• graduation

     

     

     

     

    Welcome to Senior Year

     

    Time Line of Events 

     

    What you need to working on: 

    • Research – If you have not begun the college/ career search now is the time. There are various web-sites and books available look at our resource page for a start.
    • Resume building – now is the time to start resume building – take an inventory of what you have done organize it using the Student Activity Worksheet included in this packet.
    • Volunteer – take time out to volunteer in any way that you can through local community groups, school clubs or through churches. Colleges love to see extracurricular participation on your resume – so if you are not working try volunteering.
    • College Visits – If you have an idea of where you might want to go take a visit. Many colleges offer open houses, check their web-sites for details.  Take notes and ask questions.
    • Begin application Process – Now is the time to start asking teachers for those letters or recommendations – DON’T WAIT FOR THE LAST MINUTE – some teachers get overwhelmed with requests.
    • SAT & ACT Testing – Make sure that your scores are sent to the colleges of your choice and HAHS!
    • Start your personal essays – most colleges will look for a personal statement of some kind – so take the time and start creating a draft.
    • Register for the NCAA Clearing house – if you are planning to play in NCAA sports and didn’t register as a junior this is the time.

     

    Senior Year - September/ October

    • Credit Check - Guidance will review with each senior what courses they have chosen and double check they have met graduation requirements up to this point.
    • Start Applying - start applying to the colleges you have selected. Narrow your choices to a few schools – remember application fees can add up – look to the colleges for waiving fees especially for those that are your first choice.
    • List requirements – All schools have prerequisites – make a list and follow directions – create folders and keep things organized. Finalize essays.
    • PAY ATTENTION TO DEADLINES
    • Continue to call or visit schools.
    • Register to take or retake SAT, SAT Subject Test (if needed) & ACT – See what your school requires. FAFSA Forms - will become available at this time – you can apply via internet at fafsa.gov. Tax information will be needed.

     

     

    November/December

    • Review scholarship folders – Scholarships are available in guidance & library.
    • Send applications – Review applications make sure all requirements are met and all proper documentation was sent (transcripts, letters of rec., test scores, essays, portfolios, etc)
    • Meet early decision and early action deadlines

     

    January / February

    • Send out Applications/Midterm Grades – Many colleges have deadlines at this time – please check your applications – also many colleges will request mid-term grades - make sure any required forms are sent to guidance.
    • Maintain Senior Grades – Colleges can rescind their acceptances!
    • Keep up the Scholarship Search

     

    March/ April

    • Register for AP exams if you are taking AP classes.
    • Watch for letters of acceptance – Let us know when you are accepted and hold on to letters.
    • Review scholarships - Folders are in the Guidance resource room. PAY ATTENTION TO CRITERIA & DEADLINES
    • Follow acceptance instructions carefully – Pay attention to financial packages and housing arrangements.
    • Talk with Counselors - We will help you with majors/ career choice to see what best fits your interests and abilities.

     

    May

    • Start a Budget – Work with your parents and college financial aid office to secure loans, grants or other forms of payment methods for housing, books, supplies etc.
    • Graduation plans begin – Watch for senior class meetings to explain upcoming school events to prepare for graduation.
    • Scholarships – Local scholarships are available and/or due at this time.
    • PROM TIME! Enjoy!

     

    June

    • Distinguished Grads and Awards Ceremony – Congratulations to all attendees.
    • Finalize plans for college – Send in fees or payments to hold your spot.
    • Tie up loose ends- If money is owed for books or library dues - please pay the office.
    • McBride will give you your immunization records, please keep these records – very important documents!
    • Watch for graduation practice dates and graduation packets for ceremony information
    • Final transcripts – please let your counselor know if you need them sent to your college or place of employment.
    • Senior Survey – all seniors are required to fill out this survey so we can keep record of your future plans and accomplishments.