WHHS Counseling Department
November 2026 Newsletter
Meet the School Counselors!
Dr. Salahudin-Bolden
Role: Director of Counseling
Students Served: Last names A-Al
(864) 355-0121
Mrs. Lindsey
Dr. York
Ms. Thower
Mr. Brown
Mr. Zimmerman
Dr. Sikes-Brown
Mrs. Castillo
Upcoming Events
- 11/2 - No School (Teacher Workday)
- 11/3 - No School (Election Day)
- 11/5 - GEAR UP Freshman College Tour - Field Trip
- 11/5 - Lander University Visit (during lunch in cafeteria)
- 11/5 - FAFSA Night @ 5:30 p.m. (WHHS Library)
- 11/9 - Deadline to Return College Ready Test Choice Letter - Juniors & Seniors
- 11/11 - Senior Meeting #2
- 11/12 - North Greenville University Visit (during lunch in cafeteria)
- 11/18 - University of North Georgia Visit (during lunch in cafeteria)
- 11/19 - The Fine Arts Center Visitation Day
- 11/25-27 - No School (Thanksgiving Break)
- 11/30 - Enoree Career Center Field Trip
- 12/10 - The Fine Arts Center - Parent Information Night
- 12/21-1/1 - No School (Winter Break)
LAST MONTH AT A GLANCE - Around the School Counseling Office
College Application Day - October 9, 2026
The WHHS Counseling Department hosted its annual College Application Day on October 9, 2026, to help seniors navigate the college application process, explore their postsecondary options, and prepare for their next chapter.
Approximately 128 students participated in this event, gaining valuable guidance and insight to help them take the next steps toward their college goals. We are proud of our seniors for taking an important step toward their futures and look forward to seeing them turn their postsecondary goals into reality!
GRADE LEVEL INFORMATION
9th Grade Attendance Incentives
GEAR UP and Freshman GEAR UP Coordinator, Mrs. Castillo, are sponsoring incentives for your attendance!
Incentives will be awarded quarterly to freshman students with zero unexcused absences.
Additionally, there will be a drawing each month for one 9th grade student to win free entry into a home game.
College and Career Planning Checklist - 9th Grade Tasks
Keep track of key steps to take during each grade of high school to help you plan for college and career. Find a digital checklist at bigfuture.collegeboard.org/checklist.
10th Grade College Prep Checklists
There’s a lot a 10th-grade student can do to stay on the right track toward college, and a lot a parent can do to help. Take a look at these tips for thinking about the future, managing time, taking standardized tests, and more.
Student Checklist
TO DO:
Meet with your school counselor or mentor to discuss colleges and their requirements.
Consider taking a practice Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT), or check out the PreACT Assessments.
Explore the College Scorecard for information about test scores of students accepted at the colleges you want to attend. Work to achieve those scores or higher.
Plan to use your summer wisely: Work, volunteer, or take a summer course (away or at a local college).
Go to career information events to get a more detailed look at career options.
Research majors that might be a good fit with your interests and goals based on your results from the U.S. Department of Labor’s career search.
Learn the differences between grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships.
Parent Checklist
TO DO:
Find out whether your child’s school has college nights or financial aid nights. Plan to attend those events with your child.
- If you aren’t able to start visiting colleges yet, now is a great time to get key information using the College Scorecard for the schools your child is thinking about. Visit each school’s website to see if virtual tours are available.
Help your child develop independence by encouraging him or her to take responsibility for balancing homework with any other activities or a part-time job.
Learn about the standardized tests your child will be taking during 10th through 12th grades.
Get a brief overview of financial aid from Do You Need Money for College? Apply for Federal Student Aid.
Visit https://studentaid.gov/resources/prepare-for-college/checklists/10th-grade for more information!
Clemson Career Workshop
The Clemson Career Workshop (CCW) is a two-year college preparation and Clemson recruitment program. Students apply during their sophomore year and, if selected, begin the program during the summer before their junior year.
Over the course of two years, students participate in two summer experiences at Clemson University, along with academic-year programming through high school graduation. Students have opportunities to:
- Experience Clemson University and college life firsthand
- Participate in college-level academic experiences
- Explore majors and career pathways
- Prepare for the college application and admissions process
- Build relationships with peers from across the country
Applications are now open from September 15, 2026, through January 1, 2027.
Who can apply?: Current 10th-grade students nationwide
Application: https://admissions.clemson.edu/apply/?sr=b525f812-4db1-4ad8-9759-2956be7d505b
Individual Graduation Plan (IGP) Meetings Started on 10/28
Students received their individual IGP meeting invitation letter to take home on Monday (10/19) from the teacher they will be with during their actual meeting time.
In case the parent(s) did not receive it, 11th grade parents received an electronic copy of the IGP Schedule via Backpack last week. Parents are invited to join the meetings virtually by clicking on the Counselor's specific Google Meet link at the meeting time. Students will be in their counselor's office. We look forward to meeting with you and your student to discuss their graduation progress, CCR status, and potential courses for next school year!
Later in the spring, students will receive their Teacher-Recommended course list and will be able to finalize them along with parents when the Student Course Request Letters go out in March 2027.
If you have questions about your student's meeting, please reach out to their School Counselor.
Senior Class - Things to Know
GEAR Up College Readiness Tutoring
Please see the flyer below for more information!
Kaplan Test Prep for Seniors
Please see the flyer below for more information!
FINANCIAL AID RESOURCES
Scholarships of the Month
Greenville Federal Credit Union Foundation Scholarships
The Greenville Federal Credit Union Foundation offers high school seniors the opportunity to apply for (1) $5,000 needs-based scholarship and (5) $2,000 scholarships to help fund their first year of college or technical school.
Eligibility Criteria
In order to qualify for a scholarship, applicants must:
- Be enrolled at a Greenville County School District school.
- Possess a 3.0 GPA or above on a 4-point (non-weighted) scale.
- Be a Greenville Federal Credit Union member in good standing. (Memberships of parents or other immediate family members do not qualify. Learn more about joining here.)
- Be a high school senior accepted on a full-time basis at a college or technical school in the upcoming year.
The deadline to apply is February 1, 2027.
Click HERE to apply!
2027 Journalism Scholarship - "Celebrating Value and Talent"
J. A. Campbell Scholarship Competition
Each year, six students are chosen to receive a full-tuition scholarship valued at approximately $41,000 per academic year, for eight consecutive semesters in your undergraduate degree, provided the recipient is enrolled full-time, maintains good academic standing, meets residence life requirements, and continues to demonstrate a strong leadership ability and commitment to service.
Click on the image below to learn more about the scholarship program and Campbell University (located in North Carolina)!
Roper Mountain Science Center Association (RMSCA) Scholarship
The Roper Mountain Science Center Association (RMSCA) is pleased to share a scholarship opportunity for high school seniors during the 2026–2027 school year.
The RMSCA Scholarship supports local students who are passionate about learning, exploring new ideas and making a difference. Multiple one-time scholarships will be awarded to students who demonstrate an interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), a commitment to their education and a desire to positively contribute to their community.
Application Deadline: December 31, 2026
Click HERE to apply!
Chick-fil-A Community Scholars Program
Every year, thirteen (13) $25,000 scholarships are awarded to students based on academic success, community service and financial need. The Chick-fil-A Community Scholars also participate in the Chick-fil-A Scholars Program, a one-year engagement that includes mentoring and leadership development alongside our $25k Remarkable Futures Scholars. Through this program, we recognize remarkable individuals who share our dedication to caring for others and caring for their communities. It is our pleasure to support the academic journeys of these future leaders.
Eligibility
Applicants to the Chick-fil-A Community Scholars Program must:
- Be 18 years of age by July 15, 2027.
- Currently reside* in the United States (U.S.), Puerto Rico, or Canada at time of application and award
- Be a current
- High school senior/student in their final year of upper or higher secondary school
- College/university Undergraduate
- Graduate student
AND
- Planning to enroll in full-time undergraduate or graduate study for the 2027-2028 academic year at an accredited two-year or four-year college or university, or vocational-technical school or CEGEP institution
- Be involved in community service, extracurricular activities and/or a leadership role in the twelve (12) months prior to application deadline (for example, volunteering for non-profits, helping others less fortunate, tutoring/mentoring, etc.)
- Have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or the equivalent)
- Be willing to participate in the Chick-fil-A Scholars Program (a one-year engagement that includes mentoring and leadership development alongside our $25k Remarkable Futures Scholars), if selected.
- Chick-fil-A employees and dependents/spouses of employees or Operators are not eligible to apply.
- Applicants are NOT required to be citizens or permanent residents of either country. Individuals granted deferred action status under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Program (DACA) and international students attending college in the U.S., Puerto Rico, or Canada are eligible to apply.
Applications close November 3, 2026! Click on the Chick-fil-A image below to apply!
Attention Seniors!!
Please click on the title above, "Scholarships List 2026-2027," to access the scholarship list for the Class of 2027. The list is updated on a regular basis, and includes comprehensive information about a variety of scholarship opportunities.
FAFSA Night - November 5, 2026
Little-Known Secrets of Paying for College - Free Webinar Event
This November 19th at 6:30pm is the day when all questions ever asked will be answered!
Okay, that's quite the overstatement, but The College Funding Coach® will be here to help parents understand the ways to pay for college without going broke! If you are a parent of a preschooler, a parent of a senior in high school, or a parent of anything in between, you will learn strategies to:
- Avoid jeopardizing your retirement nest egg
- Simultaneously save AND pay for college
- Pay for multiple children attending college at the same time
- And much, much more!
This is a free webinar event; however, your registration is appreciated. Please see the flyer below for more information and register through the following link:
Little Known Secrets of Paying for College
Thanks so much and we hope you can join us!
COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS
Special Centers - Fall Events
The Fine Arts Center - High School Visitation Day
The Fine Arts Center is offering a High School Visitation Day on Thursday, November 19, 2026, from 9:15 am – 11:00 am. This event is designed for students who are interested in exploring programs at the Fine Arts Center and would like to experience firsthand what it is like to be a part of the FAC community.
The following pre-professional courses of study are offered at The Fine Arts Center:
- Architecture – no prior experience required
- Creative Writing – no prior experience required
- Dance (Ballet and Modern) – no prior ballet or modern dance experience required
- Digital Filmmaking – no prior experience required
- Music – Jazz Studies, Percussion, Recording Arts, Strings Chamber Music, Voice, Winds Chamber Music
- Note: Students auditioning for Jazz Studies, Percussion, Strings, and Winds must already play their instrument; we do not accept beginners in these areas.
- Theatre Design & Production – no prior experience required; ideal for students who enjoy working with their hands and solving problems
- Theatre Performance – no prior experience required (though prior experience is helpful)
- Visual Arts – applicants should have solid foundational skills in visual arts
What Students Can Expect on Visitation Day
- A group tour of the building led by an FAC Student Ambassador
- An informational session with the FAC Director about our school, programs, and the application/audition process
Scan the QR Code below to register for the visit!
Enoree Career Center Field Trip
Ninth and tenth graders who are interested in learning more about the programs at Enoree Career Center and possibly applying for the 2027-28 school year are invited to attend the Enoree Career Center field trip on Monday, November 30, 2026.
Current 11th graders interested in the Law Enforcement or EMT programs are allowed to participate in the career center tour field trip as well.
Field trip permission forms are available now on the counter in the Counseling Office and are due November 18, 2026.
The Fine Arts Center (FAC) - Parent Information Night
Dear Parents:
You are cordially invited to attend an informational session for parents of students interested in applying to the Fine Arts Center for the 2027-2028 school year. This event is designed specifically for parents to learn more about our programs and gain insight into the opportunities available for students at the Fine Arts Center. We will cover the application and audition process so that families know what to expect.
The session is scheduled for Thursday, December 10, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. The Fine Arts Center is located at 102 Pine Knoll Drive, Greenville.
Please Note:
Sign up for your spot here - https://www.signupgenius.com/go/20F0C4FAAAE2AA1F94-66777555-prospective.
- Due to seating limitations only 2 parents per family can attend.
- If both parents are attending, both must sign up individually for a spot. This will allow us to accurately account for seating.
- This session is for 8th - 11th grade parents only. Students should not attend.
- If the session is full, you can watch the program at the following link -https://www.youtube.com/@fineartscentergoogleacct1300/streams
We look forward to welcoming you and sharing what makes the Fine Arts Center an exceptional place for young artists to learn and grow!
Unique Opportunities for Students
Upstate Premedical Immersion Camp (UPIC)
We are excited to announce the annual Upstate Premedical Immersion Camp (UPIC), a pre-medicine pathway program for high school students in grades 9-12 who are interested in pursuing a career as a physician. The program provides hands-on experiences and meaningful exposure to the medical field. This is designed to increase the educational and mentorship opportunities available to all students. This program will involve medical students from the University of South Carolina - School of Medicine Greenville and resident/attending physicians from Prisma Health Upstate.
The three interactive educational sessions are on Saturdays 9:00 am - 2:00 pm, and lunch will be provided. All sessions will be held at USC School of Medicine Greenville located at 607 Grove Rd, Greenville, SC 29605. *Please note transportation is NOT provided.*
A Closing Ceremony is scheduled for March 9, 2026 from 5:30pm - 7:30pm where family and loved ones are welcome.
The application will close at 5:00 pm on November 2, 2026, and it may be accessed at the following link: https://greenvillehealthsystem.formstack.com/forms/2027_upic_application. If you have any issues with this form, please email meshanko@greenvillemed.sc.edu.
Session Dates:
Saturday, February 20, 2027
Saturday, February 27, 2027
Saturday, March 6, 2027
Tuesday, March 9, 2027 - 5:30pm-7:30pm - Closing Ceremony
VetCAMP 2027
VetCAMP is a 5 day summer camp hosted by the Veterinary Professions Advising Center (VetPAC) at North Carolina State University. Since 2011, this camp has educated students about careers in veterinary medicine and the various opportunities within the field. Camp activities include a tour of the College of Veterinary Medicine, basics of a small animal clinic, hands-on experience with horses, sheep and pigs at the NC State Animal Education Units, suture and dissection labs, learning about NC State majors and more!
The VetCAMP 2027 Program at NC State VetPAC provides key details for the upcoming in-person and virtual summer camp sessions.
NC State VetCAMP 2027 Overview
- Dates & Format:
- In-Person Week 1: June 28 – July 2, 2027
- In-Person Week 2: July 5 – July 9, 2027 (Overnight check-in: July 4)
- Virtual VetCAMP: June 14 – June 18, 2027
- Key Timeline: Applications open January 29, 2027, and close March 26, 2027, with decisions released by April 21, 2027.
- Tuition & Fees: In-person options range from an $800 day camp to a $1,050 overnight camp, while Virtual VetCAMP is $300, plus a $30 application fee.
- Eligibility: Open to eligible U.S. high school sophomores through college freshmen who are at least 15 and have not previously attended in-person VetCAMP.
- Any additional questions or comments can be sent to vetpac_camp@ncsu.edu
Animal Science Vet Camp - South Carolina FFA Leadership Center
The Animal Science Camp (Vet Science) at South Carolina FFA Leadership Center takes place on April 22–25, 2027.
Camp Overview:
- Cost & Capacity: $125 per person, limited to 80 registrations.
- Location: South Carolina FFA Leadership Center (Clemson Extension).
- Activities & Skills: Features industry talks, rotations on handling large and small animals, medication administration, surgical equipment prep, breed/disease identification, a scavenger hunt, and trips to the North Myrtle Beach Humane Society and Alligator Adventure, culminating in a mock CDE.
- Cancellation Policy: Full price applies for no-shows or cancellations within 3 weeks of the event.
More information and registration details may be found HERE!
Innovation Academy - Furman University
The Innovation Academy is a one-week, immersive experience designed to cultivate foundational skills and mindsets in entrepreneurship and innovation for high school students. Through engaging workshops, hands-on activities, and expert mentorship, students will learn to develop and refine a Minimum Viable Product (MVP), shoot a commercial in an award-winning film studio, conduct market research, and craft a compelling business pitch. The program culminates in a final presentation to a panel of industry experts, followed by a graduation ceremony and celebratory dinner. This is an unparalleled opportunity for students to gain entrepreneurial skills, build confidence, and explore future career paths in a collaborative and inspiring environment.
Benefits:
- Entrepreneurial Mindset
- Business Leadership & Teamwork
- Strategic Thinking & Decision-Making
- Public Speaking & Soft Skills
- Financial Literacy & Price Modeling
Requirements:
- High school students (sophomores, juniors).
- Minimum GPA: 3.5 or higher.
Typical Careers of Interest:
- Business Ownership
- Computer Science and Technology
- Data Science and Business Analytics
- Economics and Finance
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Applications for Summer 2027 are now open! Students may apply HERE.
Zoo Career Education Program
Ever wonder what it's like to work at a zoo? Students are invited to explore the many roles that help care for animals and run a zoo. Meet the people behind the scenes and imagine yourself working with wildlife one day! These are pre-registered programs for up to 12 students per class. The cost is $75 per participant.
This Career Day is designed for high school students exploring their next steps in education. Discover the many career paths within a zoo and get a sneak peek at what it’s like to work alongside wild animals!
- Monday, November 2, 2026 and Sunday, December 6, 2026 (10am to 3pm)
- Click HERE to register and purchase your ticket!
Open House Events
In-State Colleges and Universities
University of South Carolina Upstate - Open House
Our Spartan Saturday Open House offers an in-depth look at USC Upstate and an opportunity to meet current and future Spartans. Take a Saturday to tour campus facilities and learn about our degree programs as well as student life options. Faculty and staff will also be available to give you specific details on admission requirements and academic programs. Sessions are available on everything from financial aid to residential life. NOW is the time to register!
This event is Saturday, November 14, 2026 from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM.
GTC's Center for Manufacturing Innovation (CMI) - Open House
Become part of the advanced manufacturing workforce in the Upstate!
RSVP to attend our open house event at the Dr. Keith Miller Center for Manufacturing Innovation (CMI). You'll have the opportunity to tour the facility and speak with representatives from across the college to learn about:
- Academic Programs
- Enrollment Services
- Financial Aid
- Advanced Manufacturing and Transportation Technology
See the state-of-the-art manufacturing technology in this modern, hands-on learning environment. Greenville Technical College (GTC) offers machine tool technology, CNC machining, CAD design, and mechatronics through our associate degree and certificate programs, along with the state's first applied bachelor's degree in advanced manufacturing technology. We also offer corporate training and continuing education options.
Arrive at 5:30 p.m. for complimentary food and beverage!
This event is Thursday, November 19, 2026 from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM.
For information, please visit our website www.CMIgreenville.com.
Clemson University - Solid Orange Open House
This event is Friday, November 6, 2026 from 8:30 AM until 3:00 PM.
Click on the Clemson University image to register!
Event Information
Morris College invites students and their families to experience our campus, discover possibilities, and see what makes Morris a place to call home. This event is November 6, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Scan above to register!
Out-of-State Colleges and Universities
University of Mount Olive - Open House
Register for an upcoming Open House at the University of Mount Olive! The university is located in Mount Olive, North Carolina.
- Enjoy a campus tour, connect with professors & students, and learn about scholarships and financial aid!
- The Open House is Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
- Click on the University of Mount Olive image to register!
Western Carolina University - Open House
Open House is the perfect opportunity to learn about everything that Western Carolina University has to offer as you explore your educational opportunities. We aim to help take the fright out of the college admissions process by connecting you with our amazing faculty and staff! The university is located in Cullowhee, North Carolina.
- The event is Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
- The morning begins at the Ramsey Regional Activity Center with an academic information fair and student support services represented. Following the academic information fair, you will have the opportunity to explore one of the many academic programs offered in further detail. During the afternoon, there will be various sessions available to choose from, as well as tours of campus and two residence hall options.
- Click on the Western Carolina University image above to register!
Kennesaw State University - Open House
Open House offers you the opportunity to learn more about your major and your desired field of study. You will also receive information on admission requirements and financial aid, and you will have the chance to hear from current KSU students. The university is located in Marietta, Georgia.
- The Marietta Campus Open House focuses on majors/programs located the Marietta Campus and offers you the opportunity to ask questions about the major you're interested in, learn about the admissions process, explore on-campus living with Housing & Residence Life, participate in a walking tour of the campus, discover more about our campus and collegiate life, and have all your college financial questions answered by the Office of Scholarships & Financial Aid.
- The event is scheduled for Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at the Marietta Campus.
- Click on the Kennesaw State University image above to register!
TESTING INFORMATION
SAT Weekend Test Dates - Fall 2026
ACT Test Dates and Deadlines - 2026-2027
Preparing Your Student for the SAT
From free practice tests and questions to a checklist of what to bring on test day, College Board provides everything you need to help your student prepare for the SAT ® .
Click on the attachment below for detailed information!
MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS
988 Lifeline
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States and its territories. The 988 Lifeline is comprised of a national network of over 200 local crisis centers, combining local care and resources with national standards and best practices.
Wade Hampton High School Counseling Office
Mrs. Carlisle
Mrs. Childers
WHHS Counseling Department Website
Click above to access the website!