Friday, November 21, 2014

Be Patient

Let me start off by acknowledging that I am *NOT* the most patient person on the planet!

I know that it can be frustrating waiting for something to happen. Waiting to hear news. Waiting for the next phase of your life. Waiting... waiting... and still more waiting.

But the reality is you need to be patient.

Right now colleges are overwhelmed and frequently back-logged with all of the applications they have been receiving. When colleges are receiving materials it often takes them two weeks to get everything processed and updated in the computer. They often send out notices to students that are automatically generated letters that they send just to remind you that you need to send your transcript and test scores and a recommendation letter. Students tend to panic when they receive that letter and want to send the materials again. Colleges typically do not want that happening as it will simply back up their system even more.

Try to be patient. If you get one of these letters (from any college) take a moment and double check - did you send your transcript? Are they missing everything or some particular item? If you applied via Common App you can log in and check to see if everything was submitted and downloaded by the college.  If your materials were mailed within a 2-3 week time-frame, then take a deep breath and relax knowing that it is likely just because their system is backed up. Continue double checking on the college website (most will give you access to see your application status) and see if they have everything. If you are nearing the end of the 3rd week and they still don't have all of your items you can give them a call to double check. Chances are they just haven't made it there yet, but there are times where things get lost in the mail or filed in the wrong area. If items need to be sent again,
then we will work on taking care of that, but first make sure that they really are missing it.

Friday, November 14, 2014

Pioneer Career & Technology Center

When students enter 9th grade, many are excited about the different choices and opportunities available in high school. Unfortunately, the reality is that the first two years of high school really don't have all that many choices. There is a great deal of flexibility though as students reach their junior and senior years. One of those options includes the possibility of attending Pioneer Career and Technology Center.



On Monday, November 24 in World History classes, all sophomores will listen to a presentation about Pioneer and the programs that they have available for students. This is a great opportunity to earn your elective credits in an area that interests you rather than taking electives that you are selecting simply because they will fill up your schedule.


It was interesting to hear about all of the different programs that are available for students to explore. Recently, Pioneer has added great programs that offer opportunities with internships and jobs right out of high school. There are some unique experiences and opportunities available that can really stand out to colleges.


Sophomores – if you are interested in participating in the field trip to Pioneer, please be sure to sign up during the presentation in your World History class. You will also pick the top 3 progams you are interested in to visit. The field trip will take place on Wednesday, January 28.