Resource and Information

Listed here are unbiased, effective, and quality pieces of information in regards to planning for college, applying for college, and paying for college. Please take your time and review these free resources, if you have any questions at all- please feel free to contact me.

Planning for College

Make the Most of High School

The Oregon Department of Education sets minimum graduation standards for high schools (most recently updated Jan. 22, 2007), but individual districts may have more requirements for earning a diploma. If you transfer from one district to another, it is especially important you see a counselor with your previous transcript so you know which courses at your prior school meet expectations for your new school.

Considering a Major and Career Field

Why should you try to think now about what you want to do for the next ten years (at least)? Colleges and vocational schools may have specialties (like pre-law or physical sciences). Then again, they may not offer some majors at all. If you have to transfer later, it’s usually possible, but it may be costly, so it’s best to choose a school that features your career path.

Selecting a College

Prioritize the following qualities:

Major
Location (close or far from home; rural, suburban, or urban community; near mountains, ocean…..)

Applying to Colleges and Important Deadlines

What do admissions officers consider important?

Universities select students according to high standards in the following areas, typically in this order:

Academic record (GPA as listed in official transcript, rigor of courses, class rank)
Standardized test scores (consult your prospective college for requirements: SAT vs. ACT and average incoming freshman scores)

Financial Aid

Can you afford college?

If you are just finishing high school, congratulations! Right now, it’s likely that you have fewer financial obligations than you will at any other point in your adulthood. Yes, it may seem like a sacrifice to be spending money on tuition rather than earning wages at a full-time job, but you have the rest of your life to work! And the long-term benefits of getting a college degree should not be ignored.