College & Career Monthly Newsletter
April Edition
Editorial
I don't usually do these, but I can't believe it's already April. The school year is rapidly coming to a close (which may be exciting to some and dreadful to others). No matter what you're feeling, I want you to take a deep breath and be in this moment. Take it day by day. I need this reminder too because sometimes it feels like there's just too much going on. If you're feeling overwhelmed, I sometimes find it helpful to make a list of the things that I need to do and start with the easiest thing first. Even if it's something small like cleaning your room, accomplishing something (even something small) can be positive momentum to getting other things done. Or if you're feeling spicy you can tackle the hardest thing first and feel really good about yourself afterwards.
And it's ok to take a break.
Have a great April, and I'll see you in the next newsletter!
-Philip H
I love field trips!!!
If you do too, well guess what we're going on another one.
This time we're planning on going to PSU! The date will be April 24th (Friday). We will be taking the MAX there and attending a tour/information session from 9:30 to 11:30 AM. We should be back at campus around 12:30 PM.
If you would like to go, press the button below or the image above!
Behind the Cockpit of an Airline Firetruck
You need three of these for one plane.
Walking around the Convention
There are a LOT of booths.
Bomb Doggy
He sniffs for dangerous materials!
Inside a Chapel room
Walking around Campus
Secret Chill spot?
Important Dates!
Dates that you should put down in your planner!
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) open now!
- ABSA Scholarship deadline: April 8th, 3:00 PM
- 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.
Job of the Month: Carpenter
What is a Carpenter?
- "Construct, erect, install, or repair structures and fixtures made of wood and comparable materials, such as concrete forms; building frameworks, including partitions, joists, studding, and rafters; and wood stairways, window and door frames, and hardwood floors. May also install cabinets, siding, drywall, and batt or roll insulation. Includes brattice builders who build doors or brattices (ventilation walls or partitions) in underground passageways." Quality Info
What level of Education do I need?
The typical entry level education for this occupation is a High school diploma or equivalent (like a GED). Those with postsecondary training (non-degree) have a competitive advantage in the labor market.
A certified apprenticeship may also provide competitive training, or may help complete required certification. Please check out state apprenticeship programs for more information.
What's the wage range look like? (Throughout all Oregon, 2025)
- $19.57 (10th percentile) - $40.27 (75th percentile)
- Average Annual: $69,256
What does the growth look like in 10 years?
- 10 year growth is projected to be 11.0%. Employment in this occupation in 2024 was much larger than most occupations across the state. The total number of job openings is projected to be much larger than most occupations in Oregon through 2034. This occupation is expected to grow at a somewhat faster rate than the statewide average growth rate for all occupations through 2034.
What are some schools I can go to for this occupation?
- Treasure Valley Community College
- Apprenticeship and Training Division
What are some other related fields?
- Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers
- Sheet Metal Workers
- Construction Laborers
- Brickmasons/Blockmasons
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