Things you should be doing on the college path over winter break.

Aaron A. Acevedo UAF Admissions Counselor

The Countdown Begins

1. So youre thinking about college, eh? 2. Youre probably a high school Junior/Senior? 3. Havent really began the college admission process? Well sit back, relax and enjoy the presentation. Im here to explain the steps you should be taking on the college path during winter break!

Step 1: Your High School Counselor

Connect with your counselor before winter break: Chat about options after High School Talk about your goals Gather information Make sure youre on track for graduation

Step 2: Register For ACT/SAT

ACT (American College Testing) Testing Dates
October 26th, 2013 (Regular registration Sept. 27th) December 14th, 2013 (Regular registration Nov. 8th)

SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) Testing Dates

October 5th, 2013 (Late registration Sept. 20th) November 2nd, 2013 (Regular registration Oct. 3rd) Most Colleges/Universities require official test scores for admission.

Step 3: Reach Out To A Student Ambassador

SAs are: College/university representatives Naturally friendly & energetic The best way to really learn about a college/university campus Great at creating internal and external relations with students and faculty The key to a campus inside scoop

What do SAs do? Give campus tours Host events (Ex: pep rallies) Communicate with prospective students Assist with on campus events

 Purpose of a college Fair? Get to know other schools Exhaust your resources Familiarize yourself with interested Chat with your HS Counselor schools Visit local colleges for more Great time to pick info up informational Google local college fair dates materials Read your local newspaper Great time to get Use your parents as a resource questions answered Ask piercing questions Gather important deadline info

Step 4: Attend College Fairs

Step 5: Tour A Campus

Step 6: Contact An Admissions Counselor

Admission Requirements Deadlines Application Test Scores High School Transcripts Tuition and fees Financial Aid Scholarships University Experts

Specialized territories Degree programs Campus life Registering for classes Paying for tuition Dining on campus Dorm life Events

Step 7: Financial Aid & Scholarships

Apply for your FAFSA & Scholarships
Apply online at fafsa.ed.gov (all other sites charge an app fee) Talk to your schools Admissions Counselor for FAFSA deadlines Apply with your parents for ease and comfort Most colleges post scholarship info through Financial Aid Ask your schools Admissions Counselor for scholarship deadlines Create a calendar for submitting scholarship applications Ask teachers or employers for letters of recommendation

Step 8: Keep Your Parents In The Loop

Communicate with your parents about: The college selection process Their college experiences Financial assistance Letters of recommendation 1st generation college students

Step 9: Decision Time

A few other things to consider
Research campus life Inquire about athletic programs Join intramural sports Look into student clubs and organizations Apply for student jobs Attend New Student Orientation Explore exchange programs

Phew Any Questions?