strategies for Paying for College CA Priority Deadline Extended to April 2nd, UC: Withdrawing an Application

March 16-22, 2025 FOUR YEAR COLLEGE:Update Your Admit Status on “Colleges I’m Applying To” in Naviance UC: First-year admission updates and resources (Next Steps for Admitted Students/Waitlists & Appeals) CSU: 2025 Admit Days CAREER: Career in Marine Biology

March 23-29 Enter your Art for Cover of Grad Program, GENERAL 4 YR: Update Colleges I’m Applying to Admit, Appeals and Waitlists. FA: 5 Numbers to Look For on Your FA Letter

March 30-April 5, 2025 GEN 4-YR: Conditional Status - Possible Reasons to Take Away an Admission Offer CAREER: Earn and Learn Occupations From State of California EDD

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