Staff: Diane Ahlberg and Jody Hansen February 14th, 2017(763) 569-7665 or (763) 569-7627

The CCRC newsletter is provided on a monthly or semi-monthly basis to provide information on activities and events that are helpful to Park Center students and their parents. This publication is also on Park Center’s website (www.district279.org/sec/pcsh (under Academics or under Quick Links at right of home page).

IMPORTANT!!! Attention seniors: When you are asked to indicate your school counselor on college applications note Diane Ahlberg, ahlbergd@district279.org, as your counselor. She is the counselor for senior students who need a recommendation letter, Secondary School Report or any other college reference.

AP Registration is open from February 1st - February 24th.  The cost to take an AP test is $60.  From February 25th - March 1st

a test can be purchased for $80 ($20 late fee assessed).  Register at www.totalregistration.net/ap/240319.  You must print your registration form and bring it with your payment to the CCRC before March 1st in order for a test to be ordered for you.  - NO EXCEPTIONS!

Juniors, there is an opportunity for you to take a simulated ACT practice test on Monday, January 30th. A results reveal on February 6th will help you understand the areas you need to work on prior to the April 19th ACT test. The cost is only $15. Space is limited. Information is available in the CCRC.

Test Date Registration Deadline (Late Fee Required)

April 8, 2017June 10, 2017

March 3, 2017May 5, 2017

March 4-17, 2017May 6-19, 2017

TEST FEE PER TEST OPTION:

ACT (No Writing) $42.50 Includes reports for you, your high school, and up to four college choices (if valid codes are

provided when you register).

ACT Plus Writing $58.50 Includes reports for you, your high school, and up to four college choices (if valid codes are

provided when you register). The Writing Test fee is refundable, on written request.

5th & 6th college choice fee is $12 for each school.

Late registration fee is $27.50.

Standby testing is $51 in addition to the basic fee, if you missed registration.

Test date change fee is $25 in addition to the basic fee.

Test center change fee is $25 in addition to the basic fee.

Test information release service is $20.

International testing is $33.

Students need to register on-line at www.actstudent.org

Students receiving free/reduced lunch can have their test fees waived TWICE by bringing a copy of the letter they received from Food Service to the CCRC to receive a waiver. Fee waivers do not include late fees.

Students can register for the SAT and SAT Subject Tests at www.collegeboard.org

Preparing for the ACT Test booklets that include a full length practice test, including the writing test, strategies to prepare for the test and what to expect on test day are available in the CCRC.

You can take free ACT or SAT practice tests online at: www.princetonreview.com/practicetest and at www.mncis.intocareers.org.

Check out the Learning Express Library.  There is a test prep resource that is a free resource for Park Center students available through ELM (Electronic Libraries for Minnesota). Here, you can access practice ACT, SAT, AP, TOEFL tests, as well as others.http://www.learningexpresshub.com/productengine/LELIndex.html#/learningexpresslibrary/libraryhome

Chegg offers ACT lessons, quizzes and practice tests. https://test-prep.chegg.com/#/dashboard.

Union Test Prep Free Practice Tests for the ACT: If passing the ACT is standing in the way of getting into the college of your dreams, there is help! A free ACT practice test to help you identify in which areas you are strong and which areas could use a little more work is available at https://uniontestprep.com/act/practice-test. Study only the subjects you are weak in, or dive in and test your skills in all four subject areas - it’s up to you!

BROOKLYNK: Get Work Ready Training! Paid Summer Internships! Wednesday, February 15th 1:00PM

Work Ready Training: Learn real skills for a real summer job! The trainings will be fun, led by local professionals, and focus on topics such as: Networking, Resume Building and Professionalism. Youth between the ages of 14-21 are eligible to apply. The mission of BrookLynk is to prepare youth with essential job skills, experiential employment opportunities, and professional social networks to develop personal pathways to college and career.

Summer Internships: Youth aged 16-19 who have completed BrookLynk Get Work Ready Training can apply for paid summer internships. Internships are coordinated with local employers and provide opportunities for young people to explore career fields, regardless of previous work experience. During their internship, interns will be coached and mentored by staff on-site while receiving further support from BrookLynk Staff.

Get more information or apply online at www.brooklynk.works/apply.

Dunwoody College of Technology February 21st 8:50AM

Lake Superior Community College February 27th 12:20PM

Rainy River Community College March 28th 1:00PM

University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee April 27th 8:00AM

Have you heard of Genesys Works? This is a program for juniors to gain real world experience and get paid! Through Genesys Works you get professional training, strengthen your communication skills, and learn responsibility and accountability.  From there you get to work at a major corporation, gain real world experience and earn a real wage.  You will get ahead because you are building a strong resume, pursuing a professional career along with applying to college. They will begin accepting applications for the next class of Genesys Works young professionals from the current high school juniors (Class of 2018) starting Wednesday, January 4th, 2017.  Go to http://www.genesysworks.org/for-students/student-application/ to apply.

Application Process:

1. Verify you meet eligibility requirements.

2. Complete online application.3. Interview in our office in March or April.

If you are accepted, training generally begins mid-June and runs through early August. Once you’ve completed training, internships begin late August or early September, and typically run for one year.

Eligibility Requirements - To be eligible for the Genesys Works program, you must be:

A high school junior who is on track to graduate. Legally able to work in the U.S. and have valid documentation allowing you to do so. At least 16 years of age by August 1 of your training year. Able to work in the afternoons during your senior year in high school. Since this can conflict with other

activities, you will have to make the choice before signing up with Genesys Works. Recommended by your school counselor, principal or specialty teacher. Willing to invest your entire summer, completing their intensive training program. Willing to commit to regular attendance. Your participation in Genesys Works has to be top priority. Able to provide your own transportation to and from Genesys Works and your worksite. Many students

use public transportation.  Able to meet the Genesys Works dress code and the dress requirements for corporate clients. Aware that Genesys Works is something you do in addition to your schoolwork. You must maintain

good standing in school and at Genesys Works.

Earn $10,000 your senior year!!!

You will gain real world experience at major corporations like: 3M, Bremer Financial, Medtronic, Travelers Insurance, Best Buy, Ecolab, Thrivent Financial, Xcel Energy, Target, and Optum.

Check out Anoka Ramsey Community College. Cost: $166.07 per credit. Location: Two riverside campuses, Cambridge and Anoka. Transferability: Anoka Ramsey has transfer agreements and programs with public and private colleges and universities. Quality: Average class size is 27. Selection: more than 80 in-demand degree and certificate programs. Support: Tutoring and career counseling. Visit one of the Anoka Ramsey sites for a tour and more information about their programs.

Community colleges require freshman students to take the ACCUPLACER if they scored lower than a 21 on the reading part of the ACT, scored lower than an 18 on the English part of the ACT, scored lower than a 22 on the Math part of the ACT, or did not take the ACT at all. 

It is important to score high enough to be placed in college English and college math and not a developmental class to get you to college level in each of these.  If you are assigned a developmental English or math class in college you have to pay the same as any other credit, but this credit does not go toward your diploma or degree.

There is a free web based practice app for the Accuplacer with sample questions in each subject.  Students can use this tool to explore the format and content of the tests, and get immediate explanations for both correct and incorrect answers. Go to https://accuplacerpractice.collegeboard.org/login to download the app.

NOTE TO STUDENTS AND PARENTS: The CCRC publishes the Scholarship Bulletin and Newsletter approximately every two weeks. The Scholarship Bulletin lists all the scholarships that we have received information on, including scholarships that are offered by local organizations which are available to residents of Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center or students who attend a District 279 school. Because these programs have restricted criteria, there is less competition and better “odds” for the student to be awarded scholarship monies. The CCRC Newsletter has information on events that are occurring in the area, testing information, and special programs that are being offered at Park Center PLUS helpful “Tidbits from the CCRC Staff”. These publications are distributed to the students’ advisory classes and are published on Park Center’s web site. If students and/or parents would like to have a copy of the Scholarship Bulletin (12th grade) and/or the Newsletter (all grade levels) sent directly to their e-mail, we are asking that you send a request to Jody Hansen at hansenj@district279.org and we will add you to our distribution list.

All area students and families are welcome to attend a FREE Minnesota Education Fair (Sponsored by MACAC, Minnesota Association for College Admission Counseling). Visit with representatives from over 120 regional colleges, universities, community colleges, technical colleges, military academies, and specialty schools. For a complete list of schools visit www.mn-acac.org, and sign up for a scannable barcode at www.gotocollegefairs.com. Thursday, March 16, 2017, 6:00PM-8:00PM, Wayzata High School, 4955 Peony Lane, Plymouth 55446

The University of Kansas is hosting Jayhawk Night for area high school seniors and juniors. Jayhawk Night is open to high school seniors who have been admitted to KU and their families, as well as high school juniors who are considering KU and their families.  Tuesday, March 7th at 6:30PM at the DoubleTree by Hilton- Minneapolis, 1500 Park Place Blvd, St. Louis Park. Event information and registration for students can be found at www.admissions.ku.edu/jayhawknight .

Join the BDPA Twin Cities 2017 High School Technology Program. Register now for the free 2017 BDPA High School Technology Program (HSTP) for students from 8th to 12th grade which will be held every Saturday, February 18th – April 29th from 10:00AM – 2:00PM at Metropolitan State University in St. Paul. The High School Technology Program (HSTP) is a weekend program that introduces high school students to computer programming and other aspects of computer science. The students are taught project management, networking skills, and hear presentations from information technology professionals. Learn about careers in web programming and development by joining students interested in learning about computers. Calling all students interested in website design, content creators, etc. come join us to learn about these activities.  Visit www.bdpatc.org/youth_programs.asp to learn more about our youth programs.

Hibbing Community College is hosting an open house on Thursday, April 13th from 3:30PM to 6:00PM. Faculty, staff and students representing academic programs, admissions, student services, disability services and financial aid will be available to talk about programs and career options. There will also be campus tours, prize drawings and a light dinner for prospective students and families. Visit www.hibbing.edu for more information and to schedule your visit.

Dunwoody College of Technology is hosting several open house events. All open houses are held from 3:00PM – 7:00PM. Pick a date that fits your schedule: March 7th, April 18th, May 9th, June 13th, July 11th and 25th. RSVP at www.Dunwoody.edu.

13th Annual College Fair at Harding High School! Saturday, February 25th, 10:30AM – 1:30PM, Harding Senior High School, 1540 E. Sixth Street, St. Paul, MN 55106. An event for families and students: grades 6-12. Available at the fair: breakout sessions for families and students, meet college representatives from state, community and private colleges, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities, meet trade representatives, learn about admission requirements and what it takes to succeed, get information on financial aid, scholarships and careers. No registration required.

Seniors - Spend Presidents' Day at Gustavus! They are hosting Senior Day: Be a Gustie on Monday, February 20th. Designed for high school seniors, this event is a fantastic chance to observe Gustavus classes and ask final questions as students approach the college decision. Any senior interested in Gustavus is encouraged to attend! Register at https://gustavus.edu/admission/visit/SeniorDay:BeaGustie.php

Century College will hold an Open House on February 21st from 5:00PM - 7:30PM at their West Campus Gymnasium. While at the open house you will be able to: talk with the faculty and staff, receive information on over 60 areas of study and 40 programs, learn about college admission, financial aid and scholarship availability, take a tour of their campus, enjoy refreshments and a chance to win a variety of prizes, apply at the Open House and the $20 application fee will be waived. RSVP at https://www.century.edu/events/2017-2-21%E2%80%93century-college-open-house .

The University of North Dakota is hosting several student events: April 28th – Honors Student Day, February 25th – Aerospace Day, March 4th – Engineering and Geology Day, March 25th – Undeclared Student Day, April 1st – Education, Art and Science Day. For details for these events and to register go to http://und.edu/admissions/undergraduate/visit/index.cfm#SATURDAY.

Interested in St. Kate's University? Spring Spotlight - February 20th or April 22nd: Half day program for students in any grades. Students will get a campus tour, admission presentation, and hear from student and faculty members about St. Kate's. Junior Overnight Preview - April 2nd – 3rd: An overnight program for juniors. Spend the night in one of the dorms and attend classes the next day.  St. Kate's Bound – February 19th -20th, or April 2nd-3rd: This is an overnight program for accepted seniors only. This is an exciting weekend for seniors who are using this event to make their decision about choosing St. Kate's. Schedule your visit at https://www.stkate.edu/admissions/visit/traditional-undergraduate-campus-visit.

Anoka Ramsey Community College will be hosting Latino Information Nights on Wednesdays, February 22nd, March 8th and April 19th from 5:00PM – 6:00PM. RSVP to Fabiola Diaz at 763-433-1303.

Augustana University is hosting Junior Visit Day on April 7th and 28th. To register for a visit event or to schedule an individual visit go to www.augie.edu/visit.

Energy ExplorersGreat River Energy participates in the Northern Star Council’s “Exploring and Learning for Life” career program. The purpose of Great River Energy’s program is to provide high school students with information and experience in a variety of career fields possible in the energy industry.

Students will explore technical careers related to the design, construction, operation and maintenance of utility power systems.  These include generation, transmission, telecommunications network, and information technology systems.

On Tuesday, February 21st: “Robotics Engineering – Design a real CHAPPiE” Are you the Deon Wilson of tomorrow? Will you help make CHAPPiE a reality? Learn what it takes to have a career in Robotics. The presentation runs from 6:30PM – 8:00PM at the Great River Energy headquarters, 12300 Elm Creek Blvd in Maple Grove. The first 45 minutes consist of a professional, qualified man or woman talking about their career. The second 45 minutes will include a hands-on activity for students to experience that type of career.

For more information and to register go to http://greatriverenergy.com/company/careers/a-rewarding-career-choice/energy-explorers/.

Dakota County Technical 2017 Spring Open House is on April 5th from 3:00PM – 7:00PM. DCTC, the Blue Knights, are NJCAA Division II and offer athletic opportunities in men’s soccer, basketball and baseball and women's soccer, basketball and softball. Very popular programs at Dakota County Technical are: Auto Body Collision, Auto Technician, Biomedical Equipment, Brewery and Beer Steward (age 21+), Dental Assistant, Electrical Construction, Electrical Line Worker, HVAC & Refrigeration, Heavy Construction Equipment, Heavy Duty Truck, Medical Assistant, Welding. To review DCTC scholarships go to www.dctc.edu/scholarships.

The University of Wisconsin - River Falls offers College Visit Days as follows: March 24th, April 7th and 28th. Schedule your visit at www.uwrf.edu/visit.

Minnesota State University - Moorhead invites you to their Preview Days on February 16th, 17th & 18th, March 17th & 18th, and April 4th & 22nd. Campus Preview Days include a campus tour, student panel, visit with faculty, and a complimentary lunch.  Register to attend at https://www.mnstate.edu/visit/#previewday.

First Step Summer Institute at St. Catherine University - Preparing young women of color and/or Indigenous women for higher education, the First Step Summer Institute is a free and unique college immersion experience on the St. Paul campus. In this four day residential program, students gain a deeper sense of commitment to pursue higher education, a strong network of diverse, college-bound friends, a sense of support and encouragement from St. Kate’s staff, faculty and students, more perspective on college living, and ultimately, increased self-esteem about their capacity to apply to and thrive in college. Qualified alumnae of Frist Step who apply and are accepted to St. Kate’s will be considered for scholarships. First Step session dates: June 20th – 22nd, and June 26th – 29th. Apply online at http://www.emailmeform.com/builder/emf/firststep/app, or pick up an application in the CCRC. The application deadline is April 17th.

Camp Explore 2017 registration is now open. Camp Explore is a STEM career exploratory camp for high school students. Students will experience a variety of interactive hands-on activities and special field trips to get them excited about careers in the industries of agriculture, energy, engineering, healthcare, IT, manufacturing, and transportation.  Sessions are led by professionals and faculty from area colleges and universities.  Scholarships are available.  Space is LIMITED so don’t wait, register today!* Moorhead Residential/Overnight Scrubs Camp, June 25-30, 2017, Location: Minnesota State University – Moorhead Camp Fee:  $480 per camper (includes $30 non-refundable fee) Register and apply for scholarships at https://mnscu.rschooltoday.com/public/costoption/class_id/17300/public/1/sp/

* Winona Residential/Overnight Scrubs Camp, July 23-28, 2017, Location: Winona State University Camp Fee:  $480 per camper (includes $30 non-refundable fee) Register and apply for scholarships at https://mnscu.rschooltoday.com/public/costoption/class_id/17291/public/1/sp/

Check out the Naval Academy Summer Seminar and STEM sessions: STEM is a week of academic immersion and takes full advantage of the Naval Academy’s academic resources. Engineering is all about creating, building, and making things better! So what does it take to be an engineer? If you like math and science, you are off to a great start. If you enjoy discovering new things, solving programs and learning how things work – even better! Creativity, persistence, and the desire to make the world a better place are also important qualities. Becoming an engineer requires hard work and a good education. The summer program could be a great start to your career in science and engineering. It is open to rising freshman, sophomores and juniors.  Apply at https://www.usna.edu/homepage.php

Cornell University Summer College - one of the oldest and most prestigious programs of its kind - invites talented high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors to its acclaimed three- and six-week precollege programs. Summer College offers academically motivated high school students an unparalleled opportunity to take courses at a great Ivy League university while earning college credit, working closely with internationally recognized faculty, exploring majors and career options, making friends from around the world, and enjoying the great natural beauty of Ithaca and the Finger Lakes region. Financial aid is available. https://www.sce.cornell.edu/sc/programs/index.php

MACAC Camp College! The Inclusion, Access, and Success Committee is excited to announce that applications are now live for MACAC’s third annual free Camp College! Students and mentors can apply today to be an important part of this year’s Camp College event at Bethany Lutheran College on July 10-11, 2017. Camp College is designed for current high school juniors (graduating class of 2018) from non-traditional backgrounds that would benefit from a college readiness program. The selection committee will give additional consideration to students from rural areas, first-generation college students, and students from low-income households. Students will have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Student and mentor applications are now available online at: http://mn-acac.org/CAMP-COLLEGE. Applications for both students and mentors are due on March 15th.

The Carlson School of Management at the U of M - Twin Cities invites students to apply for GOPHER BUSINESS, a week long residential business program (July 22 – 29).  Gopher Business participants will: engage with Carlson School faculty and learn business fundamentals, solve a real organizational challenge for a local non-profit organization, visit Fortune 500 companies and meet business leaders, live on the bustling University of Minnesota campus, gain access to a special scholarship opportunity. The program is absolutely free. Gopher Business applicants must: be high school sophomores or juniors in the 2016-17 school year, identify with a racial or ethnic group that is underrepresented in higher education, be the first in their family to attend college, be low income or have encountered other barriers to educational opportunities, have an interest in or aptitude for business, and submit an application by April 1st, 2017. Strong candidates have a minimum 3.5 GPA, have taken rigorous or advanced coursework with an emphasis in math and science, and have demonstrated leadership and involvement. Apply at http://carlsonschool.umn.edu/ .

MN Business Venture - Do you have the next great business idea? Do you want to meet people who will help you learn about careers? Are you in high school? Attend Minnesota Business Venture 2016! Learn how to create your own business at BestPrep’s Minnesota Business Venture (MBV) program! MBV is a week-long, residential summer program that brings 9-12th grade students together to learn about leadership, business, financial literacy, and career options. Students spend a week on campus at St. Cloud State University – July 9 – 14, or St. John’s University – July 23 – 28, to experience college life firsthand. Resident business leaders, speakers, mock interviewers and other volunteers mentor and guide students through the week’s activities, including creating a business plan in a group, or “company.” Students pay $150 for the week which includes room and board ($200 after April 21, 2017).  Applications are accepted on a "first come/first serve" basis. Financial aid is available. For more information on this program and to apply go to http://bestprep.org/programs/minnesota-business-venture/.

The University of Wisconsin – Madison offers an Engineering Summer Program. ESP is a fully funded, six-week residential program for students who are currently sophomores and juniors in high school. ESP course curriculum includes mathematics, physics, chemistry, engineering design, and technical communications. ESP alumni leave with a lifetime of memories, new friends, and academic skillsets needed to be successful in a first year engineering curriculum. Students also develop lifelong skills such as networking, team building, and public speaking. The ESP 2017 application is now open!  The application deadline is Monday, April 3, 2017. Go to https://esp.engr.wisc.edu/esp/ for more information and to apply.

Washington University in St. Louis offers a summer experience for high school students. High School Summer Institutes combine traditional undergraduate class and lab curriculum with organized field trips, guest lectures, and hands-on activities in order for students to gain valuable academic and career experience. Institutes are divided into morning and afternoon sessions that include assigned readings, daily assignments, and a final project. High School Summer Institutes are noncredit, undergraduate-level academic programs--not summer camps. All of the institutes are taught by Washington University instructors which include faculty, graduate students, and adjuncts.  High School Summer Institute students live on campus in one of the top-ranked, air-conditioned residence halls. In addition to coursework, students participate in specialized seminars and a variety of weekend and evening social events.  https://summerexperiences.wustl.edu/institutes

George Washington University offers summer precollege opportunities! Apply to Pre-College: Applicants must demonstrate appropriate academic credentials for enrollment in university-level programs and undergraduate courses. Transcripts should indicate strong academic performance in advanced and college preparatory courses in core subjects such as mathematics, sciences, English and the humanities. Applicants will also be required to demonstrate maturity and readiness for a college experience on an urban campus, as indicated by their statement of interest and letter of recommendation. For more information and to apply go to https://gw.force.com/TX_SiteLogin?startURL=%2FTargetX_Portal__PB.

HOW TO SEND YOUR TRANSCRIPT: For the second year, Osseo School District is offering FREE electronic transcripts for current students. Students needing a transcript should go to www.parchment.com, set up a personal profile using an e-mail address that is not their school apps e-mail address and then request their transcript to be sent electronically. Transcripts will be processed within two school days with the following exceptions – weekends, holidays, during processing of final transcript grades and two days before and three days after trimester end. Former students will be charged a $5.00 processing fee for this service. Note: When putting in your school, put in “Park Center” only and a drop down menu will come up and then choose “Park Center IB World”.

HENNEPIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE APPLICANTS…. IMPORTANT TRANSCRIPT INFORMATION

When sending your transcript through Parchment to Hennepin Technical College you must use the following e-mail address as the recipient’s address: corey.young@hennepintech.edu

Apprenticeship 2017 - Customer Service Engineer – Bühler: Build a successful professional future with Bühler. An apprenticeship with Bühler North America offers a unique start to your professional career. The Bühler Apprenticeship Academy offers an apprenticeship for the next generation of Customer Service Engineers. The apprenticeship is a formalized 3-year dual training program that combines structured on-the-job training and related technical instruction. Our apprenticeship connects learning directly to the world of work. Apprentices are paid as full-time employees of Buhler Inc. for the entire length of the program and receive benefits. Earn while you learn! This 3-year program is divided into modules with classes at Dunwoody College of Technology, Minneapolis, and the Bühler Apprenticeship Workshop in Plymouth, MN. All training classes, tools, books, computer and uniforms are paid for by Bühler. Upon completion of the program the apprentices receive their journey worker card from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry. Candidates interested in this opportunity apply here and will then be invited to an Open House at Buhler Inc. to receive more information. New apprentices are chosen by March and start at Bühler on August 1 of each year. For more information and to apply go to http://live.solique.ch/microsites/buehler/microsite/?showPublication=bb4fcd1f-4577-4556-ab49-52f0437b0efd

Applications for Tree Trust’s Summer Youth Employment Program are open! The application and more information can be found on the program website. Youth are encouraged to apply online but paper applications can be sent upon request. The application deadline is March 15th at 4:00PM.

The Program: Tree Trust’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) is an up-to-nine-week paid work experience designed to help young people learn and practice basic job skills. All jobs pay $9.50 per hour and have an average of 20 scheduled hours per week from June 19th to August 18th.

Eligibility: To be eligible for the program, youth must meet all of the following requirements:• Be at least 14 years old and less than 22 years old on June 19, 2017• Have low family income, special needs and/or other risk factors• Live in Dakota, suburban Hennepin, or Washington county

Please call Tree Trust at 952-767-3884 or email Brent Eikenhorst with any additional questions. http://treetrust.org/programs/employment-programs/summer-youth-employment-program/

Boston Scientific is has immediate openings in entry level Medical Assembly in Maple Grove. They offer referral, safety and reliability bonuses! All of their opportunities are considered long term, contract to hire based on performance and attendance. If offered a permanent position with Boston Scientific you would receive a pay increase and full time health benefits!  $1,000 - $1,500 sign on bonus! $100-$500 referral bonus! Starting pay is $12.50-$13.75 per hour. Full time employees have tuition reimbursement of up to $8,000 per year!!! Apply online at www.resourcemfg.com. After completing your application call 612-354-8534 to schedule an interview.

The Star Tribune is hiring. Earn up to $1,500 a month plus tips in as little as four hours a day. Early risers and college students, this opportunity is made for you! Your local independent newspaper distribution company is in need of carriers to deliver a variety of newspaper products in an area near you. Weekend and 7-day routes are available.  You must be 18 years old, have reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license and auto insurance. Call 612-673-7473 or e-mail carrierswanted123@gmail.com.

Four Tips to Improve Your Application   Essay Excerpt from QuestBridge March 3, 2016 bridgeblog

When it comes to writing a strong application essay, it can be more complicated than dotting your i’s and crossing your t’s. Today, we’re highlighting four things you can do write right now to improve your application essay.

1. Focus on 1-2 ideas: Unfortunately, 800 words are not enough to tell your complete life story. But that’s okay! We can still get a sense of who you are if you focus your essay on just one or two overarching ideas. Keep in mind that it’s important to have a clear beginning, middle, and end to your essay. Ask yourself: When someone finishes reading my essay, what is the one thing I want them to remember about me? Use the answer to this question as your common thread throughout your essay to convey the primary point you want readers to understand about yourself.

2. Let your voice shine through: It can be tempting to use a thesaurus to make your essay sound more sophisticated. Although a thesaurus can be a useful tool, be careful not to rely on it too much. Avoid unnatural words — we want to your voice to shine through!

Unnatural: I invariably find myself ambushed beneath copious volumes of course-work, laboring to inhale air.

Natural: I always seem to be trapped beneath copious amounts of homework, struggling to grab a breath of air.

3. Pay close attention to your grammar: An essay with major errors (or even consistent minor mistakes!) will make it difficult for readers to focus on the story you are trying to tell them about yourself.

Spelling: The spell check feature in your word processing program (e.g., Microsoft Word) is your first defense. Keep in mind that a misspelled word may itself be the correct spelling of a completely different word — your spell check may not catch these types of errors. A good resource is the Merriam-Webster Dictionary. Than/then, we’re/were, there/their, and effect/affect are all examples of common misspellings.

Punctuation: The Grammarly Handbook includes separate tutorials on individual punctuation marks. Be particularly mindful of how you use commas, semicolons, and dashes, and be careful not to overuse the latter two.

Incorrect grammar: This is the first time, I had ben told I was special; I wasnt about to let this opportunity slip away as i watched.Correct grammar: This was the first time I had been told I was special and I wasn’t about to let this opportunity slip away as I watched.

4. Revise, revise, revise: You should plan on going through many drafts. Ask as many people for help as you can. Reach out to teachers, mentors, family, friends, and any other people in your life who will be able to give you valuable advice on your essay. The more tips you can get, the better! You don’t have to take all the advice they give you — go with what you think will be most helpful.