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Our guidance counselors and the students for whom they are responsible are:
Suzanne Powell - All Students A-L
Sharon Berry - All Students M-Z

 CEEB code for exam registration is 360-245

College Admissions Information Guidance

THINKING ABOUT COLLEGE STEPS FOR COLLEGE ENTRANCE -
A GUIDE FOR JUNIORS AND SENIORS

CHOOSING A COLLEGE CALENDAR
SUMMER BEFORE GRADE 11 - Self-analysis
*  Preliminary choosing of a type of higher education to reflect one's own needs, interests, abilities, personality, and career plans.

FALL, GRADE 11 - Conferences
*  Visit with college representatives and attend college information days. Reaching a final choice of type of schooling and preliminary consideration of specific "best" colleges for you.
*  Plan to take the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test if you are an outstanding student and/or wish to practice for the SAT. This is given in October during the regular school day. Test registration is in early October in the guidance office. Taking the PSAT during the junior year can qualify you for National Merit Scholarships.

WINTER & SPRING, GRADE 11 - Research
*  Extensive use of catalogs, reference books, websites, test score results, materials available throughout the high school in the guidance department, library, and bulletin board area. Narrow down your list of likely colleges to the five or six which you feel are good choices for you. Begin college visitations.

SUMMER BEFORE GRADE 12 - Applications
*  Visits to campuses and official interviews, visits to classes and dormitories. Narrowing down specific college choices to the two or three final colleges.
*  Write a draft of your personal essay required by many colleges.

FALL, GRADE 12 - Interviews, Testing
*  Termination of interviews and visits on college campuses.
*  Check with your counselor to see that you are meeting the specific admissions requirements of all of the colleges which are of interest to you.
*  Discuss with the counselor any other tests (Math, History, ACT, SAT, Scholarship) you should take this year to assist you in being admitted to college or considered for scholarships. ACT is the test of preference of Ohio institutions. Check bulletins for specific test preference for out of state institutions.

FALL & WINTER, GRADE 12 - Applications
*  Preparation of applications, references, transcripts, test scores, and other materials. Forward to final college choices. It is good to get applications in early.
*  All colleges require that a high school transcript be sent. Request this in writing from the guidance office and provide a stamped, addressed envelope. There is no charge for transcripts.
*  Secure college recommendations from teachers and community members.
*  Check with your parents to see what financial help you will need from sources outside the family. If such assistance is needed, consult the counselor regarding the many types of financial aid that are available.
*  Apply for all financial aid and available scholarships.
*  Have your parents file a FAFSA after January 1. This is a financial analysis which determines financial eligibility for federal aid programs. Contact your colleges if they also require a CSS Financial Aid Profile for consideration for their institutional financial aid. Both forms are available in the guidance office.

WINTER & SPRING, GRADE 12 - Decisions
*  Colleges announce acceptances, waiting lists, and rejections. Together with your parents, compare college financial aid awards. Select your college and mail the appropriate financial award statements to that college.
*  Send your non-refundable deposit to the college you will attend (usually due by May 1st).
*  Final planning and adjustments are made.

SUMMER, GRADE 12 - Adjustment
*  Adjustment to transition from high school to higher education; college-level workloads, study techniques, schedules, social life, responsibility, leaving home.

HOW DO COLLEGES ACCEPT YOU

Before a college finally accepts you for admission, there is much a college wants to know. Many colleges request a statement from the high school principal or counselor which indicates your ability to successfully pursue college-level work. Your class rank is a very important guide to college admission officers. This is based upon final grades at the end of your junior year and in your senior year. Some colleges will admit candidates who rank in the highest fifty percent or the highest twenty-five percent of their graduating classes. Many colleges in the East will accept only candidates who rank in the top ten percent of their class. Consult your college catalog/websites to determine admission standards.

Colleges request all test scores (mental ability, achievement, PSAT/NMSQT, SAT, ACT) that are available from your high school record.

Health records, references, extracurricular activities, personal achievements and a personal interview by a college official are also required by many colleges.

No one set pattern of high school subjects will enable you to meet entrance requirements of individual colleges. Most colleges recommend the core curriculum.

Many universities place admission conditions on student's who have not completed a college preparatory program. These conditions may include placement in remedial classwork, delay of entry into regular coursework or other actions to be decided by each university. Each university has set forth its own combination of courses which should be taken for admission without conditions. Refer to the college catalog/websites for specific requirements.

COLLEGE ENTRANCE TESTS

A new resource site for ACT/SAT test preparation may be found at
March 2 Success

Many colleges require all applicants for admission to take entrance examinations. College catalogs refer to these test requirements under admissions procedures. The tests usually required are either the College Board (SAT) or the American College Test (ACT).

There are more than 25,000 high schools in the U. S. The quality of their teaching staffs, physical facilities, and curricula range from inadequate to superior. Grading systems differ as well, both in use and in type. Therefore, the exam results provide standard measuring devices which help college officials determine equitably the applicant's aptitudes for college study. The tests also offer evidence of a student's effort in his schoolwork in relation to his potential. Test scores coupled with GPA provide more balanced evaluations of the individual that can GPA alone.

Find out early whether the colleges you are considering require the SAT or ACT and what the colleges' deadlines are for receiving applications and test scores. Select the testing dates from the posted calendars. Be aware of test registration deadlines and the location of the testing centers. Some testing dates are not local. CHECK THE TEST BULLETINS! Complete and mail registrations early so you are more assured of being assigned to your first choice test center ( listed in both test registration packets). It takes approximately five weeks to process your scores and mail them to the colleges you designate, so choose test dates that will allow sufficient time for your scores to reach colleges by the application deadlines

If you are applying to a college for early decision, you should take the SAT and/or ACT in your junior year. Test scores from the senior year might not be reported in time for early decision deadlines.

Both companies provide college selection and scholarship information services for participants. Test scores may be directly released to selected colleges and scholarship programs by the student granting permission on the test registration form. Both companies also provide a student search service which releases all pertinent information, by permission, about the student to college and scholarship programs.

Applications for the SAT and ACT are available in the guidance office. These are completed and mailed by the student to the testing centers. A test admission ticket will be mailed to the student upon receipt of payment and registration. The student needs to take the admission ticket and photo identification to the test center the morning of the test. Test registration deadlines and testing dates are posted in the guidance office, listed on the Guidance Calendar and on the SAT and ACT websites.
Online registration for SAT is
www.collegeboard.com
and ACT is
www.act.org.
Athens High School CEEB code is 360-245.

PRELIMINARY SCHOLASTIC APTITUDE TEST/NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP QUALIFYING TEST (PSAT/NMSQT)

A shortened version of the College Board Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT I), the PSAT/NMSQT measures critical reading, writing skills and mathematical abilities important in college work. The PSAT/NMSQT has five sections: two, twenty five minute critical reading sections (sentence completion and critical reading questions). There are two, twenty five minute math sections (multiple choice and student-produced responses). The thirty minute writing skills section contains identifying sentence errors, improving sentences and improving paragraph questions.

This test is recommended for juniors who plan to continue their education and are seeking recognition and financial assistance through scholarship programs administered by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. This test is administered in October of each year. Test scores are returned to the high school in December to be used for pre-college counseling with students. Juniors who are interested in taking the test will register in the guidance office in early October. However, National Merit Scholarships are offered only from the Junior year of testing. For additional information see
collegeboard.com

THE COLLEGE BOARD SCHOLASTIC APTITUDE TEST (SAT I)

The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT I Reasoning Test) is a three hour multiple choice test that measures critical reading, writing and mathematical abilities. The two 25-minute, one 20-minute critical reading sections are designed to measure extended reasoning, literal comprehension and vocabulary in context.
The two 25-minute one 20-minute mathematical sections test numbers and operations, algebra and functions, geometry and measurement and data analysis, statistics and probability. Ten questions require students to produce their own responses. One 25-minute verbal or math equating section is also given as part of this test. One 25 minute essay, one 25 minute multiple choice section and one 10 minute multiple choice section test improving sentences, identifying sentence errors and improving paragraphs.

You will receive three scores on the SAT I, one critical reading, one writing and one math. Each subject is scored on a scale of 200-800. The national average is approximately 500 in each subject (1500 combined). However, most competitive colleges will look for significantly higher scores.

Refer to the SAT bulletin/website and Guidance Calendar for registration deadlines and testing dates. The Athens High School CEEB code is 360-245.

There are many test review and preparation materials, websites and workshops available. Check college resources link for more information. Refer to the following internet resources:
collegeboard.com
kaplan.com
testprep.com
petersons.com and
embark.com

The SAT II tests are one-hour, multiple choice tests in specific subjects. Unlike the SAT, which measures more general abilities, SAT II Tests measure your knowledge of particular subjects and your ability to apply that knowledge. Some colleges require one or more SAT II Tests for admissions or placement purposes. Some require various combinations of tests; others permit students to choose. Check the requirements of the colleges where you apply before deciding which tests to take. Whatever your choice, try to take an SAT II Test soon after completing a course in that subject - while the material is still fresh in your mind.

SAT II tests are offered in the areas of; English Composition, Literature, American History and Social Studies, World History, Mathematics Level IC, Mathematics Level IIC, French, German, Korean, Chinese, Hebrew, Latin, Japanese, Spanish, Italian, Biology E/M, Chemistry and Physics. Refer to bulletin/website for services and fees.

AMERICAN COLLEGE TESTING PROGRAM (ACT)

The ACT assessment is a battery of four academic tests; English, Mathematics, Reading and Science Reasoning. Each of these tests contain multiple-choice questions that offer four or five answer choices from which to choose. The English test is a 75-item, 45 minute test that measures understanding of the conventions of standard written English (punctuation, grammar and usage, and sentence structure) and of rhetorical skills (strategy, organization, and style). The Mathematics test is a 60 item, sixty minute test which emphasizes quantitative reasoning in pre-algebra, elementary algebra, intermediate algebra and coordinate geometry, plane geometry and trigonometry. The Reading test is a 40 item, 35 minute test that measures reading comprehension from passages on topics in social studies, natural sciences, prose fiction, and the humanities. The Science Reasoning test is a 40 item, 35 minute test that measures the interpretation, analysis, evaluation, reasoning, and problem-solving skills required in the natural sciences. The optional writing test is a 30 minute essay test that consists of one writing prompt that will define an issue and describe two points of view on that issue. Two scores are given on this test: a combined English/writing score on a scale of 1-36 and a writing subscore on a scale of 2-12.

The ACT Interest Inventory information is designed to provide majors, career, and interest information to the student.

Students receive separate scores for each subject, as well as a composite score which is the average of the four scores. Each score is on a scale from one to thirty-six, with thirty-six being the best possible score. The average composite score for AHS students is 22.7.

Refer to ACT bulletin/website for services and fees.

Refer to the ACT bulletin/Guidance Calendar for registration deadlines and testing dates. The Athens High School CEEB code is 360-245

There are many test preparation materials, websites and workshops available. Check the college resources link for additional information. Refer to the following internet resources:
act.org
testprep.com

FIVE KEYS TO COLLEGE ADMISSION

Some things you might do to assure yourself admission to college when the time comes:
*  Decide early. Ask yourself if you really want to go to college.
*  Pick the right high school courses. Four years of English, three years of Social Studies, three years of mathematics, three years of science, 2 - 4 years of foreign language, and one year of humanities are the usual main prerequisites. If you lean toward a scientific or engineering career, make that four years of mathematics.
*  Get the study habit. Learn to take reading and lecture notes, write compositions, and prepare for exams. Tip: if you face an entrance exam involving a test in a special field, like chemistry, you will do better if you just took the course the previous semester.  
*  Go in for activities. Don't overdo it to the point where your studies suffer, but within reason develop your outside interests. Colleges are looking for more than brains. If you have worked on the yearbook, been in student government, played in the band or been an office assistant, it will be helpful. Athletes are in demand at most colleges but when accompanied by good grades.  Also plan on doing community service.
*   Think now about after college! This is perhaps most important of all. It is a significant fact that most outstanding professional people made tentative career choices at early ages. Your eventual career has to do with what courses you take now in high school, what field you major in at college, and the type of college you select.

CHOOSING A COLLEGE *   Study college bulletins and handbooks/websites, visit campuses.
*   Talk with faculty, students, alumni.
*   Discuss findings with parents, teachers, and guidance counselor.
*   Decide on the school which has what you want.

AREAS TO EXPLORE IN CHOOSING A COLLEGE

General
*   Is the college's philosophy (religious affiliation, goal of education, etc. compatible with yours?
*   Do you feel you would like to live and study two or four years with these types of students? Have you attempted to sample the campus atmosphere? Have you visited the campus when it has been in session?
*   What reputation does the school have? By which associations is it accredited? How do alumni, educators, and employers rate it?
*   It is located near or distant from your home? Will travel expenses be a significant factor?
*   Would you enjoy living in the community, climate, and section of the nation in which the college is located?
*   Do you prefer a public or private institution? Do you prefer a specialized school, a liberal arts college or large university? Do you prefer a co-educational school? Is the college church affiliated?
*   Where do the majority of students come from?
*   Do most of the students commute or live on campus?
*   Does the college have a campus visitation program?
*   Is housing available/guaranteed for freshman? Is it available for all four years?
*   What options are there for student housing?
*   What is the current student enrollment?
*   What is the academic calendar? (semesters, quarters)?

Courses of Study Offered
*   Does the college offer an adequate program in the specific area of study in which you plan to major?
*   Is the program of study in which you are interested recognized by various accrediting agencies and/or professional groups?
*   What is the duration of the program in which you are interested? (Specific engineering programs might be four years at one college and five years at another one.)
*   What are the graduation requirements in your intended major study area?
*   What is the average class size? Largest? Smallest?
*   How many students in last year's freshman class returned for their sophomore year?
*   What was the grade point average for the freshman class last year?
*   What is the college procedure for student orientation, class placement and scheduling?
*   How is a faculty advisor assigned to a student?
*   Do students graduate in four or five years?
*   What are the largest departments on campus - what are their strengths?

Entrance Requirements
*   What are the college's entrance standards? Do you have a reasonable chance of being accepted?
*   Have you spoken with a representative of the institution regarding your plans, chances of being accepted, etc.?
*   What entrance exams, achievement tests, and/or placement tests are required?
*   Do certain departments (or colleges) within the institution have higher entrance standards than for general admission to the institution?
*   What high school prerequisite does the institution require for major area of study?
*   Are you familiar with the application procedure and deadlines?
*   Does the college require a certain grade point aavaerage or rank in class?
*   Will my activities and involvement in school be considered?
*   On what basis are applicants accepted?
*   Are personal interviews or letters of recommendation required?
*   Are there special requirements for certain majors?
*   What percent of applicants are accepted?
*   Can admission denials be appealed?
*   What are application filing dates?

Expenses
*   Tuition
*   Room and board
*   General fees; health, laboratory, general activities, etc.
*   Books. Used books can usually be purchased at a reduced rate. Check the local book stores as well as upperclassmen and on-line services.
*   Incidental costs; social life, laundry, and travel.
*   How much did costs increase from last year to this year?
*   Are there deposits for tuition and housing? Are these refundable?
*   Are deposits required each year for returning students?

Student Financial Aid
*   What financial aid is available for students in your intended major area? Similar G.P.A.? Parents' financial status?
*   What part time employment opportunities are available at the institution or in the community?
*   Does the school provide loan services or permit payment of fees on an "installment" basis?
*   What constitutes the school's financial aid "package" (loans, grants, scholarships, work study)?
*   What types of financial aid are available in your community? (Service clubs and businesses offer awards.)
*   What percent of students receive financial aid based on financial need?
*   What percent of students receive scholarships based on academic ability?
*   What are the financial aid application procedures and deadlines?
*   When are financial aid applicants notified of their awards?
*   Do you offer a tuition payment plan?

Regulations
*   Are the institution's overall regulations compatible with your lifestyle?
*   What are class attendance, requirements?
*   Is there an "honor system" regarding testing procedures, curfews, etc.?
*   Are students permitted to have vehicles?
*   Are students permitted to live off campus?
*   What is the grading system?

Student Services
*   Are the school's dormitories "livable"? How many persons per room? Bath facilities? Dining facilities? Special themes?
*   Are the health services adequate? (Physician, health center, student insurance, etc.)
*   Is there a guidance and student career assessment center?
*   Are there adequate study and research facilities?
*   Does the library have a quality selection of books? What hours is it open?
*   Are there sufficient computers, scanners, instructional media? What periodicals and newspapers are subscribed to?
*   Does the institution offer a placement service to its graduates?
*   What academic support services are provided by the school (tutoring, counseling, etc.)? Is there an additional charge for theseservices?

Social Life
*   Does the school sponsor mixers so new students can meet more easily?
*   What types of recreational facilities are available?
*   What do most students do for recreation during the week? Weekend?
*   Are there fraternities and sororities? What percentage of the student body belongs? Is it necessary to be a "Greek" to be included in most social events?
*   Are there special programs and concerts offered on a regular basis?
*   Will you be able to afford social life at that college?
*   What is the average age of the student body?
*   What is the male to female ratio?
*   What percent of the students reside on campus? In outside housing?
*   What are procedures for selecting a roommate?
*   What are some of the rules and regulations that govern campus and dormitory life?

Athletics and Physical Education
*   What are the college's physical education requirements?
*   In which intercollegiate athletics does the college participate?
*   How extensive is the intramural program?

Faculty
*   What is the faculty/student ratio? What is the faculty size in the department in which you plan to major?
*   Do a sufficient number of faculty hold doctoral degrees from recognized institutions in the department in which you plan to major?
*   What is the professional reputation of individual faculty members?
*   Who provides the instruction in your major? Professors? Teaching assistants?

EARLY DECISION PLANS TO ATTEND COLLEGE

The early Decision Plan is an early acceptance plan based on a high G. P. A. and test scores. A student decides during the junior year that they would like to attend a certain college. They should take the SAT and/or ACT in the spring of their junior year. The student needs to request and submit the admission application to the desired college's admission office. A transcript of the student's high school grades will be sent to the desired college upon the student's request. Under this plan, a student may apply to only one college. Usually the deadline for filing under this plan is October 1 of the senior year. However a student should send his application as early as possible, preferably June or July following the junior year.
Check the particulars for each institution for its early decision procedure.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

The college application is the most important document in the admissions process. This document requires testing, scholastic and personal data in which an admissions office will base an acceptance decision. Remember these guidelines when completing applications:

*   Begin completing applications early. This allows for several revisions.
*   Complete all sections of the applications.
*   Send application fee with application.
*   Neatness counts. Type or print neatly.
*   Consider applying online or use the Common Application, if your colleges accept this.
*   Make copies of all documents in case something is lost.
*   Keep a college file for copies of completed admissions and financial aid applications.
*   Request a copy of the high school transcript be sent to colleges.
*   Apply early. Financial aid will be awarded pending admission. First come, first serve.
*   Adhere to deadlines.
*   Useful internet resources:
act.org
collegeboard.com
embark.com
petersons.com
c3apply.org

When you have decided on the colleges to which you want to apply, write to the Director of Admissions for the applications. The guidance office does not supply college application forms (some schools accept a "Common Application"). When requesting admissions applications, also request financial aid and scholarship applications at the same time. Refer to the sample letter below.

The majority of institutions request that you submit your application early in your senior year. Refer to the college bulletins for application deadlines. Most schools also require a processing fee to be sent with the application. This fee is not refundable and does not apply to any fees charged after acceptance.

A number private colleges request that you write a brief autobiography or personal essay. Be sure to carefully think this through before writing it.

Many colleges require teacher/counselor recommendations. Since the teachers/counselors write many recommendations, request that one be written for you two to three weeks before the deadlines.

A sample application request letter:

Street Address
City, State Zip Code
Date

Office of Admissions
_____________ University and/or College
City, State, Zip Code

Dear Sir:

     I am a student at Athens High School and expect to graduate in (month, day, and year).

     I am interested in your college and would appreciate receiving a bulletin of information and the necessary forms for filing an application for admission. Will you also send information on financial aid and scholarship programs for which I might qualify?

Sincerely,

Your name

WRITING YOUR COLLEGE ESSAY

The college essay is an opportunity to "talk" directly to the college's admissions committee and to help them see you as a thinking and feeling person, rather than simply a set of impersonal statistics. Except for the interview, it is your only chance to share your thoughts, insights and options; to highlight your accomplishments; and to convey your maturity and outlook on life. If you see the college essay in this way - as an opportunity - then it is clearly worth the effort to put some extra time, thought and energy into writing it.

Purpose of the Essay

The college essay is extremely important for two major reasons:
  1. It enables the college admissions office to evaluate your communication skills. Through your essay they can assess the clarity of your thinking and your ability to convey your thoughts in written form.
  2. It enables the admissions office to learn more about you as a person, beyond what grades and SAT/ACT scores can convey. A well-written essay can speak worlds about your attitudes, feelings, personal qualities and creativity. For the admissions staff, it adds another important piece to the puzzle because it distinguishes you as an individual, different from any other student who is applying.

Choosing a Topic

The choice of a topic is frequently not an issue, because many colleges and universities will either give you a topic to write about or present several rather specific topics from which to choose. Other colleges may simply suggest broad general topics or give you total freedom to write about something that interests or concerns you. Regardless of whether you must respond to a prescriibed topic or come up with one of your own, here are a few general hints about the most effective way to approach your topic:

*   Narrow your topic and try to be a specific and illustrative as possible.
*   Relatedly, the easiest topic to write about is yourself. No one knows more about you than you. Since one important purpose of the essay is self-revelation, it is no place to be shy or modest, although you should not exaggerate. If you choose to write about yourself, remember that little incidents and facts are often the most revealing of character and outlook.
*   Do not be afraid to write about something you think is a little different. A unique topic or approach is often refreshing to a college admissions officer who has been reading applications all day. Further, an unusual or off-beat essay is an excellent way to show your creativity.
*   Make all optional essays mandatory.

Sample Essay Topics

*   Write about someone you admire.
*   Write about something you have read.
*   Why do you want to attend this college?
*   How do you see yourself ten years from now?
*   Write about a meaningful activity.
*   Describe a humorous experience.
*   What experience or event has had a significant impact on your life?
*   Provide a brief essay about your activities, interests, achievements and talents.
*   Write about your life experiences that have influenced your intellectual and personal growth.
*   If you had to formulate the perfect admission question, what would it be and how would you answer it?

Preparing to Write

Before actually sitting down to write a first draft of your essay, spend some time organizing your thoughts. Develop a framework for your essay so it will have a smooth and logical progression from one idea or incident to the next. Consider your purpose in writing, what you want to convey, and the tone that you think is most appropriate for the topic. Decide on a style that is comfortable for you, not one that you think the college admissions committee prefers. Finally, remember that organizing your thoughts and deciding on a framework does not mean you must be overly rigid at the start; leave room for flexibility and creativity as you actually begin writing.

Writing the Essay

You do not have to get it right the first time. Instead, write the first draft of your essay with the main focus on content - communicating your thoughts. Then set if aside for a day or two then reread it with a fresh perspective and make any necessary changes. This is also the point at which you shoulc consider matters of organization, style, grammar, spelling and tone. Once you have rewritten your first draft, you may ask a parent or teacher to evaluate it. While the final essay should be yours, they may be able to offer helpful suggestions for technical or other improvements.

Within this general outline for writing the essay, there are some "do's" and "don'ts":

DO'S
*   Do think "small" and write about something that you know about.
*   Do reveal yourself in your writing.
*   Do show rather than tell.  By giving examples and illustrating your topic, you bring it to life.
*   Do write in your own "voice" and style.

DON'TS
*   Don't write what you think others want to read.
*   Don't exaggerate or write to impress.
*   Don't use flowery, inflated or pretentious style.
*   Don't neglect the technical part of your essay (grammar, spelling, sentence structure).
*   Don't ramble - say what you have to say and conclude.

Your college essay, along with your high school record, standarized test scores, and extracurricular involvement, will provide the bases upon which the college makes its admissions decision. A thoughtful, well written essay can affect the final decision in a very positive way.

COLLEGE RECOMMENDATIONS

Many colleges require guidance counselor and teacher recommendations as part of the application process. Recommendations can assist in the admissions decisions if the counselor or teacher knows the applicant well and can positively describe the applicant.

Use the following guidelines when requesting a recommendation from a teacher:

*   Request a recommendation be written two weeks before it is due. Teachers are writing many recommendations.
*   Complete the top section of the recommendation form and provide a stamped, addressed envelope.
*   Provide a copy of your resume or activity sheet or arrange for a personal interview.
*   Sign the recommendation waiver before giving the teacher the recommendation form.
*   Select your teachers who are writing recommendations wisely.

Colleges request that the high school guidance counselor address scholastic, extracurricular and personal information in the college recommentation. Please adhere to the following procedure when requesting a college or scholarship recommendation from the guidance counselor:

*   Schedule a 15 minute interview.
*   Complete the Request for College/Scholarship Recommendation Form prior to the interview. (See below)
*   Request a recommendation be written two weeks before it is due.
*   Complete the sections of the recommendation form and provide a stamped, addressed envelope.
*   Sign the recommendation waiver before giving the guidance counselor the recommendation form.

COLLEGE/SCHOLARSHIP RECOMMENDATION FORM

STUDENT NAME:
DATE:
DATE REQUESTED:
COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY NAME(S):

1. List school extracurricular activities (clubs, athletics) and leadership positions held.

2. List community extracurricular activities and leadership positions held.

3. List school and community involvement in volunteer service projects.

4. List work experience.

5. Describe your personal qualitites. Consider integrity, values, and peer/faculty relationships.

6. Describe your intellectual qualities and abilities.

7. What are the first three words that come to mind in describing yourself?

8. Describe your strengths?

9. Describe your special talents?

10. At this point in your life, what is (are) your career goals?

11. At this point in your life, what is (are) your personal goals?

12. Are there any special circumstances, background information or other factors that need to be addressed?

13. Is there any other information that you would want me to address?

VISITING A COLLEGE

Few students understand the real purpose of an interview and the opportunity it presents. It is necessary that a student make special preparations for the visit.

One common opening question is, "What would you like to know about this college?" You may think they are going to ask the questions but this may not be true. It is imperative that you outline the steps you will take in order that you will derive full benefit from your visit to a college. Refer to "Areas to Explore in Choosing a College."

The student should write to the college and request a specific day and time to visit with a representative from the admissions office. It is best to type the letter in a business fashion. Address the letter to the admissions official by name if possible. This official is listed in the college bulletin. If unable to locate the individual's name, send the letter to the Admissions Office labeled: "Attention: Admissions Committee." Refer to the sample. You may need to take a copy of your transcript with you for the admissions interview. Request this in writing, two days in advance, from the guidance office.

Make arrangements to also meet with a financial aid officer at the time of your visit. Request listings of scholarships and grants for which you may be eligible to receive.

Relax and be yourself during your visit. You are making this visitation to see what life will be like on a particular campus, to see the opportunities which are available to you at this college, and to give the admissions official a chance to see what you are like. It is only natural that you might be nervous, but relax!

Please refer to the college visitation procedure when attaining permission to be excused from school to make a visit. Visits are limited to three during the junior year and unlimited during the senior year. These are considered excused absences. Permission will not be granted during the last week of each grading period. The college visitation forms are available in the attendance office and need to be filed two days prior to visits.

A campus visit requires a great deal of thought, a lot of questions, and thorough study. This is a good time to shop around and compare. When investing two to four years or more of your time and $3000 to $70,000, a well thought out decision is important.

Sample Campus visit letter:

               Street Address
               City
               State, Zip Code
               Date

Office of Admissions
University or College
City, State, Zip Code

Attention: Admissions Committee;

I am a student at Athens High School and expect to graduate in (Month), 200_.

I would like to meet with an Office of Admissions staff member and take a tour of your campus. Please advise me of a time on (Month, day) that would be convenient for a visit to your campus.

               Sincerely,

               Your name

ACCEPTANCE

The majority of colleges notify you if you have been accepted or rejected after they have received your sixth-semester grades. Some colleges may require grades for seven semesters (first semester of senior year). Final acceptance is not assured until the college has received official notification from your high school that you have graduated and they have received the grades from your senior year. However, you can be reasonably sure of acceptance when you receive notification from the college provided that you keep up your grades.

If you are accepted at more than one college, be sure to send your letter of acceptance to the college of your choice as soon as possible. At the same time, notify the other colleges that you are canceling your application. May 1st is a universal date for college notifications. A suggested letter follows:

Notice of Cancellation

               Street Address
               City, State, Zip Code
               Date

Director of Admissions College/University City, State, Zip Code

     I was pleased to receive your notification of my acceptance to            College/University. However, my college plans have changed and I regret that I will not be able to attend your college.

     Thank you for the time and consideration given to my application.

               Sincerely,

               Your name

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