CHOOSING A COLLEGE

Choosing a college is an important decision and an exciting opportunity. With more than 3000 colleges and universities in this country, students embarking on a search for colleges have the opportunity to select schools which will meet their academic, social and, economic needs. The possibilities are endless, but an organized search is essential for a sound choice, a choice that offers the highest possibility for personal satisfaction and intellectual growth.

Planning intelligently for the future is one of the most important tasks you can face. The responsibility for this planning rests primarily with the student, but others can and should be involved - parents, counselors, teachers, friends. Choosing a college also means choosing a lifestyle for at least the next 4 years. Colleges prepare students for living as well as for making a living. Only you can make such a personal choice.

Each student must be meticulous and prompt about procedures: read catalogues carefully, be careful to note all requirements and deadlines, seek interviews if necessary, see visiting representatives, register for necessary tests, meet all deadlines promptly, respond quickly to requests from colleges. While the College Counselor is anxious to provide as much advice and assistance as possible, it must be each student's responsibility to recognize and meet specific requirements of specific schools.

Consult with the College Counselor frequently to seek help in sorting out your choices and keep her informed of your tentative and final decisions.

Through all the days of searching for colleges and through all the long weeks of waiting for final decisions from colleges, remember that no one college is the ONLY place for you and that you can be happy and productive at many different institutions.

FACTORS STUDENTS CONSIDER IN EVALUATING COLLEGES

Start your college search by recognizing the many different types of higher education available to you. Although most Sacred Heart students go to a 4 year college or university, you should at least consider other alternatives. You may find that another type of education can best fit your needs.

The complex process of choosing a college requires first of all a comprehensive, realistic assessment of yourself. It is your obligation to make a candid appraisal of your goals, abilities, interests and personal values.

Consider the following factors as you survey colleges: (Note: These factors are not necessarily listed in order of importance.)
1. The academic level of the college
a. What are the median SAT and/or ACT scores? (See handbooks in Mrs. Birtel's office.)
b. What is the rank-in-class and grade point average of most freshmen?

2. Cost. One year totals for tuition, room and board and expenses may run over $30,000 a year. (This information can also be found in the handbooks.)

3. Financial Aid. Nearly all aid is based on need and usually consists of a package involving a grant (scholarship), loan and campus employment. All students applying for Financial Aid must fill out the FAFSA form. Some colleges will also require that you fill out the Financial Aid PROFILE offered by the College Scholarship Service of the College Board. The FAFSA form is available in Mrs. Birtel's Office in late November. The PROFILE is available in September.

4. Scholarships
a. National Merit Scholarships (awarded to high scorers on the PSAT/NMSQT) - Some colleges give automatic awards to semi-finalists or finalists in addition to those that actually win.
b. National Achievement Scholarships for Outstanding Negro Students.
c. College scholarships.
d. Miscellaneous

5. Programs of study.
a. Liberal arts - a broad selection of course offerings leading to the BA or BS degree with majors in many areas.
b. Specialized - for students certain of their careers, i.e. architecture, business, engineering, nursing, etc.

6. Majors offered

7. Size of college

8. Geographical location

9. Size and type of community

10. Control - public vs. private

11. Type of student body - co-ed vs. single sex

12. Atmosphere - best assessed by a visit to campus when college is in session.

13. Sports possibilities available.

OBSERVATIONS AND SUGGESTIONS

1. The major factor most students consider first is location.

2. Most students will consider at least 20 schools initially but will only apply to 6 or 8 schools.

3. Students applying to very selective institutions will often apply to more schools than other students.

4. Don't reject a school initially because of its cost. Many students at expensive institutions are receiving substantial financial aid.

5. Don't reject a women's college without thinking carefully about the benefits of such schools:
a. Academic - Students often concentrate more and do better work at women's colleges.
b. Leadership - Students continue to maintain leadership roles they might forego at co-ed institutions.
c. Social - Men at all male and co-ed colleges flock to women's colleges so social life can be great!

FACTORS COLLEGES CONSIDER IN EVALUATING STUDENTS

The best indication of college success is performance in high school. College admissions officers generally are aware of differences in schools and in the level of work done.

I. The transcript and related information sent to colleges by the college counselor.
A. The High School Transcript includes:
1. Grades in each course.
2. Courses taken - the number and level. Note: Colleges vary in their subject requirements for admission. Study the catalogs for information. (In general, you will have had all necessary courses, however.)
3. Grade point average and rank-in-class. The class in ranked in deciles by the end of the junior year. GPA is cumulative!!
4. Test scores designated by the college - (SAT I, ACT,SAT II). You must be certain which tests are required by each institution. Though test scores may appear on the transcript (at your request), most colleges REQUIRE THAT SCORES BE SENT DIRECTLY FROM THE TESTING AGENCY TO THEM!!!)

B. Related information sent with the transcript includes:
1. A profile sheet on Sacred Heart
2. Letters of recommendation. These include letters from the College Counselor as well as from other teachers, coaches, or occasionally personal friends or employers.
3. Additional items of interest (newspaper clippings about sports achievements, for example)

II. Testing Information. The importance of test scores varies tremendously from institution to institution. Many schools place a great deal of importance on scores for admission and placement. Most schools, however, feel that the high school coursework is more significant in determining the student's chance for success on the college level.

The following tests are required by some colleges for admission and occasionally also for placement and credit. All necessary information and forms are available in the college counseling office. It is the responsibility of each student to know which tests are required and to meet the deadlines for registration.

a. PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test). This is a 2 hour version of the SAT I. It is administered to sophomores and juniors in October. Scores range from 20-80. These tests serve as a basis for qualification for National Merit Scholarship consideration for juniors, predict the probable range of SAT I scores, and give students experience in taking tests of this type. The PSAT is changing for the Class of 2006. The change will occur in October 2004.

b. SAT I Reasoning Test
These are 3 hour objective tests "measuring verbal and mathematical reasoning abilities." They are administered at various centers (not at Sacred Heart) throughout the year. (See the attached schedule.) Juniors will take this test for the first time in January or March of their Junior year. The scores range from 200-800. The SAT is changing for the Class of 2006. The change will occur in March 2005.

c. SAT II Subject Tests
These are 1 hour tests in specific subjects. You may take 1,2 or 3 tests at a single session. They, like the SAT I, are offered at various centers throughout the year. Students need to check the handbooks to see if the schools in which they are interested require the SAT II tests. Scores are reported on a scale of 200-800. Students usually do well on these tests, since they can select areas in which they excel.

d. Advanced Placement Tests (AP)
These are 3 hour tests in subject areas. College credit and/or college placement may be given depending on your score. They are administered in May and scores are reported on a scale of 1-5. Most colleges give credit and/or placement for scores of 4 or 5, some for 3s.

e. American College Testing Program (ACT)
Many colleges, particularly those in the West and Midwest and deep South, prefer the ACT. Most will accept either the SAT I or ACT. The ACT IS A 3 1/2 hour battery of tests which assesses general educational development and ability to perform college level work. It is administered at various centers (not Sacred Heart) at different times throughout the year. (See the attached schedule.) Scores are reported on a scale from 1-36. There are four parts to each test: verbal, mathematical, social sciences, natural sciences. The 4 parts are totaled to give a composite score. The ACT is adding an optional writing section for your class. (2005)

III. Personal Information. Besides coursework, grades, and test scores, colleges will consider:
1. Personal qualifications - character and personality, special talents, qualities, etc, and your absentee record at school.
2. Participation in activities, both at school and in the community.
3. Job experiences, special interests.
The above information is self-reported by the student on her application and is also mentioned by guidance counselors and teachers in their recommendations. The personal information reported by the student is VERY IMPORTANT. Students should make every effort to make their applications neat and to make their essays interesting.

IV. Interviews. These are sometimes required, especially for scholarships. You may often have interviews with admissions personnel who visit Sacred Heart or you may travel to the campus. You may also have an interview with a local alumnus.

RECOMMENDED PROCEDURES FOR JUNIORS AND SENIORS

JUNIORS!!!!

Plan to take the PSAT/NMSQT in October.
Plan to take the SAT I in January and/or March, the ACT in February and April and (possibly) the SAT II tests in May or June.
Plan your senior schedule carefully. Do not lighten your academic load the senior year, especially if you are looking at competitive colleges.
Begin serious research into possible college choices in the following ways:
- meet with the college counselor
- talk with your parents about college selections
- talk to friends and acquaintances who have been to college, visited colleges, etc.
- begin reading college handbooks and catalogs in Mrs. Birtel's office (or buy your own)
- attend meetings of visiting college representatives when possible
- research colleges on the Internet
- visit campuses if possible. Many students try to arrange these visits during their junior year. Mardi Gras, Easter and summer are common times for visits.

In January, your parents will be asked to fill out a questionnaire concerning you and your qualities, abilities, interests, etc. You will also complete sheets indicating your activities and interests. You may be asked to write recommendations for your friends, and you will complete the "Common Application" in your English III class. Beginning in March, you and your parents are invited to meet with Mrs. Birtel to discuss college plans. Please feel free to make an appointment earlier (or later), however, if that is more convenient for you.

SENIORS!!!!

Complete your college selection as early as possible.
Confer with Mrs. Birtel if you need assistance. (She will meet with EVERY SENIOR in September to discuss college options.)
If you plan to file an early decision application, you should begin procedures no later than September. Check the college catalogs for details. (Most deadlines are around Nov. 1, but some are even earlier.)
Obtain applications and other information from the colleges of your choice. A sample request letter is included in this booklet.
Attend conferences with college reps who visit ASH. Notices are posted in the announcements and on Mrs. Birtel's bulletin board.
If you plan to take the SAT I, ACT, or SAT II Tests, mail registration forms in before the deadlines.
If you plan to apply for financial aid, request information and applications from the colleges. If the college requires that you submit the FAFSA or PROFILE, see Mrs. Birtel for copies of those documents.
When you receive your applications, choose the colleges to which you plan to apply. Most students apply to about 6 schools: 2 stretch schools; 2 50/50 schools, 2 safety schools. Students who are applying to very competitive colleges may have more stretch schools, however, since those schools are very difficult to get in. Students looking for scholarships and financial aid will often apply to more schools also. Everyone must have at least 1 safety, however. NOTE: Your safety school should be one where you would be happy if worse came to worst and you had to go there.
Study the applications carefully and discuss with the counselor any items which you do not understand. Most applications have the following parts:
(a) the application itself - Complete the application with great care - very neatly. Schools which require an essay usually place GREAT emphasis on it. Make sure that it is perfect in grammar, spelling and flow of ideas; the college is interested in HOW you write as well as WHAT you say. Have a parent, counselor or your English teacher check your application and essays to be sure that they are interesting and correctly written. YOU MUST WRITE THEM BY YOURSELF, HOWEVER!!! Type your applications if at all possible (especially the essay). It is a good idea to make a xerox of the application and do your initial work on the xerox copy.
(b) the secondary school report. Fill in your name, address, etc. on the top of the form and bring this to Mrs. Birtel. At this time you must fill out a green card requesting that your transcript be sent to the college. THIS GREEN CARD MUST BE FILLED OUT EVEN IF THE COLLEGE APPLICATION HAS NO SECONDARY SCHOOL REPORT. The secondary school report, a copy of your transcript, a recommendation, and a profile of ASH will be sent to the college directly from the counselor's office.
(c) teacher recommendations - Choose the teachers that you would like to have complete these forms. (Sometimes you are told to select an English teacher, etc.) Fill out your name, address, and other information on the top of the form and mark the deadline date for the application. Address and stamp an envelope to the college and give it to the teacher with the recommendation form.
(d) the medical record - This must be completed by a physician and mailed by the student to the college. Often these records do not have to be sent until a few months before enrollment.
(e) housing forms - These are not usually necessary unless you are applying to a state university. In the case of LSU, you should mail these in as early in September as possible.
(f) the entrance test scores - Although these scores are placed on the transcript, they should also be sent directly to the colleges from the testing agency. This can be done by filling in the correct college code when registering for the tests or by completing a request form obtained from Mrs. Birtel.

IDEALLY ALL OF THESE STEPS SHOULD BE COMPLETED BY THANKSGIVING.

If you aren't able to do your part until Christmas holidays, at least give (b) and (c) to the teachers and Mrs. Birtel.

Notify Mrs. Birtel AT ONCE when you have made your final decision on the college you plan to attend. Final reports and certification of graduation are sent to that college so that your file is complete. GENERALLY SPEAKING, THE DEADLINE IMPOSED BY MOST COLLEGES - THE "OFFICIAL REPLY DATE" - IS MAY 1.

High School policy prohibits the mailing of final transcripts and certification of graduation until all book fines, fees, etc. have been paid.

If you are accepted by more than one college, YOU SHOULD NOTIFY THE ONES FROM WHICH YOU WISH TO WITHDRAW BY MAY 1. KEEP IN MIND THAT STUDENTS ARE ON THE WAITING LIST FOR THAT PLACE.

COLLEGE REPRESENTATIVES

Representatives from many colleges and universities will visit school throughout the year. A representative is usually someone from the admissions staff of the college or university.

Representatives visit high schools to provide accurate, up-to-date information about their schools. They can elaborate on written materials and answer specific questions not covered in the publications. The representative also wishes to make personal contact with interested students and with the guidance counselor.

You should take advantage of the opportunity to meet with representatives from a variety of types of schools as well as with representatives of schools in which you already have an interest. Watch the bulletin board and listen to announcements for information of coming college "reps." Seniors and Juniors are free to meet with reps as long as their teachers have given permission on the appropriate forms.

There are also local alumni representatives in New Orleans who are in contact with their colleges and have current information. Local reps often conduct interviews of applicants when a visit to campus is impractical.

COLLEGE VISITS AND INTERVIEWS

One of the best reasons for a campus visit is to see first-hand the facilities and to feel the academic and social environment and atmosphere. Colleges give a great deal of factual information in their publications, but each individual responds differently to the reality of a college campus. Besides, colleges are in a competitive market for students and try to make themselves appear as appealing as possible. Their publications naturally make the college look good; the question is, is it good for you?

Most campus visits are made during the summer after junior year and the fall of senior year. The most realistic impression of a college is gained by visiting on a weekday when classes are in session, but a visit on a weekend or during the summer can also provide a good general impression of the school. If you plan to visit colleges during the summer and have not decided on your first choices, try to visit a variety of types of schools, i.e. a large state university, a women's college, a small private co-ed college, etc. You are allowed to miss classes for college visits but check with the principal well in advance before making definite plans. Notification from your parents must be made IN WRITING to the principal before you leave on your visit. (This year, the procedure is as follows. The student brings to Mrs. Ripps the ABSENCE/DISMISSAL FORM at least a week in advance. Mrs. Ripps gives the student a sheet which must be signed by all of her teachers and must be given to Sister Lieux for approval.)

Before you leave:
1. Make arrangements with the admissions office by phoning for an appointment well in advance of the day you wish to visit. Try to be flexible.

2. Read the catalog and other publications carefully. Avoid asking questions answered in the booklets. Write down specific questions you have about the school, facilities, classes, etc.

3. Be prepared to give the admissions people accurate information about courses you have taken and are taking, your test scores, rank in class and GPA, extracurricular activities, awards, interests, etc. A prepared "résumé" sheet is helpful.

During the visit:
1. One purpose of speaking to someone in the admissions office is to give a realistic picture of yourself and to add a human dimension to the factual data of your file. Be yourself, be sincere and don't be afraid to be frank about your accomplishments and strengths. It is appropriate to inquire whether you are a realistic candidate for a particular college, but do not expect or press for an absolute answer. Remember that the interview is also a time for you to learn about the college.

2. Try to spend at least a half day on the campus. Take a tour, sit in a class, eat a meal on campus, browse in the library, talk to students, go to the student center, get copies of the newspaper and MAKE NOTES.
After the visit:
1. Write a summary of your findings and impressions. Do not rely on your memory.
2. Be sure to write a thank-you note to those officials who helped you.

TYPICAL QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED DURING THE COLLEGE VISIT

1. Are there adequate facilities for the department of your major interest?
2. Do laboratory facilities appear to be up-to-date and adequate?
3. Do freshmen have opportunities to take courses with the "top" or "major" professors?
4. What is the typical class size? For freshmen? For upperclassmen?
5. Are library facilities sufficient? Would you want to spend a great deal of time there? What are the hours for student use?
6. Does the campus have appeal in general?
7. How near is the campus to the local community? Where is the nearest pizza? Are drugstores convenient?
8. Is the campus clean and orderly? Do students exhibit a pride in the college appearance?
9. What is the condition of the buildings?
10. What are the dormitories like? Must freshmen live in the dorms? May students decorate their rooms? How many to a room or suite? What are the dorm regulations? Are there study facilities in the dorms? Quiet hours?
11. Where are the dining facilities located? Are students required to buy meal contracts? How many meals are served per day?
12. What activities go on at the student union?
13. Are there fraternity/sorority houses? What percent of students belong? What effect do fraternities/sororities have on student life as a whole?
14. Is religious affiliation significant? Are there religious organizations to suit your purposes?
15. Are there good athletic facilities? Intercollegiate athletics? Intramural athletics?
16. What is the relationship between students-faculty-administrators? Do faculty members seem accessible, friendly, helpful?
17. Do the students seem serious about their educational experience? Is there a country club atmosphere? Good balance?
18. What are the financial aid opportunities? Work opportunities?
19. What are the unique programs? Travel abroad programs? Internship or practical work experience in field of interest?
20. What percentage of students go on to graduate study and to which graduate schools? What national recognition have students received?
21. What cultural activities are available on or near the campus? Are speakers, plays, musicians and other artists brought to the campus?
22. Do the majority of students leave the campus on the weekend? What do students do on typical weekends?
23. What clubs and student activity groups are available?
24. What are the traditions of the college?
25. What is the ratio of men to women? Where do the students come from?
26. How do you get there? How far to the nearest bus, plane, or train?
27. Are advisors readily available? Is there an organized, professional counseling service for students?
28. What percentage of a freshman class is around to graduate in four years?

FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Financial Aid is based on need and is awarded in a package usually including grants, loans and jobs. Some of this financial assistance may include federal funds. "Scholarship" usually refers to a merit-based award given to a student with a special talent - academic, athletic or otherwise.

The admissions decision at most colleges is made independently of the decision to award financial assistance, so in general you do not need to worry about hurting your chances for admission by applying for aid. (There are some exceptions to this general rule, however, so you need to inquire of colleges if they are need blind.) After you are accepted, the financial aid office decides if, how much and what kind of aid they can offer you.

Financial aid is awarded to families who could not otherwise afford the tuition and other costs of attending a particular institution. Income is not the only factor in estimating a family's need for financial aid. Expenses, debts, certain assets and any special financial circumstances are also considered. In general, if you feel you will need financial assistance to attend college, apply.

Colleges use a need analysis service to determine awards. Financial aid packages are awarded to make up the difference between the family's ability to pay and the costs of attending a particular school. For example, if it is determined through need analysis that your family is able to contribute $12,000 per year for your college education, you would be eligible for $13,000 in aid at a school costing $25,000 a year. Not all schools can meet full need, however, so be sure to inquire.

Mrs. Birtel has a number of books and a computer program containing useful information on financial aid and scholarships. Please let her know if you are interested. A few useful websites are www.finaid.org, www.fastweb.com, www.collegeboard.com, and www.wiredscholar.com. You should also see her in late December or early January to obtain the proper forms. (September for the PROFILE)

APPLICATION DEADLINES

There are three major application scenarios. The first is Rolling Admissions. This is usually the pattern at state schools and smaller liberal arts colleges which are fairly "user-friendly" in terms of their admission requirements. The schools judge students against pre-determined standards (often published statistics) rather than against the whole applicant pool. Assuming you meet their requirements, you will probably be admitted within a month of applying which you may do anytime from September to/through June. The second is Early Action/Early Decision. Schools with Early Action and Early Decision are usually more competitive in terms of their admission requirements. You must get your material in to these schools by the deadline (usually Nov. l - Dec. l) and you will hear before Christmas. The difference (and it's a big one!) is that Early Decision is binding, i.e. you must attend that school if you are admitted unless you are a financial aid candidate and the award is not enough to enable you to go. The third is Regular Decision. The deadlines here vary from Jan. l - March l. You hear by mid-April. NOTE: In general you may always wait until May lst (and sometimes later) to make a decision unless you use the Early Decision approach.

SAMPLE APPLICATION REQUEST

Your street address
Your City, State, Zip
Date

Director of Admission
College (University) Name
City, State, Zip

Dear Sir:

I am a junior (senior) at Sacred Heart and am interested in knowing more about _________________(name of college or university). I would appreciate it if you would send me an application for admission and information on entrance requirements, course offerings facilities, activities, cost, and scholarships and financial aid.

Sincerely,

Your signature

Your name

All letters should be neatly typed or handwritten. Your letters are the first impression that the college will receive about you, and you want to be sure that your letters are neat and legible.

COLLEGE PLANNING CHECKLIST

Use this list as a guide and a record. Have a folder set aside for correspondence, registration tickets and test results. Being organized and methodical can prevent many problems in college planning.

____ First conference with the College Counselor in the spring of your junior year.

____ Register for the spring SAT I and ACT.

____ Register for the spring SAT II (if applicable).

____ Prepare for the spring AP (if applicable).

____ Over the summer, send for college catalogs and applications.

____ Apply for a social security number if you do not already have one.

____ Meet with Mrs. Birtel again in August or September.

____ Meet with college reps when they come in the fall.

____ Register for the fall SAT I, ACT and SAT II (if applicable)

____ Complete all applications by Thanksgiving if possible. If you cannot finish your part, at least give Mrs. Birtel and the teachers their forms. NOTE: Early decision candidates should check individual college requirements carefully. Housing applications to LSU should be made early.

____ Be sure that SAT I, ACT and SAT II test scores are sent to all of the colleges to which you are applying.

____ File financial aid applications as early as possible. January 1st is the earliest possible date for FAFSA. You may begin PROFILE in September.

____ After all applications are sent, RELAX. Remember, however, that all acceptances are conditional upon your maintaining your level of academic performance. Please inform your college counselor of acceptances, denials, scholarships and wait list as they occur.

____ May 1 - IN WRITING, advise all colleges to which you have been accepted of your plans and withdraw from those that have accepted you but which you will not attend.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

There are many publications with information about college planning and specific colleges. Guides such as those below are available for loan from Mrs. Birtel's office and for sale at local bookstores.

1. Adler, Joeanne, 100 Colleges Where Average Students Can Excel.

2. Barron's Profiles of American Colleges and Barron’s Guide to the Most Competitive Colleges.

3. The Best 35l Colleges, and Paying for College Without Going Broke, Princeton Review.

4. Cass, James and Max Birnham. Comparative Guide to American Colleges.

5. Coburn, Karen and Treeger, Madge. Letting Go.

6. The College Handbook. (From the CEEB.)

7. Davis, Herm. College Financial Aid for Dummies.

8. Fiske, Edward. Selective Guide to Colleges and The Best Buys in College Education and the Fiske College Deadline Planner.

9. The Insider's Guide to the Colleges, Yale Daily News

10. Lovejoy, Clarence E. Lovejoy's College Guide.

11. Moll, Richard. Playing the Private College Admissions Game and The Public Ivys.

12. Ordonevsky, Pat. College Planning for Dummies.

13. Paul, Bill. Getting In.

14. Pope, Loren. Colleges that Change Lives and Looking Beyond
the Ivy League.

15. Shields, Charles J., The College Guide for Parents.

16. Sullivan, Robert. Ivy League Programs at State School Prices.

17. U.S.News and World Report Ultimate College Directory

18. Wolff, Michael. How to Get into the School of Your Dreams
Using the Internet and Online Services.
19. Sowell, Thomas, Choosing the Right College

There are also many books for preparing for the SAT I,SAT II, and ACT. Call the College Counseling office (891-1943 or 269-1223) if you wish information on test preparation - books, courses, computer programs - or on financial aid and scholarships.

Resources on the Internet

• Colleges and Universities via the internet is maintained by Dr. Carol Langston, college advisor at Metairie Park Country Day School.. Topic areas include updated links to general information, financial aid, pratice tests, for SAT and ACT, college essays, special interests, college searches, campus life, and a look at possible future colleges.