1. Identify the Real Cost of Attendance. Many families make the mistake of stopping at the tuition figure when considering whether a school is affordable. By federal law, schools are obligated to provide prospective students with an overall "cost of attendance" or COA. However, many schools low-ball these numbers and others only reveal this estimate when asked, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Remember to factor in additional expenses, such as student activity fees, lab fees, health clinic fees, gym fees and technology fees. There's also room and board, textbooks and school supplies, health insurance and transportation expenses that may apply.
The location of the school also plays a big role in the amount you'll need to shell out over the course of a year -- or a college career.To get an idea of a school's COA, check out the federal government's College Opportunities Online Locator. Of course, for the most accurate and up-to-date information, simply call the school's admissions office and ask.
2. Avoid Wasting Your Money. There are a number of traps that can cause college students and their families to lose money. The most poignant: college dropouts. Only one in five students enrolled in two-year institutions graduate within three years.
Meanwhile, only two out of five students at four-year schools get their degrees within six years, according to a recent survey by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Today, some states like Tennessee are seeing college dropout rates as high as 55 percent. Out of every 100 college freshmen in the state, only 45 will have a degree by age 26.There's rising evidence that economic stress is an influencing motivator of college dropouts. According to the Gates survey, 71 percent of college dropouts cited job as a factor.
In addition, 60 percent of college dropouts were getting no financial aid from their parents or relatives. Failed courses are another common financial setback. Experts like Kevin Carey, policy director at the Education Sector in Washington, believe colleges in general aren’t effectively getting students to graduate, as noted in a recent Time magazine article. Harvard tops the charts as the school with the highest graduation rate (98 percent). However, Carey emphasizes that the student is just as accountable as the school. Bottom line: Attend college if you're financially and emotionally ready for it and can recognize the value in the investment.
3. Ways to Raise Extra Funds. Fortunately, there are ways to combat rising education costs. You can start by tackling financial aid and scholarship applications, and knowing about tuition-related tax breaks, to name a few. Take a look at U.S. News & World Report's 10 Steps to Raise $15K or More for College Now for more information.
Also check out SmartMoney's 10 Things Financial Aid Offices Won’t Say to get on an edge on the competition for aid and scholarships. Indeed, there are secrets to landing a more desirable financial aid package. Hint: Families should submit their financial information as soon as they can after Jan. 1, preceding the student's freshman year, to maximize their opportunities. So what are you waiting for?
By Renee DeFranco
Thursday, January 28, 2010
FAFSA 2010!
FAFSA 2010 was a great success many students on our campus completed and submited their FAFSA! Our FAFSA month culminated with a community event on Jan 27th! Thanks to all that participated! We are still available to assists those who still need to complete their FAFSA!
Mr. Zombro answer Galia & her Dad's questions!
Counselor Sampley assists Steven & his family complete his FAFSA!Wednesday, January 27, 2010
FAFSA Wednesday!!
Hey Hey! Today is the day! FAFSA WEDNESDAY!
Stop by the College & Career Center between 12 - 6 to get help with your FAFSA.
Friday, January 15, 2010
South Sound College Fair!
Hey Juniors, Sophmores & Freshman!
Get info about post high school possiblities at the South Sound College Fair January 30, 2010 10 ~ 2! It will be held at the UW ~ Tacoma Campus 1900 Commerce St. Tacoma Wa. The following schools will be there:
Art Institute, Bates Technical College, Brandman University, Central Washingon University, City University, Clover Park technical, Eastern Washington, The Evergreen State College, FIDM, Northwest University, Olympic College, Pacific Lutheran University, Pierce College, Saint Martins University, South Puget Sound Community College, Tacoma Community College, University of Puget Sound, UW ~ Bothell, UW ~ Seattle, UW ~ Tacoma, Washington State University, Western Washington University......more are being added as you read this!
Get info about post high school possiblities at the South Sound College Fair January 30, 2010 10 ~ 2! It will be held at the UW ~ Tacoma Campus 1900 Commerce St. Tacoma Wa. The following schools will be there:
Art Institute, Bates Technical College, Brandman University, Central Washingon University, City University, Clover Park technical, Eastern Washington, The Evergreen State College, FIDM, Northwest University, Olympic College, Pacific Lutheran University, Pierce College, Saint Martins University, South Puget Sound Community College, Tacoma Community College, University of Puget Sound, UW ~ Bothell, UW ~ Seattle, UW ~ Tacoma, Washington State University, Western Washington University......more are being added as you read this!
Martin Luther King Day Activities!
There are few activities that you can participate in and they don't cost a thing! Please see below:
MLK Celebration Rally & March
Monday, January 18, 2010 11:00 am - : am
Rally at 11am
March to the Federal Building at 12pm
Short rally at the Federal Building
Refreshments at Garfield 1:45pm
All events are FREE!
Center House at Seattle Center on Monday, Jan. 18, 12 noon - 5 p.m.
To celebrate the dream of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. promote the principles of peace, unity and equality; provide opportunity for all citizens of Seattle to remember the dream and vision of MLK; and honor the citizens who are energizing the MLK dream in their communities.
Program Highlights
12:00 p.m. Welcome by Debrena Jackson-Gandy, Emcee
12:05 p.m. Performance by the Chinese Arts & Music Association Youth Orchestra
12:25 p.m. Performance by Evergreen Glee Club
12:40 p.m. National Anthem led by Evergreen Glee Club
12:45 p.m. Black National Anthem performed by the EriAm Sisters
12:50 p.m. Dramatic Reading of Dr. King's I Have a Dream speech, by Marcel Davis
1:10 p.m. Vocal performance by EriAm Sisters
1:20 p.m. Welcome by Seattle Center Director Robert Nellams &Introduction of Mayor Mike McGinn
1:30 p.m. Presentation of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace Awards led byEvan Fowler, 2009 Peace Award NomineePresentation of the MLK Seattle Youth Violence Prevention Awards led by Mariko Lockhart, Seattle Youth Violence Prevention Initiative
1:45 p.m. Multicultural dance performance by Kentridge Multi-Cultural Club/Kentridge High School
2:00 p.m. Legacy of Leadership Student Discussion Panel led by Eddie Moore, Jr.
2:30 p.m. Spoken word and Hip Hop by Power of Hope
2:45 p.m. Performance by MusicianCorps, part of Seattle/Arts Corps
3:00 p.m. Revolutionary Forum - performances presented by theCentral District Forum for Arts & Ideas:Classical guitar and dance duet, Sean Hopps and Diana Garcia-Snyder A cappella women's ensemble, Sankofa Sings Spoken word by Roberto Ascalon, Ela Barton, Yonnas Getahun
3:45 p.m. Northwest Tap Connection
4:00 p.m. Total Experience Gospel ChoirThe Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Celebration is presented by Seattle Center Productions in partnership with the Seattle Youth Violence Prevention Initiative and Central District Forum for Arts & Ideas. For more information on this and other Seattle Center events and activities, visit seattlecenter.com or call 206-684-7200.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
When it rains it pours.....scholarship list #7
Scholarship 2009-2010
List #7
NOTE: The scholarships listed are intended for SENIORS ONLY; HOWEVER, sometimes a scholarship will be listed for students in other classes – they will be noted as such. Remember that all colleges have specific scholarships, so be sure to check with the financial Aid Office at the college of your choice. If you want information on these scholarships, see Mrs. Fichamba in the Career Center.
1) UWAB Scholarship
Seniors, plan to attend UW Seattle, 3.5 GPA
Amount: one year full tuition
Deadline: March 31, 2010
More Info: stop by the College & Career Center for an application or online at www.washington.edu/alumni/meet/groups/uwab/scholarships.html
2) Robert J. Handy (PEMCO foundation Scholarship) & WSSR – Foundation Scholarship
Senior
Amount: up to $1500
Deadline: March 9, 2010
More Info: visit www.wssra.org (username student password 2010)
3) Jessie Corner Dollars for Scholars
Senior
Amount: varies
Deadline: March 16, 2010
More Info: Stop by the College & Career Center
4) Outstanding Student Merit Award (MOSC)
Senior, must be a dependent of active duty or retired Air Force personnel residing in the local area
Amount: varies
Deadline: March 1, 2010
More Info: stop by the College & Career Center for an application
List #7
NOTE: The scholarships listed are intended for SENIORS ONLY; HOWEVER, sometimes a scholarship will be listed for students in other classes – they will be noted as such. Remember that all colleges have specific scholarships, so be sure to check with the financial Aid Office at the college of your choice. If you want information on these scholarships, see Mrs. Fichamba in the Career Center.
1) UWAB Scholarship
Seniors, plan to attend UW Seattle, 3.5 GPA
Amount: one year full tuition
Deadline: March 31, 2010
More Info: stop by the College & Career Center for an application or online at www.washington.edu/alumni/meet/groups/uwab/scholarships.html
2) Robert J. Handy (PEMCO foundation Scholarship) & WSSR – Foundation Scholarship
Senior
Amount: up to $1500
Deadline: March 9, 2010
More Info: visit www.wssra.org (username student password 2010)
3) Jessie Corner Dollars for Scholars
Senior
Amount: varies
Deadline: March 16, 2010
More Info: Stop by the College & Career Center
4) Outstanding Student Merit Award (MOSC)
Senior, must be a dependent of active duty or retired Air Force personnel residing in the local area
Amount: varies
Deadline: March 1, 2010
More Info: stop by the College & Career Center for an application
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Schoalrship list!
Scholarship 2009-2010
List #6
NOTE: The scholarships listed are intended for SENIORS ONLY; HOWEVER, sometimes a scholarship will be listed for students in other classes – they will be noted as such. Remember that all colleges have specific scholarships, so be sure to check with the financial Aid Office at the college of your choice. If you want information on these scholarships, see Mrs. Fichamba in the Career Center.
1) Washington State PTA
Seniors, financial need, leadership, academic performance
Amount: up to $2000
Deadline: March 1, 2010
More Info: stop by the College & Career Center for an application or www.wastatepta.org/programs/scholarship/index.html
2) BECU Foundation Scholarship
Senior, 3.0 GPA, member of BECU
Amount: $2500
Deadline: March 31, 2010
More Info: visit www.becu.org/schoalrship
3) WASA/PEMCO 21st Century Educator Scholarship
Senior, 3.0 GPA, plans to major in education
Amount: $4000
Deadline: March 15, 2010
More Info: Stop by the College & Career Center
4) Ken Watson TransEd Scholarship
Senior, planning to pursue a degree auto body collision, automotive technology, aviation maintenance, commercial driver training, computing technology, computer aided drafting and design, diesel and heavy equipment, engineering technology, network administration, network technology, Web media and Technology
Amount: One year tuition
Deadline: Feb. 1, 2010
More Info: this scholarship is provided through South Seattle Community College Foundation. Stop by the College & Career Center for an application.
List #6
NOTE: The scholarships listed are intended for SENIORS ONLY; HOWEVER, sometimes a scholarship will be listed for students in other classes – they will be noted as such. Remember that all colleges have specific scholarships, so be sure to check with the financial Aid Office at the college of your choice. If you want information on these scholarships, see Mrs. Fichamba in the Career Center.
1) Washington State PTA
Seniors, financial need, leadership, academic performance
Amount: up to $2000
Deadline: March 1, 2010
More Info: stop by the College & Career Center for an application or www.wastatepta.org/programs/scholarship/index.html
2) BECU Foundation Scholarship
Senior, 3.0 GPA, member of BECU
Amount: $2500
Deadline: March 31, 2010
More Info: visit www.becu.org/schoalrship
3) WASA/PEMCO 21st Century Educator Scholarship
Senior, 3.0 GPA, plans to major in education
Amount: $4000
Deadline: March 15, 2010
More Info: Stop by the College & Career Center
4) Ken Watson TransEd Scholarship
Senior, planning to pursue a degree auto body collision, automotive technology, aviation maintenance, commercial driver training, computing technology, computer aided drafting and design, diesel and heavy equipment, engineering technology, network administration, network technology, Web media and Technology
Amount: One year tuition
Deadline: Feb. 1, 2010
More Info: this scholarship is provided through South Seattle Community College Foundation. Stop by the College & Career Center for an application.
AAA students visit Western!
Future Vikings!!
Amanda, Frank, Dalila, Jenny, Sidney & Chengley
Heading to check out a dorm!
We had to duck for cover the whole day....major rain and wind!!!
Chatting with William a Junior @ Western!Make $30 an hour without a 4year degree!
Thea Nyberg
PayScale.com
For job seekers without a four-year degree, breaking the $25-an-hour barrier can be a challenge. But with more technical certification and associates degree programs than ever, many well-paying career options are accessible in a broad range of industries. The following is a list of lucrative careers for those without a four-year degree, presented with median annual salary data from PayScale.com. That figure is then broken down to an hourly rate by dividing by 2080, the typical number of working hours in a year, according to PayScale.
1. Sales director "If you are interested in a career change, but do not want to commit to further education, consider a sales career," says Sharon Reed Abboud, the author of "All Moms Work, Short-Term Career Strategies for Long-Range Success." Sales directors oversee sales staff to help meet objectives, plan and implement sales programs, and work to maintain budgets, among many other duties. While formal training is not a requirement for this position, sales experience and an outgoing personality are vital, according to Abboud. "Successful sales persons can often have the opportunity to climb the career ladder to increasingly lucrative management positions," she explains. Sales director: $91,900/ $44 per hour
2. Security administrators, computer network "As technology increases its reach, cyber crime is becoming a major concern for companies," says Debra Yergen, author of the "Creating Job Security Resource Guide." Security administrators work to prevent, troubleshoot, and repair security breaches while educating network users on cyber safety. Certification or relevant experience is essential to entry to this field, especially in absence of a four-year degree. Security administrators, computer network: $72,000/ $35 per hour
3. Elevator installer/repairer Elevator assembly, installation and maintenance are the main responsibilities of this position. Participating in an apprenticeship program coupled with paid on-the-job training is the standard, and workers must pass a licensing exam. Union membership is typically required by employers, and unions can help to ensure "an excellent salary, benefits, and pension," says Marky Stein, author of "Get a Great Job When You Don't Have a Job." Elevator installer/repairer: $67,100/ $32 per hour
4. Real estate broker Usually commission-based, real estate brokers' salaries are sensitive to shifts in the economy. Despite the current real estate market, Yergen predicts "resurgence in salary in 2010 with the extension of the housing tax credit." Brokers are tasked with understanding real estate markets, performing transactions, and advising buyers on their financing options. Additionally, real estate brokers must pass a written exam and maintain a license. Real estate broker: $65,400/ $31 per hour
5. Nuclear medicine technologist "Nuclear medicine technologists administer a type of drug called radiopharmaceuticals to patients and create diagnostic images that ultimately determine the presence of a disease," explains Yergen. With an increasingly large middle-aged and elderly population and advances in technology, job growth for nuclear medicine technologists is likely to remain steady. A certificate or an associate's degree is needed, and a license is a requirement for many employers and states. Nuclear medicine technologist: $64,100/ $31 per hour
6. Radiation therapist Administering radiation treatment to cancer patients is the main role of a radiation therapist. "As radiation therapists continue to be a critical part of the medical radiation oncology team, it will translate into an uptick of jobs," predicts Yergen. There is also room for personal advancement in this field, with opportunities that include teaching and research. Training through an associate's degree or certification program is necessary, and a license is required in many states. Radiation therapist: $63,500 / $31 per hour
7. Construction manager Construction managers oversee the construction of structures, facilities, and systems, and are often on call around the clock. On-the-job construction experience and/or completing a construction management certification program provide entry to this position. Construction manager: $63,400/ $30 per hour
8. Air traffic controller "As an air traffic controller, your job will be dedicated to keeping the skies safe. It is a very demanding and rewarding occupation." says Abboud. Providing an essential role in aviation, air traffic controllers ensure that planes maintain a safe distance between each other and help to coordinate efficient scheduling. With most positions employed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), air traffic controllers must complete a FAA-approved education program and pass a pre-employment test. Air traffic controller: $63,000/ $30 per hour
9. Video game designer Video game designers create the storyline and structure of a video game and determine the rules of play. They typically need to possess an understanding of software design and computer programming, and a degree or certification from a technical school can provide an advantage. Although currently at a point of high popularity, video games tend to go through phases of increased and decreased popularity, cautions Yergen. Video game designer: $62,300/ $30 per hour
10. MRI technologist MRI technologists train in programs available through hospitals, colleges and universities to earn a certificate or associates degree. With more doctors' offices and clinics providing diagnostic services, demand is higher than ever, says Yergen. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), "Health care will generate 3 million new wage and salary jobs between 2006 and 2016, more than any other industry." MRI technologist: $61,000/ $29 per hour
Source: All salary data is from PayScale.com. The salaries listed are median, annual salaries for full-time workers with 5-9 years of experience and include any bonuses, commissions or profit sharing. Hourly rates are calculated by dividing the yearly salary by $2080. Based in Seattle, Thea Nyberg is a freelance writer and editor.
**Please note that even though these jobs do not require a "4 Year" degree, you will be required to have some sort of education beyond high school. These would include, Apprenticeships, Community College degree, Technical College and on the job training etc.
PayScale.com
For job seekers without a four-year degree, breaking the $25-an-hour barrier can be a challenge. But with more technical certification and associates degree programs than ever, many well-paying career options are accessible in a broad range of industries. The following is a list of lucrative careers for those without a four-year degree, presented with median annual salary data from PayScale.com. That figure is then broken down to an hourly rate by dividing by 2080, the typical number of working hours in a year, according to PayScale.
1. Sales director "If you are interested in a career change, but do not want to commit to further education, consider a sales career," says Sharon Reed Abboud, the author of "All Moms Work, Short-Term Career Strategies for Long-Range Success." Sales directors oversee sales staff to help meet objectives, plan and implement sales programs, and work to maintain budgets, among many other duties. While formal training is not a requirement for this position, sales experience and an outgoing personality are vital, according to Abboud. "Successful sales persons can often have the opportunity to climb the career ladder to increasingly lucrative management positions," she explains. Sales director: $91,900/ $44 per hour
2. Security administrators, computer network "As technology increases its reach, cyber crime is becoming a major concern for companies," says Debra Yergen, author of the "Creating Job Security Resource Guide." Security administrators work to prevent, troubleshoot, and repair security breaches while educating network users on cyber safety. Certification or relevant experience is essential to entry to this field, especially in absence of a four-year degree. Security administrators, computer network: $72,000/ $35 per hour
3. Elevator installer/repairer Elevator assembly, installation and maintenance are the main responsibilities of this position. Participating in an apprenticeship program coupled with paid on-the-job training is the standard, and workers must pass a licensing exam. Union membership is typically required by employers, and unions can help to ensure "an excellent salary, benefits, and pension," says Marky Stein, author of "Get a Great Job When You Don't Have a Job." Elevator installer/repairer: $67,100/ $32 per hour
4. Real estate broker Usually commission-based, real estate brokers' salaries are sensitive to shifts in the economy. Despite the current real estate market, Yergen predicts "resurgence in salary in 2010 with the extension of the housing tax credit." Brokers are tasked with understanding real estate markets, performing transactions, and advising buyers on their financing options. Additionally, real estate brokers must pass a written exam and maintain a license. Real estate broker: $65,400/ $31 per hour
5. Nuclear medicine technologist "Nuclear medicine technologists administer a type of drug called radiopharmaceuticals to patients and create diagnostic images that ultimately determine the presence of a disease," explains Yergen. With an increasingly large middle-aged and elderly population and advances in technology, job growth for nuclear medicine technologists is likely to remain steady. A certificate or an associate's degree is needed, and a license is a requirement for many employers and states. Nuclear medicine technologist: $64,100/ $31 per hour
6. Radiation therapist Administering radiation treatment to cancer patients is the main role of a radiation therapist. "As radiation therapists continue to be a critical part of the medical radiation oncology team, it will translate into an uptick of jobs," predicts Yergen. There is also room for personal advancement in this field, with opportunities that include teaching and research. Training through an associate's degree or certification program is necessary, and a license is required in many states. Radiation therapist: $63,500 / $31 per hour
7. Construction manager Construction managers oversee the construction of structures, facilities, and systems, and are often on call around the clock. On-the-job construction experience and/or completing a construction management certification program provide entry to this position. Construction manager: $63,400/ $30 per hour
8. Air traffic controller "As an air traffic controller, your job will be dedicated to keeping the skies safe. It is a very demanding and rewarding occupation." says Abboud. Providing an essential role in aviation, air traffic controllers ensure that planes maintain a safe distance between each other and help to coordinate efficient scheduling. With most positions employed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), air traffic controllers must complete a FAA-approved education program and pass a pre-employment test. Air traffic controller: $63,000/ $30 per hour
9. Video game designer Video game designers create the storyline and structure of a video game and determine the rules of play. They typically need to possess an understanding of software design and computer programming, and a degree or certification from a technical school can provide an advantage. Although currently at a point of high popularity, video games tend to go through phases of increased and decreased popularity, cautions Yergen. Video game designer: $62,300/ $30 per hour
10. MRI technologist MRI technologists train in programs available through hospitals, colleges and universities to earn a certificate or associates degree. With more doctors' offices and clinics providing diagnostic services, demand is higher than ever, says Yergen. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), "Health care will generate 3 million new wage and salary jobs between 2006 and 2016, more than any other industry." MRI technologist: $61,000/ $29 per hour
Source: All salary data is from PayScale.com. The salaries listed are median, annual salaries for full-time workers with 5-9 years of experience and include any bonuses, commissions or profit sharing. Hourly rates are calculated by dividing the yearly salary by $2080. Based in Seattle, Thea Nyberg is a freelance writer and editor.
**Please note that even though these jobs do not require a "4 Year" degree, you will be required to have some sort of education beyond high school. These would include, Apprenticeships, Community College degree, Technical College and on the job training etc.
TEC students visit Western!
Amer, Nicolas, Cullen & Corey
In Red Square 
Our Campus Rep Natalie & her assistant Greg
Finding out the process of getting in to WWU!Go Vikings!!
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Congratulations to the following Seniors!
The following Seniors have already recieved acceptance letters from Colleges! Please Congratulate them when you see them:)
- Denise Alcaraz ~ Adelphi University New York
- Mahlet Assefa ~ University of Washington
- Leslie Diaz ~ Washington State University
- Van Anh Mac ~ Seattle Pacific University
Congratulations to all of you:)!
Seniors, if you have recived acceptance letters please share with us because we would love to celebrate your accomplishment!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
AAA visits SPU
Group photo before we head back to school!
Posing with our campus rep Jason!
They even experienced the SPU Squeak:)Former Wolverines visit Cascade!
Schanice Staples & Tony Vo took time out of their holiday vacation to visit Cascade to speak to 8th graders about their college experience. They also talked to them about what is important to think about and do while in high school. We certainly have some amazing alums! Thanks you two:)
Monday, January 4, 2010
Welcome Back!!!
Hey Wolverines welcome back from break! We hope you had a restful and enjoyable time! :)
Seniors!!! It is that time the FAFSA window is open!!! As most of you know Mr. Zombro and I will be in classes to help you complete your FAFSA! However you can begin that process now if you would like! Remember the sooner you complete the more money you will recieve for your post high school education! FAFSA is good for ANY post High School education btw! Stop by if you have any questions!
Seniors!!! It is that time the FAFSA window is open!!! As most of you know Mr. Zombro and I will be in classes to help you complete your FAFSA! However you can begin that process now if you would like! Remember the sooner you complete the more money you will recieve for your post high school education! FAFSA is good for ANY post High School education btw! Stop by if you have any questions!
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