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CAREER PATHWAY PLAN OF STUDY/FOUR YEAR PLAN NAME: ADVISOR: RACS MaP “A Meaningful and Purposeful Path to Successful Career” PATHWAY TO TOMORROW Meaningful and Purposeful”

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CAREER PATHWAYPLAN OF STUDY/FOUR YEAR PLAN

NAME: ADVISOR:

RACS MaP “A Meaningful and Purposeful Path to Successful Career”

PATHWAY TO TOMORROW

“Meaningful and Purposeful”

Pathways to Graduation: New NYSED Regulations

Students are required to pass five Regents examinations in high school in order to graduate – one each in English, science, math, as well as the U.S History and the Global Studies and Geography examinations. The 2014-15 approved changes include a “4+1” option that permits a student to take four Regents examinations and a comparably rigorous technical, arts, or other assessment for the fifth examination required for graduation. The 4+1 option would apply beginning with students who first entered ninth grade in or after September 2011 and thereafter or who are otherwise eligible to receive a high school diploma in June 2015 and thereafter and have passed four required Regents exams (or Department-approved alternative assessments) in English, mathematics, science and social studies.The regulations create graduation pathways in the Humanities, STEM, Biliteracy, CTE, and the Arts; students pursuing any of these pathways must pass one of the following assessments in place of the fifth assessment currently required for graduation:

One additional social studies Regents exam or Department-approved alternative (Humanities Pathway) One additional Regents exam in a different course in mathematics or science or a Department-approved alternative

(STEM Pathway) A pathway assessment in a Language Other Than English (LOTE) (which could include a Biliteracy Pathway) A career and technical education pathway assessment, following successful completion of an approved CTE

program (CTE Pathway) An arts pathway assessment (Arts Pathway)

A CTE assessment that meets the approved alternative requirements for Science can be substituted for the required Science Regents exam.

NYS CDOS Commencement Credential: Requirements

The NYS CDOS Commencement Credential is a credential recognized by the NYS Board of Regents as a certificate that the student has the knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level employment. There are two options available for students to earn this credential.

Option 1: The student must have developed an appropriate Career Plan that includes career interests, goals, strengths, needs and coursework used to address these goals; The student must have demonstrated achievement of the CDOS learning standards in the areas of career exploration and development; integrated learning; and universal foundation skills; and The student must have successfully completed at least 216 hours of CTE coursework and/or work-based learning experiences (of which at least 54 hours must be in work-based experiences); The student must have at least one completed employability profile that documents the student’s employability skills and experiences, as well as attainment of each of the commencement level CDOS learning standards and technical knowledge

Option 2 In lieu of a student meeting the requirements of Option 1 to be awarded the NYS CDOS Commencement Credential, a district may award a student this credential if the student has met the requirements for one of the nationally recognized work readiness credentials, including but not limited to: National Work Readiness Credential; SkillsUSA Work Force Ready Employability Assessment; National Career Readiness Certificate WorkKeys - (ACT); and Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment Systems Workforce Skills Certification System. For more detailed information on the CDOS Certificate, contact the Guidance Department or visit: http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/publications/CDOScredential-memo-613.htm

Plan/Course of StudyName: Pathway: Directions: Students should fill out the form below with the classes they will take next year in the spaces provided. Students should have seven full-period classes checked or written in for each semester. If you are taking an early bird class you will have eight. This document will help keep you on track for graduation and your post high school plans.

9th Grade 1st Semester

Core Required Classes

English 9

Earth Science

Math= (Teacher Rec.)

Global History 1

9th Grade 2nd Semester

Core Required Classes

English 9

Earth Science

Math= (Teacher Rec.)

Global History 1

10th Grade 1st Semester

Core Required Classes

English 10

Biology

Math= (Teacher Rec.)

Global History 2

10th Grade 2nd Semester

Core Required Classes

English 10

Biology

Math= (Teacher Rec.)

Global History 2

State Required Elective Core Classes

PE

Spanish 1

State Required Elective Core Classes

PE

Spanish 1

State Required Elective Core Classes

PE

Health

State Required Elective Core Classes

PE

Health

1.

2.

3.

Plan of Study/ElectivesReading 9

Lab. Classes

1.

2.

3.

Plan of Study/ElectivesReading 9

Lab. Classes

1.

2.

3.

Plan of Study/ElectivesReading 10

Spanish 2 / …....

1.

2.

3.

Plan of Study/Electives

Reading 10

Spanish 2 / …....

11th Grade 1st Semester

Core Required Classes

English 11

U.S. History

Math= (Teacher Rec.)

Science=(Teacher Rec.)

11th Grade 2nd Semester

Core Required Classes

English 11

U.S. History

Math= (Teacher Rec.)

Science=(Teacher Rec.)

12th Grade 1st Semester

Core Required Classes

English 12

U.S. Government

______________

12th Grade 2nd Semester

Core Required Classes

English 12

Economics

State Required Elective Core Classes

PE

Fine Arts

State Required Elective Core Classes

PE

Fine Arts

State Required Elective Core Classes

PE

Fine Arts

State Required Elective Core Classes

PE

Fine Arts

Plan of Plan of Plan of Plan ofStudy/Electives Study/Electives Study/Electives Study/Electives

1. Spanish 3/…………. 1. Spanish 3/……………1. 1.

2. 2.2. 2.

3. 3.3. 3.

Math Expectation: Math during the 11th grade year is expected, part of every plan of study. Math during the 12th grade year is highly recommended and is expected for most post secondary schools and professions.

CAREER CLUSTER ARTS & COMMUNICATION

Examples of Skilled Careers: Actor, Desktop Publisher, Technical Writer, Radio/Television Announcer, Telecommunication Technician, Photographer, Painter, Sculptor, Illustrator, Home Furnishing Coordinator, Audio/Video Equipment Tech, Costume Designer, Dancer, Film/Video Editor, Light/Sound Designer, Radio/Television Announcer, Broadcast Tech., Sound Engineer,Journalist, Light Director, Baker, Travel Agent, Tour Guide

SKILLEDSkilled occupations or careers are those that require some formal training or education beyond high school. Examples would include community college, trade school, technical school, etc.

FOUR YEAR SCHEDULE9 Grade 10th Grade

Core Classes Core ClassesEnglish 1 English 1 English 2 English 2Math Math Math MathEarth Science

Earth Science

Biology Biology

World His. 1 World His. 1 World His. 2

World His. 2

11th Grade 12th GradeCore Classes Core Classes

English 3 English 3 English 4 English 4US History US History US Govern. EconomicsMath or CTE Math or

CTEMath or CTE Math or

CTEScience Science

PLAN OF STUDY ELECTIVESMusic (any)Drama I and IIArt (any)Computers 1 & 2CAD/CAMPhoto I and IIPersonal Choices

Examples of Professional Careers: Editor, Art Director, Reporter/Correspondent, Producer, Publisher, CTE Teacher, Teacher, School Counselor, School Administrator, Telecommunication Computer Programmer and Systems Analyst, Network Designer, Graphic Designer, Art Director, Fashion Illustrator, Curator and Gallery Manager, Commercial and Industrial Designer, Interpreter and Translator, Convention Planner

PROFESSIONAL

Professional careers are those that most frequently require a four-year degree or more.

FOUR YEAR SCHEDULE9th Grade 10th Grade

Core Classes Core ClassesEnglish English English EnglishMath Math Math MathEarth Science

Earth Science

Biology Biology

World His. 1 World His. 1 World Hist.2

World Hist.2

11th Grade 12th GradeCore Classes Core Classes

English English English EnglishUS History US History US Govern. EconomicsMath Math Math MathScience ScienceWorld Language

World Language

World Language

World Language

PLAN OF STUDY ELECTIVESMusic (any)Drama I and II, Children’s LitPersonal ChoicesComputers 1 & 2Web DesignPhoto I and IIAdvanced Photo (May be taken multiple times)Art (any)Yearbook

CAREER PATHWAY MARKETING, BUSINESS AND SALES

Examples of Skilled Careers: Accounting Clerk, Technician, Video Game Tester, Adjusters, Billing Clerk, Payroll Clerk, Tax Preparers, Bookkeeper, Administrator Assistant, Human Resource Assistant, Data Entry, Retails Sales Specialist, Sales/Marketing Associate, Food Service Manager, Insurance Agent, Interior Designer, Public Relations Specialist, Art/Graphics Director, Fashion Designer, Interior Designer, Website Designer, Accounting Technician, Automobile Salesperson, Conference Organizer, Office Manager, Real Estate Agent, Real Estate Appraiser, Retail Manager, Software Trainer, Accountant, Concert Promoter, Sports Agent, Adjustment Clerk, Advertising Manager, Floral Designer, Hotel/Motel Clerk, Medical Record Technician

SKILLEDSkilled occupations or careers are those that require some formal training or education beyond high school. Examples would include community college, trade school, technical school, etc.

FOUR YEAR SCHEDULE9th Grade 10th Grade

Core Classes Core ClassesEnglish English English EnglishMath Math Math MathEarth Science

Earth Science

Biology Biology

World His. 1 World His. 1 World Hist.2

World Hist.2

11th Grade 12th GradeCore Classes Core Classes

English English English EnglishUS History US History US Govern. EconomicsMath or CTE Equivalent

Math or CTE Equivalent

Math or CTE Equivalent

Math or CTE Equivalent

Science Science

PLAN OF STUDY ELECTIVESComputers 1 & 2Photo I and IIMarketing and Adv. MarketingWeb DesignCADPersonal ChoicesYearbookIntro to BusinessIntro to Hospitality, Tourism and Service

Examples of Professional Careers: Investment Executive, Website Designer, Accounting Technician, Construction Project Manager, Office Manager, Purchasing Manager, Retail Manager, Certified Management Accountant, Chief Financial Officer, Occupational Analyst, OSHA/ADA Compliance Officer, City Administrator, Economist, Investment Banker/Broker, Management Consultant, Market Consultant, Facility Manager, Financial Analysts, Hospital Administrator, Human Resources Manager, Stockbroker, Advertising Manager, Media Buyer/Planner, Trade Show Manager, Meeting and Convention Planner, Visual Merchandise Manager, Interior Designers, Chief Executive Officer, CTE Teacher

PROFESSIONALProfessional careers are those that most frequently require a four year degree or more.

FOUR YEAR SCHEDULE9th Grade 10th Grade

Core Classes Core ClassesEnglish English English EnglishMath Math Math MathEarth Science

Earth Science

Biology Biology

World His. 1 World His. 1 World Hist.2

World Hist.2

11TH Grade 12th GradeCore Class Core Class

English English English EnglishUS History US History US Govern. EconomicsWorld Lang World Lang World Lang World LangMath Math Math MathScience Science

PLAN OF STUDY ELECTIVESComputers 1 & 2Photo I and IIAdvanced Photo (May be taken multiple times)CADMarketing and Adv. MarketingAccountingIntro to BusinessYearbookPersonal ChoicesWeb Design

CAREER PATHWAY ENGINEERING, SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENT

Example of Skilled Careers: Electrician, EKG Technician, Dental Lab Technician, Tool Designer, Chemical Technician, Cartographer, Avionics Technician, Computer Programmer, CAD Technician, Electronics Technician, Survey Technician, Tool Designer, Medical Lab Technician, Drafter, EMT, Laser Technician, Medical Photography, Computer Programmer, Industrial Engineering Technician, Environmental Science Technician, Environmental Surveying Technician.

SKILLEDSkilled occupations or careers are those that require some formal training or education beyond high school.Examples would include community college, trade school, technical school, etc.

FOUR YEAR SCHEDULE9th Grade 10th Grade

Core Classes Core ClassesEnglish English English EnglishMath Math Math MathEarth

ScienceEarth

ScienceBiology Biology

World His. 1 World His. 1 World Hist.2

World Hist.2

11th Grade 12th GradeCore Classes Core Classes

English English English EnglishUS History US History US Gover. Economics

Math or CTE Equivalent

Math or CTE Equivalent

Math or CTE Equivalent

Math or CTE Equivalent

Science Science Science Science

PLAN OF STUDY ELECTIVESComputers 1 & 2CAM (Computer Aided Machining)CAD (Computer Aided Drafting)Personal Choices

Examples of Professional Careers: Chemical Engineer, Aeronautical Engineer, Automotive Engineer, Civil Engineer, Construction Engineer, Marine Engineer, Aerospace Engineer, Anthropologist, Archeologist, Astronomer, Geneticist, Meteorologist, Zoologist, Astrophysicist, Physicists, Industrial Designer, Agricultural Scientist, Architect, Mathematician, Sociologist, Artificial Intelligence Specialist, Computer and Information Systems Manager.

PROFESSIONAL

Professional careers are those that most frequently require a four year degree or more.

FOUR YEAR SCHEDULE9th Grade 10th

Core Classes Core ClassesEnglish English English EnglishMath Math Math MathEarth

ScienceEarth

ScienceBiology Biology

World His. 1 World His. 1 World Hist.2

World Hist.2

11th Grade 12th GradeCore Classes Core Classes

English English English EnglishUS History US History US Gover. Economics

Math Math Math MathScience Science Science Science

World Lang World Lang World Lang World Lang

PLAN OF STUDY ELECTIVESCAM and Advanced CAM (Computer Aided Machining)CAD and Advanced CAD (Computer Aided Drafting)Computers 1 & 2Personal ChoicesNatural ResourcesPrincipals of Technology and Advanced PT

CAREER PATHWAY INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY

Examples of Skilled Careers: Firefighter, Machinist, Robotics Technician, Locomotive Engineer, Carpenter, Tool & Die Maker, Industrial Instrumentation, Photogrammetric Technician, Concrete Finisher, Plumber, Painter, Numerical Control Technician/Programmer, Desktop Publisher, Ambulance Driver, Drywall Installer, Locksmith, Light Truck Driver, Heating & Air Conditioning Mechanic, Chemical Technicians, Computer Programmer, CAD Technician, Cartographer, Sheet Metal Worker, Tile and Marble Setter, Glazier, Paver and Telecommunications Line Installer.

SKILLEDSkilled occupations or careers are those that require some formal training or education beyond high school.Examples would include community college, trade school, technical school, apprenticeships, etc.

FOUR YEAR SCHEDULE9th Grade 10th Grade

Core Classes Core ClassesEnglish English English EnglishMath Math Math MathEarth Science

Earth Science

Biology Biology

World His. 1 World His. 1 World Hist.2

World Hist.2

11th Grade 12th GradeCore Classes Core Classes

English English English EnglishUS History US History US Govern. EconomicsMath or CTE Equivalent

Math or CTE Equivalent

Math or CTE Equivalent

Math or CTE Equivalent

Science Science

PLAN OF STUDY ELECTIVESPrincipals of Technology and Advanced PTConstruction Trade TechnologyMetalsAuto MechanicsPersonal ChoicesCAD (Computer Aided Drafting)CAM (Computer Aided Machining)Computers 1 & 2

Examples of Professional Careers: Aircraft Pilot, Landscape Architect, Civil Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Chemical Engineer, Marine Engineer, Biomedical Engineer, Aerospace Engineers, Cost Estimator, Drafter, Fire Prevention and Protection, Building Designer, Engineer, Planner or Designer, Aeronautical Engineer, Automotive Engineer, Computer Engineer, CTE Teacher.

PROFESSIONAL

Professional careers are those that most frequently require a four year degree or more.

FOUR YEAR SCHEDULE9th Grade 10th Grade

Core Classes Core ClassesEnglish English English EnglishMath Math Math MathEarth Science

Earth Science

Biology Biology

World His. 1 World His. 1 World Hist.2

World

11th Grade 12 GradeCore Classes Core Classes

English English English EnglishUS History US History US

Govern.Economics

Math or CTE Equivalent

Math or CTE Equivalent

Math or CTE Equivalent

Math or CTE Equivalent

World Lang World Lang World Lang World LangScience Science Science Science

PLAN OF STUDY ELECTIVESCAD and Advanced CAD (Computer Aided Drafting)CAM and Advanced CAM (Computer Aided Machining)Metals and Advanced MetalsAuto Mechanics I and IIPrincipals of Technology and Advanced PTTechnology FoundationConstruction TradesComputers 1 & 2Personal Choices

CAREER PATHWAY HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

Examples of Skilled Careers: Anesthesiologist Assistant, Dental Assistant, Dental Lab Technician, Massage Therapist, Pharmacy Technician, Barber Cosmetologist, Embalmer, Aerobics Instructor, Skin Care Specialist, Bed/Breakfast Operator, Chef, Event Planner, Cruise Director, Fitness Consultant, Flight Attendant, Teacher Assistant, Radiology Technologist, Occupational Therapist, Home Health Aide, Phlebotomist,X-Ray Technician, EKG Technician, Wedding Consultant, Child Care Worker, Nanny, Credit Counselor, Events Specialist, Insurance Agent, Medical Transcriptionist, Dietary Aid.

SKILLEDSkilled occupations or careers are those that require formal training or education beyond high school. Examples would include community college, trade school, technical school, etc.

FOUR YEAR SCHEDULE9th Grade 10th Grade

Core Classes Core ClassesEnglish English English EnglishMath Math Math MathEarth Science

Earth Science

Biology Biology

World His. 1 World His. 1 World Hist.2

World Hist.2

11th Grade 12th GradeCore Classes Core Classes

English English English EnglishUS History US History US Govern. EconomicsMath or CTE Equivalent

Math or CTE Equivalent

Science Science

PLAN OF STUDY ELECTIVESComputers 1 & 2 (9-12)Personal Choices (9-12)CAD (Computer Aided Drafting)Health Occupations (Two Period Block)Human Anatomy & PhysiologyHealth Career OptionsTherapeutic Science

Example of Professional Careers: Hotel Manager, Cruise Director, Restaurant Manager, Interior Designer, Fashion Designer, Athletic Trainer, Nurse, Doctor, Dentist, Psychologist, Optometrist, Paramedic, Occupational Therapist, Pharmacist, Physical Therapist, Audiologist/Speech Pathologist, Biophysicist, Epidemiologist Rehabilitation Therapist, Commercial Photographer, Marriage/Family Counselor, Social Worker, Dietician, CTE Teacher, Exercise Physiologist, Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Nurse, School Nurse, Chiropractor, Optometrist, Psychiatrist, Mortician, Exercise Psychologist, Professional/College Coach, Rehabilitation Counselor, Probation Officer/Correctional Treatment Specialist, Clergy, Marriage Therapist, Director of Child Care Facilities, Clinical Psychologist, Sociologist, Financial Advisor, Toxicologist, Biochemist, Biomedical/Clinical Engineer, Veterinarian, Radiologist.

PROFESSIONALProfessional careers are those that most frequently require a

four-year degree or more.

FOUR YEAR SCHEDULE9th Grade 10th Grade

Core Classes Core ClassesEnglish English English EnglishMath Math Math Math

Earth Science Earth Science Biology Biology

World His. 1 World His. 1 World Hist.2

World Hist.2

11th Grade 12 GradeCore Classes Core Classes

English English English EnglishUS History US History US Govern. EconomicsMath Math Math MathScience Science Science ScienceWorld Lang World Lang World Lang World Lang

PLAN OF STUDY ELECTIVESComputers 1 & 2Personal ChoicesCAD (Computer Aided Drafting)Therapeutic ScienceHealth OccupationsAP BiologyHuman Anatomy & PhysiologyHealth Career OptionsTherapeutic Science

YEAR IN SCHOOL 9 10 11 12

ACTIVITIES and AWARDS YEAR IN SCHOOL 9 10 11 12

Position of Leadership

RACS National Honor Society

RACS Peer Leadership Program

RACS CRP

RACS Diversity Club

RACS Student Council

RACS Varsity Club

RACS Drama Club

RACS Service Club

Boy/Girl Scouts

MCC STEP

RIT GEAR-UP

Urban League Black Scholars

Roswell Park Cancer InstituteSummer Internship Program in Cancer ScienceSUNY OSWEGOSummer Research Internship ProgramUniversity of Rochester Perry Outreach ProgramWomen in Medicine and EngineeringInternational GENIOUS Olympiad

Princeton Price in Race Relations (PPRR)

International Festival of Language & Culture(IFLC)Congressional Award

Cornell University 4-H-Youth

Big Brother Big Sister

The President Volunteer Service Award

New York State Scholarships for Academic ExcellenceGenesee Street YouthFlower Planting DayRochester City Clean SweepOffice of the Mayor RecognitionLemonade Day in Rochester (Young Entrepreneurs)Science Olympiad CommitmentFIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Robotics Competition

ACTIVITIES and AWARDS Position of Leadership

New York StateAnnual STEP (Science Technology Entry Program)

Frequently Asked Questions for 8th Grade Students

Question: Do I need a world (foreign) language to graduate from high school? When should I take a world language?Answer: Yes, you need one credit world language to graduate form high school. However, if you wish to attend a 4-year university you need at least two consecutive years of the same language. Some colleges may require more. We generally recommend most students begin world language study in 9th grade. However, you may take Check Point A test at the end of the 8th grade and may earn Spanish credit if you pass the test. Remember, taking a world language as an elective is adding another class that requires considerable studying.

Question: Can I be a Peer Leader?Answer: No, peer leader positions are reserved for upperclassmen.

Question: What is jab shadowing? Can I do one in 9th grade? Answer: Job Shadowing is an academically motivating educational activity dedicated to giving kids an up-close look at the world of work. Job Shadowing gives over one million students across America the opportunity to “shadow” a workplace mentor as he or she goes through a normal day on the job. This gives young people a chance to see how the skills learned in school relate to the workplace. Yes you may do it in 9th grade but we recommend our students during 10th or 11th grades.

Question: Can I have a late arrival or early release?Answer: No, only seniors in good standing for graduation are allowed to have either a late arrival or early release.

Question: When will we get Math recommendations?Answer: Math recommendations are made before registration. Talk with your own current math teacher if you have questions.

Question: Can a student sign up for an AP class?Answer: No. Students are selected for AP classes based on Regents and PSAT test scores and teacher recommendation.

Question: How do I sign up a student who is on an IEP?Answer: Students who are on an IEP should fill out a registration form. The case managers will review the registration form and make the final determination on classes to ensure their IEP goals are met.

Frequently Asked Questions for Freshman StudentsQuestion: Do I need a world (foreign) language to graduate from high school? When should I take a world language?Answer: Yes, you need one credit world language to graduate form high school. However, if you wish to attend a 4-year university you need at least two consecutive years of the same language. Some colleges may require more. We generally recommend most students begin world language study in 9th grade. However, you may take Check Point A test at the end of the 8th grade and may earn Spanish credit if you pass the test. Remember, taking a world language as an elective is adding another class that requires considerable studying.

Question: Can I have a late arrival or early release?Answer: No, only seniors in good standing for graduation are allowed to have either a late arrival or early release.

Question: What is jab shadowing? Can I do one in 9th grade? Answer: Job Shadowing is an academically motivating educational activity dedicated to giving kids an up-close look at the world of work. Job Shadowing gives over one million students across America the opportunity to “shadow” a workplace mentor as he or she goes through a normal day on the job. This gives young people a chance to see how the skills learned in school relate to the workplace. Yes you may do it in 9th grade but we recommend our students during 10th or 11th grades.

Question: My transcript says that I took Earth Science at another school. How do I get this schools credit for taking it?Answer: Each transfer student’s records are evaluated individually. Check with your counselor to verify that your classes at your old school are going in the correct required classes at RACS.

Question: If I failed my first year of English and will pass the all others, do I have to repeat the first year again?Answer: No, Students are generally scheduled for the following year of English, which in your case would be English 10. If a course is failed, a student could be signed up to retake the failed course, placed in Apex English class which is an online class that you have to pay or signed up for summer school. You need four years of English to graduate.

Question: Can I be a Peer Leader? Answer: If you have passed all your classes in your freshman year, special permission can be granted if the teacher talks with your counselor.

Question: How does Dual Enrollment Program works? What are the requirements?Answer: Dual Enrollment Program is a program where you take college classes at RACS from partnered colleges like MCC, GCC or SUNY ESF during your junior and senior years and receive both high school and college credit. You must pass your Regents test and have teacher recommendation to qualify for the program.

Question: When will we get Math recommendations?Answer: Math recommendations are made before registration. Talk with your own current math teacher if you have questions.

Question: Can a student sign up for an AP class?Answer: No. Students are selected for AP classes based on test scores and teacher recommendation.

Question: How do I sign up a student who is on an IEP?Answer: Students who are on an IEP should fill out the registration form. The case managers will review the registration form and make the final determination on classes to ensure their IEP goals are met.

Question: When should I start filling out my applications? Answer: Early summer before senior year is the ideal time to start the application process. Most online applications become available in July for entering freshmen. Start filling out the applications during the summer and hit the "SAVE" button. The more you do prior to senior year, the less stressful this entire process will be. Starting your Activities Resume and Essay(s) over the summer months is also HIGHLY recommended!!

Question: Should I apply on-line or on paper?Answer: Most colleges offer online applications. If online applications are available, then proceed electronically.

Question: What is the Common Application?Answer: The common application is an application that is accepted by over 350 colleges. You only have to complete one application and download the forms once no matter how many colleges you are applying to. Keep in mind that most colleges will require supplemental information as well. www.commonapp.org

Question: What are supplemental?Answer: When you apply on a generic application such as SUNY or Common App, many schools require additional information. This information is call supplemental information, which pertains directly to a particular college. An example of a supplement may be to write a short essay stating why you desire to attend their college, ask for declaration of major, and/or document legacy.

Question: Should I use the Common Application for my first choice school or their own application?Answer: As members of the Common Application, these colleges make a commitment that they will view the common app as if they were their own. Many colleges have decided to become 'Common App Exclusive', which means the only way to apply to that particular school is on the common app.

Question: What should my college essay be about? Answer: Your college essay is the only place in the entire application where you have a voice. Make sure you answer the question in your own voice. Brainstorm ideas before writing your first draft. Well written essays often require many drafts as they continue to evolve. Choose a topic that expresses your interests or defines a significant experience in your life. Always remember that the person reading your essay is also reading thousands of others...so make it as interesting and captivating as possible. And, most importantly, have someone proofread it!

Question: What should my Activities Resume include?Answer: Your activities resume should include everything you've done outside the classroom. This includes clubs, sports, community service, academic and talent awards, and work experience. Colleges prefer quality over quantity. Commitment to a few activities supersedes joining random clubs here and there.

Question: Which teachers are best for writing my college recommendation letters?

Answer: Teacher recommendation letters are a crucial part of your application. You must select teachers that will represent you in the best possible manner. These letters will describe you as a student, including your work ethic and academic growth during that particular school year. It is not advisable to choose a freshman teacher since you are not the same person three years later. Also, senior year teachers may not have a complete picture of who you are in the early fall. Focus on your junior year teachers that have observed your academic and social growth. Most colleges prefer to see one humanities teacher (ENG or SS) and one analytical teacher (MATH or SCI) to understand you as a complete student.

Question: When should I ask my teacher if they would write a letter of recommendation for me? Answer: I suggest that you ask your teacher towards the end of junior year. Many teachers have numerous requests, and may even cut off at a certain number. The sooner you ask, the more likely the teachers will be able to accommodate your request. Writing these letters is not part of their teaching responsibilities, so please follow up with a nice thank you note!

Question: How many colleges should I apply to? Answer: The numbers of colleges that you apply to depend on how much research you’ve done. If you have done your research well, the number may range between 5 - 10 colleges. The most important factor is that the group of colleges includes one sure-bet safety school, then mostly target schools, and lastly a few reaches.

Question: When should I start visiting colleges?Answer: College visits are the most important part of this process. Try to start visiting colleges in junior year. If visiting colleges is difficult, then visit local colleges to get a sense of the different types of campuses. My suggestions are RIT or Univ. of Rochester - for the city school; SUNY Brockport or Nazareth College - for the suburban college; and SUNY Geneseo or Utica College for the rural college. Visiting these schools will give you a sense of which type of colleges to focus on during your college search.

Keep a pros and cons college journal for your visits and enter your impressions immediately after visit. This journal will help guide you long after the visit is over, and it will help you keep track of what different schools offer.

DO NOT COMMITT TO ATTENDING A COLLEGE WITHOUT FIRST HAVING VISITED!!! You will be spending four years at college; it is imperative that you see the facilities firsthand.