College & Career Newsletter
279Online and OALC
NOVEMBER 2024
A NOTE FROM THE COLLEGE AND CAREER COUNSELING TEAM
Greetings, scholars!
As we step into November, it’s a key time for college and career planning! For those applying to college, remember that November 1st marks an early action deadline for many schools—a great opportunity to get ahead. But whether you’re ready to apply now or just starting to explore your options, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our College and Career website is packed with resources, and you’ll find important updates in Schoology's College and Career group and advisory announcements.
279Online scholars, if you'd like to connect with our high school counselor, Ms. Dorn, for College and Career support, click here to schedule an appointment.
OALC scholars, please reach out to Ms. Hannah for College and Career support.
279ONLINE DEN SESSIONS - SIGN UP TODAY!
DEN Session for NDSCS: North Dakota State College of Science at 12:20-1:10
Attend this session to learn more about North Dakota State College of Science!
At the North Dakota State College of Science, students gain real-world skills working with new technologies and equipment and learning from experts who have gained their experience in the real world. Most importantly, graduates are prepared to jump right into it with a challenging, high-paying and rewarding career.
Our Academics
NDSCS offers degrees, certificates and diplomas in traditional career and technical studies as well as the liberal arts. The College also offers a variety of distance education and online courses.
97% of 2023 NDSCS graduates are employed or continuing their education.
Student Life
NDSCS offers a complete collegiate experience including outstanding academics, residence halls and a vibrant campus life with student clubs and organizations, fine arts and athletics.
DEN Session for PSEO at North Hennepin Community College at 2:10-3:00
Interested in PSEO for the 2024-2025 school year? Attend this session to learn more!
- PSEO offers high school students the chance to earn college credits while in high school, counting towards graduation requirements.
- Courses can be taken at local colleges or online, often at no cost to you.
- It's a great way to explore academic interests, challenge yourself, and get a head start on college coursework.
COLLEGE RESOURECES
The College Application Process
Applying to college can seem intimidating, especially if you are the first one in your family going to college. However, breaking the process up into tasks and creating a schedule makes it much more manageable. There are three main steps when applying to college: 1) the college application; typically online on the college’s website, 2) sending an official transcript to the college; this is done using Parchment, a service free to all PC students, and 3) completing the FAFSA; the application for student aid. Some colleges ask for a college essay. If an essay is optional, it is best to submit an essay. It is important to pay attention to deadlines. There are multiple deadlines to choose from. Early decision deadlines (ED) are usually in November. ED admissions are binding and the student MUST enroll if offered. Early Action (EA) applications are due in Nov/Dec. EA applications are not binding and students hear back sooner than a rolling admission.
College Planning Guide
College Essay Writing
Crafting a strong college application essay can make a big difference in showing who you are beyond your grades and test scores. Get Schooled's article shares tips on writing a compelling essay to help you stand out. Plus, Get Schooled offers free essay reviews to give you personalized feedback before you hit submit—check it out!
FAFSA UPDATES
The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a form that helps students get money to pay for college. By filling it out, students can see if they qualify for financial aid, like grants, loans, or scholarships. This money can help cover tuition, books, and other school costs. It’s an important step for anyone planning to go to college!
The 2024-2025 FAFSA is open now. It must be submitted by June 30, 2025. You can find the FAFSA and learn more about it on StudentAid.gov, a helpful website that offers information about financial aid, scholarships, and how to manage your money for school.
2025–26 FAFSA® Form Coming Soon
The 2025–26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form will be available to the public on or before Dec. 1, 2024.
How To Prepare for the 2025–26 FAFSA® Form
Prepare now so you can complete the 2025–26 FAFSA form as soon as it’s available on or before Dec. 1, 2024. Here are some ways you can get ready:
Create a StudentAid.gov account (if you don’t already have one).
Learn about the documents you may need to fill out the FAFSA form.
Determine your dependency status and whether your parent(s) or spouse will be required to contribute information on your FAFSA form.
If you’re a dependent student, use the Who’s My FAFSA Parent? wizard to identify which parent(s) will be a required contributor on your form.
CAREER EXPLORATION
Wondering how to find a career that fits your interests? Get Schooled has an insightful article, 8 Ways to Explore Career Options, offering practical ideas for discovering fields that might be right for you. Each suggestion includes helpful resources to guide your career exploration journey!
Indigo Pathway Career Survey
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Brooklynk's Stem Panel
Join an exciting STEM Panel on November 8!
This is your chance to connect with leading STEM professionals and explore amazing career opportunities.
Event Highlights:
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with STEM experts and fellow participants.
- Dinner Provided: Enjoy a delicious meal while you learn.
- Company Showcase: Explore interactive exhibits featuring cutting-edge science, technology, engineering projects from companies like Cummins, Design Ready Controls, Medina Electric, and more!
- Panel Discussion: Hear from industry leaders about the future of STEM.
RSVP by November 5!
Open to all BrookLynk Alumni or youth and young adults age 14-24.
For questions, contact Nyoka Ameyaw at nyoka.ameyaw@brooklynk.works.
Get Schooled Learning Courses
Take a look at the Get Schooled courses for some valuable learning resources! These courses cover important topics in a fun and engaging way. You can get tips for creating a standout resume, learn smart money management skills, or explore different pathways you can take after high school. It’s a great way to build the skills you need for your future.
TOP 5 SCHOLARSHIPS
1. Elks Most Valuable Student Scholarship: The Elks National Foundation will award 500 four-year scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $7,500 per year. Leadership, academic achievement, community involvement and financial need are important considerations. (Due 11/12/24)
2. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship: An award up to $40,000 per year to attend a four-year institution. Applicants must have a 3.5 GPA or above, an ACT score of 26 or higher, participate in available advanced courses, and have a commitment to learning. (Due 11/14/24)
3. Students of Integrity Scholarship: Better Business Bureau Serving Minnesota and North Dakota awards scholarships to seniors who have demonstrated integrity, leadership, and ethical values. Scholarship money is awarded directly toward winners’ post-secondary education expenses (tuition or room/board only) at any accredited institution. (Due 11/25/24)
4. Elevate Women in Technology Scholarship: One $500 scholarship will be awarded to a female high school senior. Essay question is "how do you envision using your interests, skills, and career in technology to make the world a better place?" (Due 11/30/24)
5. Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship: One $670 scholarship awarded to a student at any educational level and field of study. Students applying to the scholarship will be required to write an essay about how their experience with mental health has influenced their beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. (Due 11/30/24)
