News for College Bound Students

ACTs News You Can Use - April 2007

In this issue:
1. Stay in college once you get in the door
2. Many future jobs require strong math skills
3. Get on track with science, math and technology
4. Check out science and math careers on the web
5. End-of-year college planning checklist
6. Taking a year off to experience the "real world"
7. Test date reminder

STAY IN COLLEGE ONCE YOU GET IN THE DOOR

Today, more American high school students plan to earn college degrees than ever before, yet many don't know what they need to know and be able to do to succeed in college. This is one finding from a Stanford University national study.

When students aren't prepared to do college work, they need to take remedial (sometimes called developmental) or lower-level courses just to bring their skills up to college level. Taking remedial courses adds to the time it takes for students to earn degrees. Students also may become discouraged and quit school. Plus it's expensive to pay for classes that don't count toward your degree.

How can you make sure you are prepared for college? The most important thing to do is follow recommendations to take challenging courses in high school in English, science, math and social studies.

ACT recommends four years of English and three years each in math, science and social studies. The college you plan to attend may have additional requirements, such as a foreign language.

The other thing you can do is discuss your ACT® scores (or scores for EXPLORE® or PLAN®) with your counselor. ACT's score information can tell you what you know and are likely to be able to do based on your test scores. Your counselor also can tell you what you can do to build on your knowledge and skills and better prepare for college.

MANY FUTURE JOBS REQUIRE STRONG MATH SKILLS

Strong math skills will help you get a job, many of them high-paying, in the future. In the list of fastest growing occupations from the U.S. Department of Labor, math-related jobs include:

physician assistants;
computer software engineers, systems administrators, and database administrators;
physical therapists;
veterinary technologists and technicians;
medical scientists;
medical technologists; and
biomedical and environmental engineers.

As technology advances, it usually leads to new uses of math in the workplace, requiring more workers to have strong math skills. As you can see from the list above, many of these jobs also require knowledge in related scientific disciplines, such as computer science or medicine. According to the Department of Labor, the most common fields for mathematicians to find work are computer science and software development, physics, engineering, and operations research. More are also getting jobs in financial analysis for businesses.

Even if you select a career in which math is not required to do a lot of your daily work, you'll still need math skills. For example, news reporters need to understand statistics to report on many stories. And if you choose a career that doesn't require a four-year college degree, such as carpenter or electrician, you will need math skills for those jobs as well.

So keep taking those math courses. Even if you don't think you'll need it in your job, you'll need it to get through life.

GET ON TRACK WITH SCIENCE, MATH AND TECHNOLOGY

Try to think of careers that involve science, math or technology. Do you realize that more than 60 percent of all jobs today require some form of technical skills? The need for workers with science, math and technology skills is going to expand during your lifetime. And the need for these skills won't necessarily be confined to jobs in science, math or technology fields.

You can start getting ready for job opportunities by taking challenging courses in math and science and learning computer skills. Everyone has the ability to learn. If you think that you aren't "a natural" at math, get the help you need to understand it. The more you work with any subject, the more you learn and the more confident you become.

ACT recommends that students take a minimum of three years of math (Algebra I and higher-does not include general math, business math, or consumer math) and at least three years of natural sciences (Earth science, biology, chemistry, physics, etc.).

If you are planning to enter a career that involves math or science skills, research the academic requirements. ACT has found that college-bound students' academic skills are often at odds with their future career plans.

The ACT scores earned by graduates in the class of 2006 indicated that many were not ready for college science and math courses that count toward a degree. Yet, the top planned college major for this class was health sciences, which is filled with careers requiring strong science and math skills. These careers include medicine, nursing, dentistry, optometry and pharmacy. Health sciences was named as a planned college major by 24 percent of the students who reported their college plans.

Other college majors in the top 10 student choices-including business, social sciences, engineering, biological and physical sciences and computer science-also usually require students to take advanced math and/or science coursework in college.

CHECK OUT SCIENCE AND MATH CAREERS ON THE WEB

The Internet offers many websites that can tell you more about careers, what you do in those jobs, what education is needed, what the job typically pays and even where you can find work in various fields.

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook, at www.bls.gov/oco, is one of the most extensive and trusted sources about careers.

ACT's World-of-Work Map groups occupations with similar work tasks, giving you a range of careers to consider. You can investigate careers on the website www.actstudent.org/wwm/index.html or use your career planning results from the ACT, PLAN or EXPLORE to look into suggested careers.

Three additional websites that offer math career information, including job profiles of professionals are: www.coolmath.com/careers.htm www.ams.org/careers/ www.careercornerstone.org,

END-OF-YEAR COLLEGE PLANNING CHECKLIST

The end of the school year means seniors are wrapping up college plans and juniors are kicking things into gear.

Following are items from ACT's college planning checklist for students. To see more suggestions and resources for all high school students, visit www.actstudent.org/college/checklist.html

Juniors

Compare college costs
Prepare a list of questions to ask on campus visits
List, compare and visit colleges
Take the ACT
Visit www.actstudent.org/college/11.html for more college planning resources

Seniors

If you haven't completed the FAFSA, do so (right away!) and submit it for financial aid consideration
Watch the mail for your Student Aid Report (SAR) - it should arrive four weeks after the FAFSA is filed
Visit colleges that have invited you to enroll
Keep track of important financial aid and scholarship deadlines
Compare financial aid packages from different schools
Decide which college to attend, and notify the school of your decision
Keep track of and observe deadlines for sending in all required fees and paperwork
Notify schools you will not attend of your decision
Continue to look for scholarship opportunities
Read, sign and send in the promissory note if you are borrowing money
Notify your college about any outside scholarships you received
Have the guidance office send your final school transcripts in May or June to the college you'll be attending

TAKING A YEAR OFF TO EXPERIENCE THE "REAL WORLD"

Taking a year off between high school and college might seem crazy to you. If you've been working hard in high school, you might feel that taking a year off would put you behind. But for some students, taking a year off to travel, study outside a classroom or provide community service makes good sense.

Students in Europe often take off a year, called a "gap year," between high school and college. This year can be used to help add perspective about future plans and mature through experiences outside the classroom. Students can enter college refreshed and ready to study with a new appreciation gained through their gap-year experiences.

One program that provides students with experiences, plus some money for college, is AmeriCorps. AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs that meet critical needs in education, public safety, health and the environment. AmeriCorps members tutor and mentor youth, build affordable housing, teach computer skills, clean parks and streams, run after-school programs and help communities respond to disasters.

Students who successfully complete their term of service, which includes a specified number of service hours, can receive a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $4,725. Part-time service, with a smaller award, is also available. The education awards can be used to pay education costs at qualified institutions of higher education, for educational training or to repay qualified student loans.

To learn more about joining AmeriCorps, go to www.americorps.gov, e-mail questions@americorps.org, or call 1-800-942-2677.

TEST DATE REMINDER

The next national ACT test date is June 9, 2007. The regular registration deadline is May 4 and the late registration deadline is May 18. The next national test date after June will be Oct. 27. (The ACT will be offered in 13 states on Sept. 15.) Online registration and test date information is available at www.actstudent.org/regist/index.html. If you choose to register online, register early to avoid heavy web traffic and delays.

ACT offers an optional Writing Test in addition to the multiple-choice achievement test. Go to www.actstudent.org/writing/index.html to find out about the Writing Test, including what the colleges you're interested in have decided about requiring it.

While you're at the website, don't forget to take advantage of test prep aids, including free sample test questions at www.actstudent.org/testprep/.

ACT Online PrepT, the only test prep program developed exclusively by ACT test development professionals, is also available for $19.95 for a year's use. You also can find test day tips, a list of items to bring to the test, and details on what type of calculator you can use on the Math Test.

"Preparing for the ACT," a booklet with a complete practice test, scoring key, writing prompt and sample essays, is available to download on the Test Prep section of www.actstudent.org. Your ACT registration packet, available from the counseling office, also includes the booklet. Try taking the sample test and timing yourself to prepare for test day.

For all your questions about the ACT test, visit www.actstudent.org.

ACTs News You Can Use - March 2007

In this issue:
1. Time to make your college choice
2. Know your financial aid offers
3. How to handle college rejection
4. Financial aid and taking the ACT - the latest on "Prep Talk"
5. Strengthen your academic skills
6. Work and learn through an apprenticeship
7. Test date reminder

TIME TO MAKE YOUR COLLEGE CHOICE

Very soon seniors will have to make an important decision-which college to attend.

In April, many colleges and universities begin sending offer letters to students who have been accepted for their incoming freshman class and have applied for financial assistance. Offer letters list the cost of tuition and fees plus the amount of financial aid available through the school.

When you've been accepted and receive financial aid offers from more than one school, you need to compare the offers, make a choice and accept the offer that best fits your needs-and your budget.

How do you compare offers? Make a list of pros and cons of each school and the key reasons for your decisions.

Most families need to consider the annual net cost of attending each school and the annual cash outlay required of the family. To figure these out, you can make a chart listing each school and include the following:

(A) Estimated Annual Expenses

Tuition
Fees
Room
Board/meal plan
Travel
Estimated price of books and supplies
Personal expenses

(B) Total Gift Aid (aid that does not need to be repaid)

Grants and scholarships
Other gift aid

(D) Work Study / Job Offers

(E) Loans to be Repaid

Federal Stafford or Direct Loans
Federal Perkins Loan
Other student loans

(F) Cash Outflow = (C - [D + E])

Once you've completed the chart, consider the pros and cons of each school along with the financial considerations. Consider the nontangible factors (your feelings about the school and the environment) as well as the tangible factors (cost, course offerings). Listen to your parents but realize that the decision is ultimately yours.

KNOW YOUR FINANCIAL AID OFFERS

When you receive offers from colleges, be aware of the terms of any financial aid offers. In the case of federal, state and many institutional aid programs, you are required to reapply each year. Nearly every scholarship also carries with it an obligation to carry a minimum course load and to maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA). It's important to read all financial aid documents carefully and understand their terms and conditions. The same goes for loans. You need to consider the terms of any loan-both the interest rate and when repayment is to begin. Make sure you understand everything before you sign any documents. If you have questions, ask a financial aid officer at the college.

HOW TO HANDLE COLLEGE REJECTION

A rejection is never easy-whether it comes from a friend, a potential employer, or even a stranger. Somehow though, you usually get over it.

But when you're rejected by your Number 1 college choice, it can be hard to deal with and move on. This is your future and a door just slammed right in your face.

Here are some ideas to help you work through and overcome the disappointment:

Don't take it personally. You may have been rejected simply because the college had many similar applicants.
Reaffirm your strengths. Remind yourself that you have many fine qualifications for college. An acceptance letter will come.
Remember that you aren't alone. Almost everyone gets one- or more-rejection letter.
Recognize that brand name doesn't equal success. There are many paths to a successful career, and no college leads to a sure thing in job placement.
Don't spend a lot of time agonizing about the rejection. Instead, use the time and energy finding another school that you will like as much or more.
Be positive about other institutions. You are sure to find several colleges where you could be happy and receive a great education.
Consider that maybe the rejection isn't such a bad thing. Sometimes rejections end up being blessings in disguise, something you realize down the road. Maybe the admissions officer saw something that signaled the college would not be a good match for your skills, interests and dislikes, and thereby saved you from a disappointing experience.
If at first you don't succeed . If you are dead set on a given school, start at another school and reapply later as a transfer student.

Adult life will deliver some bumps and bruises, like getting rejected when applying for jobs or being passed over for a promotion. If you can learn to handle rejection now, you'll be better prepared for adult life. And remember, college rejections happen, and they don't have to define the rest of your life.

TAKING THE ACT AND FINANCIAL AID - THE LATEST PODCASTS

Follow a student who is taking the ACT in April or learn how to work with a college financial aid office by visiting the ACT podcast page at http://www.actblog.org/podcasts.php

"Prep Talk" is a free podcast that covers a number of college planning topics. Parents and students can listen online or download the program to computers or MP3 players. In the latest podcast, "Jenny takes the ACT," you can follow a high school junior as she prepares to take the ACT for the first time on April 14. Find out what she learns along the way.

In the financial aid podcast, Cathy Wilcox, senior associate director in the office of student financial aid at the University of Iowa, answers questions students want to know about filing for financial aid and working with a college financial aid office. Her advice can help guide you regardless of the college or university you're considering.

Other editions of "Prep Talk" cover topics such as taking the right courses for college, visiting a college campus and planning for college.

STRENGTHEN YOUR ACADEMIC SKILLS

If you think your skills aren't quite up to speed for college, don't give up. Take time to prepare yourself. There are many ways to get a college degree. You just have to take the path that's right for you.

ACT offers these tips:

Use test score information to see where you need work. Score information from the ACT®, for example, can tell you what subjects you need help with and what you can do to raise your skills to the next level. Remember, a low score doesn't necessarily mean you're bad in a subject. It just means you haven't learned the subject yet.
Work with a tutor to learn what you don't know yet.
Take a summer or night school class.
Check out study aids-books, videotapes, audiotapes and computer programs-at your school library, a public library or a local bookstore.
Ask your counselor or a teacher about ways you can build your academic skills.

WORK AND LEARN THROUGH AN APPRENTICESHIP

If you like to work with your hands and your mind, you might want to consider an apprenticeship after high school. More than 850 occupations can be learned on the job through an apprenticeship.

An apprenticeship prepares you for a career through a structured program of on-the-job learning with classroom instruction, while you work and earn a salary. The programs can last from one to six years and you can choose careers in areas such as telecommunications, health care, computing, business support and the arts. The most common apprenticeships are in construction and manufacturing.

Most apprenticeships are registered through the U.S. Department of Labor, ensuring the program meets government standards for fairness, safety and training. If you complete a registered program, you will receive a certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor which documents your qualifications for the career. Also, classroom instruction often can be used to earn a license, certification or degree.

Following are high growth industries the federal government has identified for the future. Businesses, colleges and government agencies are promoting job training and apprenticeship programs in these industries:

health care services

information technology

biotechnology
geospatial technology
automotive
retail trade
construction
transportation
hospitality
financial services
energy

For more information on apprenticeships, visit with your counselor. You also can call America's Workforce Network toll-free at 877-US-2JOBS (887-872-5627). Operators can help you find career counselors and apprenticeship programs in your area. You also can find apprenticeship information at the Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration website, www.doleta.gov/atels_bat.

ACTs News You Can Use - February 2007

In this issue:
1. Financial aid questions to ask colleges
2. Three steps for planning your career
3. Take a spin on ACT's World-of-Work Map
4. As associate's degree may be your path to success
5. Plan ahead if you plan to transfer
6. What's an articulation agreement?
7. Tips for building your reading skills
8. ACT scores - don't apply to college without them
9. Test date reminder

FINANCIAL AID QUESTIONS TO ASK COLLEGES

Understanding the financial aid process can be hard, and you may not know where to turn for answers. The financial aid officers at colleges and universities are there to help. Following are some questions the Associated Colleges of the Midwest organization suggests families ask:

1. What kind of financial assistance does the college offer: need-based, merit-based or both?

2. Can the college provide an early estimate of what our financial aid award might be?

3. What forms are needed in order to apply?

4. When are financial aid applications due?

5. What costs for a student are taken into account by the financial aid office? Tuition, room, board, transportation? What about additional expenses such as books, fees, computers and personal expenses?

6. What is included in the comprehensive fee? For example, do students have to pay extra for computer time or to attend campus events (concerts, plays, films, lectures, athletic events, etc.)?

7. When will we be notified about the amount of assistance we can expect?

8. Does the institution have an appeal process to review special circumstances?

9. Is there a commitment for financial assistance beyond the first year?

10. How and when do we apply for financial assistance after the first year?

11. What if we do not qualify for need-based aid? Are there alternative financing options available?

12. What grants, loans and work-study opportunities does the college offer? Are there any we might be eligible for?

13. What is the average student loan indebtedness of the college's graduates?

14. Is there a restriction to the length of time that financial assistance will continue?

15. How long does it typically take a student to graduate from this college? Four years? Longer?

16. What impact do scholarships from outside sources have on other financial aid?

17. Can we apply financial aid toward an off-campus study program, either in the U.S. or another country?

18. What happens if our family's financial situation changes substantially during the school year?

19. Are there payment options available, such as monthly or quarterly?

THREE STEPS FOR PLANNING YOUR CAREER

Planning a career, especially the first time around, can seem like a huge task. It's understandable if you don't want to make a mistake. But if you do some thinking up front, you can head in the right direction and make adjustments in your career when you need to. The way jobs are changing, you'll need to readjust, change jobs or careers and learn new skills along the way anyway.

Planning your career now and in the future really comes down to three steps. By following these steps you can make decisions that are right for you. You'll know your options and what it will take to reach your goals.

1. Take a realistic look at your strengths, weaknesses and interests.

What do you think about yourself?
What can help you achieve your goals and what obstacles could get in your way?
What types of work and school courses and activities appeal to you? What interests you?
What do you do well now, and what skills have you gained through experience?

What values do you have regarding work?

2. Explore your options. It's hard to know what to do for a career when you don't even know all the possibilities. Here are just a few ways to find career information:

Explore your career options using ACT's World-of-Work Map.
Use ACT's DISCOVER program to explore possible careers.
Spend time with people whose activities intrigue you.
Volunteer or work in a job that interests you.
Discuss your career and educational plans with your school counselor, parents, or other interested people.

3. Consider issues that can affect your plans and take actions to accomplish your goals.

What do you need to study?
What schools offer the training you need?
How will you pay for school?
Are you ready to search for a job?
How will you balance your work and going to school?
How will you manage family or relationship commitments?

TAKE A SPIN ON ACT'S WORLD-OF-WORK MAP

One way to explore careers is to use ACT's World-of-Work Map at www.actstudent.org. The circular career map spins as you choose a career group to investigate within broad categories such as working with data, working with ideas and things, and working with people and ideas. And within each group are several specific career areas such as education, computer/information specialties, and manufacturing/processing. Within each career area are a number of specific occupations and detailed information on work tasks, salary, size of the field, expected growth and how to prepare for the occupation.

If you have taken EXPLORE®, PLAN® or the ACT®, you'll have results from your Interest Inventory, a questionnaire you complete regarding your interests. You can also get these results from using DISCOVER, ACT's career planning computer program. These results will point you to career groups on the ACT World-of-Work Map that are likely to be careers of interest for you.

If you haven't used any of these ACT programs, you can explore ACT's World-of-Work Map to investigate career areas of interest. To go directly to the interactive map, go to www.actstudent.org/wwm/index.html.

AN ASSOCIATE'S DEGREE MAY BE YOUR PATH TO SUCCESS

Before you follow all your friends to the four-year State U., make sure you check out your options. If going directly to a four-year college is right for you, great. But community college may be a better choice.

The four-year college is not the only path to success. A community college can help you start a career after two years, training you for some of the fastest growing jobs in the U.S., or it can offer a start to your four-year degree, providing you with about half the credits you need to earn a bachelor's degree.

Benefits of attending a community college include:

Courses that cover the basics, but also apply principles to the workplace.
Classes that often are more hands-on than those at a four-year college.
Saving money in tuition and other expenses, such as room and board. Tuition can be less than half of that at a four-year public college. And often students save money by living at home.
Receiving more personal attention from the professors than at a large university.
Easier decision making on a major once you've transferred to a four-year college. The focus on occupations and career discovery programs at a community college can help you with the decision.
Another chance at four-year college scholarships. Many four-year colleges offer numerous scholarships that are reserved for students who transfer from community college.

PLAN AHEAD, IF YOU PLAN TO TRANSFER

For many students, attending a community college and transferring to a four-year university makes a lot of sense. It can be a good move academically and financially. If you develop a personal plan of action and take the steps to make it succeed.

If you plan to transfer, don't procrastinate. Counselors at both community colleges and four-year colleges say it's crucial that you start preparing early if you plan to continue education at a four-year college or university after community college.

Before you get too far into your community college coursework, you'll need to make some decisions about the path you're planning to take.

What is your probable major? Deciding on a major early can help you determine the exact courses you will need to take and-as counselors often point out-make your transition smoother. It will also help you choose the four-year college you want to attend. Check the course offerings available in your intended major at the colleges you're interested in. If you don't know what you want to major in, the best bet would be to take a core curriculum that is easily transferred and save your major course requirements for the four-year institution.
Which four-year college are you planning to attend? Choosing the four-year college you'll transfer to will help you make decisions about which courses to take, as well as allow you to prepare to meet that college's admissions requirements.
Will the courses you're taking in community college transfer to the four-year college you've chosen?

You can begin your transition by talking with your advisor at the community college and the transfer advisor at the four-year college. The schools may have an "articulation agreement," which spells out the courses at the community college that will transfer and apply to majors at the four-year college.

WHAT'S AN ARTICULATION AGREEMENT

Articulation agreements are formal agreements between colleges or other educational institutions that spell out which college credits will transfer. They help students make an easy transition between institutions.

When you decide on a four-year institution, find out if it has an articulation agreement with your community college. If so, you can discuss how to make the best course choices with your community college counselor. Ideally, you should meet with the transfer advisor at the four-year school, as well. Many four-year colleges sponsor transfer weekends and counseling for community college students.

If the school does not have an agreement with your community college, you should discuss course choices with the counselor from the four-year school-the earlier the better. It's also wise to keep course descriptions, reading lists and outlines from every community college course you take. You may need them to help convince the four-year school to accept credits for a course.

TIPS FOR BUILDING YOUR READING SKILLS

Whether you believe "Too many books, too little time" or "Reading-who needs it?" you can always build your reading skills. And you should-your future depends on it.

Reading is an important life skill, one that is important not only for your success in school and work, but also in your daily life.

College will require you to read a lot of material, much of it challenging, and usually in a short amount of time. Before heading to college, there's also the ACT, which includes a reading test and three other tests that require reading comprehension to complete.

Following are some tips to increase your reading time and help build your reading skills:

Find something that interests you and that you enjoy reading, such as a book series, a magazine or a section of the newspaper. Read often.
Create a reading spot. It's much easier to read if you're comfortable.
Establish a daily reading time-lunch, before sports practice or bedtime- whatever works best for you. You might even begin to look forward to that reading time.
Visit bookstores or the library and explore all the types of reading materials available. The choices are unbelievable-sports magazines, graphic novels, how-to manuals, teen fiction and newspapers, just to name a few.
Read a book that's coming out as a movie. Compare the two and think about what version you liked best and why.
Follow your interests and do some research on the Internet. Read about a new band, a new car or your favorite actor.
Try reading something new. Don't just stick with your favorites.
Check out a daily newspaper, a classic novel or a news magazine. You might be surprised by what you read.

ACT SCORES - DON'T APPLY TO COLLEGE WITHOUT THEM

ACT scores are accepted by all major four-year colleges and universities in the United States. So don't let anyone try to tell you that you can't use ACT scores. Harvey Mudd College (HMC) became the final major four-year college or university in the United States to accept ACT scores as part of its admission application package. HMC will begin accepting ACT scores starting with the 2007-2008 school year.

TEST DATE REMINDER

The next national ACT test date is April 14, 2007. The regular registration deadline is March 9 and the late registration deadline is March 23. The next national test date after April will be June 9.

Online registration and test date information is available at www.actstudent.org/regist/index.html. If you choose to register online, register early to avoid heavy Web traffic and delays.

While you're at the website, don't forget to take advantage of test prep aids, including free sample test questions at www.actstudent.org/testprep/.

"Preparing for the ACT," a booklet with a complete practice test, scoring key, writing prompt and sample essays, is available to download on the Test Prep section of actstudent.org. Your ACT registration packet, available from the counseling office, also includes the booklet. Try taking the sample test and timing yourself to prepare for test day.

For all your questions about the ACT test, visit www.actstudent.org.

SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION

click here for additional scholarship information

Sam Walton Community Scholarship - due Jan. 12
-Information is available at www.walmartfoundation.org
-Applicants must use the access code (SWCS) to complete the application process.
Elks National Foundation Scholarships
-Forms available in the office or at www.elks.org
1. Legacy Awards for Children of Elks - due January 12, 2007
2. Most Valuable Student Scholarship Contest - due January 12, 2007

2007 Foundation for Rural Education and Development (FRED) Scholarships - MUST BE SUBMITTED to Farmers Mutual Telephone Company by January 30
-scholarships range from $1,000 to $2,500
- Recipients are selected using the following criteria: academic records, student's goals, OPASTCO sponsor recommendation, financial need, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, desire to return to a rural community.
-Letters of nomination request should be to Farmers Mutual Telephone Company by January 30, 2007.
-Applications may be found in the high school office or at www.fred.org

Tribute Award -due January 31, 2007
Any current high school JUNIOR who meets the following qualifications is eligible:
-Is enrolled in an accredited public or private high school in the United States
-Has at least 2.75 cumulative grade point average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale for the 9th and 10th grades
-Demonstrates accomplishments in Leadership and Community Service and has faced a significant roadblock or challenge.
-To apply online, go to www.discovercard.com/tribute
Masonic Scholarship - due February 1
-Approximately 60 scholarships in the amount of $2,000 will be awarded
-Applications may be found in the office or at www.gl-iowa.org.

Christina Hixson Opportunity Award - due February 1
-Students must be admissible to Iowa State University.
National Wild Turkey Federation - due February 1
-must be a senior with a 3.0 grade point average
-must be pursuing a degree at an accredited institution of higher education
-must support the preservation of the hunting tradition and actively participate in hunting sports-a copy of a current hunting license is required
-must be a member of the National Wild Turkey Federation (Xtreme JAKES, student or regular membership)
-must be involved in school activities
-must demonstrate ability as a leader among his or her peers
-must demonstrate community involvement
-must submit an essay and autobiography exhibiting dedication to conservation
-must submit three letters of recommendation
-Local Scholarship Winner will receive a minimum of $250
-State/Provincial Scholarship Winner will receive a minimum of $1,000
-National Scholarship Winner will receive $10,000

Commitment to Agriculture Scholarship - February 15
-100 $1,500 scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors who come from a farm family and plan to pursue a career in the field of agriculture
-the National FFA Organization administers this program, but applicants are not required to be an FFA member
-applications are available at www.monsanto.com or www.nafb.com
www.BrownfieldAgNews.com - click on Ag Youth
This website features topics of interest to young people with an interest in agriculture.
Other sources
www.fastweb.com
www.fastaid.com
www.srnexpress.com
www.scholarships.com

ACTs News You Can Use - December 2006

In this issue:
1. How to start your college planning
2. Don't believe college financial aid myths
3. Gear up for financial aid
4. How to apply for financial aid
5. Estimate college aid with ACT's calculator
6. Financial aid terms
7. Test date reminder

HOW TO START YOUR COLLEGE PLANNING

Seniors are busy right now applying to colleges and getting ready to file their financial aid forms. But if you're not a senior, you should continue or start planning for college. Below are suggestions on a few things you can do. For more suggestions, visit http://www.actstudent.org/college/checklist.html

All students:
Take challenging courses.
Think about careers and investigate possibilities with ACT's DISCOVER or the Interest Inventory portion of EXPLORE, PLAN and the ACT.
Participate in extracurricular activities.
Visit with your counselor and talk about your plans.

Freshmen:

Think about reasons for attending college.
Research college costs.
Find out about the differences in the types of institutions you can attend after high school.
Become familiar with college entrance requirements.

Sophomores:

Find out what kind of education/training is needed for different careers.
Start collecting college information.
Visit colleges and start comparing them.

Juniors:

Register for the ACT and visit www.actstudent.org to find out all about the test, how to prepare, what you need on test day, etc.
Talk with your counselor and parents about colleges that interest you.
Investigate scholarship opportunities.
Visit colleges and compare them.
Get a part-time job or internship in a profession that interests you.

DON'T BELIEVE COLLEGE FINANCIAL AID MYTHS

College application season is in full swing. As you apply to college and see how much it costs, don't let your fears overshadow an otherwise exciting time in your life. The key is to not believe the financial myths surrounding the price of a higher education.

Myth #1: You can't afford college. Many students add the tuition price, textbook fees and the cost of living and say there is no way they can afford college. The truth is most college students require some form of financial aid. Don't ignore college because of its "sticker price." You can receive a combination of grants, loans, scholarships or work study jobs to help reduce the cost.

Myth #2: You have to be very poor, very smart or very talented to qualify for financial aid. Financial aid comes in many forms - grants and scholarships that you don't have to repay, and loans, which you do have to repay. There is need-based aid for students of lower income families, and merit-based aid for students who excel in athletics, music, community service and many other areas. Financial aid sources are as varied, too - the federal government, the college or university itself, a parent's employer, and others. Explore all the possibilities; you'll be surprised.

Myth #3: You can get more scholarships by paying someone to search for you. Scholarship scams are everywhere. Beware of any group or individual that guarantees a scholarship if you pay a fee. There are many good and FREE scholarship sources on the Internet. Check out www.fastweb.com or www.finaid.org for more information.

Myth #4: If you pay for college, your parents' salaries don't matter. Most need-based financial aid is based on the student's and parents' income and assets. Most schools require students to fill out the FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, in order to qualify for need-based aid. The form, available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov, asks for information similar to what's needed for income taxes. After submitting the FAFSA, you receive a report that shows how much the government expects your family to pay toward your education. If you aren't ready to file yet, visit www.act.org/fane/ to get an estimate of your expected family contribution.

Myth #5: You can wait until you get accepted to a college before worrying about financial aid. Most financial aid is given out on a first-come, first-served basis. Don't wait to get started. Looking for financial aid probably isn't your idea of a good time, but it's better than graduating from college with a huge debt.

GEAR UP FOR FINANCIAL AID

January is fast approaching and that means it's time for seniors to apply for college financial aid for the upcoming school year.

Federal financial aid is available for students attending four-year, two-year, public or private, career or trade schools. The aid is intended to cover school expenses such as tuition, room and board, books and other supplies, and transportation. Most students receive the aid because of financial need.

Students can receive financial aid in the form of grants, loans or work-study. Grants are financial awards that do not have to be repaid. Examples include Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants. Loans are money you borrow and must repay. Federal Stafford Loans are loans made to students and PLUS loans are loans made to parents. There are also direct loans, Perkins Loans and the Federal Family Education Loan. Work-study provides jobs, usually on campus, so students can help pay for education expenses.

To find out about federal financial aid programs and your rights and responsibilities under these programs, read "Funding Education Beyond High School: The Guide to Federal Student Aid" from the U.S. Department of Education at http://studentaid.ed.gov/guide. You also can request a free paper copy by contacting the U.S. Department of Education at 1-800-4-FED-AID. The guide is available in English or Spanish.

Also, be sure to check out the financial aid information from ACT at www.actstudent.org/finaid/index.html. You'll find a good financial aid overview in easy-to-understand language, plus a list of resources to contact for more information on loans, scholarships, government programs and additional financial aid information.

HOW TO APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID

If you're a senior planning to attend college next fall, January is the time to file your Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. Information from the FAFSA is used to determine your eligibility for federal student aid programs - grants, loans and work-study.

You can get the FAFSA:
online at www.fafsa.ed.gov
from your school counselor
from a college financial aid office
from a local public library
from the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1/800-433-3243)

Make sure you check financial aid deadlines! The FAFSA will list deadlines for federal and state aid. Also check the requirements at the colleges you're interested in applying to. Some require additional financial aid forms.

ESTIMATE COLLEGE AID WITH ACT'S CALCULATOR

If you're preparing to file your federal financial aid form or you just want an idea of what college costs, check out ACT's free financial aid need estimator at www.actstudent.org. The estimator can calculate both your expected family contribution and costs at specific colleges.

The calculator first provides you with an expected family contribution (the amount you and your family would be expected to pay toward your education). This amount is the same for all colleges. Next, the calculator estimates costs of attending specific colleges and, using your expected family contribution, estimates your eligibility for federal need-based financial aid. You may select as many colleges as you wish without reentering your personal information. Also, the financial aid estimator does not ask you to identify yourself, nor does it retain any of the information you enter.

The calculator does not provide official results, but because it uses the federal financial aid formula to calculate results, the estimates will be helpful as you plan your college funding.

FINANCIAL AID TERMS

Following are some key financial aid terms:

Aid package - A combination of aid (possibly including a scholarship, grant, loan and work) determined by a college financial aid office.

Expected Family Contribution - An amount you and your family are expected to contribute toward your education. It is used in determining eligibility for federal student aid.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) - The application required for students to be considered for federal student financial aid. Obtain a FAFSA form or electronic filing information from a high school or college for the appropriate year (usually available in November). The FAFSA is processed free of charge and used by most state agencies and colleges.

Grants - Awards, usually based on financial need, that do not require repayment. Grants are available through the federal government, state agencies and educational institutions.

Scholarships - Awards to students based on merit or merit plus need that do not have to be repaid.

Student Aid Report (SAR) - The information you will receive approximately two to four weeks after your FAFSA has been processed. It will report the information from your application, and if there are no questions or problems with your application, it will report your Expected Family Contribution (EFC).

TEST DATE REMINDER

The next national ACT test date is Feb. 10, 2007. The regular registration deadline is Jan. 5 and the late registration deadline is Jan. 19. (The February test won't be offered in New York due to legislation in effect there.) The next national test date after February will be April 14. Online registration and test date information is available at www.actstudent.org/regist/index.html. If you choose to register online, register early to avoid heavy Web traffic and delays.

While you're at the website, don't forget to take advantage of test prep aids, including free sample test questions at www.actstudent.org/testprep/.

ACT Online Prep, the only test prep program developed exclusively by ACT test development professionals, is also available for $19.95 for a year's use. You also can find test day tips, a list of items to bring to the test, and details on what type of calculator you can use on the Math Test.

For all your questions about the ACT test, visit www.actstudent.org.

ACTs News You Can Use - November 2006

In this issue:
1. College students give advice at actblog.org
2. Let ACT help you get ready for the test
3. Get the facts about paying for college
4. Using your EXPLORE, PLAN and ACT test scores
5. Think ahead to relieve test-taking stress
6. What does schoolwork have to do with the real world?
7. Test date reminder

COLLEGE STUDENTS GIVE ADVICE AT ACTBLOG.ORG

Maria is starting her freshman year at Harvard. Diane is starting her first year as a transfer student at Bradley University, after completing her associate's degree at Kapi`olani Community College in Hawaii. Both are writing about new experiences in college, some that are universal to students such as adjusting to college classes, eating dorm food and missing family. They also have unique stories, like experiencing their first winter season with snow. Maria is from Miami and Diane is from Honolulu. You can read about their first year of college, and Maria's senior year in high school, at www.actblog.org.

ACT has featured student stories for the past eight school years in order to help students understand the college planning process. Many readers appreciate the stories because they are going through the same steps. Others learn about the college planning activities they'll soon be involved in. The two writers will continue posting their stories to the blog until next summer.

LET ACT HELP YOU GET READY FOR THE TEST

The best way to prepare for the ACT is to take challenging classes in the subjects tested. The ACT's 215 multiple-choice questions test you on information you should learn during high school in English, reading, mathematics and science. The tests are designed to measure your ability to complete college-level work.

But it's also a good idea to get familiar with the test so you'll be more comfortable when you're taking the test. Students can visit www.actstudent.org and practice for the ACT using the only online test prep program created by the people who develop the ACT test. For $19.95 students have access for a year to ACT Online PrepT.

ACT Online Prep includes two complete ACT tests with answers and explanations; a practice essay for the optional ACT Writing Test with real-time scoring; comprehensive content review for each of the four required tests (English, math, reading and science); and a diagnostic test and personalized study path. The program also includes test-taking strategies and an explanation of what the student's test scores mean.

If you're more comfortable with other ways of learning about the test, ACT offers additional options, including:

Preparing for the ACT -- a FREE publication with a practice test, test-taking strategies, and information about test procedures followed at ACT test centers. Ask your counselor for a copy or download a copy from www.actstudent.org.
www.actstudent.org -- ACT's website offers sample tests and testing tips for each subject area including the optional Writing Test, online registration for the ACT, test dates, and other education and career planning information.
The Real ACT Prep Guide -- This comprehensive book offers three full, actual ACT tests, including the optional Writing Test, with answers and explanations for each practice question. It provides test-taking strategies for each test section, a review of important topics in English, math, science and reading, and tips on how to prepare for test day. The guide is available for $25 at www.actstudent.org.

GET THE FACTS ABOUT PAYING FOR COLLEGE

One of the most challenging and frightening parts of planning for college is paying for it. But it doesn't have to be.

According to a study by the National Center for Education Statistics, 91 percent of students and their families don't accurately estimate the cost of college. Families tend to overestimate the cost, especially when it comes to public colleges and universities.

The best way to make something less frightening is to gather information from a reputable source. The federal Department of Education's website, Student Aid on the Web, can be that source. At www.studentaid.ed.gov, students can find information on the entire federal student aid process, including information on federal aid programs, tax credits, student and parent repayment options and links to private scholarship sites-as well as the online free application for federal student aid (the FAFSA). The website also provides other general college planning information.

The Department of Education has a variety of resources and programs to help you plan for college. If you don't have access to the Internet, call the Federal Student Aid Center (1-800-433-3243) to find out about the free booklets and brochures for students. Your counselor or public library may also have these publications available.

USING YOUR EXPLORE, PLAN AND ACT TEST SCORES

If you're like most students, you see tests as something to take, get over and move quickly past. But EXPLORE and PLAN give you information to help plan for your future.and they can help you prepare for the next test you take. If you're going to take the ACT, you'll want to hear what these tests can tell you.

First, you should know that EXPLORE, PLAN and the ACT were designed to work together to help students make educational and career plans starting in 8th grade and through high school and beyond. Most students take EXPLORE in 8th grade or at the beginning of 9th grade. PLAN is for 10th graders and the ACT is for 11th and 12th graders.

Each of these programs includes a test with four parts-English, math, science and reading-and each offers an interest inventory. The inventory leads to career information for students based on their interests, abilities and work preferences.

You can use the test scores to find out how well you know the subject matter and what you need to learn next. This will help you prepare for college and do better on the ACT.

But here's the best-kept secret. When you get your EXPLORE results, you will get a predicted score range for PLAN. This predicted score range assumes that you will take additional coursework and have some academic growth. The same thing goes for the PLAN results. You will get a predicted ACT score range on your PLAN report, again assuming academic growth. (The EXPLORE scores, however, do not predict ACT scores. There's just too much of a spread in the content level and the expected amount of learning between the tests.)

Don't let the counselor and admissions officers be the only ones who use your score information.

THINK AHEAD TO RELIEVE TEST-TAKING STRESS

When you head off to take the ACT, don't let forgetfulness or inattention surprise you with something unexpected and affect your test-taking abilities. Here are some true stories of unexpected events:

One student bought a new calculator the night before the test. He didn't use it before entering the test room, only to find out it didn't work when he sat down to take the test.
One student didn't look at her test admission ticket until the day before the test, only to find out that she wasn't taking the test at her school but an hour away. She had to rethink how her test day would go and factor in time to drive to the test.
One student arrived at the test center without a photo ID card. He had to run home before the test started to get his driver's license.
One student left the lights on in a borrowed car he drove to the test. He worried throughout the test and found a dead battery when the test was over.

Obviously, unexpected events happen in our lives over which we have no control. But if you can take a few steps to prepare for test day, you'll be comfortable knowing you're prepared and you may even avoid an unwelcome surprise or two. Read your testing information from ACT early and visit www.actstudent.org/testprep/index.html to get familiar with test day procedures and what is allowed in the testing room. And don't forget to try out that new calculator before heading to the test.

WHAT DOES SCHOOLWORK HAVE TO DO WITH THE REAL WORLD?

Why do I need to know this? When am I ever going to use this in the "real world?"

Do you often feel like that as you slog through another round of algebra problems? You might be surprised to know that yes, you will use skills and knowledge from your high school classes in real life, even though it might not seem obvious now.

Here are some things you need to know:

People who take challenging courses and study hard in high school tend to have better jobs and make more money in their careers. Some of the jobs that require the most education, such as doctors, lawyers and engineers, pay well and rarely suffer job layoffs.
Having knowledge and skills in all areas helps you in all jobs. For example, if you want to be an attorney, you may not need to use calculus on a daily basis, but if you want to specialize in patent law or to represent a pharmaceutical company, the ability to grasp math and science concepts will be very valuable.
If you want to be a journalist, math will help you to better understand corporate and government documents and see beneath the surface of the numbers to get a good story.

You never know exactly what career path you'll follow. By working hard in all the core subject areas, you will be prepared to make more choices about a career.

TEST DATE REMINDER

The next national ACT test date is Dec. 9, 2006. The regular registration deadline is Nov. 3 and the late registration deadline is Nov. 16. The next national test date after December will be Feb. 10, 2007. (The February test won't be offered in New York due to legislation in effect there.) Online registration and test date information is available at www.actstudent.org/regist/index.html. If you choose to register online, register early to avoid heavy Web traffic and delays.

While you're at the website, don't forget to take advantage of test prep aids, including free sample test questions at www.actstudent.org/testprep/.

"Preparing for the ACT," a booklet with a complete practice test, scoring key, writing prompt and sample essays, is available to download on the Test Prep section at actstudent.org. Your ACT registration packet, available from the counseling office, also includes the booklet. Try taking the sample test and timing yourself to prepare for test day.

For all your questions about the ACT test, visit www.actstudent.org.

September 2006 ACTS News You Can Use

In this issue:
1. Get ready for college
2. What courses do you need for college?
3. Look beyond the "brand-name"
4. Don't wait until college to try career counseling
5. Free financial aid guide
6. Beware of solicitations
7. Student athletes - Fall is time to register with NCAA
8. Test date reminder

GET READY FOR COLLEGE

Sweating over your upcoming ACT test? Worried that your long list of extracurricular activities isn't impressive enough? None of that will matter if you're not taking challenging classes in high school. Your high school coursework is the best preparation for college.

The number one reason to take the right courses is to prepare yourself to do college work. It's true that colleges look at your high school coursework when they decide if they will admit you. But the best reason to take challenging courses in high school and work hard in them is to make sure you won't need remedial courses in college. It's a waste of time and money to take basic courses in college that you should have taken in high school.

And the worst case scenario is you could become discouraged and drop out. Sure you want to get into college, but you want to stay in, too. Dropping out happens more than you think. ACT research shows that one-fourth of college students don't return for their second year of school, and only half graduate from the same school within five years. Many students aren't completing their college degrees, and a big reason is that they aren't prepared to do the work.

The ACT scores found that the class of 2006 high school graduates had higher scores than classes from previous years, but they still were likely to struggle with college coursework, particularly in math and science.

Using students' scores on the math and science tests, ACT found that only one-fourth earned a score that showed they were ready for college biology, while just four in 10 earned a score that showed they were ready for college algebra.

What can you do to get prepared? Take challenging courses in high school, particularly working on high-level skills in math and science, and work on your reading skills. You'll be doing a lot of reading in college.

There's always time to make changes and improve academically before college. Check your schedule and the courses you've taken and visit with your counselor.

WHAT COURSES DO YOU NEED FOR COLLEGE?

Your high school has requirements and colleges have requirements. You need to pay attention to both. ACT has suggested minimum requirements to prepare for college work. Make sure you check the requirements for the colleges and programs you're interested in to see if they require additional classes.

What are ACT's minimum recommended core courses?

four years of English
three years each of mathematics (algebra and higher), natural sciences, and social sciences

Try to take Biology, Chemistry and Physics, plus Algebra II, Trigonometry and/or Calculus.

Students who take at least the recommended high school core curriculum earn higher ACT scores than those who don't take those courses. Graduates in the class of 2006 who took at least the core coursework earned an average ACT composite score of 22.0, compared to 19.7 for those who didn't. (The national average ACT score in 2006 was 21.1. The ACT is scored on a 1-36 scale.)

Use your test scores to see how prepared you are for college. Research shows that students who earn a score of 24 or higher on the ACT Science Test are more likely than others to be ready for college biology. Students earning a score of 22 or higher on the ACT Math Test are more likely than others to be ready for college algebra. Students earning an 18 or higher on the ACT English Test are likely to have the skills necessary to be ready for college English composition classes. And students earning a score of 21 or higher on the ACT Reading Test are likely to succeed in college-level social science courses.

LOOK BEYOND THE "BRAND-NAME"

When it comes to certain things, like an MP3 player or a game system, the brand name might be important to you. You may have even purchased something based solely on what your friends were saying about it. Some students think of college the same way. If you approach your college choice that way, you'll be missing out on some great colleges (more than 3,000 four-year and two-year schools) that might be great places for you.

There's certainly nothing wrong with attending a school that everyone knows about and talks about in a positive way-if it really is a good fit for you. As you investigate colleges, check out all the details and decide where to attend based on who you are, what you're interested in and where you think you want to go in life.

Once you look at the details of a college, you'll see there's a lot more than the name to consider. Here are some things to think about when looking at a college:

Location - distance from home
Environment - type of school (two-year or four-year); urban or rural; co-ed, male or female student body; religious affiliation; public or private school
Size - enrollment and campus size
Admission requirements - deadlines; tests required; average test scores, GPA and rank of the freshman class
Academics - majors offered; student-faculty ratio; typical class size; special requirements
Financial aid - deadlines; required forms; percentage of student population receiving aid; scholarships; part-time employment opportunities
College expenses - tuition, room and board; estimated total budget; application fee and deposits
Housing - residence hall requirements; availability; types and sizes; food plans
Facilities - academic and recreational
Activities - clubs, organizations; sororities/fraternities; athletics and intramural

DON'T WAIT UNTIL COLLEGE TO TRY CAREER COUNSELING

Are you skipping the counseling office's career planning programs? Apparently a number of students across the country aren't taking advantage of all that their counseling offices provide.

A National Center for Education Statistics survey of public high school counselors found that half or less of juniors and seniors took part in available career planning opportunities at their schools, depending on the program offered. The largest participation was in career tests, such as the one in ACT's DISCOVER program, with 93 percent of public high schools offering a test but only 56 percent of juniors and seniors participating. Career days and career speakers were the next most popular activities, followed by internships, job site visits and job shadowing.

You might think it's OK to put off career planning until later in your college years, but you'll benefit from any career exploration you can do in high school. You won't have as much time later on as you might think, and you can start learning about careers now through classes and experiences.

Use your Interest Inventory results from the ACT (or EXPLORE or PLAN) and look into suggested career areas. You can also use ACT's DISCOVER computer program for career suggestions. Your counselor can help you find the programs and show you how to use the results to explore careers.

FREE FINANCIAL AID GUIDE

It's never too early to learn about financial aid programs, and one of the best sources is the U.S. Department of Education. To find out about federal financial aid programs and your rights and responsibilities under these programs, read "Funding Education Beyond High School: The Guide to Federal Student Aid" from the U.S. Department of Education at http://studentaid.ed.gov/students/ publications/student_guide/index.html. The guide is available in English and Spanish. You also can find a link there to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If you have questions or want additional information on student financial assistance, contact your high school counselor, the financial aid officer at the college you're interested in attending or the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243).

BEWARE OF SOLICITATIONS

Planning for college is an exciting time for a student. But sadly, some people try to take advantage of students by offering bogus services and programs to help plan for college.

Before acting on any offer, write the information down. Research the offer and the company or person calling, and talk it over with your parents and counselor.

If you are a victim of a scam, take the following steps:

Immediately contact your bank, explain the situation, and request that the bank monitor or close the compromised account.
Report the fraud to the Dept. of Education Office of Inspector General hotline at 1-800-MIS-USED (1-800-647-8733) or e-mail oig.hotline@ed.gov. Special agents in the Office of Inspector General investigate fraud involving federal education dollars.
Report the fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC has an online complaint form at www.ftc.gov/scholarshipscams and a hotline at 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357; teletype for the hearing impaired: 1-866-653-4261). The FTC will investigate if the fraud seems widespread. It's important that every student contacted by those in question lodge a complaint so the FTC has an accurate idea of how many incidents have occurred.
Notify the police about the incident. Impersonating a federal officer, telemarketing fraud schemes and identity theft are crimes.

For information about identity theft prevention, visit www.ed.gov/misused. For information about preventing financial aid scams, visit www.studentaid.ed.gov/lsa.

STUDENT ATHLETES - FALL IS TIME TO REGISTER WITH NCAA

If you are a senior who is planning to participate in Division I or II sports as a college freshman, fall is the time to register to be certified by the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse. You must do this in order to qualify for college athletics. You can register beginning in October.

The NCAA also has new eligibility rules relating to the required high school core courses for student-athletes. You can register and check out the new rules at the student information page at https://www.ncaaclearinghouse.net/ncaa/NCAA/student/ index_student.html. You also can read "The Guide for College-Bound Student-Athletes" at the website, or you can order a paper copy of the guide by calling 1-800-638-3731. The guide provides a summary of the rules and regulations in an easy-to-read form. Guidelines relate to recruiting, eligibility, financial aid and college freshman eligibility requirements for Divisions I and II.

TEST DATE REMINDER

The next national ACT test date is Oct. 28, 2006. The regular registration deadline is Sept. 22 and the late registration deadline is Oct. 6. The ACT also will be offered in 13 states on Sept. 16. Registration deadlines are past for this test date. Online registration and test date information is available at www.actstudent.org/regist/index.html. If you choose to register online, register early to avoid heavy Web traffic and delays.

While you're at the website, don't forget to take advantage of test prep aids, including free sample test questions at www.actstudent.org/testprep/.

For all your questions about the ACT test, visit www.actstudent.org.

ACT is a not-for-profit organization that serves millions of people in schools, colleges, professional associations, businesses and government agencies with programs and services that help people achieve their education and career goals.

May 2006 - ACTs News You Can Use

In this issue:

1. Summer activities get you in shape for next year
2. 1, 2, 3, Career planning
3. Blogs and podcasts at www.actblog.org
4. Do you need to take a writing test?
5. Build your writing skills
6. How colleges use your ACT scores
7. Test date reminder

SUMMER ACTIVITIES GET YOU IN SHAPE FOR NEXT YEAR

Summertime is a good time to catch up on things you find yourself too busy to do during the school year, things that can put you ahead when you go back to school and make your school year a lot less hectic. Here are a few ideas:

Visit college campuses - Take a family vacation near one of your college choices, or tour three or four campuses as your vacation. Visit while classes are in session so you get a feel for the college. Realize, however, that more students are on campus during the fall and spring.
Take or retake the ACT® test - If you just finished your junior year, June is a good time to take the ACT. The test results will be back to you in six weeks (sooner if you use Early Scores online), giving you time to retake it in the fall if you're not happy with your scores.
Take a summer course or work with a tutor - If your test scores were low in a certain subject, summer is a good time to take a course or work with a tutor. This can help you improve your scores if you retake the test in the fall.
Explore careers - Find a part-time job that exposes you to a career that interests you. Or learn through job shadowing, volunteering and researching.
Search for colleges - If you haven't already, start looking at colleges now. It's never too soon to find out about the differences in academics, cost, extracurricular activities and environment. Use the college search at www.actstudent.org to find information on more than 3,000 four-year, two-year and professional/technical schools.
Find out more about financial aid - Visit www.studentaid.ed.gov and www.actstudent.org to learn more about financial aid. Even though you can't submit a financial aid form (FAFSA) until January, it's good to see what information you will need. Check with colleges to see if they require supplementary financial aid information.
Get organized - Plan ahead for what you have to do in the fall and spring of the next school year. Put together a system to organize all your forms for admissions, scholarships, financial aid, recommendations and essays/requirements. Plan to attend college fairs or college admissions visits.

1, 2, 3, CAREER PLANNING

Career planning is as simple as 1-2-3. Well, maybe it's not easy, but career planning has three steps that you will cycle through and repeat throughout your working life.

By following these steps, you can make career decisions that are right for you. You'll know what your options are and what it will take to reach your goals.

First, take a realistic look at your strengths, weaknesses, and interests. Consider:

What do you think about yourself?
What can help you achieve your goals, and what obstacles could get in your way?
What types of work and school courses and activities appeal to you? What interests you?
What do you do well now, and what skills have you gained through experience?
What values do you have regarding work?

Second, explore your options. It's hard to know what you want to do "when you grow up" if you aren't even aware of the possibilities. Here are a just a few ways to find career information:

Explore your career options using ACT's World-of-Work Map http://www.actstudent.org/wwm/index.html
Use ACT's DISCOVER® program to explore possible careers.
Spend time with people whose activities interest you.
Volunteer or work in a job that interests you.
Discuss your career and educational plans with your parents, counselor, or other interested people.

Third, consider issues that can affect your plans and take appropriate actions to accomplish your goals. Consider:

What do you need to study?
What schools offer the training you need?
How will you pay for school?
Are you ready to search for a job?
How will you balance your work and going to school?
How will you manage family or relationship commitments?

BLOGS AND PODCASTS AT WWW.ACTBLOG.ORG

Becky will be going to Rice University. Alex will be attending Alma College. And Maria will be taking classes at . . . well, Maria made her choice May 1, but will post her answer in mid-May. You'll need to check out www.actblog.org to see what she decided and to see how the other senior writers finish their school year.

Each year student writers share their college planning blogs to help share what they're going through. In their last entries in early June, the writers will reflect on their senior year, the lessons they've learned through high school and some thoughts on what lies ahead for them.

While you're on the site, check out "Prep Talk," ACT's college and career planning podcast. These podcasts, some featuring student comments and questions, are just another way ACT is providing you with information you can use to plan your future.

DO YOU NEED TO TAKE A WRITING TEST?

Since the ACT Writing Test is optional, you will need to decide whether to take it. Some colleges require the test, others do not. So how do you decide?

You should decide whether to take the Writing Test based on the requirements of the colleges you're applying to. Check directly with the colleges to find out all requirements. ACT provides information on what colleges have said about whether they will require a writing test. You can look up colleges at www.actstudent.org/writing/index.html

Some counselors recommend that students consider taking the Writing Test if they're unsure where they will apply. If you don't take it and find out later that you need to, you can take the Writing Test as part of the ACT on any test date. Check out the college requirements and then talk to your counselor if you have questions.

BUILD YOUR WRITING SKILLS

Whether or not you take a writing test for college admissions, writing skills are important to help you succeed in college and the workplace. ACT offers these tips to strengthen your writing skills:

Read and write frequently. Read as much as you can from a variety of sources, including plays, essays, fiction, poetry, news stories, business writing and magazine features.
Practice writing in different formats and in as many real situations as possible. Write letters to the editor, or letters to a company requesting information. Writing e-mails is good practice, but realize that writing for school and business is more formal than an e-mail to a friend.
Share your writing with others and get feedback. Feedback helps you to look at your writing from a reader's point of view-to anticipate how readers might interpret your writing and what types of questions they might have.
Become familiar with current issues in society and develop your own opinions on the issues. Think of arguments you would use to convince someone of your opinion. Speech and debate classes can help you think through issues and communicate your thoughts to others.
Read newspaper editorials and see how the writers tie their main points together in a logical way and bring the column to a conclusion.
Try some extracurricular writing-school newspapers, yearbooks and creative writing clubs offer opportunities to express ideas in writing.
Remember that everyone can improve writing skills. You might think others are more talented, but you know more than you think. Confidence and skill will grow as you do more writing. Practice and work lead to achievement.
Listen to the advice your English teachers give you about your writing.
Strive for your writing to be well developed and well organized, and use precise, clear and concise language.
Learn to see writing as a process-brainstorming, planning, writing and then editing. This applies to all writing activities.

HOW COLLEGES USE YOUR ACT SCORES

Many students view their ACT scores as a key that opens the door to their college of choice. It might be helpful to really know how colleges view your scores.

Colleges view ACT results as one of the many valuable pieces of information in admitting and placing new students in their institution. They use the results in a variety of ways:

Admission decisions -- ACT test results, high school grades, academic preparation, out-of-class accomplishments, special interests, and future plans-these and other kinds of information help admission officials identify applicants who can benefit most from their programs. Scores alone do not determine whether a student is admitted or not.

Course placement -- Colleges usually try to take into account individual strengths and weaknesses as they place students in freshman-year courses. For example, a college may offer three sections of a subject-developmental, regular, and advanced. A student's ACT results, academic background, and high school grades might be used to determine which section would be most appropriate.

Academic advising -- College academic advisors may consider ACT results, high school academic program, high school grades, college grade estimates, planned extracurricular activities, areas in which there is a need for help, and part-time employment plans to help a student tailor an appropriate program of study.

Scholarships and loans -- Some scholarship and loan agencies may use ACT test scores and grade predictions to identify qualified candidates. However, the agencies may look at more than academic potential. The ACT score report also provides information about a student's educational needs, extracurricular achievements, and educational plans. This information, along with high school grades and test scores, helps the agencies evaluate applications for scholarships, loans, and other financial assistance.

Using ACT Writing Test results -- If you take the ACT Plus Writing, the colleges you send your scores to will receive your Writing scores and comments along with your subject area scores and Composite score. Colleges may choose to review your essay to help make admissions or course placement decisions.

More information on scores is available at www.actstudent.orgTEST DATE REMINDER

The next national ACT test date is June 10, 2006. The regular registration deadline is May 5 and the late registration deadline is May 19. The next national test date is Oct. 28. The ACT also will be offered in 13 states on Sept. 16. Online registration and test date information is available at www.actstudent.org/regist/index.html. If you choose to register online, register early to avoid heavy Web traffic and delays.

While you're at the website, don't forget to take advantage of test prep aids, including free sample test questions at www.actstudent.org/testprep/

The online ACT Store also offers sample test booklets-real ACT tests from previous years. Your ACT registration packet, available from the counseling office, also includes a sample test. Try taking it and timing yourself to prepare for test day.

For all your questions about the ACT test, visit www.actstudent.org.

click here for the April 2006 issue of ACTs News You Can Use with the following features

Taking a year off to experience the "Real World"
End-of-year college planning checklist
Many future jobs require strong math skills
More math = more success
Check out the "stealth profession"
The top work skills employers want
Preparing for college if you're a family first

click here for the March 2006 issue of ACTs News You Can Use with the following features:

Time to make your college choice
Know your financial aid offers
How to handle college rejection
What do admissions officers consider?
Strengthen your academic skills
New websites for EXPLORE and PLAN students
Work and learn through an apprenticeship

click here for the February 2006 issue of ACTs News You can use with the following features:

Financial Aid questions to ask colleges
Three steps for planning your career
Take a spin on ACT's World of Work Map
An associate's degree may be your path to success
Plan ahead, if you plan to transfer
What's an articulation agreement?
Tips for building your reading skills
College planning checklist at www.actstudent.org

click here for the January 2006 issue of ACTs News You Can Use with the following features:

What do you want from college?
Financial aid quick facts
Financial Aid terms
Five reasons to take challenging courses
Juniors – jump-start your college planning
No time to slump, seniors
Taking the ACT – How soon? How often?

click here for the December 2005 issue of ACTs News You Can Use with the following features:

Career planning – you're not alone
Take a career planning reality check
Gear up for financial aid
How to apply for financial aid
Estimate college aid with ACT's calculator
Financial aid terms

click here for the November 2005 issue of ACTs News You Can Use with the following features:

In search of the perfect college
Student blogs tell college planning stories
Get official test prep help online
Get the facts about paying for college
Using your EXPLORE, PLAN and ACT test scores
Think ahead to relieve test-taking stress

click here for the October 2005 issue of ACTs News You Can Use with the following features:

The top 10 college planning mistakes
Choosing a college
Questions to ask during a campus visit
College search checklist
Why go to college?
College planning terms

click here for the September 2005 issue of ACTs News You Can Use with the following features:

Will you be ready for college…or not?
Get on track for college
Tips for building your reading skills
Career counseling – Are you in on it?
Free financial aid guide
Beware of solicitations
Student athletes – Fall is time to register with NCAA

Scholarships for Villisca Students from the Villisca Community

Robert A. Rusk Memorial - $200.00
Available to graduating seniors who plan to attend an accredited university, college or technical school. Student needs a good academic record. Financial need is considered. Mr. Rusk’s widow, Lois Rusk Lane lives in Villisca as do their daughters, Mary L. Poston & Nancy Wyatt. Scholarship established 1978.

James Alan Rusk Memorial - $200.00
Jim was a Villisca Valedictorian. Scholarship will be awarded based on grade point average, class rank, ACT scores and general academic accomplishments. Established 2001 by Nancy Rusk Wyatt in memory of her cousin, Jim.

Villisca Education Association - $250.00
Must be pursuing a degree in education. Academic and leadership potential considered. Funds provided from the local teachers’ association. Established 1981.

Villisca Inter-Church Council - $250.00 - $300.00
Several scholarships may be given to students furthering their education in the vocational/technical areas. Usually for a two-year program. Donations from local church members and community individuals provide funds for these. Established 1973.

Oscar Schroeder Memorial - $500.00
Academics, activities, and need are factors for consideration. Established in 1963 by the Schroeder family. Administered through the school board office.

Dusty and Gene Sunderman Memorial - $200.00
An interest in pursuing a degree in Special Education including preschool, special need education, occupational therapy, speech, or physical therapy is required. Must have high academic and moral standards, and demonstrate leadership abilities. Established in 1988 by Gene, Vicki, Brandy, and Ryan Sunderman, in memory of Dusty. In 2002, Gene’s name was added due to his passing.

Don and Donna Patton Memorial Scholarship - $250.00 - $500.00
This scholarship is awarded to a senior who is planning to study in the medical field. Paid at the beginning of the second semester of college, upon confirmation of registration. Established by the Patton family in honor of their parents.

Wilma Nelson Memorial - $200.00 - $250.00
This scholarship is given to the senior who pursues a degree in elementary education, has high academic and moral standards and has shown leadership qualities.
Ms. Nelson was a longtime elementary teacher in the Villisca Schools. Established 1989.

Herman Christie Memorial - $300.00 - $500.00
Have at least an average academic record and be active in school and community activities. Mr. Christie was a longtime area farmer and a former school board member. His widow lives in Council Bluffs. She and her children, Dennis and Nicki established this memorial in 1989.

Villisca Student Council - Varies
Open to all seniors. Must demonstrate good moral character and leadership qualities. Funds provided by the Villisca Schools’ Student Council. Established 1986.

Villisca Farmers’ Telephone Company - $1000.00
Open to all seniors. One year only. Amount can vary. Awarding can sometimes be in the fall semester or may be in the spring semester. Funds established from the local telephone company. Established 1991.

Marvin Smith Family Scholarship - $250.00
Applicants will be judged based upon their character, days absent or tardy in grades 9-12, grade point average, extracurricular activities and community service. Payable upon proof of enrollment in the second semester. May be used to further their education in any manner. Established by Marvin and Sandy Smith in 2000.

Application forms and deadlines available on the Villisca School District Web site

Craig Smith Memorial Scholarship - $250.00
This award consists of two $250.00 scholarships to one boy and one girl graduating from Villisca High School. Applicants must have participated in athletics, have high moral standards and must be a good role model. Academic standings are not a qualifying factor for this scholarship. Payable upon proof of enrollment in the second semester by contacting Karla Smith. Established in 2000 by Karla Smith in memory of her husband.

Kathryn “Sis” Wright Memorial Scholarship - $500.00
This award is payable upon proof of enrollment in the second semester. The Villisca School Board Secretary will be in charge of the account. The check will be given directly to the recipients with the understanding that it shall be used for college expenses including, but not limited to, tuition, books or housing expense. Established in the early 1990’s. Presented at the baccalaureate service.

Iroquois Lodge No. 590 Ancient Free and Accepted Mason - $100.00 - $200.00
To any graduating senior at Villisca. Special emphasis on notable qualities of leadership, financial need, and service to the school district and community.

Rachel Lyle - $500.00
Seniors pursuing a degree in elementary education. Rachel Lyle was a longtime elementary teacher in the Villisca Community School District. The Rachel Lyle Memorial Scholarship will be awarded upon proof of enrollment in second semester classes. Established 2002 by her husband, Don Lyle. Contact Carol Greenfield, Roberta Dickey or Villisca Education Foundation for more information and for payment second semester.

Tammy Cody Memorial - $250.00 to $500.00
Award will be based on applicant entering the health field, financial need and high school attendance record. Established 2002.

Frank Jacobs Memorial Agricultural Scholarship - $500.00.
This is NOT a scholarship that is based on entering the agricultural field. However, applicants must complete a one page typed essay explaining how agriculture has and will continue to influence their life. Applicants will be judged based on: character, extracurricular activities and community service. Established 2003.

Villisca Lions Club Scholarship - $50.00 per semester
Open to all seniors. Requires an essay (no more than one page) on the importance of individual community service as well as highlights of your own involvement in community service.

Tom and Janice Focht Scholarship - $500.00
Seniors that are pursuing a degree in education. Established 2003.

Villisca Chamber of Commerce Scholarship - $250.00
Open to all seniors. Award will be based on, but not limited to, financial need.

Villisca FFA Alumni Scholarship - $200.00
This Scholarship is available to one graduating senior who has been actively involved in FFA.

Spencer Family FFA Scholarship - $200.00
Est. in 2003 by Dale and Cynthy Spencer

Sunbest - Papetti Farms Scholarship- $1,000.00
Est. in 1997 for a student pursuing and education in the ag related field.

Fred & Lois Bryson Memorial Scholarship- $100.00 - $200.00
Est. in 2002 by Marsha Bryson Shepherd and Fred Bryson, Jr. in memory of their parents. Preferably awarded to an ag student.

ACT's News You Can Use, Issue 35, April 2006

In this issue:

Taking a year off to experience the "Real World"
End-of-year college planning checklist
Many future jobs require strong math skills
More math = more success
Check out the "stealth profession"
The top work skills employers want
Preparing for college if you're a family first
Test date reminder

TAKING A YEAR OFF TO EXPERIENCE THE "REAL WORLD"

Students in Europe typically take off a year, called a "gap year," between high school and college. Gap year can be used to help add perspective about future plans and mature through experiences outside the classroom. Students can enter college refreshed and ready to study with a new appreciation gained through gap-year experiences.

Students who successfully complete their term of service, which includes a specified number of service hours, can receive an education award of $4,725. Part-time service, with a smaller award, is also available. The education awards can be used at qualified institutions, which include most higher education institutions, but you need to make sure it will apply at the college you're interested in.

To learn more about joining AmeriCorps, go to www.americorps.gov or call 1-800-942-2677. You can also e-mail questions to questions@americorps.org.

END-OF-YEAR COLLEGE PLANNING CHECKLIST

The end of the school year means seniors are wrapping up college plans and juniors are kicking things into gear.

Following are items from ACT's college planning checklist for students. To see more suggestions and resources for all high school students, visit www.actstudent.org/college/index.html.

Juniors

Compare college costs
Prepare a list of questions to ask on campus visits
List, compare and visit colleges
Take the ACT
Visit www.actstudent.org/college/11.html for more college planning resources

Seniors

If you haven't completed the FAFSA, do so (right away!) and submit it for financial aid consideration
Watch the mail for your Student Aid Report (SAR) - it should arrive four weeks after the FAFSA is filed
Visit colleges that have invited you to enroll
Continue to look for scholarship opportunities
Keep track of important financial aid and scholarship deadlines
Compare financial aid packages from different schools
Keep track of and observe deadlines for sending in all required fees and paperwork
Decide which college to attend, and notify the school of your decision
Notify schools you will not attend of your decision
Read, sign and send in the promissory note if you are borrowing money
Notify your college about any outside scholarships you received
Have the counseling office send your final school transcripts in May or June to the college you'll be attending

MANY FUTURE JOBS REQUIRE STRONG MATH SKILLS

Strong math skills will help you get a job, many of them high-paying, in the future. In the list of fastest growing occupations from the U.S. Department of Labor, math-related jobs include:

physician assistants;
computer software engineers, systems administrators, and database administrators;
physical therapists;
veterinary technologists and technicians;
medical scientists;
medical technologists; and
biomedical and environmental engineers.

As technology advances, it usually leads to new uses of math in the workplace, requiring more workers to have strong math skills. As you can see from the list above, many of these jobs also require knowledge in related scientific disciplines, such as computer science or medicine. According to the Department of Labor, the most common fields for mathematicians to find work are computer science and software development, physics, engineering and operations research. More are also getting jobs in financial analysis for businesses.

So keep taking those math courses. Even if you don't think you'll need it in your job, you'll need it to get through life.

MORE MATH = MORE SUCCESS

If you're busy taking math classes, good for you. If you're avoiding them, give them another chance. The effort will be worth it. Students who take four or more math courses achieve higher overall ACT scores than students with three or fewer classes, and that's been shown to translate into success in college.

For example, the 2005 graduating class achieved an average composite score of 20.9 on the ACT. (The ACT score scale is 1-36.) Students taking five high school math courses achieved an average composite score of 23.2, while students who took four math courses had an average score of 20.7. Scores were much lower for students with fewer math courses. Those taking three math courses had an average composite score of 18.4, while students taking fewer than three averaged 17.8.

In different studies over the years, ACT has noted this strong relationship between additional math courses and higher performance on the ACT. These results demonstrate the role math plays in better preparing students for college-level coursework and for the technological demands of the future.

CHECK OUT THE "STEALTH PROFESSION"

Maybe the only kind of engineering you really understand is the kind where you drive a train. Or maybe you only know that engineering requires a lot of math. If you're like a lot of people, you may not really know what engineers do all day. That's why you might call it the "stealth profession."

The website www.discoverengineering.org can help you learn about the field, understand it better and consider whether engineering is a career for you. Even if it's not, you'll see the contributions engineers make to our world as they create new things and improve existing ones.

The website has sections on the types of engineering: aerospace, ceramic/materials, chemical, civil, electrical/computer, environmental, industrial, manufacturing and mechanical. There are even other types such as agricultural and biological; bioengineering and biochemical; biomedical; geological and geophysical; mining; nuclear; marine, ocean and naval architecture; and petroleum.

You'll also find games, downloads and other cool stuff at www.discoverengineering.com. Check it out!

THE TOP WORK SKILLS EMPLOYERS WANT

When you finish your education and begin looking for work, make sure you hit the pavement with some job skills. Job success today requires many abilities-and some of them aren't taught in school. Abilities such as flexibility, taking initiative, making decisions and continually learning to keep up with workplace demands are important to employers.

Here are some of the top skills you need to succeed, according to business owners and managers:

Speaking and writing skills
Ability to locate information
Ability to read for information (recognizing the important facts)
Ability to use math in the "real world"
Teamwork

If you want to see how your job skills stack up, take a skills test. ACT's WorkKeys, for example, is a system that analyzes the skills needed for specific jobs and tests for those skills. If your school doesn't offer the tests, check with a local community college.

PREPARING FOR COLLEGE IF YOU'RE A FAMILY FIRST

If you're the first in your family to go to college, you don't have to do it alone. ACT has information that can help you and your parents figure out how best to prepare for college and a career.

Here are some things you can do to prepare for college, and the sooner the better. You don't have to wait for high school to do these things.

Develop your reading, writing and thinking skills.
Limit your TV time.
Listen to music with positive messages.
Join clubs in debate, science or writing.
Read, read, read.
Identify people who can help you in and out of school.
Ask questions.
Visit colleges.
Sign up for college outreach programs.
Talk to college students.
Join groups at church, at school and in your community that focus on positive values and support for each member.

You can download brochures for first-generation college students and their parents at www.act.org/path/secondary/resources.html. For additional college and career planning information, visit www.actstudent.org; for college planning resources in Spanish, visit www.act.org/path/spanish.

Scholarships are out there - but you need to apply!

The College You Plan to Attend

Colleges award many large renewable scholarships. Contact your top schools and ask about scholarship criteria, application deadlines and application procedures.

Large National Foundations

These organizations award big-dollar scholarships and usually receive over 1,000 applications each year. If you apply, you need to make your application stand out. Find large national awards on free sites such as www.fastweb.com , www.fastaid.com. and www.educationquest.org;

State and Local Organizations

Don't ignore scholarships from state and local organizations just because the amounts are smaller. These awards are typically easier to earn because fewer students apply.

Beware of Scams!

Throughout high school, you'll receive solicitations for scholarship and financial aid services. Don't ever pay for these services!

Sam Walton Community Scholarship - due Jan.20
-Applications are available only online
-Information is available at www/walmartfoundation.org
-Apply at www.scholarshipadministrators.net
-Applicants must use the access code (SWCS) to complete the application process.
-Must be a graduating senior

Masonic Scholarship - due February 1

-Approximately 60 scholarships in the amount of $2,000 will be awarded
-Must be a senior planning to attend an accredited institution which provides (1) a two or four year college program or (2) vocational training
-Need not have a Masonic connection
-The principal criterion is service to school and community with special emphasis upon leadership roles in these areas.
-An applicant's record, communication skills, and need for financial assistance are also considered carefully as is an evaluation of the applicant by a school official.
-The organization, appearance, and completeness of the application itself is also a factor considered in the selection process.
-The Scholarship Selection Committee will select a number of finalists who will be asked to appear before the committee for a personal interview.
-Applications may be found in the office or at www.gl-iowa.org.

Christina Hixson Opportunity Award - due February 1
Criteria for Eligibility:
1. Students must be residents of Iowa.
2. Students must be admissible to Iowa State University.
3. Students must demonstrate financial eligibility.
4. Students must have faced challenges of personal and/or financial hardship.
5. Students must possess the potential to succeed.
Application procedures:
1. Complete and mail the application for the Hixson Opportunity Award by February 1.
2. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 1 at www.FAFSA.ed.gov.
3. Complete the Iowa State University admission process by February 1.
4. Submit a recommendation from a guidance counselor, teacher, or community leader that specifically discusses your qualifications based on the Criteria for Eligibility.

WOWT-TV Broadcasting Scholarship Program - due March 15

Purpose:
To provide an annual scholarship for graduates in the Channel 6 viewing area pursuing a career in broadcasting.

Eligible Schools:
All area high schools in the Channel 6 viewing area.

Selection Criteria:
1. Graduating Senior;
2. Student must have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 upon graduation;
3. Student must be pursuing further education at an accredited educational institution;
4. Student must be pursuing a career in TV Broadcast Journalism; TV Broadcast Production; TV Broadcast Engineering, TV Broadcast Marketing and/or Communications; etc.; and
5. Student must have exhibited an excellent character, reputation, and record.

Scholarship Award:
Two $1,000 scholarships (payable directly to educational institution at which student is enrolled)

Selection of Recipient:
Recipients chosen by a panel of WOWT management consisting of:
# News Director;
# Director, Programming, Public Affairs and Human Resources;
# Director, Broadcast Operations; and
# Director, Promotion and Production.

Program Timeline:
# Applications accepted December 1 through March 15
# Selection Committee Meeting by March 31 to review and select
# Interviews Held April 1 - 15 at Channel 6 Studios
# Final Selection Committee Meeting Held by April 20 to review and select
# Recipients Notified by April 30 with invitations to Award Luncheon in Omaha
# Lunch at Omaha Press Club held with Recipients, Guests and WOWT Management by mid-May

Alliant Energy Foundation Community Service Scholarship

--due approximately March 15
--full information on their Website www.alliantenergy.com
/foundationscholarship

This scholarship opportunity recognizes outstanding
community leadership in young people and helps
first-time college students reach their academic goals.
Up to 25 $1,000 scholarships are awarded annually
through the Alliant Energy Foundation Community
Service Scholarship Program.

Judges use several criteria,including:

Leadership experience and community service or
volunteer activities
Academic grade point average
Standardized test scores
The content of a 250 word or less essay
submission
Rank in class is not a determining factor.

Eligibility - Applicants for the Alliant Energy Foundation
Community Service Scholarship must be:

U.S.residents,age 24 and under,who are depen-
dent children of current customers or current cus-
tomers of one of Alliant Energy ’s utility subsidiaries
(Interstate Power and Light Co.or Wisconsin Power
and Light Co.)and living in the Alliant Energy ser-
vice territory at the time of application
Students who will enroll for the first time in a
full-time*undergraduate course of study at an
accredited two-or four-year college,university,or
vocational/technical school located within the Alliant
Energy service territory
Students who have a cumulative high school grade
point average between 2.5 and 3.75 on a 4.0 scale
(or its equivalent) academic year

click here to go to a partial list of scholarships that were available in 2004. Many of them will be available again in 2005 although the deadline dates are likely to be different. It is a good starting place to start looking at available scholarships

February 2006 ACTs News You Can Use -

In this issue:

Financial Aid questions to ask colleges
Three steps for planning your career
Take a spin on ACT's World of Work Map
An associate's degree may be your path to success
Plan ahead, if you plan to transfer
What's an articulation agreement?
Tips for building your reading skills
College planning checklist at www.actstudent.org
Test date reminder

FINANCIAL AID QUESTIONS TO ASK COLLEGES

Understanding the financial aid process can be hard and you may not know where to turn for answers. The financial aid officers at colleges and universities are there to help. Following are some questions the Associated Colleges of the Midwest organization suggests families ask:

What kind of financial assistance does the college offer: need-based, merit-based or both?
Can the college provide an early estimate of what our financial aid award might be?
What forms are needed in order to apply?
When are financial aid applications due?
What costs for a student are taken into account by the financial aid office? Tuition, room, board, transportation? What about additional expenses such as books, fees, computers and personal expenses?
What is included in the comprehensive fee? For example, do students have to pay extra for computer time or to attend campus events (concerts, plays, films, lectures, athletic events, etc.)?
When will we be notified about the amount of assistance we can expect?
Does the institution have an appeal process to review special circumstances?
Is there a commitment for financial assistance beyond the first year?
How and when do we apply for financial assistance after the first year?
What if we do not qualify for need-based aid? Are there alternative financing options available?
What grants, loans and work-study opportunities does the college offer? Are there any we might be eligible for?
What is the average student loan indebtedness of the college's graduates?
Is there a restriction to the length of time that financial assistance will continue?
How long does it typically take a student to graduate from this college? Four years? Longer?
What impact do scholarships from outside sources have on other financial aid?
Can we apply financial aid toward an off-campus study program, either in the U.S. or another country?
What happens if our family's financial situation changes substantially during the school year?
Are there payment options available, such as monthly or quarterly?

THREE STEPS FOR PLANNING YOUR CAREER

1. Take a realistic look at your strengths, weaknesses and interests. Consider:

What do you think about yourself?
What can help you achieve your goals and what obstacles could get in your way?
What types of work and school courses and activities appeal to you? What interests you?
What do you do well now, and what skills have you gained through experience?

What values do you have regarding work?

2. Explore your options. It's hard to know what to do for a career when you don't even know all the possibilities. Here are just a few ways to find career information:

Explore your career options using ACT's World-of-Work Map
Use ACT's DISCOVER program to explore possible careers
Spend time with people whose activities intrigue you
Volunteer or work in a job that interests you
Discuss your career and educational plans with your school counselor, parents, or other interested people

3. Consider issues that can affect your plans and take actions to accomplish your goals. Consider:

What do you need to study?
What schools offer the training you need?
How will you pay for school?
Are you ready to search for a job?
How will you balance your work and going to school?
How will you manage family or relationship commitments?

TAKE A SPIN ON ACT'S WORLD-OF-WORK MAP

If you have taken EXPLORE, PLAN or the ACT, you'll have results from your Interest Inventory, a questionnaire you complete regarding your interests. You can also get these results from using DISCOVER, ACT's career planning computer program. These results will point to career groups on the ACT World-of-Work Map that are likely to be careers of interest for you.

AN ASSOCIATE'S DEGREE MAY BE YOUR PATH TO SUCCESS

Benefits of attending a community college include:

Courses that cover the basics, but also apply principles to the workplace.
Classes that often are more hands-on than those at a four-year college.
Saving money in tuition and other expenses, such as room and board. Tuition can be less than half of that at a four-year public college. And often students save money by living at home.
Receiving more personal attention from the professors than at a large university.
Easier decision making on a major once you've transferred to a four-year college. The focus on occupations and career discovery programs at a community college can help you with the decision.
Another chance at four-year college scholarships. Many four-year colleges offer numerous scholarships that are reserved for students who transfer from community college.

(continued from left hand column)

PLAN AHEAD, IF YOU PLAN TO TRANSFER

For many students, attending a community college and transferring to a four-year university makes a lot of sense. It might be a good move academically and financially. If you plan to do that, it's important that you develop a personal plan of action and take the steps to make it succeed.

If you plan to transfer, don't procrastinate. Counselors at community colleges and four-year colleges say it's crucial that you start preparing early if you plan to continue education at a four-year college or university after community college.

Before you get too far into your community college coursework, you'll need to make some decisions about the path you're planning to take.

What is your probable major? Deciding on a major early can help you determine the exact courses you will need to take and—as counselors often point out—make your transition smoother. It will also help you make the choice of the four-year college you want to attend. Check the course offerings available in your intended major at the colleges you're interested in. If you don't know what you want to major in, the best bet would be to take a core curriculum that is easily transferred and save your major course requirements for the four-year institution.
Which four-year college are you planning to attend? Choosing the four-year college you'll transfer to will help you make decisions about which courses to take, as well as allow you to prepare to meet that college's admissions requirements.
Will the courses you're taking in community college transfer to the four-year college you've chosen?

WHAT'S AN ARTICULATION AGREEMENT?

Articulation agreements are formal agreements between colleges or other educational institutions that detail the recognition of college credits. They help students make an easy transition between institutions.

If the school does not have an agreement with your community college, you can still discuss course choices with the counselor from the four-year school. It's also wise to keep course descriptions, reading lists and outlines from every community college course you take. You may be able to use them if you need to defend credits that don't transfer.

TIPS FOR BUILDING YOUR READING SKILLS

Whether you believe "Too many books, too little time" or "Reading—who needs it?" you can always build your reading skills. And you should—your future depends on it.

Reading is an important life skill, one that is not only important for your success in school and work, but also in your daily life.

Following are some tips to increase your reading time and help build your reading skills:

Find something that interests you and that you enjoy reading, such as a book series, a magazine or a section of the newspaper. Read often.
Create a reading spot. It's much easier to read if you're comfortable.
Establish a daily reading time—lunch, before sports practice or bedtime— whatever works best for you. You might even begin to look forward to that reading time.
Visit bookstores or the library and explore all the types of reading materials available. The choices are unbelievable—sports magazines, graphic novels, how-to manuals, teen fiction and newspapers, just to name a few.
Read a book that's coming out as a movie. Compare the two and think about what version you liked best and why.
Follow your interests and do some research on the Internet. Read about a new band, a new car or your favorite actor.
Try reading something new. Don't just stick with your favorites. Check out a daily newspaper, a classic novel or a news magazine. You might be surprised by what you read.

COLLEGE PLANNING CHECKLIST AT WWW.ACTSTUDENT.ORG

Keeping track of all the steps of college planning is time consuming. And sometimes it's hard to know what you should be doing and when.

To make college planning easier, ACT provides college planning checklists for high school students, freshman through senior year. You can find these checklists at http://www.actstudent.org/college/checklist.html

Start your college planning early so you won't be surprised by all the choices you have to make as a senior.

TEST DATE REMINDER

The next nationwide ACT testing date is April 8, 2006. The regular registration deadline is March 3 and the late registration deadline is March 17. The next national test date after that is June 10, 2006. Online registration and test date information is available at www.actstudent.org/regist/index.html If you choose to register online, register early to avoid heavy Web traffic and delays.

ACT offers an optional Writing Test in addition to the multiple choice achievement test. Go to www.actstudent.org/writing/index.html to find out about the Writing Test, including what the colleges you're interested in have decided about requiring it.

While you're at the website, don't forget to take advantage of test prep aids, including free sample test questions at www.actstudent.org/testprep/. ACT Online Prep, the only test prep program developed exclusively by ACT test development professionals, is also available for $19.95 for a year. You also can find test day tips, a list of items to bring to the test, and details on what type of calculator you can use on the Math Test.

The online ACT Store also offers sample test booklets—real ACT tests from previous years. Your ACT registration packet, available from the guidance office, also includes a sample test. Try taking it and timing yourself to prepare for test day.

For all your questions about the ACT test, visit www.actstudent.org.

January 2006 ACTs News You Can Use

In this issue:

What do you want from college?
Financial aid quick facts
Financial Aid terms
Five reasons to take challenging courses
Juniors – jump-start your college planning
No time to slump, seniors
Taking the ACT – How soon? How often?
Test date reminder

WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM COLLEGE?

Leadership. Initiative. Inquisitiveness. Eagerness to learn. These are the qualities colleges said they are looking for in their applicants, according to a recent story in "CollegeBound" newsletter. They're also looking for students who are intellectually engaged and unafraid to challenge themselves; who are well rounded and service oriented; and who have strong math and science skills, and exceptional writing and critical thinking skills.

You also have preferences about what you're looking for in a college. But before you start thinking about that, ask yourself why you are going to college. Reasons can include increasing your earning power, preparing for a career, studying new and different subjects, getting involved in extracurricular activities, and admit it, sometimes, pleasing your family.

Before looking at colleges, consider your personal goals, your academic preparation and your interests and activities.

Think about what kind of person you are. Are you a self-starter or do you need someone to motivate you? Do you like being part of a crowd, or would you rather be alone or in a small group? How important is it to be near your family?

What about your academic accomplishments? How comfortable are you with challenging courses? Throughout high school, you should prepare for academic challenges ahead. Check your preparation against the courses required for admission and ACT's recommended courses for college preparation.

You should take at least:

four years of English
three years each of math (Algebra 1 and above), social science and science (with lab experience)
other courses such as two years of the same foreign language, and classes in visual arts, music, theater, computer science, etc.

Taking one or more courses in advanced math beyond Algebra II as well as biology, chemistry and physics will give you the best chance to be ready to enter college without needing remedial classes.

Your extracurricular activities and interests are also important. By broadening your experiences, you have more opportunities to learn about yourself and match your interests with college program options and future job possibilities.

FINANCIAL AID QUICK FACTS

Federal aid process:

If you're completing the online FAFSA, apply for a PIN (personal identification number) at www.pin.ed.gov
Gather income information.
Apply for aid by filling out and transmitting or mailing the FAFSA.
The U.S. Department of Education processes the FAFSA.
You'll receive an electronic or paper Student Aid Report (SAR).
Make any corrections if necessary.
When the school receives your information, they'll review it for accuracy and make a decision about your financial aid.

Reminders:

You may apply for financial aid beginning Jan. 1, 2006.
Apply as early as possible before all aid is awarded.
Reread your information and make sure it is complete and correct.
Make sure you have all the required signatures on your form.
You must click "Submit my FAFSA" to transmit your electronic application to the U.S. Department of Education.
Keep copies of all documents used to fill out financial aid applications

How to complete the FAFSA:

Go to http://studentaid.ed.gov/completefafsa for details.

Where can you find the FAFSA?

Electronic version: www.fafsa.ed.gov
Paper version:
- high school counselors' offices
- college financial aid offices
- public libraries
- Federal Student Aid Information Center (1-800-4-FED-AID)

Both paper and online versions of the FAFSA are available in Spanish, too.

Where to apply for a U.S. Department of Education PIN to complete the online FAFSA: -www.pin.ed.gov

Financial aid questions?

Student Aid on the Web: www.studentaid.ed.gov
Federal Student Aid Information Center: 1-800-4-FED-AID
College financial aid administrators

FINANCIAL AID TERMS

Following are some key financial aid terms.

Federal Direct Loans – Loans made by the federal government directly to qualifying students and parents through participating colleges.

Federal Pell Grant – Financial assistance awarded by the federal government on the basis of need and designed to provide the "base" of an aid package for postsecondary education. The grant may be used toward tuition, room and board, books, or other educational costs, and requires no repayment.

Federal Perkins Loan Program – Loans funded by the federal government and awarded by the institution. The loans feature low interest rates and are repayable over an extended period of time.

Federal PLUS (Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students) Program – Provides low-interest federal loans to credit-approved parents of eligible undergraduate students. Repayment begins 60 days after loan funds are disbursed. Loans are available from participating banks, lending institutions, and participating Direct Lending schools.

Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan Program – Provides low-interest federal loans to eligible students through banks, lending institutions, and participating Direct Loan schools. The loans are based on need, and the interest is paid by the federal government for qualifying students while they are enrolled at least half time. Repayment begins after the student leaves school.

Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Program – Provides low-interest federal loans which are not based on need, and the student must pay the interest while in school. Repayment begins after the student leaves school.

Federal Work-Study – A government-supported financial aid program coordinated through financial aid offices whereby an eligible student (based on need) may work part time while attending class, generally in career-related jobs.

FIVE REASONS TO TAKE CHALLENGING COURSES

As you register for your fall classes, here are five good reasons why you should take challenging courses:

Colleges look at the high school courses you've taken and want to see that you weren't coasting through.
Tough courses give you the knowledge and skills you need to do college work.
Students who take challenging courses score higher on the ACT.
You'll be less likely to need remedial courses in college, and you may be able to finish college sooner.
You will have more options for college and a career.

ACT's list of high school course recommendations can serve as a guide for planning your choices (www.actstudent.org/college/plancourses.html). Be sure to check with the colleges and universities you're interested in to compare the requirements.

JUNIORS – JUMP-START YOUR COLLEGE PLANNING

The last half of junior year is here and that means it's time to spring into action. Ideally, you've already been thinking about college and investigating your choices, but now is the time for action. Just ask any senior. Time goes by very quickly.

Here are some things to do:

Continue to take challenging courses. When registering for senior year, don't just sign up for easy courses, because that will hurt your chances for college admission and you'll pay when you arrive at college and can't handle the coursework.
Begin to make a preliminary list of colleges you would like to investigate further. Surf the Internet and use college resources in the counseling office or library.
Fill out a college comparison worksheet. You can download one at www.actstudent.org/college/11.html.
Make plans to visit colleges this spring when classes are in session.
Start or update an academic resume.
If you don't have a Social Security number, get one as soon as you can. You will need it for college applications. If you have one but don't know what it is, ask your parents.
Register for the ACT. You should be academically ready to take it by spring of this year. If not, plan to take it in the summer or fall, work hard in your courses and check out free test questions at www.actstudent.org.
Check into applying to college online.
Investigate scholarship opportunities.

NO TIME TO SLUMP, SENIORS

Once you have a college offer in hand, you may get the urge to coast through the rest of the school year, or maybe you've already decided to slack off. It's your senior year and you deserve it, right?

Before you give in to senior slump, you should know that the college may be watching you.

Colleges, especially selective universities, have been known to withdraw offers of admission to students who drop college prep classes or begin earning uncharacteristically low grades. If you haven't slumped too far, colleges might send you a warning letter and add certain stipulations to your admission, such as requiring a 2.0 grade point average during the first year of college.

Taking an extended breather during your senior year can make your freshman year in college difficult. So have fun your senior year, but don't give up on your college preparation. Study hard!

TAKING THE ACT – HOW SOON? HOW OFTEN?

No one likes to take tests, so make sure that you're prepared when you do take your college entrance exam.

The ACT measures your skills and knowledge in English, math, science and reading. A good time to take it is the spring semester of your junior year. Advantages to testing in your junior year are:

You've probably taken the courses that prepare you for the test, that is, if you are taking courses that prepare you for college.
You'll have your test scores and other information in time to plan your senior year. For example, you may decide to take an additional class in a subject in which your test score was low.
Colleges will know of your interests and have your scores in time to contact you during the summer before your senior year. Many colleges send students information about admission, scholarships and special programs at this time.
You'll have more information about yourself and the schools you're interested in before your campus visits, making your visits more focused.
You'll have plenty of time to retake the test before applying to college if you feel your scores don't accurately reflect your ability. ACT research shows that of the students who took the ACT a second time, 55 percent earned a higher composite score, 23 percent earned a lower score and 22 percent stayed the same.

The decision to take the ACT more than once depends on your own situation. If you are happy with your scores, you don't need to take it again. But if you think you'll do better a second time because you will know what to expect or you've taken additional classes, take it again.

Talk it over with your parents and counselor if you are uncertain.

TEST DATE REMINDER

The next nationwide ACT testing date is Feb. 11, 2006. The regular registration deadline is Jan. 6 and the late registration deadline is Jan. 20. The next national test date after that is April 8, 2006. Online registration and test date information is available at www.actstudent.org/regist/index.html. If you choose to register online, register early to avoid heavy Web traffic and delays.

ACT is offering a free ACT test in February to student victims of Hurricane Katrina. Any high school junior or senior who lives in the flood zone or has been displaced to a new location because of the hurricane can sign up for the February national test date fee waiver.

If this applies to you, go to your high school counselor's office and request an ACT fee waiver form. Counselors need to write the word "Katrina" on the fee waiver form; both you and your counselor must complete the other information requested on the waiver form.

To use the waiver, submit it along with your completed registration folder—also available at your high school.

ACT's optional Writing Test was offered for the first time last February. Go to www.actstudent.org/writing/index.html to find out about the Writing Test, including what the colleges you're interested in have decided about requiring it.

While you're at the website, don't forget to take advantage of test prep aids, including free sample test questions at www.actstudent.org/testprep/. You also can find test day tips, a list of items to bring to the test, and details on what type of calculator you can use on the Math Test.

For all your questions about the ACT test, visit www.actstudent.org.

December 2005 ACTs News You Can Use

In this issue:
1. Career planning – you're not alone
2. Take a career planning reality check
3. Gear up for financial aid
4. How to apply for financial aid
5. Estimate college aid with ACT's calculator
6. Financial aid terms
7. Free ACT test for student victims of Hurricane Katrina
8. Test date reminder

CAREER PLANNING – YOU'RE NOT ALONE

Choosing a career is a big decision and one that you should make for yourself. But it's hard to make a good decision without doing research and getting input from others.

Most teenagers are making career decisions without much guidance from parents or other adults, according to a study by the Ferris State University Career Institute for Education and Workforce Development.

For example, if you're thinking of a specific career, have you done research to find out if there are a lot of jobs available, or is the field crowded with job-seekers? For example, you probably don't know a lot of students who are interested in technology careers (such as computer network engineers), even though demand continues to grow. Students who choose high-tech careers have the potential for high incomes.

It's always a good idea to choose a career based on your interests. "Do what you love" is one formula for success. It's important, too, to take job availability and salary into account.

Another common mistake is to assume you need a four-year degree. More than two-thirds of students in the Ferris State University study plan on earning a four-year degree. Some of these students may do better if they go to a community or technical college, but they think a four-year degree is the only road to success. Meanwhile, there are high-paying fields requiring two years or less of technical training that are in need of people.

ACT offers these recommendations to students:

Talk about careers with your parents, a counselor, a favorite teacher or any adult you admire.
Keep an open mind about career choices and the training required for the career. Success in life can be achieved through a variety of paths.
Use career planning results from DISCOVER, PLAN or the ACT along with information from the Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook (at www.bls.gov/oco/home.htm) and other sources to include interests, salaries and job outlook in making your decision about career direction.
Take advantage of opportunities to serve in an internship, to job shadow, or to work part-time to get a better understanding of the working world.
Talk to people who are actually working in the field you're considering. What do they like or dislike about their jobs? What advice would they give a student considering that particular career?
Visit your high school guidance office and the career planning center of a local community college to find out more about careers.

TAKE A CAREER PLANNING REALITY CHECK

One of the hardest things to know when choosing a career direction when you're still a teenager is how much a salary will cover once you're on your own. If you're involved in your family finances, good for you. But most of us don't grow up that way.

The Employment Policy Foundation offers a "Cost of Life" calculator that lets you make lifestyle choices and find out how much you need to live the way you want. You can choose different types of housing, insurance coverage, credit cards, entertainment, etc. Go to http://teen.educationpays.org/costoflife/ to find the calculator. Your career direction should not be made based only on potential salary, but it's important to keep that information in mind when you consider your plans for education and career – and it's especially good to have that information when you first start working so you don't overextend yourself financially.

You can use your Interest Inventory results from the ACT or other programs, such as PLAN or DISCOVER, to explore careers that are likely to lead to satisfaction. DISCOVER can also tell you how much specific jobs are likely to pay. You also can get more job information from the Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook at http://www.bls.gov/oco/home.htm

Gather the information ahead of time and do your own reality check so you don't get shocked when you have to start paying the bills yourself.

GEAR UP FOR FINANCIAL AID

January is fast approaching and that means it's time for seniors to apply for college financial aid for the upcoming school year.

Federal financial aid is available for students attending four-year, two-year, public or private schools, career schools or trade schools. The aid is intended to cover school expenses such as tuition, room and board, books and other supplies and transportation. Most students receive the aid because of financial need.

To find out about federal financial aid programs and your rights and responsibilities under these programs read The Student Guide: Financial Aid from the U.S. Department of Education at http://studentaid.ed.gov/guide. You also can request a free paper copy by contacting the U.S. Department of Education at 1-800-4-FED-AID, or by writing to:

U.S. Department of Education Federal Student Aid Information Center P.O. Box 84 Washington, DC 20044-0084

The guide is available in English or Spanish.

Also, be sure to check out the financial aid information from ACT at: www.actstudent.org/finaid/index.html. You'll find a good financial aid overview in easy-to-understand language, plus a list of resources to contact for more information on loans, scholarships, government programs and additional financial aid information.

HOW TO APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID

You can find the FAFSA:

online at www.fafsa.ed.gov
from your school counselor
from a college financial aid office
from a local public library
from the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1/800-433-3243)

ESTIMATE COLLEGE AID WITH ACT'S CALCULATOR

The calculator first provides you with an expected family contribution (the amount you and your family would be expected to pay toward your education). This amount is the same for all colleges. Next, the calculator estimates costs of attending specific colleges and, combined with your expected family contribution, estimates your eligibility for federal need-based financial aid. You may select as many colleges as you wish without reentering your personal information. Also, the financial aid estimator does not ask you to identify yourself, nor does it retain any of the information you enter.

The calculator does not provide official results, but because it uses the federal financial aid formula to calculate results, the estimates will be helpful as you plan your college funding.

FINANCIAL AID TERMS

Following are some key financial aid terms:

Aid package ¯ A combination of aid (possibly including a scholarship, grant, loan and work) determined by a college financial aid office.
Expected Family Contribution ¯ An amount you and your family are expected to contribute toward your education. It is used in determining eligibility for federal student aid.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) ¯ The application required for students to be considered for federal student financial aid. Obtain a FAFSA form or electronic filing information from a high school or college for the appropriate year (usually available in November). The FAFSA is processed free of charge and used by most state agencies and colleges.
Grants ¯ Awards, usually based on financial need, that do not require repayment. Grants are available through the federal government, state agencies and educational institutions.
Scholarships ¯ Awards to students based on merit or merit plus need that do not have to be repaid.
Student Aid Report (SAR) ¯ The information you will receive approximately two to four weeks after your FAFSA has been processed. It will report the information from your application, and if there are no questions or problems with your application, your SAR will report your Expected Family Contribution (EFC).

FREE ACT TEST FOR STUDENT VICTIMS OF HURRICANE KATRINA

ACT is offering a free ACT test to student victims of Hurricane Katrina. Any high school junior or senior who lives in the flood zone or has been displaced to a new location because of the hurricane can sign up for the February national test date.

To receive the fee waiver, students should go to their high school counselor's office and request an ACT fee waiver form. When filling out the fee waiver form, counselors need to write the word "Katrina" on the form; both counselors and students must complete the other information requested on the waiver form.

To use the waiver, students must submit it along with a completed registration folder, copies of which are also available at the high school.

Also, if you are one of the students affected by Hurricane Katrina and you were already registered for the September or October test dates and you need to change the test center or test date, ACT will waive the fees to make the changes. Visit www.actstudent.org for more information on how to change the test date or center.

ACT employees have been deeply moved by the destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina and the challenges students face in putting their lives back together. We are working to do what we can to help students and their schools. Please continue to check our listing of services and updates at www.actstudent.org/katrina/index.html.

TEST DATE REMINDER

For all your questions about the ACT test, visit www.actstudent.org.

November 2005 ACTs News You Can Use

In this issue:

In search of the perfect college
Student blogs tell college planning stories
Get official test prep help online
Get the facts about paying for college
Using your EXPLORE, PLAN and ACT test scores
Think ahead to relieve test-taking stress
ACT reschedules October test for some Florida sites
Free ACT test for student victims of Hurricane Katrina
Test date reminder

IN SEARCH OF THE PERFECT COLLEGE

Are you searching for the “perfect college”? You may be setting yourself up for disappointment. The U.S. Department of Education recently reported that most students end up attending more than one college. Of students who earned a bachelor’s degree in 2000, 59 percent transferred from their initial college or took classes from two colleges at the same time.

There are many reasons why this happens, but it’s likely that some of those students were not happy with the college they first enrolled in, or they were not prepared to do the work at that college. This can also happen when you think of a college as being the one perfect school. You may set yourself up with unreasonable expectations.

You have more than 3,000 two- and four-year institutions in the U.S. to consider. You can find more than one that will fit your needs. With so many variables associated with college, it pays to work with a list of schools you like and decide what you can and can’t live with. What may seem perfect at the beginning of senior year may not seem so by spring. Visit the schools, research them and make notes of the features you like at each school. Think about how comfortable you feel at each. Keep an open mind and see which school or schools reach the top of your list. Make the best choice you can by matching the colleges’ attributes with your interests, abilities and goals.

STUDENT BLOGS TELL COLLEGE PLANNING STORIES

Alex is busy with cross-country and college visits. Becky is completing her early applications to college. And Maria is dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Wilma in the midst of her college planning. You can read about their senior years in high school and all the accompanying college planning at www.actblog.org.

ACT has featured student stories for the past 7 school years in order to help students understand the college planning process. Many readers appreciate the stories because they are going through the same steps. Others learn about the college planning activities they’ll soon be involved in. The three writers will continue posting their stories to the blog until graduation next spring.

Another story on the blog tells about Ramiro, a first-generation college student who earned a Gates Millennium Scholarship, which will pay all expenses for four years of college. ACT will check in with him for an update on his freshman year in college.

GET OFFICIAL TEST PREP HELP ONLINE

But it’s also a good idea to get familiar with the test so you’ll be more comfortable when you’re taking the test. Students can now visit www.actstudent.org and practice for the ACT using the only online test prep program created by the people who develop the ACT test. For $19.95 students have access for a year to ACT Online Prep.

ACT Online Prep includes two complete ACT tests with answers and explanations; a practice essay for the new optional ACT Writing Test with real-time scoring; comprehensive content review for each of the four required tests (English, math, reading and science); and a diagnostic test and personalized study path. The program also includes test-taking strategies and an explanation of what the student’s test scores mean.

If you’re more comfortable with other ways or learning about the test, ACT offers additional options, including:

Preparing for the ACT -- a FREE publication with a practice test, test-taking strategies, and information about test procedures followed at ACT test centers. Ask your counselor for a copy or download a copy from www.actstudent.org.
www.actstudent.org -- ACT's website offers sample questions and testing tips for each subject area including the new Writing Test, online registration for the ACT, test dates, and other education and career planning information.
Sample ACT tests -- The sample multiple-choice tests are available for $5 each and sample Writing Test booklets are $2.50 each at www.actstudent.org or by calling ACT Customer Services at 1-800/498-6065.
The Real ACT Prep Guide -- This comprehensive book offers three full, actual ACT tests, including the optional Writing Test, with answers and explanations for each practice question. It provides test-taking strategies for each test section, a review of important topics in English, math, science and reading, and tips on how to prepare for test day. The guide is available for $19.95 at www.actstudent.org.

GET THE FACTS ABOUT PAYING FOR COLLEGE

One of the most challenging and frightening parts of planning for college is paying for it. But it doesn't have to be.

The best way to make something less frightening is to gather information from a reputable source. The federal Department of Education’s website, Student Aid on the Web, can be that source. At www.studentaid.ed.gov, students can find information on the entire federal student aid process, including information on federal aid programs, tax credits, student and parent repayment options and links to private scholarship sites—as well as the online free application for federal student aid (the FAFSA). The website also provides other general college planning information.

USING YOUR EXPLORE, PLAN AND ACT TEST SCORES

If you're like most students, you see tests as something to take, get over and move quickly past. But EXPLORE or PLAN give you information to help plan for your future…and they can help you prepare for the next test you take. If you're going to take the ACT, you'll want to hear what these tests can tell you.

First, you should know that EXPLORE, PLAN and the ACT were designed to work together to help students make educational and career plans starting in 8th grade and taking them through high school and beyond. Most students take EXPLORE in 8th grade or at the beginning of 9th grade. PLAN is for 10th graders and the ACT is for 11th and 12th graders.

Each of these programs includes a test with four parts—English, math, science and reading—and each offers an interest inventory. The inventory leads to career information for students based on their interests, abilities and work preferences.

You can use the test scores to find out how well you know the subject matter and what you need to learn next. This will help you prepare for college and do better on the ACT.

Don't let the counselor and admissions officers be the only ones who use your score information.

THINK AHEAD TO RELIEVE TEST-TAKING STRESS

When you head off to take the ACT, don’t let forgetfulness or inattention surprise you with something unexpected and affect your test-taking abilities. Here are some true stories of unexpected events:

One student bought a new calculator the night before the test. He didn’t use it before entering the test room, only to find out it didn’t work when he sat down to take the test.
One student didn’t look at her test admission ticket until the day before the test, only to find out that she wasn’t taking the test at her school but an hour away. She had to rethink how her test day would go and factor in time to drive to the test.
One student arrived at the test center without a photo ID card. He had to run home before the test started to get his driver’s license.
One student left the lights on in a borrowed car he drove to the test. He worried throughout the test and found a dead battery when the test was over.

Obviously, unexpected events happen in our lives over which we have no control. But if you can take a few steps to prepare for test day, you’ll be comfortable knowing you’re prepared and you may even avoid an unwelcome surprise or two. Read your testing information from ACT early and visit www.actstudent.org/testprep/index.html to get familiar with test day procedures and what is allowed in the testing room. And don’t forget to try out that new calculator before heading to the test.

FREE ACT TEST FOR STUDENT VICTIMS OF HURRICANE KATRINA

To use the waiver, students must submit it along with a completed registration folder, copies of which are also available at the high school.

October 2005 ACTs News You Can Use

In this issue:

The top 10 college planning mistakes
Choosing a college
Questions to ask during a campus visit
College search checklist
Why go to college?
College planning terms
Free ACT test for student victims of Hurricane Katrina
ACT reschedules September test for some Texas sites
Test date reminder

THE TOP 10 COLLEGE PLANNING MISTAKES

The best way to learn how to do something is to ask people who have done it. Usually, they'll also tell you what NOT to do. College admissions representatives from across the country shared the common college planning mistakes with Education Now, a consulting firm in Virginia.

Here are the top 10 college planning mistakes made by high school students. For more details on the list, visit www.ednow.org.

You miss the boat academically. – The most important factor in college admissions is how well you did in college prep courses. Admissions reps are more impressed if you take difficult classes than if you earn high grades in easier classes. For information on planning your courses, visit http://www.actstudent.org/planning/plancourses.html
You ignore great resources – The best way to make good decisions is to gather information. Take advantage of the information you can gather from people you know (teachers, counselors, parents, friends), from college contacts, from reputable websites and publications, and from college visits. Be open to what you hear, too. Sometimes it's easy to ignore someone who's trying to give you good advice. Don't graduate and think, "I wish I had known…."
You follow the pack – It's one thing to buy a CD because all your friends like it and quite another thing to go to a college because your friends are going there. Make your decisions based on what you think about the college, how you feel on the campus, and the information about the college. Don't base your decision on rankings or worse yet, college myths, such as "small colleges are more friendly" or "the more expensive the school, the better." Find out for yourself.
You don't take the college for a "test drive" – On a decision as big as college choice, you can't afford not to visit and experience the setting and meet the people. You would take a car on a test drive before buying. Why not a college?
You decide there is only one "right" college – There are probably several colleges that are "right" for you. By thinking there is only one college for you, you can miss out on some surprising colleges that would be as good or maybe even better.
You make price your top priority – Sometimes students and parents group colleges together and decide all private colleges are too expensive or public universities are cheaper. Consider the cost factor, but wait until you have the financial aid offers. Often private colleges and public universities are similar in cost.
Your admissions essay or interview "bombs" – Take the effort to write a good essay and prepare for the college interview. These are taken seriously by the admissions staff. Does that mean you have to be deadly serious? No, be witty if you're witty. Be serious if you're serious. Make a good effort and be yourself.
You let your dog eat your application – The admissions office is using all your application materials to decide whether to admit you. Take extra care in completing the entire application and making sure the college receives your transcript, college admissions test scores, and letters of recommendation (if needed) before deadlines expire.
You fail to manage time – College planning and admission take a long time, and you have to keep track of many activities. Get organized and list what you need to do and when. Figure out who you need help from and give them plenty of time to help you. College requires time management. This is good preparation for the years ahead.
You ignore counseling allies – Don't overlook your counselor and the college admission and financial aid officers when planning for and applying to college. If you have questions, call on them.

CHOOSING A COLLEGE

Choosing a college is a huge task. You have so many options and colleges have so many offerings. College is a big investment, both in time and money. You want to make the right choice.

The good news is that more than one college can be the "right choice" for you. Forget the idea that there's "one perfect school," because there are a number of very good schools for you. Just find ones that are a good match and look at them closely.

Here are some tips for your college search:

Start early. – It's never too early to look at colleges and their environments. Use ACT's college search at www.actstudent.org, visit websites, read college brochures and stop by college campuses when you're nearby. Start thinking about what you would like and wouldn't like in a college.
Think about how colleges differ. – Four-year, two-year, number of students, location, tuition, majors offered, type of school, student activities, and student support services. What's important to you?
Visit different types of schools so you understand what it's like to be on a campus with 5,000 other students or 25,000 other students, or what it's like to be in the middle of a city or in a small town.
Make your college visits when school is in session. Visit a classroom, talk to professors and students, eat in the cafeteria, stay in a dorm room – experience the college.
Take part in any outreach programs offered at colleges and universities. Summer camps and enrichment programs give you a feel for living on campus, even though enrollment during summer sessions is smaller than during fall and spring sessions.
Take charge of the search. Work with your parents as a team, but lead the effort, take responsibility, and determine what you would be happy doing.
Be realistic. Use your time wisely and look only at colleges you think you would really attend. And instead of selecting a top choice, choose a group of schools as your top preferences, along with a back-up group of others that would be acceptable.

QUESTIONS TO ASK DURING A CAMPUS VISIT

What activities and services are available to help students get settled (academically and socially) during their first year?
How big are the classes?
(Ask students) How easy is it to meet with faculty?
(Ask students) Are you able to register for the classes you want?
What is the total cost of attending the college?
What types of financial aid does the college offer and how do I apply?
Are all freshmen assigned to an academic advisor?
Where do most freshmen live?
Can I take a tour?
What activities are available for students?
Who teaches the courses for first-year students?
How successful are the college's graduates in finding jobs?
What services (such as transportation and shopping) are available locally?
What is there to do on weekends? Do most students stay on campus or leave on weekends?

COLLEGE SEARCH CHECKLIST

Use the following checklist to track your progress as you gather information.

LOCATION/SIZE

Distance from home
Enrollment
Physical size of campus

ADMISSIONS

Tests required/accepted
High school credits required
Essays
Resumes
Interviews
Letters of recommendation
Deadlines
Early action/early decision
College credit for exam scores or high school courses
Orientation program

ACADEMICS

Degrees/programs offered
Majors
Academic clubs/associations
Academic advising services
Academic tutoring services
Career placement services
Internship opportunities
Opportunities to study abroad
Other special programs and services

FINANCIAL AID

Costs of attending college
Grants
Loans
Employment
Academic and need-based scholarships
Deadlines

CAMPUS LIFE

Who attends the college?
Sports
Music
Theater
Art
Publications
Extracurricular activities
Housing
Health services
Counseling services
Safety information
Community information

WHY GO TO COLLEGE?

If you are uncertain about going to college, or you just need some reassurance that you're on the right track, here are a few reasons to go to college:

Every bit of education you get after high school increases the chances you'll earn good pay. Most college graduates earn a lot more money during their working years than people who stop their education at high school.
Besides good pay, the more education you get the more likely it is you will always have a job. According to one estimate, by the year 2028 there will be 19 million more jobs for educated workers than there are qualified people to fill them.
Continuing education after high school is much more important for your generation than it was for your parents' generation. Today most good jobs require more than a high school diploma. Businesses want to hire people who know how to think and solve problems.
Education beyond high school gives you a lot of other benefits, including meeting new people, taking part in new opportunities to discover and explore your interests, and experiencing success.

COLLEGE PLANNING TERMS

Following are some key terms used in college admissions.

Credit hour – A unit of academic credit that often represents one hour of class time per week for a period of study (semester, quarter, etc.)
Open admissions – The policy of some colleges of admitting virtually all high school graduates, regardless of their high school grades and admission test scores.
Selective admissions – The policy of admitting only well-qualified applicants, based on high school grades, admission test scores, and additional personal information often provided through essays, resumes, interviews, and letters of recommendation.
Transcript – The official record of high school or college courses and grades, generally required as part of the college application.
Wait list – By placing a student on a wait list, a college does not offer or deny admission, but extends the possibility in the future, before the admission cycle is completed.

February 2005 ACT's NEWS YOU CAN USE

In this issue: 1. New test prep book is only one with real ACT tests 2. Forget groundhogs, do you see your job shadow? 3. Financial aid questions to ask colleges 4. Five reasons to take challenging courses 5. Taking the ACT -- How soon? How often? 6. Tips for building your reading skills 7. An associate's degree may be your path to success 8. Test date reminder

NEW TEST PREP BOOK IS ONLY ONE WITH REAL ACT TESTS

College-bound high school students who want to prepare for the ACT Assessment with "the real thing" can do so with a new book available through ACT's website at www.actstudent.org. The book, titled "The Real ACT Prep Guide," includes three real ACT exams, including samples and practice tips for the new optional Writing Test.

"The ACT Assessment hasn't changed, other than the addition of an optional Writing Test for students whose colleges require a writing score," said Jon Erickson, ACT's vice president for educational services. "This book is the most authentic ACT prep book on the market, because it's the only one with actual ACT tests that have been taken by students. There's no better way to become familiar with the ACT Assessment than by practicing with real ACT tests, and there's no better way to practice for the new Writing Test than using samples and advice from the people who designed it."

"The Real ACT Prep Guide" costs $19.95 and also includes important test-taking tips, information on how to register, and what to expect on test day.

The ACT Assessment is administered to students in all 50 states and is accepted at virtually all U.S. colleges and universities. Although most colleges won't require a writing score, some will require it for students entering college in the Fall of 2006. Students can search colleges at www.actstudent.org to find out if the college they are considering requires a writing score, and then make a decision about taking the ACT Assessment with or without the Writing Test.

FORGET GROUNDHOGS, DO YOU SEE YOUR JOB SHADOW?

February is not only the month we catch the news on Punxsutawney Phil, it's also the kickoff month for Job Shadowing 2005.

The National Job Shadow Coalition is encouraging teens to observe workers on the job and get a firsthand look at careers. By learning about careers early, you can better understand specific jobs and their requirements. You also can see the importance of the academic work you're doing now and how it fits in with your career plans. Free materials about job shadowing are available for students, teachers and employers at www.jobshadow.org.

For more career planning information, go to http://www.bls.gov/oco/home.htm to check out the "Occupational Outlook Handbook." You also can take advantage of DISCOVER, ACT's career planning program, if your school offers it. If you have taken EXPLORE, PLAN or the ACT Assessment, you already have career planning information. Your score report provides careers to investigate based on your Interest Inventory responses. See your counselor if you have questions about your score report.

FINANCIAL AID QUESTIONS TO ASK COLLEGES

Understanding the financial aid process can be hard and you may not know where to turn for answers. The financial aid officers at colleges and universities you're applying to are there to help. Following are some questions the Associated Colleges of the Midwest suggests families ask:

What kind of financial assistance does the college offer: need-based, merit-based or both?
Can the college provide an early estimate of what our financial aid award might be?
What forms are needed in order to apply?
When are financial aid applications due?
What costs for a student are taken into account by the financial aid office? Tuition, room, board, transportation? What about additional expenses such as books, fees, computers and personal expenses?
What is included in the comprehensive fee? For example, do students have to pay extra for computer time or to attend campus events (concerts, plays, films, lectures, athletic events, etc.)?
When will we be notified about the amount of assistance we can expect?
Does the institution have an appeal process to review special circumstances?
Is there a commitment for financial assistance beyond the first year?
How and when do we apply for financial assistance after the first year?
What if we do not qualify for need-based aid? Are there alternative financing options available?
What grants, loans and work-study opportunities does the college offer? Are there any we might be eligible for?
What is the average student loan indebtedness of the college's graduates?
Is there a restriction to the length of time that financial assistance will continue?
How long does it typically take a student to graduate from this college? Four years? Longer?
What impact do scholarships from outside sources have on other financial aid?
Can we apply financial aid toward an off-campus study program, either in the U.S. or another country?
What happens if our family's financial situation changes substantially during the school year?
Are there payment options available, such as monthly or quarterly?

FIVE REASONS TO TAKE CHALLENGING COURSES

As you register for your fall classes, here are five good reasons why you should take challenging courses:

Colleges look at the high school courses you've taken and want to see that you weren't coasting through.
Tough courses give you the knowledge and skills you need to do college work.
Students who take challenging courses score higher on the ACT.
You'll be less likely to need remedial courses in college, and you may be able to finish college sooner.
You will have more options for college and a career.

ACT's list of high school course recommendations can serve as a guide for planning your choices. Be sure to check with the colleges and universities you're interested in to compare the requirements.

The ACT minimum recommendations are:

English: four years
Mathematics: three years (algebra and higher level math)
Natural Sciences: three years, with lab experience
Social Studies: three years
The ideal is to take Biology, Chemistry and Physics, plus Algebra II, Trigonometry, and/or Calculus. Also, some colleges and universities require other classes as prerequisites for admission, such as two or more years of the same foreign language or courses in the visual arts, music, theater, drama, dance or computer science.

(continued from left column)

TAKING THE ACT – HOW SOON? HOW OFTEN?

No one likes to take tests, so you want to make sure that when you do take your college entrance exam, you're prepared.

The ACT Assessment measures your skills and knowledge in English, math, science and reading. A good time to take it is the spring semester of your junior year. By that time you should have taken the courses that prepare you for the test. That is, if you are taking courses that prepare you for college. Also, by taking the ACT your junior year, you have plenty of time to retake the test before applying to college.

The decision to take it more than once depends on your own situation. If you are happy with your scores, don't take it again. But if you think you'll do better a second time because you will know what to expect or you've taken additional classes, take it again. ACT research shows that of the students who took the ACT a second time, 55 percent earned a higher composite score, 23 percent earned a lower score and 22 percent stayed the same.

Talk it over with your parents and counselor if you are uncertain.

TIPS FOR BUILDING YOUR READING SKILLS

Whether you believe "Too many books, too little time" or "Reading–who needs it?" you can always build your reading skills. And you should–your future depends on it.

Reading is an important life skill, one that is not only important for your success in school and work, but also in your daily life.

Following are some tips to increase your reading time and help build your reading skills:

Find something that interests you and that you enjoy reading, such as a book series, a magazine or a section of the newspaper. Read often.
Create a reading spot. It's much easier to read if you're comfortable.
Establish a daily reading time–lunch, before sports practice or bedtime– whatever works best for you. You might even begin to look forward to that reading time.
Visit bookstores or the library and explore all the types of reading materials available. The choices are unbelievable–sports magazines, graphic novels, how-to manuals, teen fiction and newspapers, just to name a few.
Read a book that's coming out as a movie. Compare the two and think about what version you liked best and why.
Follow your interests and do some research on the Internet. Read about a new band, a new car or your favorite actor.
Try reading something new. Don't just stick with your favorites. Check out a daily newspaper, a classic novel or a news magazine. You might be surprised by what you read.

AN ASSOCIATE'S DEGREE MAY BE YOUR PATH TO SUCCESS

Benefits of attending a community college include:

Courses that cover the basics, but also apply principles to the workplace.
Classes that often are more hands-on than those at a four-year college.
Saving money in tuition and other expenses, such as room and board. Tuition can be less than half of that at a four-year public college. And often students save money by living at home.
Receiving more personal attention from the professors than at a large university.
Easier decision-making on a major once you've transferred to a four-year college. The focus on occupations and career discovery programs at a community college can help you with the decision.

For all your ACT Assessment questions, visit www.actstudent.org.

SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION

NOTE: The deadline dates were for the 2005-06 School Year - We leave this information on the Website for Seniors to see what has been available in the past. Most of these scholarships are annual - the deadlines will change but the scholarships will probably be available in 2006-07.

AXA Achievement Scholarship Program - Dec. 15, 2005
-must be a current high school senior who plans to enroll full-time in an accredited two-year or four-year college
-must demonstrate ambition and self-drive as evidenced by outstanding achievement in an activity in school, the community or workplace
-application is available online at www.axa-achievement.com

Dora Ossian Eastlack Scholarship
Candidates shall be enrolled at or intending to enroll at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln or the University of Nebraska at Omaha. First preference shall be given to the Valedictorian of Stanton High School. Second preference shall be given to the Salutatorian of Stanton High School. Third preference shall be given to a graduate of Stanton High School majoring in Journalism. Fourth preference shall be given to a graduate of Stanton High School with good academic standing.

The Iowa Arts Scholarship for the Arts - due December 10, 2005
-must be enrolled at the senior class level in an Iowa high school
-must have proven artistic ability in the area of music, dance, visual arts, traditional arts, theatre or literature (creative writing)
-be accepted as a full-time undergraduate student at a fully accredited Iowa college or university with a major in one or more of the areas listed above
-up to five scholarships of $1,000 to $2,000 are awarded annually
-For complete guidelines and eligibility requirements, please visit
www.iowaartscouncil.org. Deadline for applications is no later than 4:30 p.m. Dec. 10, 2005.

Optimist International Essay Contest Applications for the 2005 Optimist International Essay Contest are available in the office. It is open to youth under the age of 19 as of December 31 of the school year. The topic of the essay is "The Power of One". Scholarship awards range from $650 to $5,000. The essays need to be turned in to Cheryl Benskin by February 14, 2005.

Optimist International Oratorical Contest Applications for the 2005 Optimist International Oratorical Contest are available in the office. It is open to youth under the age of 16 as of December 31 of the school year. The topic of the speech is "My Hero Is…". Scholarship awards range from $500 to $1,500. Interested students will submit a speech on the pre-assigned topic to their local Optimist Club before April 8, 2005.

Masonic Scholarship - due February 10 -Approximately 60 scholarships in the amount of $2,000 will be awarded -Must be a senior planning to attend an accredited institution which provides (1) a two or four year college program or (2) vocational training -Need not have a Masonic connection -The principal criterion is service to school and community with special emphasis upon leadership roles in these areas. -An applicant's record, communication skills, and need for financial assistance are also considered carefully as is an evaluation of the applicant by a school official. -The organization, appearance, and completeness of the application itself are also factors considered in the selection process. -The Scholarship Selection Committee will select a number of finalists who will be asked to appear before the committee for a personal interview. -Applications may be found in the office or at www.gl-iowa.org.

Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben Foundation Community College Scholarship -Twelve $1,000 scholarships Criteria: leadership potential, academic achievement, desire to earn a degree, financial need Eligibility: U.S. citizen, able to demonstrate financial need, accepted for admission or enrolled at an eligible community college, must plan to carry at least 12 hours a semester Application deadline: postmarked March 19, 2005 to the community college

Commitment to Agriculture Scholarship - Feb. 15 -100 $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors who come from a farm family and plan to pursue a career in the field of agriculture -the National FFA Organization administers this program, but applicants are not required to be an FFA member -applications are available at www.monsanto.com, www.ffa.org, or www.nafb.com

U.S. Bank Internet Scholarship Program - due February 28, 2005
-must apply online at usbank.com/studentbanking

The Foundation for Rural Services (FRS) College Scholarship Program - due March 1
-25 $2,500 scholarships will be awarded with 14 remaining awards distributed proportionate to the number of applications received per region
-must be a graduating high school senior
-must have existing telephone service with Farmers Mutual Telephone Company (prefix number of 585,586 or 829)
-must be accepted by an accredited two- or four-year college, university or vocational-technical school
-must have at least a C grade point average
-express an interest to return to a rural community following graduation
-applications must be sponsored by Farmers Mutual Telephone Company and bear Kevin Cabbage's signature

Iowa State LINC, Leaders INspiring Connections, Scholarship - due March 1

Iowa Soybean Association Ag-Related Student Scholarship - Due March 1, 2005

2005 Careers in Agriculture Scholarship Program - due March 1
-twenty $1,000 scholarships
-must be a high school senior planning to enroll in a two- or four-year agronomy related curriculum in the fall of 2004
-demonstrate both leadership abilities and academic performance

Page County Farm Bureau - due March 1, 2005
-applicant must be a boy or girl from a Farm Bureau member family

ACACIA Leadership Scholarship - due March 1
-available to any male graduating from and accredited Iowa high school
-must be attending either Iowa State University, the University of Iowa, or the University of Nebraska at Lincoln

Tobacco Free Scholarship 2005 - March 15
"SMOKING KILLS" Education Awareness Inc. and Montgomery County Task Force will offer a scholarship to one Montgomery County tobacco-free senior with a GPA of 2.5 or higher. The scholarship will be given to the student and school after the receipt of the first semester's transcript from a two or four year-college or technical school. The amount of the scholarship is uncertain, but expected to be several hundred dollars. The county's winner of the scholarship will have actively demonstrated support of a tobacco-free lifestyle. Participating locally in "Teens Talking Tobacco Issues" in our county's three high schools will be of benefit and students may wish to participate in JELiowa as well. Proof of activities will be required. Submission of the essay gives permission for publication in local media. Awards will be given at the winner's Awards Assembly in May of 2005. Applications are available in the high school guidance office or by calling 623-3504 or 623-6330.

Montgomery County Pheasants Forever Scholarship - due April 1
-$250 scholarship
-must be a senior planning to attend a college or technical school requiring more than one semester
-Qualifications include a letter stating your understanding of how soil and water conservation can maintain or improve the quality of life, for us the people as well as wildlife. You can write about habitat and preservation for wildlife, your personal experiences, or your ideas to improve methods of land and wildlife conservation.
-All students are encouraged to apply

Montgomery County Farm Bureau Scholarship - due April 1, 2005
-Two $500 scholarships
- You must be a son or daughter of a Montgomery County Farm Bureau member, or an adult member yourself.
-You must be entering college for the first time.
-You must be a high school graduate or expect to graduate in the spring of 2005.
-GPA minimum of 3.0 is necessary.
-Scholarship is not renewable. It is payable at the beginning of the second semester of school following proof of first semester 2.0 minimum grade average and enrollment in school.
-Criteria:
30% Demonstrated Need
20% Scholastic
20% Involvement

Wells Fargo CollegeSTEPS Scholarship Program - May 2005
-sign up at wellsfargo.com/collegesteps

Bank of America 2004-2005 Financial Aid Sweepstakes - July 2005
-Apply online at www.bankofamerica.com/studentsweeps

The following scholarship information was for the 2003-04 application process - we leave them up here because most of them will be available for 2004-05 and you might start planning for them now.

Helpful information for all Seniors taken from the Stanton High School Weekly Bulletin:

State of Iowa Scholarship - due Nov. 3
Must rank in the upper 15% of your class at the end of your junior year

AXA Achievement Scholarship Program - Dec. 15, 2003 - must be a current high school senior who plans to enroll full-time in an accredited two-year or four-year college - must demonstrate ambition and self-drive as evidenced by outstanding achievement in an activity in school, the community or workplace - application available online at www.axa-achievement.com

Iowa State Association of Counties - due Dec. 19, 2003 - available to any high school senior who is the child of a county official or employee - based on achievement, financial need, participation in extracurricular and community activities, and overall character

Cottey/Cather Writing Prize
-due Oct. 8
-must be a high school junior or senior, a female, and a resident of Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, South Dakota, Wyoming, or Kansas
-up to 3 Cottey College scholarships of $3,000 will be awarded

Coca-Cola Scholarship
- due October 31
- Have a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Demonstrate leadership, academic achievement and motivation
- Submit application by Oct. 31
-Apply online at www.coca-colascholars.org

Iowa Newspaper Foundation Scholarships- due February 6, 2004 - available to students who are interested in a newspaper career

Discover Card Tribute Award - due January 7, 2004
-Open to Junior students only
-www/discovercard.com/tribute.htm or www.aasa.org/discover.htm

Elks National Foundation Scholarships
-Forms available in the office or at www.elks.org
1. Legacy Awards for Children of Elks - due January 14, 2005
2. Most Valuable Student Scholarship Contest - due January 14, 2005
3. Eagle Scout Award - due February 28
4. Emergency Educational Grants
Iowa State University College of Agriculture Scholarships
-submitted electronically from October 15 until January 15
-apply online at www.ag.iastate.edu/scholarships/freshman.html

Scholarship information will be starting soon for the senior students, usually beginning in October. In the meantime, seniors are encouraged to do a little digging on their own at http://www.fastweb.com and http://www.scholarships.com/. This information is from the Iowa College Aid Commission. They recommend using only free scholarship searches.

National Wild Turkey Federation - due February 1
-must be a senior with a 3.0 grade point average
-must be pursuing a degree at an accredited institution of higher education
-must support the preservation of the hunting tradition and actively participate in hunting sports
-must be involved in school activities
-must demonstrate ability as a leader among his or her peers
-must demonstrate community involvement
-must submit an essay and autobiography exhibiting dedication to conservation
-must submit three letters of recommendation
-Local Scholarship Winner will receive a minimum of $250
-State/Provincial Scholarship Winner will receive minimum of $1,000
-National Scholarship Winner will receive $10,000

Christina Hixson Opportunity Award - due February 1

Sam Walton Community Scholarship - due Feb. 1
-Applications are available only online at www/walmartfoundation.org
-The student must have the nearest Wal-Mart Store four-digit location number in order to complete the application process. The location number for the Shenandoah store is 1683.
-must be a graduating senior

Scholarships Are Out There - You Need to Apply!

The college you plan to attend
Colleges award many large renewable scholarships. Contact your top schools and ask about scholarship criteria, application deadlines and application procedures.

Large national foundations
These organizations award big-dollar scholarships and usually receive over 1,000 applications each year. If you apply, you need to make your application stand out. Find large national awards on free sites such as www.fastweb.com and ww.fastaid.com

State and local Organizations
Don't ignore scholarships from state and local organizations just because the amounts are smaller. These awards are typically easier to earn because fewer students apply.

Beware of scams!
Throughout high school, you'll receive solicitations for scholarship and financial aid services. Don't ever pay for these services!

January 2005 Issue of ACTS News You Can Use

In this issue: 1. Tips for taking the ACT Writing Test
2. Juniors - Jump-start your college planning
3. Check out what students have to say
4. No time to slump, seniors
5. Score reporting choice and the ACT
6. Financial aid quick facts
7. Financial aid terms
8. Test date reminder

TIPS FOR TAKING THE ACT WRITING TEST

Next month ACT will offer an optional Writing Test for the first time
with the ACT Assessment. Not all colleges will require or recommend the test, so visit www.actstudent.org/writing/index.html to find out what the colleges you're interested in have decided about requiring the writing test.

Following are some facts and tips to help you get familiar with the test.

The test is a 30-minute essay test that measures your writing skills, specifically the writing skills emphasized in high school English classes and in entry-level college composition classes.

You will be given one prompt that defines an issue and describes two points of view on that issue. You will be asked to respond to a question about your position on that issue. You can use one of the two positions provided or use your own point of view. Your essay will be scored on your ability to:

express judgements by taking a position
maintain a focus throughout the essay
develop a position
organize ideas logically
use language clearly and effectively, using the rules of standard written English

Your score will not be affected by the point of view you take on the issue.

Tips for the Writing Test:

Pace yourself - You have 30 minutes to read and think about the issue in the prompt and to plan and write the essay. It's unlikely that you'll have time to draft, revise and recopy your essay, so it's helpful to plan before you write. Leave time to do a final check before time is up.

Prewrite - Before writing, reread the prompt to make sure you understand it. Decide how you want to answer the question in the prompt. Jot down your ideas. These could be a list of ideas, reasons and examples that you will use to explain your point of view on the issue. Write what others might have to say in opposition to your view and think how you would refute their arguments. Think about how to best organize the ideas in your essay.

Write - Explain your point of view in a clear and logical way. If possible, discuss the issue in a broader context or evaluate the complications of the issue. Address what others might say to refute your point of view and present a counter-argument. Use specific examples. Vary the structure of your sentences, and use varied and precise word choices. Make logical relationships clear by using transitional words and phrases. Don't wander off the topic. End with a strong conclusion that summarizes or reinforces your position.

Review your essay - Take a few minutes to read through your essay. Correct any mistakes in grammar, usage, punctuation and spelling. If you find any words that are hard to read, recopy them so readers can read them easily. People who score the essay take into account that you only had 30 minutes to write. Try to make your essay as polished as you can during that time.

For more information on the Writing Test, including sample essays, visit www.actstudent.org/writing/index.html.

JUNIORS - JUMP-START YOUR COLLEGE PLANNING

Here are some things to do:

Continue to take challenging courses. When registering for senior year, don't sign up for easy courses because it will hurt your chances for college admission and you'll pay for it when you arrive at college and can't handle the coursework.
Begin to make a preliminary list of colleges you would like to investigate further. Surf the Internet and use college resources in the guidance office or library.
Fill out a college comparison worksheet. You can download one at www.actstudent.org/planning/11.html.
Make plans to visit colleges this spring when classes are in session.
Start or update an academic resume.
If you don't have a Social Security number, get one as soon as you can. You will need it for college applications. If you have one but don't know what it is, ask your parents.
Register for the ACT. You should be academically ready to take it by spring of this year. If not, plan to take it in the summer or fall, work hard in your courses and check out free test questions at www.actstudent.org.
Check into applying to college online.
Investigate scholarship opportunities.

CHECK OUT WHAT STUDENTS HAVE TO SAY

ACT's student writers share their stories so others can learn along with them as they plan for college and careers. Adam Siegel and Christa Alava are posting their senior year accounts at www.actstudent.org/studentstories/index.html. Adam attends Dakota Ridge High School in Littleton, Colo., and is considering engineering as a career because of his interest in math and science. Christa, of Harker Heights High School in Harker Heights, Texas, plans to enter the medical field. In addition to college planning stories, Adam and Christa share their experiences taking the ACT.

Other students sharing advice on the website include college students and a recent college graduate who first wrote for ACT as a college freshman.

NO TIME TO SLUMP, SENIORS

Before you give in to senior slump, you should know that the college may be watching you.

Taking an extended breather during your senior year can make your freshman year in college difficult. So have fun your senior year, but don't give up on your college preparation. Study hard!

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SCORE REPORTING CHOICE AND THE ACT

One of the choices you have when taking the ACT Assessment is whether you want your scores reported to colleges that interest you. If you're comfortable sending scores "sight unseen," you can send them to up to four colleges as part of your registration fee. This is what most students do. However, if you want to wait to see your scores before sending them to a college or university, you can wait. Once you're satisfied with your scores, you can send them for an additional fee of $7 for each college you send a report to. If you take the test more than once, you can select the test date with your best scores and have them sent to the colleges of your choice.

If you are a Florida high school student and you apply to a Florida state college or university, score choice may not ensure that only certain scores are viewed by the college. The Florida State Department of Education, including the Bright Futures Program, uses a computerized system to share information and state colleges may have access to all of your ACT scores.

The ACT is the only college entrance exam that gives you score choice. Talk with your counselor or visit www.actstudent.org for more details.

FINANCIAL AID QUICK FACTS

Federal Aid process:

If you're completing the online FAFSA, apply for a PIN (personal identification number) at www.pin.ed.gov
Gather income information.
Apply for aid by filling out and transmitting or mailing the FAFSA.
The U.S. Department of Education processes the FAFSA.
You'll receive an electronic or paper Student Aid Report (SAR).
Make any corrections if necessary.
When the school receives your information, they'll review it for accuracy and make an award.

Reminders:

You may apply for financial aid beginning Jan. 1, 2005.
Apply as early as possible before all aid is awarded.
Reread your information and make sure it is complete and correct.
Make sure you have all the required signatures on your form.
You must click "Submit my FAFSA" to transmit your electronic application to the U.S. Department of Education.
Keep copies of all documents used to fill out financial aid applications

How to complete the FAFSA: - Go to www.studentaid.ed.gov/completefafsa for details.

Where can you find the FAFSA? -Electronic version: www.fafsa.ed.gov
-Paper version:

high school counselors' offices
college financial aid offices
public libraries
Federal Student Aid Information Center (1-800-4-FED-AID)

Both paper and online versions of the FAFSA are available in Spanish, too.

Where to apply for a U.S. Department of Education PIN to complete
the online FAFSA:
-www.pin.ed.gov

Financial aid questions?
-Student Aid on the Web: www.studentaid.ed.gov
-Federal Student Aid Information Center: 1-800-4-FED-AID
-College financial aid administrators

FINANCIAL AID TERMS

Following are some key financial aid terms.

Federal Direct Loans - Loans made by the federal government directly to qualifying students and parents through participating colleges.

Federal Pell Grant - Financial assistance awarded by the federal government on the basis of need and designed to provide the "floor" of an aid package for postsecondary education. The grant may be used toward tuition, room and board, books, or other educational costs, and requires no repayment.

Federal Perkins Loan Program - Loans funded by the federal government and awarded by the institution. The loans feature low interest rates and are repayable over an extended period of time.

Federal PLUS (Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students) Program - Provides low-interest federal loans to credit-approved parents of eligible undergraduate students. Repayment begins 60 days after loan funds are disbursed. Loans are available from participating banks, lending institutions, and participating Direct Lending schools.

Federal Subsidized Stafford Loan Program - Provides low-interest federal loans to eligible students through banks, lending institutions, and participating Direct Loan schools. It is based on need, and the interest is paid by the federal government for qualifying students while they are enrolled at least half-time. Repayment begins after the student leaves school.

Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan Program - Provides low-interest federal loans which are not based on need, and the student must pay the interest while in school. Repayment begins after the student leaves school.

Federal Work-Study - A government-supported financial aid program coordinated through financial aid offices whereby an eligible student (based on need) may work part time while attending class, generally in career-related jobs.

TEST DATE REMINDER

The next nationwide ACT testing date is Feb. 12, 2005. The regular registration deadline is Jan. 7 and the late registration deadline is Jan. 21. The following test date will be April 9, with a regular registration deadline of March 4 and a late registration deadline of March 18. Online registration is available at www.actstudent.org/regist/index.html.

If you choose to register online, register early to avoid heavy Web traffic and delays. This will be the first test date that will offer ACT's optional writing test. Go to www.actstudent.org/writing/index.html to find out about the test, including what the colleges you're interested in have decided about requiring the writing test.

While you're at the website, don't forget to take advantage of test prep aids, including free sample test questions at www.actstudent.org/testprep/.

The online ACT Store also offers sample test booklets-real ACT tests from previous years. Your ACT registration packet, available from the guidance office, also includes a sample test. Try taking it and timing yourself to prepare for test day.

The website also gives you test day tips, a list of items to bring to the test and details on what type of calculator you can use on the Math Test.

For all your ACT Assessment questions, visit www.actstudent.org.

December 2004 Issue of ACTS News You Can Use
1. Take a career planning reality check
2. Gear up for financial aid
3. How to apply for financial aid
4. Estimate college aid with ACT's calculator
5. Financial aid terms
6. Should you test again?
7. Test date reminder

TAKE A CAREER PLANNING REALITY CHECK

The Employment Policy Foundation offers a "Cost of Life" calculator that lets you make lifestyle choices and find out how much you need to live the way you want. You can choose different types of housing, insurance coverage, credit cards, entertainment, etc. Go to http://teen.educationpays.org/costoflife/ to find the calculator. Your career direction should not be made based only on potential salary, but it's important to keep that information in mind when you consider your plans for education and career - and it's especially good to have that information when you first start working so you don't overextend yourself financially.

So gather the information ahead of time and do your own reality check so you don't get shocked when you have to start paying the bills yourself.

GEAR UP FOR FINANCIAL AID

January is fast approaching and that means it's time for seniors to apply for college financial aid for the upcoming school year.

Federal financial aid is available for students attending four-year, two-year, public or private, career or trade schools. The aid is intended to cover school expenses such as tuition, room and board, books and other supplies and transportation. Most students receive the aid because of financial need.

Students can receive financial aid in the form of grants, loans or work-study. Grants (sometimes called scholarships) are financial awards that do not have to be repaid. Examples include Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants. Loans are money you borrow and must repay. Federal Stafford Loans are loans made to students, and PLUS loans are loans made to parents. There are also direct loans, Perkins loans and the Federal Family Education Loan. Work-study provides jobs, usually on campus, so students can help pay for education expenses.

To find out about federal financial aid programs and your rights and responsibilities under these programs read The Student Guide:

Financial Aid from the U.S. Department of Education at http://studentaid.ed.gov/students/publications/
student_guide/index.html. You can also request a free paper copy by contacting the U.S. Department of Education at 1-800-4-FED-AID, or write to:

U.S. Department of Education Federal Student Aid Information Center P.O. Box 84 Washington, DC 20044-0084 The guide is available in English or Spanish.

HOW TO APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID

If you're a senior planning to attend a postsecondary institution next fall, January is the time to file your Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. Information from the FAFSA is used to determine your eligibility for federal student aid programs¯grants, loans and work-study. You can work on the form during December and then send it off in January when you have the necessary income information from 2004. If you're planning to file your FAFSA online, visit www.fafsa.ed.gov and get your personal identification number (PIN) in December so you'll be prepared to file the application in January. It's a good idea to visit the FAFSA website early so you understand the process and can collect your information ahead of time.

You can find the FAFSA:

-online at www.fafsa.ed.gov
-from your guidance counselor
-from a college financial aid office
-from a local public library
-from the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1/800-433-3243)

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ESTIMATE COLLEGE AID WITH ACT'S CALCULATOR

If you're preparing to file your federal financial aid form or you just want an idea of what college costs, check out ACT's free financial aid need estimator at www.actstudent.org. The estimator can calculate both your family contribution and costs at specific institutions.

The calculator first provides you with an expected family contribution (the amount you and your family would be expected to pay toward your education). This amount is the same for all colleges. Next, the calculator estimates costs of attending specific institutions and, combined with your expected family contribution, estimates your eligibility for federal need-based financial aid. You may select as many institutions as you wish without reentering your personal information. Also, the financial aid estimator does not ask you to identify yourself, nor does it retain any of the information you enter.

The calculator does not provide official results, but because it uses the federal financial aid formula to calculate results, the estimates will be helpful as you plan your college funding.

FINANCIAL AID TERMS

Following are some key financial aid terms:

Aid package
A combination of aid (possibly including a scholarship, grant, loan and work) determined by a college financial aid office.

Expected Family Contribution
An amount you and your family are expected to contribute toward your education. It is used in determining eligibility for federal student aid.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The application required for students to be considered for federal student financial aid. Obtain a FAFSA form or electronic filing information from a high school or college for the appropriate year (usually available in November). The FAFSA is processed free of charge and used by most state agencies and colleges.

Grants
Awards, usually based on financial need, that do not require repayment. Grants are available through the federal government, state agencies and educational institutions.

Scholarships
Awards to students based on merit or merit plus need that do not have to be repaid.

Student Aid Report (SAR)
The information you will receive approximately two to four weeks after your FAFSA has been processed. It will report the information from your application, and if there are no questions or problems with your application, your SAR will report your Expected Family Contribution (EFC).

SHOULD YOU TEST AGAIN?

There are no limitations to how many times you can take the ACT. But how do you know if you should take it again?

ACT says that you should definitely consider retesting if:

-You had any problems during the test, such as misunderstanding the directions or not feeling well.
-You aren't satisfied that your scores accurately represent your abilities.
-You see a discrepancy between your ACT scores and your high school grades.
-You have completed coursework or an intensive review in subject areas included in the ACT since you were tested.

How will you do on a retest? ACT research shows that of the students who took the ACT more than once:

-55 percent increased their composite score
-23 percent decreased their composite score
-22 percent did not change their composite score

TEST DATE REMINDER

The next nationwide ACT testing date is Feb. 12, 2005. The regular registration deadline is Jan. 7 and the late registration deadline is Jan. 21. Online registration is available at http://www.actstudent.org/regist/index.html. If you choose to register online, register early to avoid heavy Web traffic and delays. This will be the first test date that will offer ACT's optional writing test. Go to http://www.actstudent.org/writing/index.html to find out about the test, including what colleges have decided about requiring the test.

While you're at the website, don't forget to take advantage of test prep aids, including free sample test questions at http://www.actstudent.org/testprep/.

The website also gives you test day tips, a list of items to bring to the test and details on what type of calculator you can use on the Math Test. For all your ACT Assessment questions, visit www.actstudent.org.

It's FAFSA Time! (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

If you're a college-bound senior, it's time to complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The process can go smoothly if you're prepared and know where to get help. To complete and file the FAFSA on your own, visit www.fafsa.ed.gov.

You can find the FAFSA:

-online at www.fafsa.ed.gov
-from your guidance counselor
-from a college financial aid office
-from a local public library
-from the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1/800-433-3243)

Follow these tips to prepare for FAFSA time:

Apply for a Department of Education PIN (Personal Identification Number) for you and your parent at www.pin.ed.gov. It will serve as your electronic signature when you file the FAFSA electronically.
Apply for admission before you complete the FAFSA. Colleges only send award letters to students they have accepted for admission.
Complete your tax return before you complete the FAFSA -- and keep a copy. You don't have to file your taxes before April 15, but actual tax figures are ideal. If you get in a pinch, last year's tax figures are usually better than W-2 figures or guessing.
You can include up to six colleges on the FAFSA. If you're not sure which school you will attend, list all the colleges you applied to.
Watch your deadlines. Contact the colleges and ask for their FAFSA priority deadline.
Don't rule out a school because of cost. The financial aid packages offered by schools can vary widely. Compare loan amounts and out-of-pocket expenses before making a decision.
Continue to apply for scholarships. Use free resources to find scholarships including your guidance counselor and ScholarshipQuest at www.educationquest.org.

SCAM ALERT from the Information for Financial Aid Professionals
The Department of Education is not offering grants by telephone!

It was brought to our attention recently that someone claiming to be a representative of the U.S. Department of Education (ED) is calling students, offering them grants, and asking for their bank account numbers so a processing fee can be charged. Specifically, the caller tells the student he understands the student has federal student loans and offers to replace the loans with an $8,000 grant. The caller explains that a processing fee must be charged and obtains the student's checking account information.

We urge you to remind your students that there is no ED program to replace loans with grants and that there is no processing fee to obtain Title IV grants from ED. Furthermore, students should never provide their bank account or credit card information over the phone unless they initiated the call and trust the company they are calling.

We recommend that you immediately e-mail or otherwise contact your current and incoming students to warn them about this scam. A student who is a victim of this or a similar scam should take the following steps: 1. Immediately contact his or her bank, explain the situation, and request that the bank monitor or close the compromised account. 2. Report the fraud to ED's Office of Inspector General hotline at 1-800-MIS-USED (1-800-647-8733) or oig.hotline@ed.gov. Special agents in the Office of Inspector General investigate fraud involving federal education dollars. 3. Report the fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC has an online complaint form at www.ftc.gov/scholarshipscams and a hotline at 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357; teletype for the hearing impaired: 1-866-653-4261). The FTC will investigate if the fraud is deemed widespread; therefore, it is important that every student contacted by the person or people in question lodge a complaint so the FTC has an accurate idea of how many incidents have occurred. 4. Notify the police about the incident. Impersonating a federal officer is a crime, as is identity theft.

When filing complaints, the student should provide detailed information about the incident, including what was said, the name of the person who called, and from what number the call originated (if the student was able to obtain it via Caller ID). Additionally, if unauthorized debits have already appeared against the student's bank account, the student should mention this fact in his or her complaint. Records of such debits could be useful in locating the wrongdoer.

For information about identity theft prevention, you and your students may visit <www.ed.gov/misused>. For information about preventing financial aid scams, visit <www.studentaid.ed.gov/lsa>.

ACTs News You Can Use - November 2004

In this issue:
1. Most high school grads not ready for college or work
2. Test prep help from "Charlotte's Web" author?
3. Top 10 college application mistakes
4. Using your EXPLORE, PLAN and ACT scores
5. Get the facts about paying for college
6. Spanish resources
7. Test date reminder

MOST HIGH SCHOOL GRADS NOT READY FOR COLLEGE OR WORK

On the day you receive your high school diploma, you may believe that you're ready for college or the workplace. A new report from ACT says you may not be as ready as you think.

ACT's report, titled A Crisis at the Core: Preparing All Students for College and Work, finds that only 22 percent of the graduates in 2004 who took the ACT had the skills to succeed in all three college-level academic areas of English, math and science. Only 26 percent of ACT-tested high school graduates had scores indicating that they are ready to earn a "C" or higher in their first college biology course, and only 40 percent had scores indicating that they are ready to earn a "C" or higher in their first college algebra course.

Graduates aren't just struggling in college. Many who plan to go more directly into the workplace after graduation find that they struggle with job training programs, too. ACT's report points to recent research that indicates about 85 percent of all jobs are now classified as "skilled," meaning that you will need some education and training beyond high school. The skills you need for college are increasingly the same skills you need for job training.

What's the answer?

Take high school coursework more seriously, and recognize the need to take high-level courses, particularly in math and science. These courses not only prepare you for college, but also for well-paying careers.

ACT's research shows that certain courses such as biology, chemistry, physics and advanced math courses beyond Algebra II have a strong impact on student performance and college readiness. ACT refers to these as Courses for Success.

The benefit of taking these courses can be seen in the ACT test scores for the national class of 2004. Students who took trigonometry in addition to Algebra I, Algebra II and geometry scored 2.6 points higher on the ACT Mathematics Test. Similar gains were seen on the ACT Science Test for students who took physics in addition to biology and chemistry.

Those who took trigonometry and another advanced math course scored even higher - as much as 4.4 points higher over those who only took Algebra I, Algebra II and geometry. Score increases were seen for both men and women and for people of all races. The ACT Assessment is scored on a 1 to 36 point scale.

Another reason to take higher-level courses and study hard is financial- higher achievement and test scores help you qualify for more college scholarship opportunities.

TEST PREP HELP FROM "CHARLOTTE'S WEB" AUTHOR?

Many students are familiar with the children's book "Charlotte's Web," written by E.B. White. But did you know that White also co-authored "The Elements of Style," a popular book on composition, usage and style that writing instructors have recommended to students for years?

High School students in St. Joseph, Mo., learned about the book from Laura Nelson, an English teacher who had them memorize 20 rules of usage and composition published in the front of the book. The purpose of the exercise was to work on memorization skills. As the students learned the rules and Nelson had them apply the rules to their writing, the students began seeing an increase in their ACT English scores.

"A student came up to me and said, `I know why you made us memorize the rules. They connect directly to the ACT English Test,'" Nelson explains. "I began to see the connections between these principles and the ACT English Test. The test is asking students about the elements of good writing."

Honors and non-honors students alike have seen increases in their ACT English scores after learning and applying the rules from "The Elements of Style," some by 4 or 5 points. Nelson explains that the book provides students with the essentials of writing and makes the rules manageable. But just learning the rules isn't enough. Students need to work with the rules and apply them to their writing.

The best preparation for the ACT is working hard in your classes and acquiring the knowledge and skills in math, reading, science and English. By learning the foundations of English usage and composition through "The Elements of Style," the students in St. Joseph are doing just that.

TEST DATE REMINDER

The next nationwide ACT testing date is Dec. 11. The regular registration deadline is Nov. 5 and the late registration deadline is Nov. 18. Online registration is available at http://www.actstudent.org/regist/index.html. If you choose to register online, register early to avoid heavy Web traffic and delays.

Don't forget to check out the ACT website and take advantage of test prep aids, including free sample test questions at http://www.actstudent.org/testprep/.

The website also gives you test day tips, a list of items to bring to the test and details on what type of calculator you can use on the Math Test.

For all your ACT Assessment questions, visit www.actstudent.org.

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TOP 10 COLLEGE APPLICATION MISTAKES

Senior year is hectic, but don't let the frenzy affect the quality of your college applications. Take your time, pay attention to detail and plan ahead so you can meet the deadlines.

Following are some of the top responses from counselors and admissions staff who shared the most common mistakes on college applications.

1. Misspellings - This is a big pet peeve of admissions people. If you misspell on something as important as the application, it shows that either you don't care or you aren't good at spelling. Some students even misspell their intended major.

2. Grammatical errors - It isn't good enough to just spell check. Proofread for grammatical errors.

3. Forgotten signatures - Make sure you sign and date the form. Often students overlook it if it's on the back of the form. Make sure all spaces are completed.

4. County vs. Country? Read carefully. If the form asks what County you live in, the United States should not be the answer.

5. Listing extracurricular activities that aren't - Those that make the list include sports, the arts, formal organizations and volunteer work. Talking on the phone and hanging out with friends don't make the cut. 6. Not telling your counselor where you've applied - Let your counselor know which colleges you're applying to, and ask to review your high school transcript before it's sent to colleges. Sometimes transcripts have errors.

7. Writing illegibly - First impressions count, so take your time and use your best handwriting. It will make a better impression.

8. Using an e-mail address that friends might laugh about, but colleges won't - Select a professional e-mail address. Keep your fun address for friends, but select an address using your name for college admissions.

9. Not checking your e-mail regularly - If you've given an e-mail address, the college will use it. You don't want to miss out on anything because you didn't read your e-mail.

10. Letting Mom or Dad help you fill out your application - Admissions people know if your parents help, whether you have two different styles of handwriting or if your admissions essay sounds more like a 45-year-old than a 17-year-old. It's fine to get advice, but do the work yourself.

USING YOUR EXPLORE, PLAN AND ACT TEST SCORES

Each of these programs include a test with four parts - English, math, science and reading, and they each offer an interest inventory students complete. The inventory leads to career information for students based on their interests, abilities and work preferences.

You can use the test scores to find out how well you know the subject matter and what you need to learn next. This will help you prepare for college and do better on the ACT.

But here's the best-kept secret. When you get your EXPLORE results, you will get a predicted score range for PLAN. This predicted score range assumes that you will take additional coursework and have some academic growth. The same thing goes for the PLAN results. You will get a predicted ACT Assessment score range on your PLAN report, again, assuming academic growth. (The EXPLORE scores, however, do not predict ACT scores. There's just too much of a spread in the content level and the expected amount of learning between the tests.)

Don't let the counselor and admissions officers be the only ones who use your score information.

GET THE FACTS ABOUT PAYING FOR COLLEGE

One of the most challenging and frightening parts of planning for college is paying for it. But it doesn't have to be.

The best way to make something less frightening is to gather information from a reputable source. The federal Department of Education's website, Student Aid on the Web, can do just that. At www.studentaid.ed.gov, students can find information on the entire federal student aid process, including information on the federal aid programs, tax credits, student and parent repayment options and links to private scholarship sites, as well as the online free application for federal student aid (the FAFSA). The website also provides other general college planning information.

ACT WEBSITE OFFERS COLLEGE-PLANNING RESOURCES IN SPANISH

Spanish-speaking families can find information on ACT's website in Spanish that will help them plan for college and careers.

ACT's Spanish website includes:
- a checklist of what to do to prepare for college
- advice for parents about how to help their children through the
college-planning process
- information for students who are the first in their family to attend college
- helpful information about the ACT test and other programs

A link to the website can be found on ACT's homepage (www.act.org) or you can go to it directly at www.act.org/path/spanish

U of I and ICN Bring the College Campus to the Student

Autumn brings high school seniors trekking to college campuses for admission visits and college recruiters visiting high schools. However, one state university uses the Iowa Communications Network (ICN) to make their college admission process more convenient for Iowa teens.

The University of Iowa (UI) takes its message via the ICN to those students who may not be able to personally visit the campus early in the school year. The Hawkeye/Iowa Communications Network High School Visit Program started three years ago with approximately 15 pilot schools selected from western Iowa. The program has grown with over 80 high schools planning to participate in the broadcast-quality, full-motion video visits this fall.

"This program provides live, interactive access to Iowa high school students about the University of Iowa and what it has to offer, which they might not otherwise have the opportunity to receive," says UI Director of Admission Michael Barron. Likewise the university is able to reach students simultaneously at multiple high schools in the hour-long ICN sessions.

Gathering in their respective high school ICN rooms for the Hawkeye High School Visit, students receive a welcome from Barron, watch a multimedia show about the Iowa campus, and receive additional information such as admission requirements, financial aid, and scholarships. There is also a UI student panel that interacts with the high school students.

Traditionally Iowa colleges and universities schedule a specific time in a high school guidance office to visit with students who may be interested in that particular college. A college admission counselor may visit several high schools in one day and see several students or see no students. Scheduling conflicts often cause high school students to miss college admission counselors' visits or not be able to visit a college campus as early as desired.

(continued from left column)
Barron says the Hawkeye ICN High School Visit Program is a great tool to introduce the student initially to UI and provides a tremendous service to Iowa's students. "We have the ability to get information to students without their making an expensive trip to Iowa City first." The university would still like the student to visit the Iowa City campus, but Barron says the ICN high school visits are the next best thing to an in-person visit.

Shenandoah High School is four and a half hours from Iowa City and one of the schools that has participated in the program for three years. Shenandoah guidance counselor John Davis says his students have responded positively to the program.

"I think the biggest benefit is the number and variety of people The University of Iowa can bring into the presentation. I have found college representatives to be very well-versed and very good communicators, but it makes a big difference when you can actually have key staff on the screen to talk about their program and answer questions."

Davis, also president of the Iowa School Counselors Association, says many smaller high schools are losing contact with some colleges because tighter college budgets mean less money for travel. So he sees a big benefit from a program