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Guidance Newsletter:  December 2007

(Additional information is available on most scholarships.

See the postings outside the guidance office, or Mrs. Kaiser.)

 

  1. Holiday Blues?  The holidays can be a time of great joy for some, and great sadness for others.  If you or your family is grieving the loss of a loved one, you might want to contact State of the Heart Home Health and Hospice at 419-678-4808 or Tomorrow’s Angels at 419-586-8465 for support or to be added to their mailing list.
  2. The Light of Hope Candlelight Memorial Service (sponsored by Cisco Funeral Home, Mercer Heath, and Celina Area Visiting Nurses) will be held December 4th at 7 p.m. at Wayne St. United Methodist Church in St. Marys.  The event is open to the public.  An angel will be given to each family who is grieving the loss a loved one. 
  3. Practice ACT and AP Exams online at http://www.infohio.org/ER/secure/LearningExpress.asp.  Click on “Learning Express Library”.  You will need to create a user account.  See Mrs. Pottkotter for a username and password to use this at home.
  4. ACT National Test Dates 2007-2008                              Registration Deadline

December 8, 2007                                              November 2, 2007

February 9, 2008                                                January 4, 2008

April 12, 2008                                                    March 7, 2008

June 14, 2008                                                    May 9, 2008

FRHS Code:  362-165

 

            **Students can register via paper packet or online at:  www.actstudent.org

 

**if you are on an IEP/504 Plan and would like special testing accommodations for the ACT, you must see Mrs. Kaiser well in advance of the registration deadline to file your paperwork

 

**Students may take the ACT at any time:  you need not be a junior or senior.  Younger students sometimes take the ACT for the purpose of practicing and studying for future tests.  The following are the times I suggest students take the ACT:  Seniors should take the October (and December?) ACT.  Juniors should take the ACT for the first time in February, April and/or June.

 

**Hints for the ACT:  STUDY FOR IT!  Practice tests are available in the guidance office and online.  Pace yourself, and don’t leave any questions blank (it is to your advantage to guess).

 

  1. Fee Waivers are available for the ACT…check out the details on the website to see if you qualify:  www.actstudent.org
  2. Have you applied to college yet?  Seniors should have sent in their applications by now.
  3. Financial Aid:  Get a PIN at www.pin.ed.gov   This is one of the things you will need in order to apply for federal financial aid for college—so keep it in a safe place.  Also, tell your parents to make their tax appointments for early January (if possible).  This information is necessary to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) in February.
  4. Rhodes State Financial Aid: One-on-one assistance with completing the FAFSA in the Rhodes office is available. Contact Rebecca J. Phillips at 419-995-8033 to discuss available dates or with any other questions and concerns.
  5. At select universities (Bowling Green is an example), seniors can take the ACT at any time for the purpose of increasing their scores for merit-based scholarships.  The student must be accepted to that university, and their score will only be used at that particular university.  Also, some schools will waive their application fee if the student applies online or if you tour their campus (Ohio Northern is an example).  See an admissions counselor for details. 
  6. Looking for a college or a career that’s right for you?  Check out collegeboard.com or http://ocis.ode.state.oh.us (Ohio Career Information System…username:  ftrecov and password:  ohiocis03).  They are BOTH great websites to help you narrow down your choices!
  7. Catalogs are available in the guidance office that highlight all of Ohio’s Private and Public Colleges.  These books are excellent resources for students to make comparisons between schools….they let you know enrollment, tuition rates, admission policies and fees, locations, and much, much more!
  8. Colleges encourage students to apply online!  In some cases, the application fee is waived if a student applies online.  Most Honors Program Applications are only available online.  There is usually a “Guidance Counselor/College Prep” form that must be printed and given to Mrs. Kaiser to be sent with your HS Transcript.
  9. Miami University Access Initiative:  Miami University will provide tuition and fees for all new first-year students from Ohio entering the Oxford campus that has family incomes of less than $35,000.  The program will continue to provide tuition and fees for eligible students for up to four years.
  10. Harvard University would like to pay the tuition of an honor student graduating high school whose family earns less than $60,000 per year.  To find out more about Harvard offering free tuition for families making less than $60,000 a year visit Harvard's financial aid website at: http://www.fao.fas.harvard.edu/ or call the school's financial aid office at (617) 495-1581.
  11. Eastern Michigan and Ball State Universities offer In-State Tuition for FRHS students.
  12. Ohio Northern University would like to have the names and addresses of seniors who may qualify for one of their many scholarships and awards.  If you are considering ONU, see Mrs. Kaiser ASAP so scholarship information can be mailed to you.
  13. The Ohio State University and Miami University will only accept ACT Scores if they are sent directly from ACT.  So, if you are considering one of these two universities, be sure to include them on your ACT registration as a “College and Scholarship Choice”.  In addition, both of these schools require the “writing” portion of the ACT, and test scores must reach the admissions office PRIOR to December 3rd to be considered for scholarships (i.e. The December test date is too late for Seniors.)
  14. Don’t rule out Private Colleges!  In many cases, you can afford the tuition…apply for the scholarships and grants available to you.  Sometimes, you can attend a private school for the same price as a public one.  The Ohio Student Choice Grant is an automatic award to students opting for private universities, and will be awarded after filing the FAFSA.
  15. Students planning to apply to the University of Cincinnati must be sure to apply prior to December 15th to meet the priority deadline for UC Scholarships.  Architecture and design deadline is November 15th.  College-Conservatory of Music deadline is December 1st.
  16. ROTC (Military) Scholarship Information is available on flyers posted outside the office.  Military recruiters visit FRHS throughout the year, and set up in the Commons area at lunch so students can gather information about the military and ask questions.
  17. American Legion Scholarships:  There is a copy of Need A Lift? In the guidance office.  This 152 page catalog lists scholarships, grants, and loans.  It also contains extensive information on scholarships for veteran’s dependents.  Visit www.needalift.org to view the catalog online.  There is also information on scholarships, grants, and loans based on specific majors at:  www.srnexpress.com.
  18. National High School Oratorical Contest (9-12):  The purpose of the American Legion's National Oratorical Contest is to develop a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States on the part of high school students.  Other objectives of the contest include the development of leadership qualities, the ability to think and speak clearly and intelligently, and the preparation for the acceptance of the duties and responsibilities, the rights and privileges of American citizenship. Local and National Scholarships are available for the winners (up to $18,000).  So, if you like public speaking, and you are interested in the amendments of the constitution, this might be for you.  Check out the pamphlet on the white board outside the office!
  19. 2008 SAE Engineering Scholarships:  are available to seniors planning to pursue a degree in Engineering or related sciences (math, chemistry, physics, biology, technologies, computer science, etc.).  Deadline to apply is December 1, 2007.
  20. GIS Program: On Wednesday, December 12, 2007 Rhodes State College will have their National Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Program. The event is tentatively planned for 10:00am – 1:30pm. More information at 419-995-8420 or Makley.d@rhodesstate.edu.
  21. AXA Achievement Scholarship: AXA is offering both $10,000 and $15,000 national scholarships. Winners are known as AXA Achievers.  They are students who set and reach ambitious goals, demonstrate drive, determination and ability to succeed in college and who have respect for self, family and community. . To learn more about the scholarship go to www.axa-achievement.com.  Application deadline for the Achievement Scholarship is December 15, 2007.  The AXA Achievement Community Scholarship is also available via the website.  Applications for the Community Scholarship are due February 15, 2008.
  22. Cheerleader Scholarship:  This program is open to 9-12 grade female cheerleaders.  The girls do not have to be cheering currently; they only need high school cheer experience to apply and are NOT required to cheer in college to be awarded a scholarship.  The scholarship program is based on an employment-type interview and Homecoming/Prom gown competition.  If you have questions, call 734-946-1200 or visit www.misscheerleaderofamerica.com.  Apply as soon as possible so you don’t miss the preliminary judging on December 15, 2007.
  23. Cincinnatus Scholarship (gr. 12):  Seniors interested in the University of Cincinnati may apply for the Cincinnatus Scholarship.  Seniors must have a minimum of 3.2 GPA and much submit a high school transcript, admission application, and test scores. The online application is available at www.admissions.uc.edu and the deadline for submissions is due no later than Dec. 15, 2007.
  24. Joseph Fichter Scholarship Contest (grades 11-12, and college freshman):  This scholarship is for $1,000 or $250, and is available to any child, grandchild, or member of Ohio Farmers Union.  See Mrs. Kaiser for more info. (The Virgil Thompson Memorial Scholarship is available to full-time college sophomores, juniors, or seniors).  More information is available by calling:  822-321-3671, or at www.ohfarmersunion.org.  Application deadline is:  December 31, 2007.
  25. Imagine America Scholarship (grade 12):  FRHS can select up to three students to receive this $1,000 scholarship.  Only recent high school graduates who are qualified applicants and who meet the following recommended guidelines should apply: Likelihood of successful completion of postsecondary education, High school grade point average of 2.5 or greater, Financial need, and Demonstrated voluntary community service during senior year   High school graduates of 2007 have until December 31, 2007 to apply. High school graduates of 2008 can start applying on January 1, 2008.  Students must plan to attend a “career college” (such as ITT or Lincoln Tech) to be eligible.  Students should visit the website for more information and may apply online at www.imagine-america.org.
  26. Toyota Community Scholars Scholarship: This year the program will award 100 renewable scholarships, valued at $10,000 or $20,000 payable over 4 years, to seniors who enroll at a four-year college of university in the United States starting in the fall of 2008. The Toyota Community Scholars program recognizes academic excellence and rewards to young people who actively participate in community service. Our school is invited to identify one student from the senior class as our nominee in this year’s competition. See Mrs. Kaiser for details. Applications are due January 4, 2008.
  27. U.S. JCI Senate Foundation Scholarships:  These scholarships are sponsored by the Jaycees and focuses on leadership and service.  Twenty $1,000 scholarships are available in two categories:  Academic based, and Need based.  Students may apply for only one category, and applications are due January 9, 2008.
  28. Mercer County Elks is offering several scholarships:
    1. Elks Most Valuable Student Scholarship:  senior applicants must exhibit scholarship, leadership, and financial need.
    2. Elks National Foundation Legacy Awards:  eligible applicants are: any child, grandchild, step-child, step-grandchild or legal ward of a living Elk who joined on or before April 1, 2005, or a charter member of a Lodge that was instituted on or after April 1, 2005.  The Elk must be a paid member- up through March 31, 2008.  Great-Grandchildren are not eligible.

Copies of all Elks applications are also available online at:  www.elks.org/enf/scholars, and are due by January 11, 2008

  1. Sam Walton Community Scholarship (grade 12): is a $1,000 award for the first year of undergraduate study at an approved accredited college or university. To qualify, a student must be a graduating high school senior and may not be a Wal-Mart or Sam’s Club associate, or the child or legal dependent of a Wal-Mart of Sam’s Club associate. See the website for general guidelines www.walmartfoundation.org. The deadline for entry is January 14, 2008.
  2. BGSU Scholarship: Bowling Green State University has new freshman scholarship opportunities for students entering in the fall of 2008. Mrs. Kaiser has an easy to understand scholarship grid. The application deadline for scholarship consideration is January 15.
  3. OSU Alumni Scholars Program (Grade 12): Applicants must be ranked in the top 25% of graduating class, demonstrate involvement in community and school activities, and show a sound interest and positive attitude towards college work to be able to receive a one-time $600 scholarship.  Application and transcript must be turned in no later than Jan 15, 2008.
  4. McKelvey Foundation Scholarship for students who have owned and operated their own business while in high school (grade 12): They offer up to $10,000 per year for 4 years to any U.S. college or university. To qualify, students must:  be a 2008 HS graduate, attend a 4 yr. college within the U.S., own and operate a genuine business (non-profits are eligible), and have at least one employee.  See the website:  mckelveyfoundation.org.  Online application is due January 15, 2008.
  5. Ohio Society of CPA Scholarship is intended for high school seniors planning to major in accounting at an accredited Ohio college or university during the 2008-09 academic year. The award is $500 and is renewable for up to five years. Application materials due by January 28, 2008.
  6. US Bank Scholarships (grade 12):  U.S. Bank will again award up to thirty $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors planning to attend accredited two- or four- year colleges full-time next fall.  Scholarship award recipients are selected through a random drawing process.  Students can apply online at:  usbank.com/studentbanking now through February 2008.
  7. Burger King Scholars Program: $1,000 scholarships are available to all high school seniors. For a student to qualify he/she must be a high school senior and a U.S. resident that meets the programs criteria.  To obtain information about eligibility criteria, visit www.bk.com/scholars. Last day to submit applications is February 15, 2008.
  8. National Co-Op Scholarship:  Students who are accepted at on of the 10 NCCE Partner Colleges and Universities (including Univ. of Cincinnati and Toledo) can apply online at

www.co-op.edu.  Deadline is February 15, 2008, but early submission is encouraged.

  1. Ohio Township Association Scholarship is offering two $1,500 scholarships. Students may apply for both scholarships, but may receive only one. Students must reside in one of the 1,308 townships in Ohio. Applications for 2008 must be received by February 28, 2008.
  2. IPFW Scholarships for Excellence Program   Applications are available online at http://www.etcs.ipfw.edu/dean/scholarships/. Admission to IPFW must be accomplished before a scholarship can be awarded. Deadline is March 1, 2008.
  3. Western Buckeye Chapter of Credit Unions Scholarship will award 8 scholarships in the amount of $500 each. To qualify, the applicant must be at least a senior in high school and plan to participate in post-secondary studies, including professional, vocational, and academic studies that are not limited to colleges and universities. Applications must be submitted no later than March 1, 2008.
  4. Legislative Scholarship Program:  The Ohio Association of Career Colleges and Schools is awarding 186 scholarships to 2008 graduating seniors.  These awards range from $2,000-$12,100.  Applicants must plan to attend one of the specific career-technical colleges on the application to be eligible for these scholarships.  Deadline is March 30, 2008.
  5. IPFW Scholarships:  There is a book of scholarship information in the guidance office for students planning to attend Indiana University/Purdue University-Ft. Wayne.  Deadline to apply is March 31, 2008.
  6. Lincoln College of Technology Scholarship: Lincoln College of Technology has a 2008 high school select scholarship program that includes a $1,000 guaranteed tuition scholarship to a senior from FRHS. Applications are due to Mrs. Kaiser by April 21st.
  7. The Mercer County Civic Foundation has a small pool of student loan funds available.  These low-interest $900 college loans are renewable, and the 4% interest rate does not begin to accrue until 6 months after graduation from college, and are interest-free if repaid within that time.  Applications due by June 1st.
  8. National Scholarships:  Check out schoolsoup.com, www.big33.org (through Feb.2008), fastweb.com, and cappex.com (through Jan. 31) for scholarship and college information.  There is also a scholarship search feature at:  www.charterone.com/edu/scholarshipsearch (click on “Resources for Students and Families”, select “scholarship search”, and follow the instructions.
  9. Sollomon Electric Co., Sidney is interested in giving employment to students who plan to become electricians or be involved in the electrical trades upon completing high school.  They would like to have the students work for their company through the year, then attend an electrical trade school in the fall with the intent of becoming qualified electricians.
  10. Pregnant/need help?  Family Life Center of Auglaize County can offer some help.  Phone:  419-394-9756.  They also offer a support group for New Moms and Moms to be…call 419-300-9756 if interested.
  11. Don’t wait too long to complete your applications!  You never know when school will be delayed or cancelled, so ask for letters of recommendation, transcripts, etc., well in advance!
  12. Mrs. Kaiser’s email is:  kaisera@fr.noacsc.org
  13. Upcoming Events:





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