Departments

Counseling Department

Career and College Planning

There is a wealth of information available for career and college planning. Much of it is free and interactive. For starters, contact your College and Career Advisor:

Each career center Web site is updated monthly and includes dates of upcoming visits by college admissions officers, military recruiters, business representatives, as well as details on scholarships and financial aid. Be sure to also go to our Useful Student Links section on our school system Web site for links to other helpful resources.

Almost every four-year college and university in the country requires standardized test scores. Most will accept either the ACT or the SAT. The two tests differ in some important ways, so take the free practice tests to figure out which one best shows your strengths. Go to www.actstudent.org and www.collegeboard.com, following the links to Test Prep.

Don't wait until your senior year to take the ACT and/or SAT tests for the first time, as most colleges purchase the mailing lists of juniors taking the tests and market directly to them. Waiting until you are a senior means you might miss out on literature and special offers, such as a waiver of the application fee.

Trade associations often offer apprenticeships for high school graduates. For mechanical trades, such as HVAC, plumbing and steamfitters, contact the U.A. Mechanical Trades Schools at (301) 341-1555. You can also contact the unions representing the various trades for a listing of training opportunities.

Not sure of your career interests? Try the free interest inventory at http://www.iccweb.com/perfect_career.htm.

For questions regarding the Guidance program, please contact Jeanette Kaufmann at (301) 934-7314