SMART Goals Part II Ms. M. Mack May 21, 2009 Chemistry I and Physical Science

Let’s Review! What does the acronym S.M.A.R.T. stand for? Can anyone explain what SMART goals are?

List of Schools Make a list of 3-5 schools of interest. Make a list of 1-3 majors that you would like to pursue. Are you certain that you are interested in this area of study? Are you aware of its demands and challenges as well as benefits and contributions to society?

Admissions Requirements Each school has a set of admissions requirements that include, but are not limited to the following:  High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED)  Minimum GPA (usually 2.5 or higher)  Minimum standardized test scores: CPT, ACT, SAT  Volunteer Hours  Extra-curricular and community involvement.

Where do I stand? Compile a list of the requirements listed on the previous slide  My GPA is __________.  My standardized scores are _______.  I have ________ volunteer hours.  I participate in the following activities:_____  My anticipated graduation year is ______.

Choosing a Major Choosing a major can be an arduous task, especially when you are interested in more than one field of study. Some students decide to major and minor It is very important to choose wisely when selecting a major. Although it can be changed, it is not the most favorable to graduate and professional schools to see that a students has changed majors multiple times. They want to see that you know what you want and that you can stick to it!

Major My anticipated major will be: ________ If you have not yet decided, be honest with yourself! This plan must be SMART and you should choose “undecided” until you have reached a decision. Plan to attend college fairs and seminars held in the spring of your senior year to get some ideas. Request brochures from your schools of interest!

Questions?

How will I pay for college? The federal government allots financial assistance to students in both undergraduate and graduate/professional programs There are 3 main types of financial aid. Can you name them?

Types of Financial Aid Scholarships  “Free” money often granted for academic achievement or social affiliation.  You often have to apply for scholarships and complete essays, but this money DOES NOT have to be paid back upon graduation.

Types of Financial Aid Grants  “Free” money, often provided through the federal government or through organizations.  This money DOES NOT have to be paid back. Loans  Subsidized  Unsubsidized  Must be paid back

More on Loans Subsidized Loans The federal government will pay the interest on the loan while you are in school. The loan must begin payment following graduation after your grace period ends (usually 6 months) Unsubsidized Loans You must pay the interest on these loans as you go Usually arranged in easy monthly installments

Financial Aid Tips Apply early! Get as few loans as possible! SAVE money when you can! Live on a manageable budget.

How do I apply for financial aid?

Information for my FAFSA General Background Information 2010 Tax Return-both you and your parent Plans to stay on-campus or off-campus Electronic pin- stands as a signature. Please visit the pin site:

Personal Statement Each college application will be accompanied by the following: Application fee Essays Writing a generic personal statement will help you gather the information you need in order to successfully complete any essay on any topic

Assignment Purchase a folder (with pockets) and fill it with loose leaf paper. On the outside, put the title: “S.M.A.R.T. Goals” Transfer the activities we do to your notebook Next week: We will devise a timeline!

Questions to answer by Who am I? 2. Why do I want to go to college? 3. What is my future goal? 4. Why do I want to work in this particular field? 5. What have I been doing to prepare myself to work in this area of study? 6. What challenges in life have made me stronger? 7. What do I value the most? 8. If I have academic struggles, what will I do?