College & Career Monthly Newsletter
May Edition
It's May.
Dear readers,
We're already in May. Can you believe it? In about one more month, we'll be running around outside, tossing our caps in the air, and moving on from the arc in our life known as "high school". While there are exciting times ahead of us, we can't forget about the here and now. My advice for you all is to keep working diligently towards your goals. As the age old adage goes, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step". You're probably on step 58,482, but now's not the time to stop. Keep it up!
For those of you not graduating soon, you're still on that same journey. You may be a few steps behind, but my advice remains the same. When your efforts finally pay off, you'll be able to look back with pride at the path you've travelled.
And, as always, there are many people out there willing to help you travel as well. If you are struggling, do not hesitate to reach out. The shoulders of many can easily carry the burden of one.
-Philip H
The people have voted: We're going to PCC!
If you would like to go on this field trip, please click here to fill out the form:
Juniors! You are not forgotten!
Look out for an upcoming event soon! It will be the Junior Senior Event, where we discuss what juniors should do/prepare for your Senior year in the Fall! It will likely be in late May or early June.
Pinning the Map
Seniors took time to pin where they were planning on going next year
Oh the places you'll go
Staying in Oregon, but we love in-state tuition!
Photo Booth Fun!
Say Cheese!
Important Dates!
Dates that you should put down in your planner!
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) open now!
- Oregon Promise has opened: Check it out here!
- [Go to the September Newsletter to learn more!]
- Senior Career Credit due: May 8th
Seniors, you may be aware that you need to complete something in order earn your last bit of career credit to graduate high school. That instinct is correct, as you will need to fill out a Career Credit Form created by yours truly.
Here's what you'll need to do:
1. Access the form here: https://forms.gle/HU1mxsKyiEv4uyBc6
2. Fill out the Form
3. Access the APEX modules (Financial Aid and Careers) through the FOS Class of 2026. There are a few modules you must complete, but they are not graded.
4. In the form, there will be a section that asks if you are planning on going to college or pursuing another option. Choose the one that is appropriate for you and complete the relevant documents.
5. Submit the form!
Once you've completed everything, the counselors and I will review the submissions at a later date and award the career credit
Other info to note: The due date for the career credit is May 8th.
If you are stuck or have questions, please contact me at philip_hou@beaverton.k12.or.us
- Are you going to a 4 or 2 year school? You may need to make a Common Application account and start the application process!
- Do you need to take the SAT or ACT for your school? Check the Registration Deadlines!
- Do you need a Letter of Recommendation for a school? (Most schools don't, but it's always good to double check)
- FAFSA or ORSAA? Take a short quiz to see which one you need!
- What the heck are those? Learn more about FAFSA and ORSAA here!
- Are you an athlete and want to play sports in college? Register for NCAA or NAIA!
College Tours
Some general tips for College Tours:
#1: Ask Questions (and take notes!)
--> This one may seem obvious, but it's not. A lot of times students will go on a campus visit and just take everything the tour guide says at face value. Make them sweat a little! Ask them about the campus culture, what people do on the weekends, does campus feel safe (and why), and more! You want to make sure you leave the tour knowing more information than you could find on their website.
#2: Know what you want from a school (do your research)
--> Before you even step foot on campus, think about what will help you succeed at school. Do you like a campus with a lot of people? Maybe a campus that's smaller? How about teachers that have time to answer questions? Keep your preferences in mind as you take the campus tour. See if the college actually matches what you want. It's ok to be picky!
#3: Get Financial Aid Information
--> One of the big factors that draw (or deter) students from a school is the cost. Definitely find out about the schools financial aid options like scholarships offered, work-studies, etc. Most schools have a financial aid office. It wouldn't hurt to check in with them and talk about realistic ways to pay for school. You can also think outside the box on savings as well. Does the school require students to live on campus first year? Could you save more by just staying home?
#4: Talk to a current student
-->Most of the tour guides will be current students, but they probably aren't allowed to tell you their honest thoughts on the tour. The best way to find the truth about the school is to talk to the student body. It may be difficult to talk with a current student on campus, but it's possible you may be able to connect with a previous classmate who ended up at that university and asking them to meet up.
#5: Read the Newspaper
--> This is going to sound odd, but most schools have a student newspaper. You can use this information to learn more about the ins and outs of the school (and maybe pick up on some red flags as well). Some schools even have their own radio station you can tune into. Anywhere you can get information, take it.
Addendum: Scholarships
If you're uncertain where to look for scholarships, I will provide a list of websites that are trusted and verified:
- Appily.com
You can sort by many different filters that can help narrow your search.
Hairdresser
What is a Hairdresser?
- "Provide beauty services, such as cutting, coloring, and styling hair, and massaging and treating scalp. May shampoo hair, apply makeup, dress wigs, remove hair, and provide nail and skincare services." Quality Info
What level of Education do I need?
The typical entry level education for this occupation is a Postsecondary training (non-degree).
What's the wage range look like? (Throughout all Oregon, 2025)
- $14.72 (10th percentile) - $37.41 (90th percentile)
- Average Annual: $50,245
What does the growth look like in 10 years?
- 10 year growth is projected to be 8.7%.Employment in this occupation in 2024 was somewhat larger than most occupations across the state. The total number of job openings is projected to be somewhat larger than most occupations in Oregon through 2034. This occupation is expected to grow at about the statewide average growth rate for all occupations through 2034.
What are some schools I can go to for this occupation?
- Portland Beauty School
- Northwest College School of Beauty
- College of Hair Design
- Bella Institute School of Cosmetology
- Mt Hood Community College
- and MANY more!
What are some other related fields?
- Barbers
- Skincare Specialists
- Manicurists/Pedicurists
- Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance
Contact me!
Scheduled an appointment using the link HERE
Email: philip_hou@beaverton.k12.or.us
Location: Tuesday Afternoon (PCC/Zoom Only) Wednesday/Friday (FLEX site)
Phone: 503-356-9170