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T.C. WILLIAMS HIGH SCHOOL
Senior Handbook
Class of 2015
STUDENT NAME:_________________________
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T.C. WILLIAMS SENIOR CHECKLIST for COLLEGE PLANNING
Fall (September – November)
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Attend college visits in CCC. Sign up on Naviance, and pick up passes from Ms. Johnson.
Meet with your counselor to go over graduation requirements and post-grad plans.
Encourage your parents to meet with your counselor in October.
Register for the SAT and ACT (obtain fee waivers from Ms. Johnson in CCC), and request that your scores be sent
to colleges you expect to apply to.
o Register for the TOEFL if English is your second language (obtain fee reduction form from your
counselor).
o Register for the SAT II if recommended by the colleges on your list.
Complete the Net Price Calculator for each college on your list to make sure that you are applying to colleges
within your price range (http://collegecost.ed.gov/netpricecenter.aspx).
Visit the Commonapp. You must open an application, and complete the Education section and FERPA agreement
in www.commonapp.org, even if you are not completing “the Commonapp”.
Submit Parent Consent for Transcript Release/Colleges I am Applying To form, and Personal Statement/Parent
Information form to your counselor (red & blue forms). Transcripts cannot be sent without signed forms.
Request recommendation letters, in person, from one or two teachers at least four weeks before the application
deadline. Also request through Naviance (Colleges tab).
Attend the College Panel and Fair on October 21st at 5:30 p.m.
Complete/update your resume. See Ms. Feldman in SFA for help.
Complete the career and personality assessments in Naviance (Career tab)
Write necessary essays/personal statements. Help is available in CCC, Writing Center & SFA.
*Karen [email protected]/ www.Essaymom.net
Complete and submit NOVA Pathway to Baccalaureate application to your counselor by Nov. 7th.
Sign up and take the ASVAB in the Fall (Military Placement Test). Sign-up sheet in CCC.
If you took the SAT with a fee waiver, log onto your College Board account and print out your college application
fee waivers.
Winter (December – March)
 Attend SFA Financial Aid Workshop on December 9th at 6:30 p.m.
 FAFSA application available January 1, 2015. Complete the FAFSA (www.fafsa.gov) by February 15th. Get
assistance from SFA:
o Tuesday, January 13st: 6 - 9 p.m. or Saturday, January 31st: 9 a.m. - Noon
 Complete and submit the Scholarship Fund of Alexandria application by February 8.
 Look for your Student Aid Report (SAR) within 3-10 days after submitting your FAFSA. Make any necessary
corrections and resubmit.
 If required by your college, complete the CSS Profile by February 15th. Get assistance from SFA.
Spring (April – June)
 Complete financial aid verification paperwork, if necessary. Make sure to check your email and all college
application portals regularly so as not to delay your financial aid.
 Review financial aid award letters with parents, CCC staff, SFA or Counselor.
 Notify each college with your decision (accept, decline) by May 1st.
 Attend College Orientations, SFA Awards Ceremony, and National Decision Day Festivities (check Calendar of
Events)
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T.C. WILLIAMS HIGH SCHOOL
2014-15 SCHOOL COUNSELING CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR SENIORS
** All dates and times are tentative and subject to change **
Date
Name of Event
Senior Counselor Parent/Student Program each block by counselor
Tuesday, October 7
Scholarship Fund of Alexandria: Finding Free Money for College (Auditorium)
6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, October 14Friday, October 17
Senior Counselors Meet with Parents/Students to Discuss Graduation and PostSecondary Plans
Wednesday, October 15
Seniors report to School by 12:05 pm (Auditorium for am workshops)
College Panel (Auditorium) 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, October 21
College Fair (Gymnasium) 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, December 9
Scholarship Fund of Alexandria: FAFSA 101 Workshop (Auditorium) 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, January 13
Scholarship Fund of Alexandria: FAFSA Completion Workshop (Rotunda)
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, January 31
Scholarship Fund of Alexandria: FAFSA Completion Workshop (Rotunda)
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 8
Scholarship Fund of Alexandria Application Deadline 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday, February 25
Scholarship Fund of Alexandria: FAFSA Completion Workshop (Rotunda)
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Wednesday, April 22
Career Fair during classes
Friday, May 1
National Decision Day during all lunches (Cafeteria)
Wednesday, June 3
Scholarship Fund of Alexandria Awards Program (Auditorium) 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, June 8
Senior Recognition Program (Auditorium) 6:30 p.m.
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HELPFUL TOOLS
LOG-IN INFORMATION:
Blackboard
Username
Password
Naviance
Username (same as Bb)
Password (same as Bb)
SAT Account
Username
Password
ACT Account
Username
Password
Common Application
Username
Password
NCAA
Username
Password
FAFSA
User Pin
https://acps.blackboard.com/webapps/login/
https://connection.naviance.com/family-connection/auth/login/?hsid=tcwhs
https://www.collegeboard.org/
http://www.actstudent.org/
http://www.commonapp.org
http://www.ncaa.org/
www.fafsa.ed.gov
Naviance Family Connection:
Every student should graduate career and college ready. Naviance offers valuable insight into the college
admissions process and allows students to customize their college and career plans.
Naviance Student Log in Instructions:
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Log onto Blackboard
Click on “Naviance”
Sign in again with Blackboard username/password, not email address.
Complete Career Interest Profiler in “careers” tab
Complete Personality Type in “careers” tab
Complete Cluster Finder in “careers” tab
Complete Resume in “about me” tab
Begin research in “colleges” tab
Research scholarships in “colleges” tab
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How Naviance Works When Applying To Colleges:
1. Click on “Colleges” tab
2. Click on “Colleges I’m applying to”
3. “Match” your commonApp email address with your Naviance account (instructions below).
Matching to the CommonApp:
1. Go to Colleges tab
2. Under my Colleges, go to “colleges I’m applying to”
3. Enter Common App email address and date of birth and click “match”
** Even if you’re not applying to a Common App school, a Common App account must be created.
**Name listed in Commonapp must be identical to name in Naviance
Within the CommonApp (www.commonapp.org) :
1. Under “Common App” tab, make sure the education box is check
2. Under “My Colleges” make sure the FERPA waiver is checked
3. Once complete, Common App matching can take place in Naviance
Requesting Teacher Recommendations:
1. After matching your Naviance and CommonApp account, scroll down and click on “add/cancel
request”
2. Request teachers to prepare recommendations
3. Find the ACPS staff member(s) and send a professional email to each teacher
4. Click “update request”- a message will be sent to the staff member
**Ask teachers face-to-face before sending recommendation requests through Naviance
** Counselors are not responsible for sending recommendations from anyone outside of ACPS.
** You do not need to request a letter from your counselor through Naviance
How to register for college visits in the College & Career Center:
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Log- in to Naviance
Click on the “Colleges” tab
Under “My colleges”, to the right click “view all upcoming college visits”
Click “sign up” – then click “sign me up” on the visit you’re interested in
You must receive a pass from the College and Career Center, and it must be signed by your teacher.
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Meet Ms. (Montague) Feldman:
The College Adviser
Ms. Montague has a new last name!
Contact Margaret (Montague) Feldman at [email protected] or stop by the
Scholarship Fund of Alexandria (A-121)
Ms. Feldman is available before, during, and after school to help you come up with a plan for
life after high school. Stop by the Scholarship Fund office (Room A-121, across from the
nurse’s office) to speak with Ms. Feldman anytime between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday
through Friday. The College Adviser can help you:
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Find a College or Career that fits you and your interests
Search for local or national scholarships
Brainstorm and edit your College Essay
Write a Résumé
Prepare for the SAT/ACT
Fill out financial aid applications (such as the FAFSA and CSS Profile)
Find college and scholarship options for undocumented students
A Few Questions and Answers about Financial Aid
1. How Much Does College Cost?
College costs generally range from about $7,000 to $60,000 per year. Costs include more than just tuition. It is also room (where
you live), board (what you eat), books, fees, transportation and personal expenses. You can see the Cost of Attendance for your
favorite colleges by using the Net Price Calculator: http://collegecost.ed.gov/netpricecenter.aspx
3. My Family Can’t Pay All That. Can We Get Help?
Yes! FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is an application, filled out by you and your parents that will show your
eligibility for Federal Financial Aid. You can find the form online at www.FAFSA.gov, starting in January. The financial aid you receive
from the Federal Government is based solely on income, not grades! Every senior should fill out the FAFSA!
Before the FAFSA application opens up in January, you can apply for scholarships directly through the colleges on your list, and you
can apply for private scholarships with different scholarship funds. The Scholarship Fund of Alexandria offers scholarships just for TC
seniors, so the odds of you receiving a scholarship from us are much higher than they would be for any other scholarship. If you only
have time for one scholarship application – make sure to apply to the Scholarship Fund of Alexandria at
www.AlexScholarshipFund.org!
4. What Are the Types of Financial Aid?
There are three types of Aid – Grants, Loans and Work-Study. Grants (AKA, Scholarships) are free money which you do not have to
pay back. Loans must be repaid with interest. Work-Study is a campus job that helps pay your college costs. Grants are the best.
Work-Study is second best. Loans are the least favorable. Your goal is to get as much aid as possible in the form of Grants!
5. Where can you get grants?
You can either get grants/scholarships from the Federal Government, the State, or from private organizations.
Scholarships come in two different forms, need-based and merit-based. Need-based financial aid is awarded to low-income families
and merit-based financial aid is given to students who excel in a specific area of interest. Most scholarships are awarded based on
some combination of both financial need and academic merit.
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Paying for College: Step 1 – Choose
Colleges Wisely
It is a misconception that scholarship awards usually cover the entire cost of college.
The reality is that there are many more small awards out there and it often requires several of them to add up. Applying
for scholarships is just one part of the financial aid process, but the most important piece is
choosing a college that will be affordable for you and your family. Most students should look in-state first!
Use the Net Price Calculator:
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Find your college’s net price calculator at: http://collegecost.ed.gov/netpricecenter.aspx
o You will answer questions about your GPA and your family income.
o At the end, the tool will estimate what the total cost of attendance will be for you, based on your academic
qualifications and family income. Cost of attendance (or COA) includes housing, food, tuition, fees, and estimates
for books, personal, and transportation expenses.
o The tool takes into account the federal, state, and institutional aid you may be eligible for.
Generally, Virginia public colleges will be the least expensive because your taxes support them. Public colleges in North
Carolina, Maryland, etc., will be much more expensive.
You can make sure there are some schools on your list that will be affordable for you and your family!
Don’t rule out private colleges:
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Just because the “sticker price” of private colleges is very high, doesn’t mean they will turn out being the most expensive
school for you.
Private colleges sometimes give out the best financial aid – for example, the University of Richmond is free for students
whose families make $60,000 per year or less.
Use the Net Price Calculator to see how much financial aid you might receive!
Don’t rule out NOVA:
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If you qualify for Free or Reduced lunch, you most likely also qualify for a Pell Grant from the government (through filling
out the FAFSA). This grant covers almost the entire cost of tuition at NOVA, so you can knock out your first two years of
college for free!
Then you only need to pay for two years of college at a four-year university to receive your Bachelor’s Degree!
Many professors that teach at community colleges also teach at four-year schools. And many intelligent, high-achieving
students go to NOVA because it makes financial sense!
You can transfer from NOVA to the Virginia four-year college of your choice under the Guaranteed Admissions Agreement
that in-state universities have with community colleges.
o For example, if you maintain a 3.4 GPA at NOVA and take the required classes, you can be guaranteed acceptance to
UVA for your final two years of college!
o For more information, check out: http://www.nvcc.edu/current-students/transfer/Search/GAAAdmission.aspx
Pay attention to a college’s graduation and retention rates:
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You want to make sure that the money you are paying in tuition actually goes towards a degree!
A Bachelor’s degree typically takes four years to complete, but at many Virginia colleges, less than 50% of students obtain
their degree even after 6 years!
Take a look at the chart “Average GPA and Test Scores of Students Accepted at Virginia Colleges” (orange = graduation rate
under 50%, yellow = graduation rate between 50-60%, green = graduation rate above 60%), or check out
http://collegerealitycheck.com to evaluate your schools.
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Paying for College: Step 2 – FAFSA
Myth #1: “... only students with good grades get financial aid.”
While a high GPA will help a student get into a good school and may help with academic scholarships, all of the federal
student aid programs do not take a student’s grades into consideration.
Myth #2: “... the application is too complicated.”
It's really not. The form takes less than 30 minutes to fill out, and there are many resources available at TC to provide
free, confidential assistance before school, during lunch, and after school:
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The Scholarship Fund of Alexandria (A-121) – [email protected] or (703) 824-6730
College and Career Center (A-114) – [email protected] or (703) 578-6250
Your counselor, AVID, BBF, College Summit, etc…
Myth #3: "…I don’t know if I’m going to college, so I don’t need to fill out the FAFSA yet.”
Financial aid money is awarded first come, first served. If there is any chance you might decide to pursue further
education, you need to submit your FAFSA between January 1st and February 15th —before the money is all gone!
Myth #4: "... my parents make too much money, so I won’t qualify for aid.”
There is no income cut-off to qualify for federal student aid. Many factors besides income—from the size of your family
to the age of your older parent—are taken into account. Your eligibility is determined by a mathematical formula, not by
your parents’ income alone.
When you fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you’re also automatically applying for funds from
your state, and possibly from your school as well. In fact, some schools won’t even consider you for any of their
scholarships (including academic scholarships) until you’ve submitted a FAFSA.
Myth #5: "...I'm not a US Citizen, so I don't qualify for aid."
You may be an eligible non-citizen if you have a (n):
 Permanent Resident Card (Green Card, I-551)
 Arrival Departure Record (I-94) that says:
o Refugee
o Asylum Granted
o Parolee
o T-Visa Holder (victim of human trafficking)
o Cuban-Haitian Entrant
If you are not a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, there are still many scholarships available to you. We are happy to
provide free, confidential assistance to you and your family. Please see Ms. Feldman for more information.
FACT: "...OK, you've convinced me...what do I need to fill it out?"
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You and your parents’ social security numbers (or alien registration numbers), date of birth, & address.
You and your parents’ most recent tax information (W-2 and 1040), OR information about you and your parents’
income if you do not file taxes.
o If your parents are going to file taxes this year, but haven’t yet done so, go ahead and submit using
estimates from the previous years taxes. The important thing is to submit your FAFSA as early as
possible!
Current bank statements and information about retirement funds, investments, savings accounts, etc.
Go to www.fafsa.gov to fill out your FREE application for federal student aid!
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Paying for College: Step 3 – Next Steps
After Submitting the FAFSA
After you submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR), a
summary of what you submitted.
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You will receive an email with instructions on how to access your SAR at www.fafsa.gov after 3-5 days
Carefully read all comments on your SAR and review your results for accuracy.
o Your SAR should display your Expected Family Contribution (EFC).
 EFC = Expected Family Contribution. The Department of Education uses the financial
information you provided in the FAFSA to determine how much money they expect your family
to contribute toward your education each year. That amount of money is
called the EFC.
 This number affects what federal and state financial aid you will receive.
o If your application was incomplete, the SAR may not include an EFC, but will display comments that
identify any issues you need to resolve, such as missing signatures or updating information.
If corrections or updates are needed:
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Make corrections to your electronic SAR at www.fafsa.gov.
o Click “Make a Correction”,
o Enter your PIN,
o Add or update any information required to complete your FAFSA,
o And make sure to resubmit your FAFSA to resend your SAR to each school on your list.
Make sure to update and resubmit your SAR with your 2014 tax return if you initially filed using estimates from
2013.
If your SAR does not request additional information:
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Once your FAFSA is processed, the colleges you listed on your application will have access to your information
electronically.
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If you were ineligible to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool, or otherwise chose not to do so, your college
may require that you submit a copy of your (and your parents) IRS Tax Return Transcript.
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Your FAFSA may be selected for a process called verification, which verifies the accuracy of your
information. If you are selected for verification, your college will request that you submit additional
documents to their office.
Your colleges will review your information to determine the amount of federal and state grants, loans, workstudy, and any available school-based aid for which you may be eligible.
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Check with your colleges to see if any additional forms are required for state and school-based aid –
such as the CSS Profile.
Not submitting additional required forms can prevent you from receiving financial aid from the college!
Make sure to do your research and know the exact deadlines and required forms for each college!
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Your colleges will send you a financial aid award letter that details the financial aid you are eligible to receive.
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Once you receive your award letters, you should review your financial aid packages from each school and
determine which is the best offer for you and your family. Determine which aid you want to keep and respond
to the letter by the college’s deadline.
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How to Interpret Your Financial Aid Award Letter:
1. The best type of financial aid award includes mostly grants – those grants could be from:
a. The Federal Government (The Pell Grant),
b. The State of Virginia (VTAG, CSAP, VCAP, VGAP, or CTGP), or
c. The college itself.
All of these grants provide you with free money for college that you do not have to pay back.
2. Your package may also include a work-study component. Work-study means that the college will give you a job
that will help you afford your tuition bill.
a. The money you earn goes directly to you, and then you can save it and apply it towards your tuition bill.
3. Your package may also include Federal Loans – these loans are borrowed in your name, not your parent’s. So it
is your responsibility to pay them back. There are three different types, and you may be offered all three in your
financial aid package:
a. Direct Subsidized
i. Best kind of loan because it has the lowest interest rate AND the government pays the interest
for you while you’re in college.
b. Direct Unsubsidized
i. Second best kind of loan because it has the same low interest rate as the Subsidized Loan. The
only difference is that the interest starts accruing immediately, while you’re still in college.
c. Perkins Loan
i. Third best kind of loan because the interest rate is slightly higher than both of the Direct Loans
above.
4. You may also be offered a Direct Parent PLUS Loan – this loan is in your parent’s name, not yours. It is the fourth
best kind of loan because the interest rate is slightly higher than all three of the Federal Loans that can be
borrowed in your (the student’s) name.
a. Your parents must qualify for this loan and be willing to accept it on your behalf in order for you to
receive it.
b. If you don’t see the Parent PLUS Loan on your financial aid award letter, you should call the college to
request the loan.
c. If the college will not offer the PLUS Loan to your parents, they must offer to increase the amount of
Direct Loans that they offered to you, the student.
5. It is ok to borrow a manageable amount of money in Federal Loans to help you pay for your college tuition –
college is an investment for your future because it will help you earn more money in the long run.
6. However, you should NEVER borrow private loans. If you can’t afford to pay your tuition bill after all the
grants, work-study offers, federal loans, and private scholarships you have received, then that college is not a
good choice for you.
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Paying for College: Step 4 – Scholarships
If you only apply to one scholarship this year, make sure it’s the Scholarship Fund.
Last year’s applicants had a 1 in 2 chance of receiving a scholarship!
The Scholarship Fund of Alexandria:
www.AlexScholarshipFund.org – In June of 2014, the Scholarship Fund of Alexandria awarded 151 scholarships to TC
seniors, totaling $400,000. The average award was $2,600 per year – renewable for all four years of college. Over the
summer, we also awarded $500,000 in renewal scholarships to T.C. alumni.
Come visit us in room A-121 – EVERY senior should apply to our scholarship – it is just for T.C. students! However, we
do not simply give out SFA scholarships; we can also point you to many other local and national scholarships. Stop by
the Scholarship Fund office and we will help match you with scholarships that would be best for you!
Parents and Students, would you like to receive a monthly email about upcoming scholarships?
If you and your family are looking for free money to help afford college, join the Scholarship Fund of Alexandria’s email
list!
We will send you information about local and national scholarships, in addition to our scholarship that is just for T.C.
Students!
Contact College Adviser, Margaret Feldman, at [email protected] to be added to the list!
Scholarship Search Engines:
Naviance- Access through your blackboard account
www.zinch.com/scholarships - Great scholarship search engine
www.collegeboard.org/scholarships - Scholarship search, college search, and much more
Scholarship Lists:
www.uncf.org – United Negro College Fund scholarships for minority students
http://www.blackexcel.org/200-Scholarships.html – 200 Free Scholarships for Minorities
www.hsf.net – Scholarships for Hispanic Students
www.hispanicscholar.org – Scholarships for Hispanic scholarships
http://www.scholarshipsaz.org/scholarships.html - Scholarships for Hispanic students
http://www.iefa.org/scholarships - International Financial Aid and Scholarship Search
Financial Aid Support:
http://studentaid.ed.gov/ - Answers questions on Federal Student Aid and loan repayment options
Stop by the SFA office and see Ms. Feldman to find scholarships that would be a good match for you!
[email protected] | 703.824.6739 | Room A-121
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Resources for Undocumented Students
Are you a Dreamer, or do you have any questions about how
your immigration status impacts your college and scholarship options?
Stop by the Scholarship Fund to see Ms. Feldman for confidential assistance and helpful resources!
The Benefits of Applying for DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals):
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Become eligible for in-state tuition at Virginia colleges!
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Get a Social Security Number!
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Receive a work permit and the ability to have a job with benefits (like health insurance)
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Apply for a driver’s license
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Ability to pass a background check
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You can apply for a credit card and begin to build your credit history
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Obtaining this status DOES NOT qualify you for federal financial aid, BUT it often makes it easier to obtain scholarships
from private colleges
You May be Eligible for DACA if You:
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Were under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012;
Came to the United States before reaching your 16th birthday;
Have continuously resided in the United States since June 15, 2007, up to the present time;
Were physically present in the United States on June 15, 2012, and at the time of making your request for consideration of
deferred action with USCIS;
Entered without inspection before June 15, 2012, or your lawful immigration status expired as of June 15, 2012;
Are currently in school, have graduated or obtained a certificate of completion from high school, have obtained a general
education development (GED) certificate, or are an honorably discharged veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces of
the United States; and
Have not been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise
pose a threat to national security or public safety.
Where to Go for More Information:
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Speak with Margaret (Montague) Feldman in the Scholarship Fund of Alexandria Office (Room A-121)
o [email protected] or (703) 824-6730
Speak with Patricia Braun in the T.C. Williams College and Career Center (Room A-114)
o [email protected] or (703) 578-6250
Speak with Krishna Leyva in the ACPS FACE Center (Room A-123)
o [email protected] or (703) 824-6865
USCIS: http://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/consideration-deferred-action-childhood-arrivals-process
Legal Aid Justice Center: https://www.justice4all.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/deferred-action-fact-sheet-english-820-FINAL.pdf
E4FC: http://e4fc.org/legalservices/deferredactionresources.html
Some Scholarships Just for You:
First, make sure that you are applying to some private colleges – they are sometimes able to give you financial aid when public
universities cannot. For a specific list of colleges that have historically given significant financial aid to undocumented students, see
the next page.
Next, make sure you are applying to some scholarships outside of the college. Please note that these scholarship deadlines are from
2013-14 and are subject to change for the 2014-15 year. They are provided as guidelines only.
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MALDEF: http://www.maldef.org/assets/pdf/2012-2013_MALDEF_Scholarship_List.pdf - Scholarship List
E4FC: http://www.e4fc.org/images/E4FC_Scholarships.pdf - Scholarship List
Scholarships A-Z: http://www.scholarshipsaz.org/scholarships.html - Scholarship List
Haz La U: http://hsf.net/en/scholarships/programs/hsf-haz-la-u-scholarship-program
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The Dream US : http://www.thedream.us/scholars/
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April 1 – Open to students who actively participate in struggles for civil rights, economic justice, international
solidarity or other progressive issues
Esperanza: http://www.esperanzafund.org/scholarship/
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April – Open to students who were born outside of the United States or have at least one parent who was born
outside of the United States
Davis Putter Scholarship: http://www.davisputter.org/apply/apply-for-scholarships/
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February 10 – Essay contest
Dream Scholarship: http://www.dreamproject-va.org/dream-scholarship/how-to-apply/
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January 27 – Scholarship for DACA or TPS eligible students, must be admitted to a Dream US partner college
(colleges marked by * below)
National Peace Essay: http://www.usip.org/academy/national-peace-essay-contest-high-schoolstudents/faqs#deadline
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January 20 – Open to students with Hispanic heritage, including students with DACA status; 3.0 GPA +
April 1 – Local scholarship open to students born outside the US, or students who have two parents born outside
the US (including undocumented students)
Next Gen Scholarship: http://www.perkconsulting.net/about/nextgen/
o
June 6 – 3.0 GPA or higher, non-citizen or international student enrolled in a US school in the DC area
Colleges that Have Historically Given Financial Aid/Scholarships to Undocumented Students:
* Denotes a Partner College for the Dream US Scholarship























Amherst College (Massachusetts)
Bard College (New York)
Bates College (Maine)
Berea College (Kentucky – Christian)
Broward College (Florida)
Brown University (Rhode Island)
Bryn Mawr (Pennsylvania – Women’s College)
California State University, Long Beach (California)*
California State University, San Bernardino
(California)*
Claremont McKenna College (California)
College of the Holy Cross (Massachusetts)
Columbia University (New York)
Cornell University (New York)
Dartmouth College (New Hampshire)
Dominican University (Illinois)*
Dominican University of California (California)
South Texas College (El Rio Grande)*
Florida International University (Florida)*
Franklin Marshall College (Pennsylvania)
Kaplan University (Online)*
Lehman College (New York)*
Miami Dade College (Florida)*
Mount Holyoke (Massachusetts – Women’s College)






















Mount St. Mary’s (California – Women’s College)
Mount Washington College (Online)*
National Hispanic University (California)
Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA)
Notre Dame University (Indiana)
Occidental College (California)
Pomona College (California)
Princeton University (New Jersey)
Reed College (Oregon)
Santa Clara University (California)
South Texas College (El Rio Grande)*
Stanford University (California)
Swarthmore College (Pennsylvania)
Trinity Washington University (DC – Women’s
College)*
University of La Verne (California)*
University of North Texas (Texas)*
University of Puget Sound (Washington)
University of Texas, El Paso (El Paso)*
University of Texas, Pan American (El Rio Grande)*
Wesleyan University (Connecticut)
Whitman College (Washington)
Yale University (Connecticut)
Please meet with Ms. Feldman so that we can confidentially come up with the best plan for you and your
family! Contact [email protected], 703.824.6730, or Room A-121.
13
Average GPA and Test Scores of Students Accepted at Virginia Colleges
Please note that these test scores and GPAs are provided to show you how your scores compare to those of students enrolled in
Virginia colleges. Some students had lower scores and GPAs, while other students had higher scores and GPAs.
GPA 3.24 and below
College
SAT 25th
Percentile
SAT 75th
Percentile
Average GPA
Averett University*
Bluefield College*
Ferrum College*
Marymount University*
Norfolk State University
Radford University
Virginia Intermont
College*
Virginia State University
Virginia Union
University*
870
823
800
1350^
800
920
870
1050
1030
990
1610^
940
1090
1070
3.2
3.2
2.6
3.1
2.8
3.2
3.2
6 Year
Graduation
Rate
41%
35.9%
31.2%
47.9%
33.2%
55.8%
26.2%
1100^
690
1340^
850
2.8
2.6
39.7%
29.2%
GPA 3.25 – 3.49
Bridgewater College*
Hampden-Sydney
College*
Hampton University*
Liberty University*
Longwood University
Lynchburg College*
Mary Baldwin College*
Old Dominion
University
Roanoke College*
Shenandoah
University*
University of Virginia’s
College at Wise
Virginia Military
Institute
Virginia Wesleyan
College*
1405^
1020
1670^
1220
3.4
3.4
58.5%
66.6%
940
1390^
940
1340^
1270^
920
1110
1700^
1110
1653^
1610^
1120
3.3
3.4
3.4
3.3
3.3
3.3
54.9%
46.7%
60.3%
52.1%
49.4%
50%
1480^
890
1750^
1120
3.4
3.4
68.7%
44.6%
1240^
1560^
3.3
38.8%
1570^
1810^
3.4
69.4%
890
1110
3.3
48.3%
*^See key on the following page.
Contact Ms. Feldman at [email protected] with any questions!
14
GPA 3.5 – 3.74
Christopher Newport
University
Eastern Mennonite
University*
Emory and Henry
College*
George Mason
University
Hollins University*
Jefferson College of
Health Sciences*
Randolph College*
Randolph-Macon
College*
Regent University*
Sweet Briar College*
University of Mary
Washington
University of
Richmond*
Virginia
Commonwealth
University
1070
1240
3.7
63.2%
890
1180
3.5
66.3%
1320^
1640^
3.5
59.2%
1050
1250
3.7
64.5%
960
1300^
1240
1557^
3.6
3.5
62.5%
10%
980
1470^
1210
1770^
3.5
3.6
63%
60%
960
960
1570^
1180
1180
1830^
3.5
3.5
3.5
33.3%
69.6%
70.6%
1820^
2078^
3.7
82.7%
1510^
1780^
3.6
53.1%
GPA 3.75 and above
College of William
and Mary
James Madison
University
University of Virginia
Virginia Tech
Washington and Lee
University*
Numerical
Grade
93-100
90-92
87-89
83-86
80-82
77-79
73-76
70-72
67-69
60-66
Letter
Grade
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
Standard
Classes
4
3.7
3.3
3
2.7
2.3
2
1.7
1.3
1
Honors
Classes
4.5
4.2
3.8
3.5
3.2
2.8
2.5
1.7
1.3
1
1250
1460
4.0
90.7%
1050
1250
3.8
81.4%
1910^
1130
2170^
1300
4.2
4.0
93.9%
81.7%
1940^
2210^
Not Available
90.9%
AP or DE
Classes
5
4.7
4.3
4
3.7
3.3
3
1.7
1.3
1
6 Year Graduation Rate Below 50%
6 Year Graduation Rate between 50-60%
6 Year Graduation Rate Above 60%
Unless otherwise noted, SAT Scores are a combination of Critical Reading
and Math – calculated out of 1600
^SAT Scores include the Writing section – calculated out of 2400
* Indicates Private College or University
15
The Scholarship Fund of Alexandria (SFA) is a college advising and financial aid
resource for T.C. Williams Students, located in room A-121 of T.C. Williams High
School.
The goal of The Scholarship Fund of Alexandria is to provide T.C. Williams graduates with financial aid
resources and need-based scholarships to help them access and complete a college or post-secondary
education.
Since 1986, SFA has awarded over $11 million in scholarships to more than 4,000 deserving T.C. Williams
graduates. The Scholarship Fund is dedicated to helping students attain college completion, as well as college
enrollment. 100% of General Fund awards are based on need and merit.
In 2014, SFA awarded $900,000 in new and renewal scholarships. 151 students in the Class of 2014 received
scholarships! 47% of students who applied for a scholarship through SFA received a scholarship—the average
award amount was $2,600!
Our Awardees are accepted at great colleges! See where the 2014 SFA Awardees are going to school:
Arcadia University
Babson College
Berklee College of Music
Brown University
Claremont-McKenna College
College of Charleston
College of Holy Cross
College of William and Mary
Connecticut College
DePaul University
Drew University
George Mason University
George Washington
University
Georgetown University
Goucher College
James Madison University
Johnson and Wales University
Kenyon College
Lafayette College
Liberty College
Longwood University
Marshall University
Meredith College
Norfolk State University
North Carolina A&T
University
Northern Virginia Community
College
Northern Virginia Community
College
Old Dominion University
Princeton University
Randolph College
Roanoke College
Shenandoah University
Tennessee State University
The New School
Towson University
University of Alabama
University of Chicago
University of Georgia
University of Mary
Washington
University of North Carolina
University of Pennsylvania
University of Richmond
University of South Carolina
University of Virginia
University of Wisconsin
University of Wyoming
Virginia Commonwealth
University
Virginia State University
Virginia Tech
Washington and Lee
University
West Virginia Tech
West Virginia University
16
Timeline for SFA Scholarships
October 2014- Review the application overview and application tutorials available on BlackBoard under College Knowledge. Visit the
Scholarship Fund of Alexandria office for more information and to ask questions!
November 1, 2014 to February 8, 2015, 5:00PM - Submit the Online Application. The following items should be uploaded or inserted
in the online application to be complete: (1) Your personal statements, (2) Two recommendations (requested electronically), (3) An
updated résumé, and after January 1, (4) Student Aid Report from FAFSA (for need-based awards).
March 2015 – Application packages will be read and scored by a committee of 50+ citizens. Applicants are ranked by score and
matched with the “best” scholarship for which they are eligible.
April 2015 - Applicants will be notified whether or not they have been selected to receive a scholarship.
June 3, 2015 – Awards Night – Community members and families come together to celebrate the achievements of the recipients!
How Do You Apply?
Applying for scholarships through SFA is pretty simple! Application questions and tutorials for using the new online application
system will be available on BlackBoard under College Knowledge by October 1. We recommend you review these materials and
come ask us questions if you have them!
The online portal to turn in the application will become available on November 1, 2014 through our website:
www.AlexScholarshipFund.org. You must have the following information turned in by February 8, 2014, 5:00PM:
Online
 Submit the online application! You can access it through the SFA website: www.AlexScholarshipFund.org. You will create a
username a password, so it does not need to be completed in one sitting!
You will include or upload the following information to your online application:






Updated résumé
Personal Statements: Prompts will be available on BlackBoard by October.
(If you need assistance with either the essays or the résumé, we are more than happy to help!)
SAT/ ACT Score Report: These reports are optional to include, but can only increase your score!
Student Aid Report (SAR)—The SAR will help us determine whether you qualify for a scholarship on based financial
need.
2 Recommendation Requests: You are able to request recommendations online. These recommendations can be
from your teachers, counselors, or any adult who can recommend you and speak to your character. Your counselor
is not required to be a recommender! Recommendations are due on February 20, 2015.
Check the box that gives the Transcript Office permission to provide us with your transcript. Your application will
be considered incomplete without it!
 Edith Powell Scholarship Application: This document is available for download through BlackBoard and can be uploaded to the
online portal. This is optional, but also is a renewable scholarship!
Questions? Please contact the SFA Office!
Beth Lovain, Executive Director
Amanda Janice, Assistant Director
T.C. Williams High School, Room A121
3330 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22302
703-824-6730
www.alexscholarshipfund.org
[email protected]
@alexscholarship
17
18
Pathway to the Baccalaureate Program
2014-2015 Student Application Form
Please complete and return this application to your High School Counselor by
the Priority Deadline of November 7, 2014 to be considered for priority
admission to the Pathway Program. APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED AFTER THE
DEADLINE WILL BE CONSIDERED ON A SPACE AVAILABLE BASIS ONLY.
Your counselor will complete a Counselor Recommendation Form and forward
an unofficial copy of your high school transcript to the Pathway Program for
review.
THIS IS NOT AN APPLICATION TO NORTHERN VIRGINIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE. An application to
the college must be completed online at www.nvcc.edu.
Students: Please legibly print the following information in blue or black ink only. Please respond to
ALL questions on the application. Applications should be completed by STUDENTS. Incomplete
applications will not be reviewed.
Applicant Name
First
Middle
Last
Apt. Number
Street Address
City
State
Zip Code
Home Phone
Cell Phone
Date of Birth
Student’s email address
Parent/Guardian Name (if under 18)
High School Name and County/City:
High School
County/City
What is your high school counselor’s name?
When will you graduate from high school?
Month
Year
Application Questions (please answer ALL questions):
1. What are your current college plans? Please select one answer.
 Attend NOVA, complete a vocational/technical
 Undecided between NOVA and 4 year
degree
college/university
 Attend NOVA, complete a 2 year degree, then
 Attend NOVA, transfer to 4 year
transfer to a 4 year college/university
college/university before completing a degree
 Enroll directly in a 4 year college/university, if
 Other:
admitted
2. What majors and/or careers are you currently considering? If you’re not sure, write undecided.
3. Are you or your brothers/sisters the first in your immediate family to attend college in the U.S.? □ Yes □ No
4. Did you participate in the Pathway Connection Program? □ Yes □ No □ Don’t Know
5. Do you participate in George Mason University’s Early Identification Program? □ Yes □ No □ Don’t Know
6. Are you/ were you in Foster Care at any time after turning 13 years of age? □ Yes □ No
7. Are you currently a participant in a College Access Program ( AVID, CPP, College Summit, CAMPUS)? □ Yes □ No
8. Which NOVA campus do you plan to attend?
□ Woodbridge
□ Annandale
□ Manassas
□ Alexandria
□ Loudoun
19
Pathway to the Baccalaureate Program Application (Page 2)
9. Why do you think you should be selected to participate in the Pathway Program?
10. Required Short Essay Question: Pathway to the Baccalaureate is designed to support students who have
situations or circumstances that could make it more challenging for you to complete a college degree. Please
staple your short essay (one typed page maximum) describing any challenging situations or circumstances that
have impacted your success in high school and/or could impact your success in college.
11. Are you currently involved in any of the following activities?
Paid Employment: □Yes □No If yes, how many total hours per week?
Volunteer Work:
□Yes □No If yes, how many total hours per week?
Team Athletics:
□Yes □No If yes, how many total hours per week?
Student/Youth Organizations: □Yes □No If yes, how many hours per week?
12. (Optional) If you would like to provide the selection committee with any additional information about
yourself or expand on any responses you provided above, please staple a statement (one typed page
maximum) to this application. You may also request a Supplemental Recommendation Form from your
school’s Pathway Counselor that will be considered in addition to the Counselor Recommendation Form.
PLEASE REVIEW: Pathway provides a supportive, transfer-focused community and exceptional student
support for selected participants beginning in high school, to and through NOVA, and on to your university of
choice. While Pathway students may attend any university after NOVA, participants who satisfy Pathway’s
Guaranteed Admissions Agreement requirements and complete an AA/AS Degree at NOVA are guaranteed
admission to George Mason University, with continued Pathway support while enrolled at Mason. There is no
cost to participate in Pathway, and participants may opt-out of the program at any time.
If you are selected, you must agree to the following in order to participate. Failure to adhere to these
expectations will result in your immediate dismissal from the program.



I will complete my online application to NOVA within 30 days of being accepted into the Pathway
Program (more information on applying will be included in acceptance letter).
I will accept my offer of admission to Pathway by submitting a Student Contract by the published
deadline, agreeing to comply with Pathway’s program guidelines and academic expectations.
I will participate in regular meetings with a Pathway Counselor and the majority of Pathway Program
activities and workshops.
PATHWAY TO THE BACCALAUREATE PROGRAM: STUDENT SIGNATURE/RELEASE OF INFORMATION
 If I fail Name
to meet/comply with these guidelines, I will be permanently dismissed
from the program
Print Applicant
Date of Birth
I hereby waive my right to review the Counselor Recommendation Form:
□ Yes
□ No
By signing the application below, I/we give permission for this application, counselor recommendation and the student’s
unofficial transcript/schedule/standardized test scores to be released to the Pathway Program. If selected, I/we further give
permission for this student to participate in the Pathway Program, for Pathway to view/use information in the above-named
student’s scholastic records for the sole purpose of helping students with academic preparation and success during the college
transition and transfer processes, and to collect/share transcripts and other academic information on an as-needed basis.
I have answered all questions on this application to the best of my ability, and I have reviewed and agree to the program
guidelines above. I understand that Pathway is a selective program and not all applicants who apply are selected. Applicants
_______________________________
who
are not selected to join Pathway may still apply to and attend NOVA and George Mason.
Student Signature
Date
Parent/Guardian Signature (if under 18)
Date
20
2014-2015 SAT and ACT Test Dates and Registration Deadlines
Test Date
October 11th, 2014
SAT (www.collegeboard.org)
Registration Deadline
Late Registration
Deadline
($52.50)
($80.50)
September 12th, 2014
September 30th, 2014
November 8th, 2014
October 9th, 2014
October 28th, 2014
December 6th, 2014
November 6th, 2014
November 24th, 2014
January 24th, 2015
December 29th, 2014
January 13th, 2015
March 14th, 2015
May 2nd, 2015
February 13th, 2015
April 6th, 2015
March 3rd, 2015
April 21st, 2015
June 6th, 2015
May 8th, 2015
May 27th, 2015
Cost of Test: $52.50; Subject test: $26.00 + $16.00 per test, or $26.00 language with listening ability.
Late fee: Add $28.00 to cost of test; Waitlist fee: Add $46.00 to cost of test;
Other fees may apply. Fee waivers available- eligibility required.
**If you do not remember your username/password, do NOT create a new account.
SAT information, call Collegeboard directly at 1-866-756-7346**
Test Date
September 13th, 2014
ACT (www.ACTstudent.org)
Registration Deadline
Late Registration
Period
($54.50)
($78.50)
August 8th, 2014
August 22nd, 2014
October 25th, 2014
September 19th, 2014
October 3rd, 2014
December 13th, 2014
November 7th 2014
November 21st, 2014
February 7th, 2015
January 9th, 2015
January 16th, 2015
April 18th, 2015
March 13th, 2015
March 27th, 2015
June 13th, 2015
May 8th, 2015
May 22nd, 2015
Cost of Test: $54.50 (with writing) $38.00 (without writing).
Late fee: Add $24.00 to cost of test; Waitlist/ Standby fee: Add $47.00 to cost of test.
Other fees may apply. Fee waivers available- eligibility required.
**If you do not remember your username/password, do NOT create a new account.
ACT information, call ACT directly at 319-337-1270, and follow the teleprompts**
TC School Code: 470051; SAT Test Center Code: 47115; ACT Test Center Code: 233860
*Eligibility letters are mailed home. If you lost your letter, please visit Food Services in
room C100.
21
College Admissions Essays
Most four-year colleges require applicants to submit a personal statement, or one or
more essays. The personal statement and/or essay provides decision-makers with a
sense of the applicant as a person, apart from his or her grades and scores. This is
the student’s opportunity to share their personality, key experiences and values.
Colleges and universities that accept the Common App will require that applicants write
the essay as described in that application. Many colleges may require additional
essays. These essay questions/prompts can be found either on the Common App or
on college websites. Institutions that do not accept the common app will provide the
essay prompts/questions on their website.
The College & Career Center can assist students with their essay/s. Students can get
help with:
*Developing ideas.
*Organizing their essays.
* Improving their writing.
Essay volunteers will conduct workshops and meet with students during Titan Time
and lunch blocks. Please check Blackboard for scheduling info.
In addition, the College and Career Center suggests that students go to
essaymom.net, which offers extensive advice on admissions essays. This website
was created by TCW parent and volunteer Karen Schwarz. For specific questions,
students may email her at [email protected].
22
SCHOOL COUNSELING DIRECTORY
2014-2015
Name
Gregory Forbes
Deborah Johnson
Sharon Blackwell
Helena Alvarez
Patricia Braun
Samantha Christian
Barbara Silverman
Counselor
Maria Muthadi-Roach
Annette Lee
Janelle Lee
Mike Frazier
Room
No.
A114
Position
Phone No.
(703)
824-6876
Director of School Counseling
Admin. Assistant to Director/
CCC Coordinator
A114
824-6833
Registrar (King St. Campus)
A110
824-6809
Registrar (MH Campus)
MH-128
824-6755
College & Career Specialist
A114
824-6250
Transcripts Specialist/
CCC Assistant
A114
824-6831
Data Entry
A117
824-6830
Learning Community 9
Alpha
Room
Phone No.
Grade Level
Breakdown
No.
(703)
A–C
9
MH-128
824-6774
D–J
9
MH-128
824-6734
K–Q
9
MH-128
824-0140
R–Z
9
MH-128
824-0159
Email
(@acps.k12.va.us)
gregory.forbes
Intercom
6326
6112
deborah.johnson
sblackwell
helen.alvarez
patricia.braun
6118
1109
6321
samantha.christian
bsilverm
6109
6110
Email
(@acps.k12.va.us)
maria.muthadi-roach
annettelee
janelle.lee
edward.frazier
Intercom
1129
1128
1152
1145
Phone No.
(703)
575-3408
824-8260
824-6827
824-4830
Email
(@acps.k12.va.us)
susan.scharf
john.crews
michelle.denton
dmarrara
Intercom
6169
6231
6114
6292
Phone No.
(703)
575-3416
575-3417
824-6802
824-6895
Email
(@acps.k12.va.us)
cassandra.ford
nancy.nguyen
debbie.karr
tracie.d.jackson
Intercom
6284
6294
6198
6116
Phone No.
(703)
575-3410
824-6636
824-3403
824-6807
Email
(@acps.k12.va.us)
kathleen.brewster
mary.mccarthy
stacy.morris
melissa.deak
Intercom
6080
6108
6074
6077
Room
No.
Phone No.
(703)
Email
(@acps.k12.va.us)
Intercom
A322B
824-6839
elizabeth.merino
6107
A322C
824-6834
maria.mendoza
6119
A322E
575-3418
varita.mateosbendinelli
6104
Learning Community 10
Counselor
Susan Scharf
John Crews
Michelle Denton
Dee Marrara
Alpha
Breakdown
A-C
D-J
K-Q
R-Z
Grade Level
10
10
10
10
Room
No.
B328B
B328D
B328E
B328C
Learning Community 11
Counselor
Cassandra Ford
Nancy Nguyen
Debbie Karr
Tracie Jackson
Counselor
Kathleen Brewster
Mary McCarthy
Stacy Morris
Melissa Deak
Alpha
Breakdown
A-C
D-J
K-Q
R-Z
Alpha
Breakdown
A–C
D–J
K–Q
R–Z
Room
No.
11
B221D
11
B221E
11
B221C
11
B221B
Learning Community 12
Room
Grade Level
No.
12
B129C
12
B129B
12
B129D
12
B129E
Grade Level
International Academy
Counselor
Elizabeth Merino
Maria Christina
Mendoza
Varita MateosBendinelli
Alpha
Breakdown
International
Network
International
Network
International
Academy
Grade Level
11th & 12
A-Z
10
A-Z
9
A-Z
(Revised 9/2014)
23