Amphitheater Public Schools



TABLE OF CONTENTS

Academic .................................................................................... 2

ECAP

Four-Year Plan

Brag Sheet

Arizona Career Information System (interactive website)

Request for Official Transcript (Sample)

Testing ……………………………………………………………………………………. 7

PSAT

SAT or ACT: Which Test Should I Take?

College ……………………………………………………………………………………. 9

Junior Year Checklist

Senior Year Checklists

College Comparison Worksheet

NCAA

Personal Essay

Scholarships ……………………………………………………………….….………. 16

Financing Your College Education

Career Planning ………………………………………………………………………. 18

Post Secondary Options

Military Appointments and Enlistment

Resume

Employment

Interviewing

Appendix ………………………………………………………………………………. 26

Resource Websites

Glossary of Terms and Programs

Senior Autobiographical Sketch (Complete for a letter of recommendation.)

Students are encouraged to write in this guidebook and complete the items in bold print listed above.

ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Tom Horne

Superintendent of Public Instruction

EDUCATION AND CAREER ACTION PLAN (ECAP)

R7-2-302.05 (Approved on February 25, 2008)

Arizona Education and Career Action Plan for Students in Grades 9-12

A. Effective for the graduation class of 2013, schools shall complete for every student in grades 9-12 an Arizona Education and Career Action Plan (“ECAP”) prior to graduation. Schools shall develop an Education and Career Action Plan in consultation with the student, the student’s parent or guardian and the appropriate school personnel as designated by the school principal or chief administrative officer. Schools shall monitor, review and update each Education and Career Action Plan at least annually. Completion of an Education and Career Action Plan shall be verified by appropriate school personnel.

B. An Arizona Education and Career Action Plan shall at a minimum allow students to enter, track and update the following information:

a. Academic Goals that include identifying and planning the coursework necessary to achieve the high school graduation requirements and pursue postsecondary education and career options; analyzing assessment results to determine progress and identify needs for intervention and advisement; and documenting academic achievement;

b. Career Goals that include identifying career plans, options, interests and skills; exploring entry level opportunities; and evaluating educational requirements;

c. Postsecondary Education Goals that include identifying progress toward meeting admission requirements, completing application forms and creating financial assistance plans; and

d. Extracurricular Activity Goals that include documenting participation in clubs, organizations, athletics, fine arts, community service, recreational activities, volunteer activities, work-related activities, leadership opportunities, and other activities.

Ironwood Ridge High School Four-Year Plan (Class of 2014 and beyond)

Date: _________________

Last Name: ________________________________ Career Goal: _______________________________________

First Name: ________________________________ Educational Goal: ____________________________________

|9th Grade |10th Grade |11th Grade |12th Grade |

|1. English 9 |1. English 10 |1. English 11 |1. English 12 |

|2. Algebra |2. Geometry |2. Math - |2. Government / Economics |

|3. Biology |3. Physics |3. Science - |3. Math - |

|4. P.E. |4. World History/Geography |4. US/AZ History |4. |

|5. |5. P.E. / |5. |5. |

|6. |6. |6. |6. |

| | | | |

|Summer prior to 9th grade |Summer prior to 10th grade |Summer prior to 11th grade |Summer prior to 12th grade |

| | | | |

| | | | |

IRHS Graduation Requirements – 22 Credits

(**Identifies additional in-state college requirements)

|Required Courses |Sem |Sem |Electives |Sem | |

|16.5 credits |1 |2 |5.5 credits |1 |Sem |

| | | | | |2 |

|English 9 | | |**Foreign Language I | | |

|English 10 | | |**Foreign Language II | | |

|English 11 | | | | | |

|English 12 | | | | | |

|Math | | | | | |

|Math | | | | | |

|Math | | | | | |

|Math | | | | | |

|Science | | | | | |

|Science | | | | | |

|Science | | | | | |

|World History | | | | | |

|US/AZ History | | | | | |

|Government / Economics | | | | | |

|Physical Education | | | | | |

|Physical Education | | | | | |

|**CTE or **Fine Arts | | | | | |

BRAG SHEET

List Honors, Pre-AP and AP courses taken and grade earned:

Course Name Grade Earned

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List extracurricular activities, clubs, organizations, awards, sports, band, etc:

Activity Grade Level

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List community service/volunteer activities:

Activity Location Hours

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Employment:

|Company Name |Position/Title |Employment Dates |Job Duties |

|1. | |FROM: | |

|Supervisor: |TO: | |

|2. | |FROM: | |

|Supervisor: |TO: | |

|3. | |FROM: | |

|Supervisor: |TO: | |

Test Results:

|AZMerit |

This chart compares the SAT scores only - without the writing portion of the test.

WHICH TEST SHOULD I TAKE?

| |SAT |ACT |

|When is it administered? |Seven times per year |Six times per year |

|Where do I register? | | |

|What is the test content? |Math: up to 9th grade basic |Math: up to trigonometry |

| |Geometry and Algebra II. |Science: charts, experiments |

| |Science: none |Reading: four passages, one each of Prose|

| |Critical Reading: sentence |Fiction, Social Science, Humanities and |

| |completions, short and long |Natural Science |

| |critical reading passages, |English: stresses grammar |

| |reading comprehension |Writing: optional test |

| |Writing: an essay and |(Test closely resembles work done in high|

| |questions testing grammar, |school classes.) |

| |usage and word choice | |

|Is there a penalty for wrong |No |No |

|answers? | | |

|How long is the test? |3 hours and 45 minutes |3 hours and 35 minutes (writing test 40 |

| | |minutes) |

|How is the test scored? |200 – 800 per section, added together for|1 – 36 for each subject, |

| |a combined score. |averaged for a composite |

| |2400 is the highest possible combined |score. |

| |score. |36 is the highest |

| | |possible composite score. |

|Are all scores sent to schools? |Yes. If a student requests a |No. There is a “Score Choice” option. |

| |score report be sent to specific |Students may choose which schools will |

| |colleges, the report will include the |receive their scores AND which test date |

| |scores the student received on every SAT |the schools will see. |

| |taken. | |

|Best time to register? |At least six weeks before the test date |At least four weeks before the test date |

|May calculators be used? |Yes. A graphing/scientific calculator is|Yes. To be used only on the mathematics |

| |recommended. Be sure to be familiar with|section. Check website for prohibited |

| |the calculator. Check website for |calculators! |

| |prohibited calculators! | |

COLLEGE PLANNING CHECKLIST

Junior Pre-College Checklist

August

❑ Review your high school coursework/four-year plan

❑ Keep in mind that colleges look for the following:

✓ Challenging coursework.

✓ A strong GPA.

✓ Involvement in extracurricular activities.

✓ Documentation of community service. (dates and hours)

❑ Apply for scholarships.

September

❑ Look through college catalogs and guidebooks found in the IRHS Career Center or on-line.

❑ Research 5-10 colleges you would like to attend

❑ Set up fall or winter break visits. *Make sure to meet with an admissions representative and a financial aid officer.

❑ Study and register for the PSAT/NMSQT which can qualify you to receive a National Merit Scholarship if taken during junior year.

❑ Obtain dates and locations of college fairs and parent nights in your area.

October

❑ Take the PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test).

❑ Attend college fairs and parent nights in the area.

November

❑ Research eligibility requirements for federal and private student loans, grants and scholarships.

❑ Apply for scholarships.

❑ Begin developing a resume using the Brag Sheet information.

December

❑ Plan to obtain and review your PSAT/NMSQT score report using personal Access Code.

❑ Plan to take the SAT Reasoning, SAT II, or ACT tests.

❑ Continue to build your resume.

January

❑ Register and study for the SAT Reasoning test and/or ACT tests.

❑ Continue to apply for scholarships and student aid programs.

February

❑ Preview web sites of schools that interest you the most. *Pay close attention to requirements & important deadlines.

March

❑ Register and study for the SAT Reasoning test and/or ACT exams if you have not already done so.

April

❑ Continue applying for scholarships.

❑ Finalize your resume.

❑ Athletes: Register for NCAA Eligibility Center.

May

❑ Continue compiling information about colleges, scholarships, etc.

❑ Sign up for June SAT and ACT by May if not already signed up. Do not wait until senior year!

June

❑ Obtain a summer internship or college summer program that might be related to your career interests.

❑ Volunteer!

❑ Take June SAT or ACT.

COLLEGE PLANNING CHECKLIST

Senior Pre-College Checklist

August

❑ Review your career plans and decide which type of school is right for you.

❑ Narrow your college list.

❑ Review catalogs and admissions information on-line.

❑ See your school counselor for deadline information if you have not taken the SAT and / or ACT. You must take these tests at least six weeks before college application deadlines.

❑ Apply for scholarships.

❑ Stay involved in volunteer and extra-curricular activities!

September

❑ Begin asking for letters of recommendation to include with your admissions and / or scholarship applications. Plan accordingly; turn around time is ten working days.

❑ Apply to in-state schools.

❑ Request official transcripts to be sent from the IRHS registrar to the college of your choice.

❑ Send ACT/SAT scores to colleges that were not included on your original list.

❑ Work on admissions application essays if necessary.

October

❑ Attend special programs such as college fairs and financial aid nights.

❑ Determine which financial aid applications your college choices require and when the forms are due.

❑ Keep applying for scholarships.

❑ Apply to schools with early admission application deadlines.

November

❑ Become familiar with the financial aid process.

❑ Log on to fafsa. to get a PIN for yourself and your parents. ** DO NOT SUBMIT FAFSA BEFORE JANUARY 1.

December

❑ PARENTS: save your W2s and other tax information. You may need these for financial verification reviews by certain institutions.

January

❑ Submit your completed FAFSA as soon as possible.

❑ Keep copies of all forms you submit.

❑ PARENTS: It is helpful to get your income tax returns prepared early. Schools may request them to prove eligibility for financial need.

❑ Request seventh semester official transcripts to be sent to colleges if needed.

February

❑ Submit your completed FAFSA if you have not already done so.

❑ Rank your finalized list of colleges.

March

❑ Continue to apply for scholarships.

❑ Make your final decision and be aware of deposit deadlines.

❑ Look for your Student Aid Report (SAR) in the mail. Your SAR contains federal financial aid information.

April

❑ Check with the college you have chosen to attend about the details of signing and returning financial aid award letters.

❑ Notify the other schools that you will not be attending.

❑ Watch for important deadlines at your chosen college.

May

❑ Finalize all details with your chosen college.

❑ Notify your counselor and teachers where you will be attending.

❑ IRHS will send a final transcript to the college you have chosen to attend. This will be verified at the Senior Breakfast.

TOP TEN IMPORTANT ITEMS FOR SENIORS TO DO

◊ Be sure to do a Senior Credit Check with your counselor in August/September. Find out as soon as possible if you are lacking any required credits.

◊ Involve your parents in your goals for the future. Keep them informed.

◊ The Autobiographical Sketch must be completed and given to your counselor for use in writing any college, job or scholarship recommendations. This paper needs to be completed with plenty of detail before a recommendation will be written.

◊ If you choose to apply to any of the three in-state universities, do so beginning September 1 of your senior year to maximize your chances for financial aid.

◊ Attend meetings with representatives from colleges and universities who will be visiting IRHS. Gather information and materials from them. These meetings are listed in the daily announcements, the visitation calendar in the counseling office, and on the IRHS Counseling website.

◊ Remember that each application requires an official transcript. Pick up the “Request for an Official Transcript” form from the IRHS Registrar. Return this slip to the counseling office. All transcripts are $1.00. Come prepared with the address of the college if it is an out-of-state school. Submit one form per transcript. Please allow three to five days for processing.

◊ Pay attention to senior announcements and scholarship information. Scholarship information will be published on the IRHS Scholarships and More Facebook Page as well as Twitter @IRHSCounseling.

◊ PLAN! When asking teachers or counselors for recommendations, plan on ten working days from the time you ask for the recommendation to the time you need it. Use the Autobiographical Sketch to inform your teacher or counselor about the college or scholarship to which you are applying.

◊ Apply early to out-of-state colleges. October 1st is not too early. These colleges often request additional information that in-state colleges do not request (i.e. recommendations, essays, resume).

◊ Keep organized! Use the forms in this guide or create your own plan to organize your college and/or scholarship information.

*** Update your resume! This is important for job and scholarship applications.

TOP TEN IMPORTANT ITEMS FOR PARENTS TO DO

◊ All seniors need to check credits for graduation with their counselor by October 1 of senior year. If there is a problem, students and parents will be notified.

◊ Your senior must request official transcripts using the proper form. Official transcript request forms are available from the IRHS Registrar. All transcripts are $1.00. Your student needs to indicate whether he/she wants the registrar to mail the transcript to the college (provide address), pick it up (It will be in a sealed school envelope that should be opened only by the college), or send it to the Counseling Department to be added to a secondary school report form which is mailed from the school.

◊ Encourage your senior to attend meetings with colleges that are visiting IRHS. These meetings are advertised in the daily announcements and on the IRHS Counseling Website. Parents are welcome to attend!

◊ When writing a check for your child’s application fee (out-of-state colleges), be sure to put both his/her name and social security number on the check. In case the application and check get separated, your senior’s name on the check will make it easy to locate.

◊ Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in January (of senior year) even if you have to estimate your tax information. Complete it even if you do not think you will qualify. The most efficient way to file the FAFSA is via their website at fafsa..

◊ If at all possible, have your senior visit the campuses of the colleges to which he/she is applying. Some colleges provide virtual tours of their campus through their websites, but this cannot replace the experience of being on the college campus.

◊ Pay attention to senior announcements and scholarship information. Scholarships will be posted on the IRHS Scholarships and More Facebook Page as well as Twitter @IRHSCounseling.

◊ If your senior is considering applying to one of the three in-state universities, he/she can maximize his/her chances for financial aid by beginning to apply the first of September senior year.

◊ Help your senior prepare for the SAT or ACT by providing materials and refreshments for study sessions. Make sure they are using all the free materials provided on the website.

◊ Remain calm and practice stress management daily! Send your student in to see his/her counselor if you have any questions. This is good self-advocacy practice.

COLLEGE COMPARISON WORKSHEET

| | | | |

|College Name: | | | |

|Admission Requirements: | | | |

|Deadlines | | | |

|Tests required | | | |

|Average test scores, GPA | | | |

|Essays, recommendations | | | |

|Selectivity | | | |

|Academics: | | | |

|Programs of study | | | |

|Comprehensiveness | | | |

|Accreditation | | | |

|Student / Faculty ratio | | | |

|Faculty availability | | | |

|Class size | | | |

|Internships, research | | | |

|Advisement | | | |

|Expenses: | | | |

|Tuition, room & board | | | |

|travel, personal expenses | | | |

|Application fees, deposits | | | |

|Financial Aid: | | | |

|Deadlines | | | |

|Required forms | | | |

|% receiving aid | | | |

|% of need met | | | |

|Merit awards available | | | |

|Housing: | | | |

|Availability of dorms | | | |

|Off campus housing | | | |

|Food plans | | | |

|Facilities: | | | |

|Academic, labs | | | |

|Recreational, athletic | | | |

|Student Union | | | |

|Career Services | | | |

|Location: (distance from home) | | | |

|Arizona, Southwest, East, | | | |

|Southeast, Midwest, | | | |

|Pacific coast, etc. | | | |

|Ease of travel | | | |

|Size: | | | |

|Student enrollment | | | |

|Size of campus | | | |

|Environment: | | | |

|Location & size of city | | | |

|Climate diversity | | | |

|Religious affiliation | | | |

|Political environment | | | |

|Activities: | | | |

|Clubs, organizations | | | |

|Greek life | | | |

|Athletics, intramurals | | | |

|Religious organizations | | | |

NCAA and COLLEGE ATHLETICS

Whether you are a highly recruited athlete or a "walk on,” you will have to meet NCAA academic eligibility to participate in college athletics. Listed below are some important points to consider for your four years at high school:

➢ The NCAA has three membership divisions - Division I, II and III. Institutions are members of one or another division according to the size and scope of their athletic programs and whether they provide athletic scholarships.

➢ Division I and II schools offer athletic scholarships, while Division III schools do not.

➢ In order to participate in Division I or II athletic programs, you must be certified by the NCAA Eligibility Center. Go to: to complete these forms. It is your responsibility to complete this by the end of your junior year.

In order to be eligible for Division I or II athletics, students must meet the following academic requirements.

**Check website for changes.

|Division I |Division II |

|16 Core Courses |16 Core Courses |

| | |

|4 years of English |3 years of English |

|3 years of Math (Algebra I or higher) |2 years of Math (Algebra I or higher) |

|2 years of Natural/Physical Science (1 year of lab science) |2 years of Natural/Physical Science (1 year of lab science) |

|1 year additional English, Math, or Natural/Physical Science |3 years of additional English, Math, or Natural/Physical Science |

|2 years of Social Science |2 years of Social Science |

|4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign |4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign |

|language, or comparative religion/philosophy) |language, or comparative religion/philosophy) |

***Please refer to the website regarding GPA requirements. Please note only “core courses” will be used in the calculation of your GPA. In addition to meeting the academic requirements, students must also:

➢ Take the ACT/SAT

➢ Division I uses a sliding scale to match test scores and core grade-point averages (GPA). The sliding scale for those requirements can be found online at the NCAA website.

➢ Division II requires a minimum SAT score of 820 or an ACT sum score of 68.

• The SAT score used for NCAA purposes includes only the critical reading and math sections. The writing section of the SAT is not used.

• The ACT score used for NCAA purposes is a sum of the following four sections: English, mathematics, reading and science.

It is your responsibility to know the “core courses” at your school. This list can be found online at: . Please see the athletic director for any questions.

WRITING THE PERSONAL STATEMENT:

When the personal statement is required as a part of the admission process, it is important to give serious effort to its composition. Probably no other piece of admission’s criteria receives as much attention or generates as much discussion. Here is the opportunity to reveal your intelligence, sense of humor, maturity, sincerity, enthusiasm, creativity and writing ability.

Personal Statement Directions:

1. Discuss something that has significantly contributed to your growth as a person.

2. Be careful to address what the directions request.

3. Assess your uniqueness as an individual; tell something about yourself not learned from other application information.

4. Be passionate and honest. What you write is nowhere near as important as showing your joy in the subject.

Tips for Composing the Personal Statement:

1. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE TO WRITE YOUR ESSAY.

2. Make lists of your qualities as you know them (particularly those the college seeks), aspirations and goals, activities, honors and awards, personal or academic shortcomings you are trying to overcome, persons or courses which have influenced your career goals, or aspirations, and any specific strengths of the college and how you wish to avail yourself to them.

3. Write a draft, making sure to address the particular directions for discussion.

4. Put your draft aside for 24 hours and read it again.

5. Make corrections in sentence construction, grammar, punctuation and spelling. Read aloud what you have written to help you locate any rough spots you want to rework.

6. People who love you (ex: your parents) are not good editors for your essays. It is very hard for them to be objective and for you to accept their suggestions.

7. Rewrite the essay, revising it with your evaluation in mind. Put it aside again and repeat the process until you are satisfied.

8. Type your essay unless a handwritten version is requested. Proofread for any errors. Make it look as perfect as you can.

9. Make a copy for your own files.

Sample Essay Questions:

1. Talk to us about a person, other than a member of your family, who has influenced you.

2. What particular book, play, poem, film, dance performance, musical composition or piece of visual art has affected you deeply in the past three years? Describe your reaction.

3. Imagine that you are the editor of a major news magazine. What would you choose as the cover story for the issue that would be on the newsstands on January of the current year? Why did you make this choice?

4. If you could automatically and irrevocably change one fact or facet in the development of human history, what would that change be? Why did you make this choice?

5. Describe an important life experience and what you learned from it. Describe unusual circumstances, challenges, or hardships you have faced. What information can you provide that will distinguish yourself from other applicants?

6. Discuss the academic experience that has meant the most to you. Describe a scientific problem, research problem, or academic issue in any field of study that you would like to pursue in college.

7. Your thumbprint is unique—the only one like it in the entire world. Describe it.

Check this book for the Request for an Official Transcript and

Senior Autobiographical Sketch

FINANCING YOUR COLLEGE EDUCATION

Financial Aid Basics:

Financial aid is intended to make up the difference between what your family can afford to pay and what college costs. Over half of the students currently enrolled in college receive some sort of financial aid to help pay college costs.

Three types of financial aid are:

1) Grants and Scholarships

Grants:

• Awarded for financial need or academic merit

• Do not need to be repaid

• Are generated from federal and state governments and from individual colleges

Major Types of Grants:

1. Pell Grant- This is often the first money offered to students with the most need.

2. Supplemental Grants-

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is offered to students with high need.

3. Campus/State Grants- Other grants may be available to a student from campus or state funding. There are few state grants in Arizona because the state uses that money to keep tuition as low as possible for all students.

Scholarships:

• Do not need to be repaid

• Awarded on the basis of merit and/or talent (academic, musical, athletic, artistic, etc.)

• May be awarded by private organizations or individual colleges

• May be national or community based

Where to look for scholarship money:

1. On your (future) college website

2. At IRHS

a. On the IRHS counseling website

b. On the IRHS daily announcements

c. Facebook: “IRHS Scholarships and More”

d. Twitter: @IRHS Counseling

3. Online scholarship websites

a.

b.

c.

d.

e.

f.

2) Loans

• Most financial aid comes in this form via the FAFSA

• Must be repaid

• Amount and types are based on financial need

• Typically have low-interest rates; interest begins accruing after college graduation

• Comes from federal government or private organizations

Types of Loans:

1. Stafford Loans (subsidized) Provided to needy students if need remains after grants and other aid has been offered.

2. Stafford Loans (unsubsidized) Interest on loan is charged from the time the loan is disbursed until it is paid in full. You may choose to pay the interest or allow it to accrue.

3. Federal Perkins Loans-

Low interest loans for students with exceptional financial need. Made through a school’s financial aid office.

4. Parent PLUS Loans- Parents with good credit history can borrow with a PLUS (Parent Loan for Undergraduate Student). The limit on a PLUS loan is equal to the cost of attendance minus any other financial aid received.

3) Work-Study

• Student employment on or off college campus

• Typically is related to course of study or civic duties

• Helps students pay for costs such as books, supplies and personal expenses

• Part-time employment, paid based on the number of hours worked

• Student may be required to terminate Work-Study employment when award limit has been reached

• Money earned is not taxed

Timeline for Financial Aid:

Junior Year

• Apply for scholarships

Senior Year

• Continue applying for scholarships

• Apply for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) in January

1. Go to fafsa. to apply

2. Submit application after January 1st of your senior year

a. Tax information is needed from parents

• Look for your SAR (Student Aid Report) in the mail

• Accept grant money and apply for student loans

While Attending College

• Apply for FAFSA each academic year

• Continue applying for scholarships

POST SECONDARY OPTIONS

Community College

Pima Community College, now with 8 campuses in Tucson, offers Associate of Arts or an Associate of Science degree, as well as a Basic Certificate, an Advanced Certificate, and Technical Certificate programs. To be admitted, take the PCC assessment tests to determine your placement in writing, reading and math classes. Study for these assessments on line at pima.edu, then click on “getting started.” The PCC assessment test is available daily on the PCC campus and takes 2 hours. You will need a transcript and a PCC application to apply to Pima. Check with PCC for financial aid; it will require you to file the FAFSA at the very least. An official transcript should be requested from IRHS to be sent to PCC after graduation.

Career and Technical Schools

Career/technical schools are much different from traditional high school or traditional college experience. These institutions provide a “hands-on” educational experience. The instructors are experienced in the subjects they teach. Most of them have held jobs in their specific fields and understand firsthand what is expected on the job. The educational programs are designed to teach the necessary skills in the shortest possible time, so that a trainee can get into the job market as soon as possible. These credits are not intended to transfer to a four-year university.

Apprenticeships

An apprentice is an inexperienced worker who signs a contract to participate in a trade training program for a set period of time. To master the occupation the apprentice must perfect each skill at the established levels of performance, speed and accuracy required on the job. Apprenticeship provides structured on the job training under the supervision of a qualified craftsperson, technician or professional.

Apprenticeships combine supervised on the job training with related technical studies. These training programs are challenging. They offer, individuals 16 years of age or older, a planned and organized program for learning a skill, a combination of on the job and related classroom training, entry level positions on a career ladder, compensation that is usually above minimum wage and certification of competency measured by industrial standards.

The best sources of apprenticeship are local state employment security agencies, field offices of state apprenticeship agencies, and regional offices of the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training.

MILITARY ACADEMY APPOINTMENTS

Steps toward gaining admission

1. Open a file with a Military Academy. Apply for admission as soon as possible after April 1 of your junior year. Pre-candidate questionnaires are available by calling the academy admissions office or contacting your local representative.

2. Request a congressional nomination. Contact state senators, your congressional representative, and the Vice President of the United States. Each member may nominate up to ten individuals. Provide high school transcript, three letters of recommendation, photograph, and test scores.

3. Based on information from the Pre-candidate Questionnaire, the Candidate Guidance Office will advise whether your record is strong enough to be considered for admission.

4. Consider attending the summer program offered by the branch you are considering for admission. These should be done the summer between your junior and senior year.

5. If you are named a candidate, you will receive a complete candidate application packet as early as September of your senior year. Complete the information and send it in as early as possible.

6. You will be asked to complete a Candidate Fitness Assessment.

7. You will be asked to take the Qualifying Medical Examination.

8. You will be notified to schedule an interview with a local representative of the academy.

9. Appointment is made.

Suggestions

o Begin the application and nomination process early.

o Take the SAT and ACT in the spring of your junior year and repeat it several times if test scores do not meet academy requirements.

o Meet with academy representatives when they visit Ironwood Ridge campus.

o In junior year, attend a Service Academy Conference sponsored by one of our congressional representatives. It is usually held in April.

Military Academy Information

ADDRESSES: REPRESENTATIVE’S ADDRESS:

U.S. Air Force Academy United States Military Academy Martha McSally

Director of Cadet Admissions West Point, New York 10966 1661 N. Swan Road, Suite 112

Colorado Springs, CO 80840 (914) 938-4041 Tucson, AZ 85712

(303) 472-2500 520-881-3588

United States Coast Guard United States Naval Academy SENATOR’S ADDRESSES:

Director of Admissions Director of Candidate Guidance John McCain

New London, CT 06320 Annapolis, MD 21402 407 W. Congress St. Suite 103

(203) 444-8500 (800) 638-9156 Tucson, AZ 85701

Office 520-670-6334

Fax 520-670-6637

Jeff Flake

6840 N. Oracle Road Suite 150

Tucson, AZ 85704

Office 520-575-8633

FAX 520-797-3232

THE MILITARY

Selective Service Registration

All males need to register at the time they turn 18 years of age. Registration forms are available at your local post office or online at:

Eligibility

To serve in the United States military, you must be a United States citizen or a registered alien between the ages of 17 and 35; be in good physical condition; and have good moral character. You must qualify on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) that measures your aptitude for different skills and helps set the direction of your career.

All branches of the military use the ASVAB as a selection tool at no cost to the student. The ASVAB takes three hours to administer and provides scores in math, verbal, academic ability and a host of sub-areas such as general science, mechanical comprehension, electronics and reasoning.

Each branch of the military has its own mission and character, its own incentives, bonuses and recruitment strategy. All service branches require:

• High school graduation or GED with college credits

• Aptitude tests

• Physical exams/drug screening/criminal background check

• The need for recruits in the area in which the enlistee has applied

• ASVAB test

Enlisted Programs

Recruiters from all branches of the service are readily available to discuss active duty and reserve programs. If you are planning to continue your education, you may also wish to ask about an officer-training program. It is a good idea to discuss the alternatives offered by each service before making a decision. In most cases, recruiters are able to guarantee specific training in advance. If you are definitely interested in obtaining a certain type of training, make sure that you obtain this guarantee before signing up.

ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps)

Many schools offer two, three and four year ROTC scholarships. ROTC graduates are required to serve in the military for a set period of time, either full time on active duty or part time in the Reserve or National Guard. Qualifying graduates can delay their service to go to graduate or professional school first.

Representatives of the Armed Forces will be frequently visiting our campus. Check on the Counseling Department Website for scheduled visits.

EMPLOYMENT

Application Guidelines

Filling out an application can be one of the most intimidating steps you can take when applying for a job or applying for admission to a college. Here are some helpful suggestions.

DO:

o Read applications and directions carefully.

o Make copies of the application before filling it out and practice filling in the information before completing the original.

o Make sure that everything that is supposed to be included is enclosed.

o Type the information or print the information in blue or black ink.

o Be truthful and do not exaggerate your accomplishments.

o Keep a copy and be thorough.

DON’T:

o Use correction fluid. If you type your application, use correctable typewriter or the liftoff strips to correct mistakes.

o Write in script unless directed to do so. If you do not have access to a typewriter or cannot complete it on a computer, print neatly. See the counseling department for use of a typewriter.

o Leave blank spaces. Missing information may cause your application to be discarded. However, do not use NA (non-applicable) in every place you do not have an answer.

o Be unclear. If the question calls for a specific answer, do not try to dodge it by being vague.

Resume Guidelines

Your resume is a brief summary of you. It lets employers or colleges know what you have to offer, and provides them with a clear picture of your experience and qualifications. When mailed, resumes should also include a cover letter. Personalize your resume if you are using it for different reasons: jobs, college admissions or scholarship applications.

DO:

o Use headers, i.e., career goal, education, work experience, school activities, volunteer work to organize your information.

o Format your information consistently, i.e., capitalize all headers and place them on the same area of your paper.

o Keep your resume to one page…two pages if you absolutely have to.

o Use verbs to describe your skills in the work experience.

o ALWAYS start with most recent information first when using dates.

o Be consistent with how you use information.

DON’T:

o Use “I” anywhere in your resume. “I” is the subject of the resume.

o Change your format from one category to the next category.

o Switch the format for dates, i.e., 2/2002 or July, 2002 all through the resume.

o Forget your phone number or email, if you have one.

o Write in something on your completed resume that you had forgotten.

o Elaborate the truth. If you have not graduated, use “pending graduation.”

Sample Resume and Cover Letter

[pic]

INTERVIEW TIPS

Preparation:

• Learn something about the company

• Have specific job or jobs in mind

• Review in your mind your qualifications about yourself

• Be prepared to answer broad questions about yourself

• Review your resume

• Be there a few minutes before the scheduled time of your interview

Personal Appearance:

• Well-groomed

• Suitable dress

• No chewing gum

The Interview:

• Answer each question as well as you can

• Be prompt in giving responses

• Be well mannered

• Use proper English and avoid the use of slang

• Be cooperative and enthusiastic

• Don’t be afraid to ask questions

Test (if employer gives one):

• Listen carefully to instructions

• Read each question carefully

• Write legibly and clearly

• Budget your time wisely and don’t stay on one question too long

Information to Take With You:

• Social Security number

• Driver’s license number

• Resume. Although not all positions require job applicants to bring a resume, you should be able to furnish the interviewer with information about your education and previous employment.

• Usually an employer requires three references. Get permission from people before using their names. If you can avoid it, do not use the names of relatives. For each reference, give the following information:

Name

Address

Telephone Number

Occupation

E-mail Address

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Below are listed several common questions asked by employers during interviews. Take some time before the interview to think about how you might respond.

• Tell me a little about yourself.

• Why should we hire you?

• What makes you a good worker?

• What kind of work are you looking for? (be specific in your answer)

• What are your long term career goals?

• How do you spend your spare time?

• What are your strengths and weaknesses?

• What did you gain or learn from your last position?

• What can you do for this company?

• What do you expect this company to do for you?

• Why do you want to work for this company?

• What do you know about this company?

• If a conflict came up between you and some of your co-workers, how would you handle the situation?

• What course did you like best in school?

It is also appropriate for you to ask questions during the interview. Prepare a list of questions before the interview to take with you. WARNING: Check the employer’s website and do not ask questions that are answered on the website.

These questions might include:

• What are the job duties?

• What are the hours of employment?

• What are the opportunities for future advancement?

• What fringe benefits are provided by the company?

• Are there any union requirements?

• May I have a tour of the work site?

• Why is this position open?

• Is there a chance for overtime?

CLOSING THE INTERVIEW

Ending the interview is an important part of the interviewing process. Be certain to use good manners; thank the employer for the time taken with you and also thank the receptionist or secretary. His or her opinion of you may also count in the hiring process.

Try to make arrangements to call the employer back at a specific time to find out the decision. That way, the employer will be expecting your call.

Do not stay to talk after the interview is finished, unless invited. It might make the employer think you have nothing better to do.

When you return home, be certain to send the employer a thank you note. This will not only show good manners, but will also remind the employer of you.

SAMPLE THANK YOU LETTER/EMAIL

January 13, 20__

Ms. Mary Smith

Supervisor, Data Processing

L.M. Clark Co.

2475 W. Tangerine Road

Taos, New Mexico 12345

Dear Ms. Smith,

I appreciate the time you took to talk with me last Monday about the data entry opening in your department at the Clark Company. It is exactly the kind of position I am seeking.

Your company is doing some very exciting research in the health field, and I would like to be a part of the whole process. I believe my past experience in the inventory control department of Hennepin County Medical Center, and my knowledge of their computer systems, would be helpful in the job.

As we agreed, I will call you next Friday morning for your decision. I am looking forward to joining your firm.

Sincerely,

Pat D. Nighthawk

1234 48th Avenue North

Minneapolis, MN 54321

REFERENCE WEBSITES

College Information Scholarship/Financial Aid Testing and Study Skills

University of Arizona

arizona.edu

Pima Community College

pima.edu

Arizona State University

asu.edu

Northern Arizona University

nau.edu

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University



Grand Canyon University

grand-canyon.edu

Western Undergraduate Exchange

wue.wiche.edu

fafsa.







(unusual scholarships)











(special needs)

(Hispanic Scholarship Fund)

(United Negro College Fund)

(American Indian College Fund)

Register and study for SAT:



Register and study for ACT:



(PSAT, SAT, ACT)

(SAT)







how-to-



Careers

azcis.

username: ironwoodrhs

password: 4azcis02

GUIDEBOOKS

College Information

• The College Handbook, Latest Edition, The College Board.

• Peterson’s Guide to Four-Year Colleges, Latest Edition, Peterson’s Guides, Inc.

• Peterson’s Guide to Colleges with Programs for Learning Disabled Students, Latest Edition, Peterson’s Guides, Inc.

• Barron’s Profiles of American Colleges, Latest Edition, Barron’s Educational Services Inc.

• Barron’s Guide to the Most Prestigious Colleges, Latest Edition, Barron’s Educational Services Inc.

• Barron’s Guide to the Best, Most Popular and Most Exciting Colleges, Barron’s Educational Series.

• Lovejoy’s College Guide, Macmillan.

• The Fiske Guide to Colleges, Edward B. Fiske.

• Gourman Report, A Rating of Undergraduate Programs, Jack Gourman.

SAT and ACT Preparation Guides

• Cracking the SAT and the PSAT, Adam Robinson and John Katzman, The Princeton Review.

• Peterson’s SAT Success, John Carris, Peterson’s Guides.

• Barron’s How to Prepare for the Scholastic Aptitude Test, Barron’s Educational Series, Inc.

• ACT, The Classic Course: Kaplan Sourcebooks, Bantam.

• ACT or SAT for Dummies (terrible title, great book!)

Financial Aid and Scholarship Information

• Paying Less for College, Peterson’s.

• The Scholarship Scouting Report, Ben Kaplan.

• How to go to College for almost free, Ben Kaplan.

• Don’t Miss Out, the Ambitious Student’s Guide to Financial Aid, Octameron Associates.

• The A’s and B’s of Academic Scholarships, Octameron Associates.

Career Information

• Arizona College and Career Guide, Arizona Commission for Postsecondary Education.

• The Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.

• The College Board Guide to Jobs and Career Planning, The College Board.

• Career Choices and Educational Options, Linda O’Brien, Woodburn Press.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND PROGRAMS

Accelerated Program: Bachelor’s degree program completed in less than 4 years, usually requires summer study.

Accreditation: Recognition of a college or university by any of the regional or national accrediting bodies indicating that the institution as a whole has been judged to be meeting its objectives.

ACT: Test administered by the American College Testing Program and required or recommended by many colleges as part of the admission process.

Advanced Placement: Granting of credit and/or assignment to an advanced course on the basis of evidence that the student has mastered the equivalent of an introductory course.

Associate Degree: A degree granted after the satisfactory completion of a two-year full time program of study or its part-time equivalent.

Bachelor’s Degree: A degree received after the satisfactory completion of a four or five year full-time program of study at a college or university.

College Calendars:

Traditional-Two approximately equal semesters

Early Semester-Two semesters, one completed in

December

Quarter-Three equal terms of 12 weeks, one

Summer term available

Trimester-Three equal semesters, third

Semester replaces summer term

4-4—Two equal terms of about 16 weeks with a

four week interim term

Combined Bachelor/Graduate Program: Also called joint degree, this program provides undergraduate classes leading to a graduate degree in less time than normal. Available in business, law, medical studies.

Co-op Work Study Program: Student alternates between full-time college study and full-time paid employment related to the area of study. Under this plan, the degree often requires 5 years to complete.

CLEP: College Level Examination Program where some colleges grant course credit based on results of tests.

CSS Profile: A form that is required by some colleges as a supplement to the FAFSA.

Deferred Admission: Allowing students to postpone enrollment for one year.

Distance Learning: Earning course credit via cable television, Internet, correspondence classes, or satellite classes.

Early Action: Early application program where students are notified of admission status in December, but if accepted, do not have to commit until May 1.

FAFSA: (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) The form used to collect information about the student’s and family’s resources in order to qualify for financial aid.

Federal Pell Grant: Financial assistance granted to the neediest of students.

Honors Programs: Program for superior students to enrich their educational experience through independent, advanced, or accelerated study.

Independent Study: Students earn college credit through individual study, usually planned with and supervised by a faculty advisor.

International Baccalaureate: Granting of credit and/or assignment to an advanced course on the basis of evidence that the student has mastered the equivalent of an introductory course. This is an international program that is in schools throughout the world.

Internships: Work experience related to a student’s course of study which can be paid or unpaid and can earn credit for the student.

Major: The subject of study in which the student chooses to specialize.

Open admissions: The policy of admitting virtually all high school graduates regardless of academic qualifications.

PSAT: Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test is a practice test for the SAT. Given to juniors in October, it is also the qualifying test that determines National Merit Semi-finalists.

ROTC: Military Reserved Officer Training Corps provides military education with baccalaureate degree study often with financial support to those students who commit themselves to future service in the military.

Rolling Admission: Consideration of each application as soon as all required material has been received. No deadlines are given and students are admitted on a continuous basis.

SAT: Scholastic Aptitude Test often required or recommended as part of the admission process.

Study Abroad: Student completes part of the college program studying in another country.

3-2 Program: A three year program of liberal arts followed by two year of study in a professional program, often at another university. Two bachelor degrees or a master’s degree can result.

Urban Semester: Students earn credit for spending a

semester in a major city experiencing the complexities of an urban center through course work, seminars, or internships.

Washington Semester: Students participate in an internship program with a government agency or department in Washington, D. C. while taking courses at area colleges

Senior Autobiographical Sketch

Date:_______________

Student Name:___________________________________________________

Cell Phone #:_____________________E-mail:__________________________

College Admission Officers always prefer a good story. What’s your story? Do not limit your answers to things that have occurred in school. Include experiences drawn from all parts of your life.

A. Directions: Fill out the questions that best apply to you and return them to your counselor allowing TWO WEEKS to process your request for letters of recommendation.

1. Why are you asking for this letter of recommendation?

2. What is your possible major in college? Why did you choose this particular major?

3. List at least 4 adjectives or phrases that best describe you. These may be used as direct quotes in a letter of recommendation.

4. What is your passion in life, education, etc?

5. What are your weaknesses?

6. Which academic courses are/were most interesting to you? Why?

7. What are your distinguishing or unusual intellectual traits (ex. Creativity, reasoning or analytical ability, curiosity, disputation, etc)?

8. Share a story about a contribution YOU made in class within the last academic year (ex. class participation, project, group discussion/interaction, etc.

9. Is your high school record an accurate measure of your ability and potential? If not, what do you consider the best measure of your potential for success in college?

10. What circumstances, if any, have interfered with your academic performance?

11. What might a teacher say regarding your character development/integrity?

12. What might a student say regarding your character development/integrity?

13. Have you ever been suspended or expelled from IRHS, or any other public or private high school? If yes, please be specific about the circumstances.

14. What are your proudest accomplishments? Share detailed stories.

15. Have you traveled or lived in different locales? Where? Comment on any of your significant travel experiences.

16. What distinguishes your academic performance from that of another IRHS student with similar test scores and grade point average?

17. Are there linguistic and/or cultural factors that have contributed to or inhibited your high school academic performance? If so, explain.

18. Share stories of any unusual circumstances or obstacles you’ve overcome. We are particularly interested to hear how those experiences impacted/affected your academic experiences.

19. What would you like to contribute to society?

20. What additional information would you like your counselor to share with colleges and universities?

21. Have you taken the SAT/ACT (list the dates and scores)? If no, when are you planning to take either/both?

22. Have you taken AP tests? If so, please list dates taken, tests and scores for each.

23. What are your junior PSAT scores? CR _____ Math _____ Selection Index _______

B. Please complete a resume and turn in to your counselor which should include the following information about yourself. Please indicate the grade level involved in each activity.

• High School Organizations and Activities

• Volunteer Activities

• Athletics (Identify if you lettered)

• Off Campus Activities (summer included)

• Awards

• Job Experiences (present job and number of hours working)

• Hobbies

• Other Activities

C. Also include your personal statement essay along with this form.

NOTES

-----------------------

16 Core Classes for College (GPA)

English 9 _____ _____

English 10 _____ _____

English 11 _____ _____

English 12 _____ _____

Math _____ _____

Math _____ _____

Math _____ _____

Math _____ _____

Science _____ _____

Science _____ _____

Science _____ _____

Fine Arts _____ _____

Foreign Language _____ _____

Foreign Language _____ _____

Social Studies _____ _____

Social Studies _____ _____

Unweighted Grades

A = 4

B = 3

C = 2

D = 1

F = 0

Pat Nighthawk

2475 W. Naranja Drive

Tucson, AZ 85742

(520) 696-3933

Date

Employer’s Name

Employer’s Company

Employer’s Address

RE: The position or reason for letter

Dear Mr., Mrs. or Ms. _________:

I am interested in applying for the _______ position, which I saw advertised in the Nighthawk Newspaper.

List the skills you can offer in this paragraph. Use specific qualities you can bring to the job.

• You can also bullet important points

• This enables the reader to see things clearly

I would love to interview for this position. I can be reached at 520-696-3933.

I look forward to your call.

Sincerely,

Pat Nighthawk

Pat Nighthawk

Pat Nighthawk

2475 W. Naranja Drive

Tucson, AZ 85742

pat.hawk@

Objective: To __(verb)____

Education: Ironwood Ridge High School

Expected graduation date May 20__

Courses: Pre-AP English 9

AP World History

Spanish I, II and III

Graphic Communication Fundamentals, Web Page I & II

Activities: Date-date Key Club, Treasurer

Date-date People Club – (description)

Date-date Varsity Volleyball

Date-date Orchestra

Date-date Art Club

(add other volunteer activities ~ walks, food drives, Humane Society, church, girl/boy scouts, etc.)

Skills: Public Speaking, (specific) Computer Skills, Bi-lingual

Memorization

Awards: Volunteer of the Year 2010, Humane Society of So AZ,

AP Scholar, KGUN 9 Athlete of the Week

Experience: April 2014 – Current

Data Corp, Data Entry Clerk – (verbs for description)

February 2012 – December 2013

Oro Valley Pool, Life Guard – (verbs for description)

Leadership: Attended _______ Conference

Eagle Scout

Boys/Girls State

Captain of _________ Team

References: Always be sure to ask people before entering all pertinent contact information. Do not include parents or peers.

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