WCSD Senior Survival Guide : simplebooklet.com

Table of ContentsWELCOMECOUNSELING STAFFLOGANVILLE HIGH SCHOOLMONROE AREA HIGH SCHOOLWALNUT GROVE HIGH SCHOOLAPPOINTMENT PROCEDURESRANK AND GPACLASS RANKHOPE GPATRANSCRIPTSGRADUATION REQUIREMENTSGRADUATION CHECKSHEETHONOR GRADUATELETTERS OF RECOMMENDATIONSTUDENT ATHLETE INFORMATIONCOLLEGE APPLICATION PLANNER12TH GRADE CHECKLISTCOLLEGE ENTRANCE TESTSSCHOOL CODESSATACTWHICH TEST SHOULD I TAKEWHAT DOES THE SCORE MEANHOW DO THE TESTS COMPAREFREE PREPARATION RESOURCESCOLLEGE SEARCHCOLLEGE SEARCH ENGINESGEORGIA MATCHCOLLEGE ADMISSIONSUNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF GEORIGATECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM OF GEORGIACOLLEGE VISITSVIRTUAL TOURSIN-PERSON TOURSNARROWING YOUR COLLEGE CHOICESPOSTSECONDARY EDUCATION COSTSWalton County School District Senior Survival Guide 1

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WELCOMEDear High School Senior,Welcome to your SENIOR year! The counseling office is excited to be able to serve you in your finalyear of secondary school. Making it to your senior year is exciting, but this is a busy year that requires alot of responsibility and work. It will all be worth it, though, when you participate in graduation in theSpring! We are here to help you make that goal a reality, so be sure to check out the available resourcesOur school has support staff to assist you with your educational, academic, social, and emotional needs.Our services include individual counseling, college and financial aid advisement, career counseling,academic advising, and more.This ‘survival’ packet will guide you and your family through some important aspects of your senior year.Please read the packet in its entirety. Important information is included, but try not to get overwhelmed.We are here to help you with any questions you or your family may have or provide additionalinformation you may need.Your high school career is ¾ of the way complete, but that remaining ¼ is perhaps the most critical partof planning your future. Let’s work together to make your senior year a successful one. We are excitedabout the Class and look forward to working with you this year.Sincerely,The Walton County School District Counseling Offices and Support StaffWalton County School District Senior Survival Guide 3

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COUNSELING STAFFLOGANVILLE HIGH SCHOOLStephanie Thompkins, Counselor A-C stephanie.thompkins@walton.k12.ga.us 678-684-2896Audrey Rodriguez, Counselor D-K audrey.rodriguez@walton.k12.ga.us 648-684-2893Kelly Tompkins, Counselor L-P ktompkins@walton.k12.ga.us 678-684-2931Matthew Gilbert, Counselor Q-Z matthew.gilbert@walton.k12.ga.us 678-684-2953Kristi Nolen, Registrar kristi.nolen@walton.k12.ga.us 678-684-2891Andrea Mitchell, Community Resource Coordinator andrea.mitchell@walton.k12.ga.us 678-684-2892Christy Segars, Community Resource Coordinator margaret.segars@walton.k12.ga.us 678-684-2892MONROE AREA HIGH SCHOOLKim Brown, Counselor A-F kibrown@walton.k12.ga.us 770-266-4575Shekilia Green, Counselor G-O shekilia.green@walton.k12.ga.us 770-207-3105Jamie Cathcart, Counselor P-Z jamie.cathcart@walton.k12.ga.us 770-266-4574Pam Bell, Registrar pbell@walton.k12.ga.us 770-266-4563WALNUT GROVE HIGH SCHOOLMegan McCollum, Counselor A-F megan.mccollum@walton.k12.ga.us 678-507-3931Samantha Desjarlais, Counselor G-N samantha.desjarlais@walton.k12.ga.us 678-507-3933Caitlyn Cook, Counselor O-Z caitlyn.cook@walton.k12.ga.us 678-507-3932Erica Battenfield, Community Resource Coordinator erica.battenfield@walton.k12.ga.us 678-507-3975Amanda Steele, Registrar amanda.steele@walton.k12.ga.us 678-507-3946Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 4

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APPOINTMENT PROCEDURESStudents are assigned a counselor by the first letter of their last name. Students may email theircounselor for general questions. For issues that can’t be resolved through email, see your counselor. Inan emergency, a student may also alert the teacher that they need to see a counselor.Loganville High School - Submit a ClassPass request for your counselor. If he/she is available, theywill accept the pass, and you can then report to the counseling office.Monroe Area High School - You may schedule an appointment using the counselor sign-in kiosk in thefront office.Walnut Grove High School - You may schedule an appointment using the Counselor Meeting RequestForm.RANK AND GPACLASS RANK● Senior class rank compares your GPA to the GPA of the other students in your grade.○ Rank is reevaluated each semester with the final rank computed at the end of the eighthsemester of the senior year.● Class rank is based on a weighted grade point average. This includes the 10 points added forstate-paid AP and Dual Enrollment courses.● Many scholarships and colleges prefer to look at unweighted GPA.○ To calculate your unweighted GPA, total points are divided by the number of coursesattempted. If you have taken Advanced Placement (AP) or Dual Enrollment (DE) courses,those grades were awarded an extra 10 points. For an unweighted GPA, you will need toremove those 10 points.ExampleCourseWeighted GradeWeightedQuality PointsUnweightedGradeUnweightedQuality PointsAP Literature1004904AP Calculus803702Spanish II853853P.E.10041004GPA91.253.586.253.25Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 5

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HOPE GPA● HOPE GPA only includes your core curriculum courses (English, Math, Science, Social Studies,and Foreign Language).● The Georgia Student Finance Commission determines HOPE eligibility.● To qualify for the HOPE scholarship, students must be US citizens or meet the non-citizenrequirements. Students must also meet HOPE’s Georgia residency requirements.● The most current HOPE information is available online through GaFutures.org.TRANSCRIPTS● In-state colleges - request transcripts through the student’s GaFutures account● Out-of-state colleges - request transcripts through www.parchment.com● Unofficial transcripts can be printed through Infinite Campus.○ From your IC page, click “Documents” (on the left side).○ At the bottom of the page, click “Term Transcript with Current Schedule”.GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS● 28 credits are required to graduate.● Students must earn credit for specific courses.○ 4 units of English○ 4 units of Social Studies○ 4 units of Math○ 4 units of Science○ 1 unit of Physical Education/Health○ 4 CTAE/Fine Art or Foreign Language courses to graduate.■ Students interested in attending college are encouraged to complete two credits ofForeign Language in the same language such as Spanish I and Spanish II.● A senior evaluation will be done in the second semester of your junior year. You will meet withyour counselor and evaluate your transcript.Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 6

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GRADUATION CHECKSHEETWalton County School District Graduation Requirements28 units are required for graduation Language Arts (4 units)9th Grade Lit10th Grade LitAmerican Lit4th Language ArtsMath (4 units)AlgebraGeometryAdvanced Algebra4th Math:Science (4 units): the 4thScience unit may be used to meetboth Science and CTAE ElectiverequirementsBiologyEnvironmental orChemistryPhysics or PhysicalScience4th Science:Social Studies (4 units)World HistoryU.S. HistoryGovernmentEconomicsP. E. & Health (1 unit):3 units of JROTC may be used tomeet this requirementHealth/PEFine Arts and/or ForeignLanguage and/or CTAE *4 units from any combination of theabove-listed areas Electives (7 units) Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 7

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HONOR GRADUATE● Honor Graduates - students with a GPA of 90 or above● High Honors - students with a 93 or above GPA● Valedictorian - the student with the highest GPA at the end of the second semester of senioryear● Salutatorian - the student with the second-highest GPA at the end of the second semester ofsenior year● Board Policy - For the purposes of calculating the GPA for valedictorian and salutatorian, theadditional 10 points will not be included for dual enrollment courses earned beyond the 30 hourspaid by the Georgia Student Finance Commission but these 10 points will be reflected on thetranscript. In addition, the valedictorian must have been a student in the Walton County SchoolSystem for the last four semesters/two years of high school.LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATIONRequests for letters of recommendation from your counselor must be submitted two weeks in advance.Loganville High School - Email your counselor to request a link to the individualized online form.Monroe Area High School - Complete the Recommendation Request Form and submit it to yourcounselor.Walnut Grove High School - Complete the Letter of Recommendation Request Form and submit toyour counselor at least one week prior.STUDENT ATHLETE INFORMATION● NCAA● NCAA Creating Account● NCAA Eligibility● Initial Eligibility● Division I● Division II● Calculating Core GPA● NAIAWalton County School District Senior Survival Guide 8

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COLLEGE APPLICATION PLANNER● College Planning 9th/10th Grade● College Planning 11th Grade● College Planning 12th Grade● Online Senior Year College Planning Calendar12TH GRADE CHECKLISTGeneralTimeFrameCollege Admissions &Career PlanningTestingFinancial PlanningAug -Sept● Think about what you wantout of college and useGaFutures for collegeplanning and research.● Review your graduationstatus and transcript withyour counselor.● Check with the colleges youare considering foradmission procedures anddeadlines. Ask about theadmissions tests required.Tip: Never limit your collegechoices to just one. Researchat least two or three schools tohave a backup if your topchoice doesn’t work.● Most colleges prefer it if youapply online. You can dothis through GaFutures forin-state colleges.● Request transcripts andrecommendations at leasttwo weeks beforeapplication deadlines.● Select two teachers andanother adult not related toyou and request general● Check with all colleges youare considering and ask ifthey have a test preference.● Register for the ACT or SAT.● Take practice ACT or SATonline tests (see the list offree online programs).Tip: Check the ACT and SATCollege Admission testschedules for all registrationdeadlines.● Be sure to keep up yourgrades. Your GPA plays astrong role in acceptanceinto a competitive college.● Colleges now often requirewriting scores. Be sure topractice your writing skills.Ask a literature teacher forextra help.● Update your high schoolresume (see sample).● Check out www.nasfaa.orgfor financial aid information.● Check out GaFuturesregarding your HOPE GPAfor requirements and stayon track.● Review the scholarship tipand resource informationprovided. Look atfastweb.com.● Discover how the militarycan pay for college throughROTC scholarships,academy appointments, oreducational benefits forenlisting. Check outmyfuture.com.● Athletes: complete theNCAA or NAIA studentrelease form.Tip: Avoid scholarship scams.It may be questionable if a siteasks for money or if somethingseems too good to be true.Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 9

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letters of recommendation touse now and later (forscholarships).● Arrange campus visits andinterviews, if needed. Take avirtual tour of colleges.● Assume a leadership role inthe extracurricular activitiesin which you participate.● Attend the PROBE fair(virtual or in person).● Register for the CSS profilefor private colleges.Oct● Continue your collegeresearch and applicationprocess.● Be aware that first-roundearly decision and earlyaction deadlines can be asearly as mid-October,many college-specificscholarships have anOctober deadline, andsome ROTC scholarshipshave application due datesof November 1.● Give your counselor anyschool reports that must becompleted.● Continue studying for theACT or SAT, and sign up forany online prep course youmight need.● Research cooperativeeducation at colleges youare interested in attending.This is a great way to payfor your college educationwhile gaining relevant workexperience at the sametime.● Contact college financial aidoffices for scholarships andfinancial aid information.● Attend the FAFSA (virtual)presentation with yourfamily.● Complete FAFSA or CSSand any required collegefinancial aid forms. Checkfinancial aid deadlinescarefully!Nov -Dec● Finalize the personal essayyou will need for manycollege applications. Havea teacher proofread theessay when you completeit.● Keep records of allcorrespondence.● Attend in-person or virtualsessions with collegerepresentatives who visit● Take the ASVAB. Thisprovides helpful vocationalaptitude information, even ifyou are not planning to enterthe military.● Take the SAT II subject testsif they are required by thecollege you plan to attend.● Continue working on acollege financial plan withyour family. Avoid loans, ifpossible.● Check with scholarshipwebsites for updatedscholarship reports.● Some ROTC applicationsand military academyapplications are due inDecember. Check dates forWalton County School District Senior Survival Guide 10

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your school in person orvirtually.accuracy, and don’t missdeadlines.Jan -Mar● Observe college deadlinesfor admissions, financialaid, testing, and housing.Tip: January 1 is the typicaldeadline for applying toselective competitivecolleges.● Maintain good grades.Final acceptance dependson your final transcriptwhich will be issued inMay.● Read! Review thecollege-bound reading list inthe senior survival guide.● Continue working onimproving your writing skills.● Local scholarshipapplications are due:○ Loganville High -January 31st.○ Monroe Area High -January 10th○ Walnut Grove High -October 31stApril -Jun● Most selective collegesannounce admissiondecisions in April. Besure to reply by May.● Sign and return allrequired forms anddeposits to colleges bythe deadline.● Submit transcriptrequests onGaFutures.● Check your selectiveservice status – thisaffects federal aideligibility for males.Tip: Write a thank you note topeople who helped you thisyear and to scholarships.● Always let yourcounselor know aboutany scholarship offersyou receive.● Test at technicalcolleges (Accuplacer).● Advanced Placementexams are given in May.Have your score sent toyour college.Tip: Don’t take the ACT/SATtoo often; scores may improvewith the 2ndor 3rdtest and thendecline.● Carefully review financial aidreward notices. If you havequestions, call the college’sFinancial Aid Office.● Compare what you will haveleft to pay at each collegebefore you make your finaldecision.● Notify financial aid offices ofyour decision to accept ordecline any offer youreceive.Tip: Be aware of openingcredit card accounts incollege. Debt incurred incollege affects your creditscore for years to come.Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 11

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COLLEGE ENTRANCE TESTSSCHOOL CODES● Loganville High School: 111-850● Monroe Area High School: 112-140● Walnut Grove High School: 111-867SAT● SAT Registration● Khan Academy○ Khan Academy has partnered with CollegeBoard to provide free SAT prep. This testprep is individualized by linking the student’s PSAT score to Kahn Academy. You will needto link your CollegeBoard and Kahn Academy accounts● SAT DatesSAT Test DatesRegular RegistrationLate RegistrationOctober 5, 2024September 20, 2024September 24, 2024November 2, 2024October 18, 2024October 22, 2024December 7, 2024November 22, 2024November 26, 2024March 8, 2025February 21, 2025February 25, 2025May 3, 2025April 18, 2025April 22, 2025June 7, 2025May 22, 2025May 27, 2025ACT● ACT Registration● ACT provides free practice tests, test prep resources, and test-taking strategies● ACT DatesACT Test DatesRegular RegistrationLate RegistrationSeptember 14, 2024August 9, 2024August 25, 2024October 26, 2024September 20, 2024October 18, 2024December 14, 2024November 8, 2024December 6, 2024February 8, 2025January 3, 2025January 31, 2025April 5, 2025March 16, 2025March 28, 2025June 14, 2025May 26, 2025June 6, 2025July 12, 2025June 20, 2025July 4, 2025Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 12

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WHICH TEST SHOULD I TAKEIf a college's admissions policy indicates they accept scores from either test, you can be certain that theschool does not favor one test over the other. Check out SAT vs ACT for an overview of the differencesbetween the exams or take Kaplan’s handy SAT or ACT QUIZ. An increasing number of students areconsidering taking both exams.The best way to determine which test best reflects your academic potential is to do a trial run of bothexams. Take free practice tests for the SAT and ACT. The Princeton Review offers test prep experts whowill help you understand your personalized score report and make a plan for getting the score you want. WHAT DOES THE SCORE MEANThe highest score on the ACT is 36. Each section of the SAT is 800 points. This chart shows the twosections - reading and math- for 1600. It does not include the writing score which is an additionalpossibility of 800 points.Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 13

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FREE PREPARATION RESOURCESThis is not intended to endorse any particular product or company. Please use your judgment when youresearch and use any test preparation resource. Choose the best product that meets your needs andstudy habits. Check with the school library as well for materials. This is not an exhaustive list.Register for a free live SAT prep event at: https://www.kaptest.com/sat/free/events.● Khan Academy (found on your portal page) - Khan Academy partnered with the College Board tobring free, personalized SAT prep. With numerous items to help students study, Khan Academyoffers thousands of practice questions, videos, lessons, and hints. Eight full-length practice testsare available. Perhaps the most eye-catching about Khan Academy is how a study showed that20 hours of practice using Khan Academy is associated with an average 115-point score increasefrom the PSAT/NMSQT to the SAT. Check out the blog post The Most Helpful Khan AcademySAT Resources.● The Princeton Review - The Princeton Review makes many SAT resources available to students.They hold free paper-and-pencil SAT practice tests, allowing students to get a firsthand feel forthe testing environment, and follow up with a score report that shows areas where a studentneeds to improve. In addition, The Princeton Review frequently offers webinars on SAT-relatedtopics.● Kaplan - Kaplan, one of the biggest names in test prep, offers free services to students preparingfor the SAT; favorites for time-crunched students include their pop quizzes, 20-minute workouts,and the question of the day. You can take a free, full-length SAT, and Kaplan will provide adetailed score analysis, showing your strengths and weaknesses.● Veritas Prep - Veritas Prep provides free resources, including a 61-page book, a free practicetest, and webinars covering a broad spectrum of SAT-focused concepts and strategies.● Varsity Tutors - Varsity Tutors believe everyone should have the tools and opportunity to earntheir best SAT score. They offer a free, ten-session, 25-hour, live online class assisting studentsto maximize their SAT scores. Along with live classes, Varsity Tutors’ mobile app for studying onthe go, their 650+ page SAT eBook, and an adaptive assessment tool that helps identify areasthat need improvement and practice exams are also available. Instructors, or teachers’assistants, also keep office hours to answer questions and provide extra help.● B Line Test Prep - B Line Test Prep provides an interactive, self-paced, and engaging learningexperience for students preparing for the SAT. Web-based, all you need is a regular web browserand speakers to take advantage of B Line’s software to begin prep. A few standout features areinstant audio and video feedback, no classroom peer pressure, flexible scheduling, and the abilityto rewatch videos and retake tests.● PrepFactory - PrepFactory helps students prepare for the SAT by making existing strategies,study guides, and other SAT-related content more accessible and approachable. Students ontheir personalized study path earn experience points (XP) through watching videos, takingpractice tests, and answering questions correctly to advance through a level-up system,gamifying studying for the SAT.● Union Test Prep - Union Test Prep has a unique solution for delivering high-quality SAT prep tostudents for free—they create revenue by selling advertising on their site. Access Union TestWalton County School District Senior Survival Guide 15

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Prep’s study guides, flashcards, and practice tests with the occasional interruption of an ad, orturn them off for a nominal fee.● Magoosh - Magoosh believes everyone deserves an equal shot at academic achievement,regardless of finances. In addition to compiling a comprehensive list of free SAT resources, theyalso offer a variety of their own, including an eBook, a practice test, a variety of helpfulinfographics, and a YouTube channel. ● PowerScore - Helping students eliminate test-induced anxiety and ace theSAT, PowerScore delivers a wide offering of SAT prep materials. From info about the test itself topuzzles and practice tests, PowerScore even provides an abbreviated reading list, based on theCollege Board’s list, highlighting the easiest and most interesting books.● High School Test Prep - Lighter on features and extra resources than other sites listed, HighSchool Test Prep offers free interactive tests. High School Test Prep has automated scoring andprovides students with thorough explanations of the answers.● 4Tests - 4Tests doesn’t offer the diverse resources that other sites listed here include, but theyprovide a free SAT practice test—perfect if you’re looking to take the test one more time, beforedoing it for real.● SuperTutorTV - Discover all types of tips and tricks for scoring well on the SAT from theconvenience of your computer, tablet, or phone. SuperTutorTV’s YouTube page containsinformation for those preparing for the exam.● Union Test Prep - Free ACT prep.COLLEGE SEARCHCOLLEGE SEARCH ENGINES● USG Find My School - Find a University System of Georgia school based on GPA, SAT, or ACTscores.● TCSG Program Search - Explore program offerings by campus, program, or semester.● GAFutures College Search - select the perfect school based on your academic, extracurricular,personal, and, most importantly, financial requirements.● BigFuture - CollegeBoard provides personalized college options based on responses to thequestions asked.● CollegeVine - Explore colleges, find scholarships, and build a profile to calculate your chances ofadmission.Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 16

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COLLEGE ADMISSIONSUNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF GEORIGAThe University System of Georgia’s colleges and universities provide many opportunities for students topursue their educational goals. In addition to the requirements listed here, freshman applicants mustsatisfy the Required High School Curriculum (RHSC) outlined on the USG’s Staying on Coursedocument. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the Admission Office of their college oruniversity of interest to learn more about their requirements and deadlines.The Required High School Curriculum (RHSC) is the cornerstone of the University System of Georgia(USG) admissions policy. Students are encouraged to pursue a challenging and rigorous high schoolcurriculum to be best prepared for a successful college experience and consult with their high schoolcounselor to determine appropriate coursework.The RHSC requires that students complete the following high school units:● 4 units of English● 4 units of mathematics● 4 units of science● 3 units of social science● 2 units of the same foreign language, or 2 units of American Sign Language, or 2 units ofcomputer scienceCheck out the University System of Georgia’s minimum requirements for its 26 colleges and universities.Please note admission requirements are subject to change. Meeting the minimum requirements doesnot guarantee admission to any USG college or university. Eligibility for admission is determined after acomplete review of an applicant’s credentials.TECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM OF GEORGIAAdmissions requirements for the Technical College System of Georgia will differ from those listed above!Please review the admissions requirements on the college’s website.Generally, technical schools will accept ACT or SAT scores, if your minimum score meets theirrequirements. However, they will also use the Accuplacer for admission purposes. Accuplacer will beadministered at the technical college. Reach out to the Technical College for more specific information.Testing may not be required if your GPA meets the minimum requirements.Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 18

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COLLEGE VISITSJuniors and Seniors may take up to two (2) official college/university visits without incurring arecorded absence. The College/University Visit Approval Form must be submitted to the attendanceclerk PRIOR to the visit. Students must verify their absence IMMEDIATELY upon their return byproviding proof of attendance from an official of the institution visited. Failure to meet this provisionwill result in an unexcused absence.VIRTUAL TOURSVisiting a college in person is the best way to experience its atmosphere. But if your time and money arein short supply, a virtual tour can be useful to explore whether a school will be a great fit for you. Ofcourse, virtual tours can present a limited view of an institution. So, if you cannot visit in person andmust go this route, follow these tips to help you maximize your virtual tour experience.Locate alternate, student-produced viewpoints: Just as individuals with similar interests often bandtogether, students at the same college or university also create online communities.Pair virtual campus tours with local alumni interviews: If you can't visit a college, let the college visit you– specifically, find a local graduate and ask if the individual will grant you a short interview.IN-PERSON TOURSVisiting a college campus helps you sense what the college and student life at that college is like. Thiscan help you decide whether the school is right for you.When planning your campus visits, allow time to explore each college. While you're there, talk to asmany people as possible. These can include college admissions staff, professors, and students. Acampus visit checklist can help you make the most of your visit. Some activities such as meeting with anadmissions officer or staying overnight in a residence hall may need to be scheduled in advance.Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 19

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NARROWING YOUR COLLEGE CHOICESFinding the right college can be a difficult decision. One piece of advice is to research more than oneschool. Some students have their hearts set on a specific school. It is great to have a goal, but youroptions are limited if you are not accepted into that one school. With research and planning, you can findcolleges that appeal to you. When considering your college choices, consider the following:Academic ReputationWhat is the generalreputation of the school?What about your major? Isthere an Honors college?Curriculum or ProgramIs my intended major available?Is there a strong liberal artsprogram?Academic SupportServicesAre special services suchas tutoring available?What services do youneed? How easy toreceive IEP or 504services?Class Size and TeachingApproachHow large are the classes?Do professors keep regularoffice hours? Are classestaught by professors or“TA’s” (teaching assistants?Retention, Graduation, andPlacement RateWhat percentage of studentsreturn their sophomore year?What is the graduation rate?What percentage of studentsare placed in jobs in their field?Or go on to graduate school?LocationAnywhere in the US?Multi-state region?Immediate area,comminuting to theschool?Affiliation of InstitutionPublic, Private, Religious,Vocational, two-year orfour-year, all girls/boysschool, co-ed, military,technicalFacilitiesComputer and science labs,facilities, library, dorms, andhousing availabilityCollege SettingSmall, medium, or largecity, Suburban, small town,or ruralCampus EnvironmentLively and spirited?Sports? Friendly people oncampus? Diversity ofstudents? Is securityavailable on campus? Foodand where to eat oncampus?ActivitiesSports, religious, and communityactivities, social opportunities,cultural and music activities,Greek life (fraternity andsorority)CostsCosts of tuition, room andboard? Availability ofgrants, scholarships, andloans? Availability ofpart-time and campusjobs?Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 21

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POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION COSTSColleges – Estimated CostsBudget Items2-YearPublic 4-YearPrivate 4-YearTuition and Fees$3,062/year$10,034/year$21,490/yearRoom and BoardNo dorms$7,188$8,500Food PlanNo food plan$4,150Included inroom/boardBooks andSupplies$900 (varies)$1,406$1,200Parking$0$500included inroom/boardTotal Budget$3,962$23,278$31,190*This is an estimated cost based on information located in August 2024. Two-Year Technical College –Athens Technical College. Public Four-Year College – UGA (on campus). Private Four-Year College –Toccoa Falls (on campus).Use the form below to compare the costs of each college you are interested in attending. HOPE doespay tuition (varies amount each year) but NOT fees, room and board, food plan, book and supplies,transportation, or miscellaneous.Colleges – Estimated CostsBudget Items1st Choice:2nd Choice:3rd Choice:Tuition and FeesRoom and BoardFood PlanBooks andSuppliesTransportationMiscellaneousTotal BudgetWalton County School District Senior Survival Guide 22

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SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AIDLocal scholarship information will be made during the announcements and posted on Schoology. Youmust complete the Community Scholarship Application. Applications are due:○ Loganville High - January 31st.○ Monroe Area High - January 10th○ Walnut Grove High - October 31stA financial aid meeting and a FAFSA Night will occur for all 12th-grade students and their families.Additional information will be emailed as the time approaches.HOPE SCHOLARSHIPThe HOPE Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship that assists with the cost of tuition at eligible publicand private Georgia postsecondary institutions. A student must graduate from an eligible high schoolwith a minimum 3.0 HOPE GPA (as calculated by GSFC) and meet specific rigor course requirements.HOPE covers a portion of tuition, typically 80 - 100%.ZELL MILLER SCHOLARSHIPThe Zell Miller Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship that provides full tuition at a publicpostsecondary institution and tuition assistance at an eligible private postsecondary institution. A studentmust graduate from an eligible high school as valedictorian or salutatorian (meeting the requirements ofthe HOPE Scholarship) or graduate with a minimum 3.7 Zell Miller GPA (as calculated by GSFC) alongwith a minimum combined score of 1200 on the math and reading portions of a national administration ofthe SAT or a minimum composite score of 26 on a single national or state/district administration of theACT and meet specific rigor course requirements.GSFC calculates the GPA based solely on core course data (English, math, social studies, science, andforeign language only) transmitted from the high school, by June 30, for graduating seniors. GSFCcannot change or alter that data in any way. Contact your high school counselor if you have questionsregarding courses or grades. You may view your HOPE/Zell Miller GPA calculation by logging into youraccount at www.GAfutures.org.HOPE GRANTThe HOPE Grant is available to GA residents working towards a certificate or diploma at a TCSGschool. It covers a portion of the student’s tuition. There is no minimum GPA requirement! The HOPECareer Grant is available to HOPE grant-qualified students who enroll in select high-need programs (forexample CDL, Early Childhood Education, Health Science, Welding)Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 23

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FAFSA -Any student, regardless of income, who wants to be considered for federal, state, and school financialaid programs (including HOPE) must complete the FAFSA. This includes grants, scholarships,work-study funds, and loans. Colleges and career schools use the FAFSA form to determine how muchfinancial aid you're eligible to receive, including grants, scholarships, work-study funds, andloans.A financial aid meeting and a FAFSA Night will occur for all 12th-grade students and their families.Additional information will be emailed as the time approaches.WHAT YOU NEED:When completing the FAFSA, you will be asked various questions about income, taxes,citizenship and residency. Here is a list of documents to have available that can help make fillingout the FAFSA easier.● Your parents’ SSNs if they have SSNs and you're a dependent student● Tax returns● Records of child support received● Current balances of cash, savings, and checking accountsSCHOLARSHIP PREPARATION TIPS● Start early! Scholarship opportunities are available throughout high school, especially during yoursenior year● Increase your GPA○ Scholarship committees are interested in proof that a student has worked hard in highschool● SAT + ACT:○ Scholarship committees often require high ACT or SAT scores● Get involved!○ Extracurricular activities are important in the eyes of scholarship committees. Manyscholarships may be based solely on a student’s community service record or communityservice.○ Keep Track- Work on your high school resume● Recommendation Letters:○ When needed- Make sure you have a few teachers you can ask to write a letter ofrecommendation. Most scholarships require at least one letter of recommendationWalton County School District Senior Survival Guide 24

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● Ask for help:○ If you feel overwhelmed, connect with a trusted adult for support● Essays:○ Write your essays for scholarships or applications in a word document and save it.Sometimes you will be able to use the essay response in another application● Edit + Proofread:○ Be sure to review all applications and have a friend proofread as well● Deadlines:○ Don’t miss them○ Use a calendar, or planner, make a schedule, and stick to it● Money from your school of choice:○ The school you plan to attend will likely offer scholarships for their students based onmerit, service, leadership, and beyond○ Be aware of their scholarship process, including separate scholarship applications anddeadlines.SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AID SEARCHES*This list is not exhaustive. There is tons of information about college planning on the internet.FINANCIAL AID● Free Application for Federal Student Aid● How to Fill Out the FAFSA Form● Financial Aid Eligibility● Federal Student Aid EstimatorSCHOLARSHIP SEARCHES● careeronestop● FastWeb● Scholly● Going Merry● Scholarships.com● Cappex● FastwebWalton County School District Senior Survival Guide 25

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● FinAid● BigFuture Scholarships● BigFuture Scholarship search● GoCollege● studentscholarships.org● Sallie Mae● National Association of Student Financial Aid AdministratorsMINORITY STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS● Black Excel● Unigo: Asian Scholarships● UNCF● Hispanic Scholarship FundFIRST GENERATION COLLEGE STUDENTS● I'm First (provides mentoring for first-generation college students)● AppilySTUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES● Affordable Colleges Scholarships● Scholarships.com● Become● a.g.bellAVOIDING SCAMSAvoid Scholarship Scams! Do not give out your social security number or pay any money forscholarships without speaking to your family or your school counselor first)● Scholarship scams● How to avoid scholarship scams● Beware of scholarship scams● BBB tip: Scholarship scams● How to avoid scholarship scamsDO NOT pay for a scholarship - you should never send money or give your credit card numberWalton County School District Senior Survival Guide 26

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ACCEPTANCE LETTERS AND SCHOLARSHIP AWARDSWhen you receive your acceptance to a college, university, or military appointment (regardless ofwhether or not you will be attending), please bring a copy to your counselor or forward the letter/emailto their email. Seniors will be recognized for their acceptance at various colleges, universities, and themilitary.Please also bring any scholarships you receive (even if you will not be attending the college for whichit was offered) from a college, university, workplace, parent’s workplace, church, local communityorganization, or business to your counselor. Seniors will be recognized for their scholarship awards atthe Scholarship Night Program in the Spring.SENIOR SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS NIGHTAwards Night, held in May each year, recognizes students who have qualified for Honors and HighHonors (90% and 93% GPA based on grades through Fall Semester) or are receiving a scholarship orcertificate (Beta, NHS, AP Scholar, etc) (NOT including HOPE/ZELL). Students receive their stolesand cords during this ceremony. The deadline to submit awarded scholarships will be communicatedto students throughout the school year. Students who report scholarship awards after this deadlinemay not be included in the Awards night.Once second-semester grades are posted, transcripts will be reevaluated for Honor and High Honorsdistinction before graduation, so students who did not quite meet those requirements by thescholarship night can still wear their cords and be recognized at graduation.THINGS TO REMEMBER● Watch deadlines.○ UGA Early Action Deadline: October 15○ UGA Regular Deadline: January 1● Check the college’s website for scholarship opportunities and deadlines● Applications are typically available for the following Fall applicants.● Register online for the ACT and SAT. High school code: 111-850● Transcripts are sent via www.gafutures.org● Athletes planning to play college sports must be registered with NCAA or NAIA.● FAFSA forms are available on October 1. The previous year’s tax forms must be completedbefore FAFSA submission.Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 27

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● Find more information about the HOPE Scholarship, Zell Miller Scholarship, and HOPE Grantat gsfc.georgia.gov or gafutures.org. Basic information includes the following and is subject tochange:● A student must also graduate with a 3.7 High School HOPE GPA and must have a score of1200 (CR+M) on a single administration of the SAT or a 26 ACT Composite and must maintaina college cumulative GPA of 3.3. This Scholarship (Zell Miller) will pay 100% of tuition,including $4,000 at private colleges.● HOPE scholarship pays around 81% of tuition. A HOPE Scholarship recipient must graduatefrom high school with a minimum 3.0 grade point average (as calculated by GSFC). Tomaintain eligibility, students must have a minimum 3.00 cumulative postsecondary grade pointaverage.● The HOPE Grant assists with tuition at technical colleges. Full-time enrollment in a certificateor diploma program is not required and students are not required to graduate from high schoolwith a specific GPA, however, they must have a postsecondary cumulative 2.0 GPA, at certaincheckpoints, to maintain eligibility.MILITARYGENERAL INFORMATIONIf you want to enlist in the military after high school, visit Today’s Military.The Air Force is part of the Department of Defense and is responsible for aerial military operations,defending U.S. airspace and air bases, and building landing strips. The reserve components are theAir National Guard and Air Force Reserve.The Army - is the largest branch of the military and is part of the Department of Defense. The Armyhandles major ground combat missions. The reserve components are the Army Reserve and theArmy National Guard.The Coast Guard is part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and is responsible formaritime law enforcement, including drug smuggling. The reserve component is the Coast GuardReserve.The Marine Corps is part of the DOD and provides land combat, sea-based, and air-groundoperations support for the other branches during a mission. The reserve component is the MarineCorps Reserve.The Navy is part of the DOD and protects waterways (sea and ocean) outside of the Coast Guard’sjurisdiction. The reserve component is the Navy Reserve.Walton County School District Senior Survival Guide 28

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REQUIREMENTS TO ENLIST:Although there are similar requirements, there are specific requirements for each branch.TESTING REQUIREMENTSAll candidates must take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test whichmeasures strengths and potential for future success. The ASVAB has 10 subtests. Your ArmedForces Qualification Test (AFQT) score is obtained from four subtests and determines whichbranch(es) you are eligible to join. Your scores on all 10 subtests determine which job specialties youqualify for. You can use the results from your ASVAB to learn about yourself and explore careersthrough The ASVAB Career Exploration Program.You can prepare for the ASVAB by taking sample questions or a practice test.USEFUL WEBSITES▪ myFUTURE▪ West Point▪ Naval Academy▪ Air Force▪ UNG Military Scholarship▪ Job CorpWalton County School District Senior Survival Guide 29

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