Throughout November, Gwinnett’s high schools will participate in events that will allow seniors to complete and submit online college applications while receiving assistance from trained volunteers. Please support these efforts and volunteer! And if you are a senior... APPLY!
Seniors have lots of great resources out there as they make plans for college, including the Georgia Futures website and resources from College Board and ACT. GCPS students also have “The Choice Book,” a high school planning guide that students receive early in their high school careers. The book includes key information to help student determine their four-year plan, including details on state and local promotion and graduation requirements, other learning opportunities, and postsecondary planning.
On the district website, look for helpful tips in the Education Tips section, including:
- How to make it through the college admissions process
- How to make the most of your college visit
- Questions to ask during the college search
Even if your student is a few years away from graduation, it’s not too early to create a college-going culture at home. Kids who grow up with “when you go to college” rather than “if you go to college” are more likely to see themselves as college-bound. Whether it’s a four-year research university, a small liberal-arts college, or a technical college or certificate program, additional education and training after high school graduation are a must for young people entering the workforce. Here are some tips for promoting a college-going culture at home:
- Set clear expectations of attending college by instilling the idea that school does not end with high school.
- Demonstrate that you are a lifelong learner yourself.
- ·Make college preparation a part of the daily routine.
- Encourage your child to take challenging classes and flex his or her academic muscles.
- Help your child see the connection between college and career.
- Attend college events, such as sporting or cultural activities, at local campuses or your own alma mater.
- Discuss college options… Community, technical, two- and four-year, colleges and universities, public, and private.
- Encourage your child’s aspirations and talents.
Find more tips and additional information in this parent tipsheet. And look for more college resources in future stories.
Seniors, don’t forget to apply for scholarships!
Obviously, strong academic achievement and community service are important attributes for students applying for college scholarships, but some scholarships actually focus on students who have overcome challenges, who improved after a poor academic start, or who have a specific interest or talent outside of the classroom. Students should look for scholarship opportunities that take into account their circumstances and strengths. School counselors also can provide suggestions.
One place to start? The GCPS Foundation Fund is now accepting scholarship applications from members of the GCPS Class of 2018. Find the 2018 GCPS Foundation Scholarship Catalog online. Scholarships range in value from $300 to $6,000 and most are one-time awards. The deadline for scholarships managed by the Foundation is Dec. 11. (All scholarship deadlines are included in the scholarship information and clearly noted on each application.) The Foundation will announce scholarship recipients in May.