The College Lady

The Storm AKA College Admissions 2020

2020-08-25T05:17:00.001-07:00

This morning, I should be determining what supplies we need to buy this morning before Hurricane Laura hits in the next 24 hours. Instead I decided it is a great time to reflect on College Admissions.

Yes I am very self aware and I believe that is why I am great at working with high school students (not to toot my own horn), I am a efficient procrastinator. Another post about this coming also!

As I started this summer working with the Class of 2021, I quickly realized everything that I knew about college admissions was not right. First it was test optional and then optional is optional. Everything kept shifting just like Hurricane Laura. If I was confused and have done this for 16 plus years, how could we expect an 17-18 year old to know all the intricacies of these new test optional policies. I could smell a storm brewing.

And now I watch as students at colleges all over the United States are sent home or revert to virtual college again. What is this storm in my world?

As Class of 2021 starts virtual college visits and determines which colleges they will apply to, I encourage you to gather your supplies. Yes like the bottle water I should be buying right now. As you are determining colleges to possibly attend, check out Super Match, Naviance and Big Future websites. Also look at the college's website, how are they handling COVID19? Gather your knowledge.

Next and most important, you need to sit down and determine what are your top 5 things you want from your college. What is your "Must have list"? Just like prepping for a storm, you need to know your top priorities. Use this list and check it off. You need to know your needs and wants. Take some time to think about it. Also recognize that there are so many factors in determining what college is your best fit. Give yourself time, grace and prep time.

Okay I have to go get some bottle waters and batteries and get ready. At the end of the day, prepping is the one thing I can do even if it is a tad late.

Circle of Control

2020-04-13T06:59:00.000-07:00

Before you start reading this and clicking on all the links, give yourself a pat on the back. Congratulations for continuing to show up, ask questions, process all the information and making things happen. <Insert a little confetti here. A confetti egg would be even better>

As I journaled this morning, I reflected on this week thinking through my circle of control (watch my video to understand this concept) and I realized it feels like I am drinking out of a fire hose of information right now. SO much information about college admissions, AP testing, next year planning to the actual information with COVID19.

What's the solution? Set boundaries, set time limits and commit to 1-2 information sources. Ask for help. Ask someone.

Check out these resources:

The College Board also has free classes every day, and a youtube channel.
The National Association for College Admission Counseling is keeping track of changes to college admissions procedures, deadlines, and requirements. This web page can be a good starting point, although things do change quickly, so it is always advisable to check with individual universities.
This article in USA Today has a helpful guide to strategies parents can use at home while their children are out of school.
Schoolclosures.org has a good list of resources for parents and teens to help with everything, from food to tutoring.
The College Board is considering ways to keep AP students on track and to administer AP tests online this year. The AP tests will be 45 minutes long, offered online, and can be taken at home. This page should be kept up-to-date.
Both the ACT and the SAT have canceled (or rescheduled) upcoming tests. You can keep track of the changes at these links:
- ACT: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/covid-19.html
- SAT: https://pages.collegeboard.org/natural-disasters
Many colleges have canceled college visits, but virtual fairs are replacing those, and you can see a reasonably up-to-date list at this link.
More colleges are going test-optional in response to this situation and all the uncertainty about standardized testing. Fairtest maintains an up-to-date list of such colleges.
Waitlist Infomation: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1yutywjaSj6IaE6EQF2HTkSBs5NHjJjFf4Z70xqy7-Lo/edit#gid=644955701

Resources for you

2020-03-20T09:45:00.000-07:00

Good day,
I will be posting resources for all in my Google Classroom-join!

How to Join
1. https://classroom.google.com/

2. Code: cc2zts6

Happy Learning!
-Chelette

Check In: How are you?

2020-03-20T09:03:00.000-07:00

This morning, I woke up to rain drops outside my window and first thought was indoor recess. I reflected on how the different stages of life determine my feelings about rainy days. As a child, I would be super frustrated because that meant not seeing my friends in other classes outside for 20 minutes. As an educator, I would be excited not to be on lunch duty in the heat and worry about the afternoon teachers along with my students that needed a place to release their energy. Today in the middle of the COVID19 pandemic, I felt all the emotions. So my challenge for you today is to check in with your people--yes all of your people. How are you? How are you mentally and physically? Use words, use art, use music....ask your people how are you and listen.

One thing I am determine to keep at the top of my agenda is people over process. Right now, there are no guidelines, no rules except social distancing. Check on your people!

2019 HSI Resources

2019-07-30T02:24:00.000-07:00

Check out the resources for my presentation today
1.Download Calendar for Outlook
Public Calendar Link
If the link doesn’t work, send me your email and I’ll add you.

2.Task Planner Document <Work in Progress for SY20>
3. Powerpoint https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dvVLHRe8jHX-m9q7olebkri8kBK5UDyP/view?usp=sharing
4. Calendly.com: Free Scheduling Link
5. https://www.instagram.com/hs2college/
Past Events: https://www.instagram.com/nc2college/
https://twitter.com/txcollegelady (Least active--sorry!)
https://www.facebook.com/TXCollegeLady/

6. Favorite Resources for Financial Literacy
Edquity.co
Uaspire.org

Varsity Blues Scandal and the Big Picture

2019-03-22T09:06:00.000-07:00

I maybe read too many articles and maybe listened to several videos/podcasts about the recent scandal before I posted anything. And here's the bad part, the worst part, I have always known that this existed. I also thought that other people knew how unfair the process is of college admissions. This is exactly what I started doing college counseling in 2007-fair is not a word in college counseling and this is my mission, my why.

Check out these recent postings:

Bribing Their Way Into College
New York Times Daily Podcast- Mar 14, 2019 (LISTEN)When a federal prosecutor revealed a $25 million scheme to seek an edge in college admissions for the children of celebrities, executives and other rich parents, he declared
Elite Colleges Constantly Tell Low-Income Students That They Do Not Belong
The Atlantic – Mar 19, 2019
Unwritten rules underlie all of elite-university life—and students who don’t come from a wealthy background have a hard time navigating them.
College Admissions: Vulnerable, Exploitable, and to Many Americans, Broken
New York Times – Mar 15, 2019
Standardized test scores are manufactured. Transcripts are made up. High-stakes admissions decisions are issued based on fabricated extracurricular activities, ghostwritten personal essays and the size of the check written by the parents of the applicant
Admissions Scandal Misses The Point That Many Students Can’t Afford College (Even If They Get In)
Forbes – Mar 14, 2019
While the wealthy are spending tens of thousands of dollars making sure their children are accepted to the elite university of their choice, millions of college students are at risk of dropping out because they can t afford $300 for books.
Will the college admissions scandal make the process more transparent?
Marketplace.org .org – Mar 14, 2019 (LISTEN)
Anxiety about getting into college has perhaps never been greater, and the college admissions scandal uncovered this week highlights just how unclear the admissions process is

Test Prep: All the things and FREE

2018-09-25T10:22:00.003-07:00

It's that time of the year! SAT Test and ACT Test and beloved PSAT Test!

SO what are you doing to prep for it? Yes this is not time to be an ostrich and bury your head-it is that to get super serious!

Check out these FREE test prep resources from Kaplun! Just do it now, you will thank me later!

Love
Texas College Lady

To take the SAT Essay or not

2018-09-05T08:06:00.001-07:00

Most common question this week is should I take the SAT with essay or not?

First and foremost, why would you not take it? The obvious it is an essay and we all hate writing. Yet it can only help you and it does not impact your total SAT scores. It can only help you. Period.

So does my college require it? Maybe. You need to do the research here: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/register/college-essay-policies

SAT deadlines for October are this week! So register as soon as possible so you do not have to pay a late fee.

Register here

Want to sign up for an SAT boot camp, message me now at texascollegelady@yahoo.com

New school year, New Naviance Student

2018-08-17T09:36:00.003-07:00

Congrats on another amazing school year! Congrats to all who have survived day 1 of new face, schedule changes and new systems.

As most know, I love Naviance. I cannot imagine my college counseling world without it. Yet just like everyone else, changes to my favorite thing sometimes scare me. So I decided to start writing blog posts to describe what tricks I have found and suggestions for each week. And last but not least, trust me, this new set up is amazing as soon as you get used to it. Also I am learning as I go, so ask away and I will do my very best. (And your Naviance consultant is still your best go to person for tech stuff. My post is just about implementing and surviving!)

First week of School stuff
1. Did you see the Naviance Student Prep List under the Naviance Network Help Section? The resources are amazing and eliminate you from creating all those 1 pagers on how to do things. Just go look already! You can just stop here if you want to but I plan on doing my weekly learning reflections here.

Things to do this week for 1st week of Naviance Student

1. Update your welcome page in Naviance to embed this video. Then go watch it. It is interactive and makes Naviance Student so easy to understand. To embed a video in your welcome message, just click Connections>Naviance Student>Customize Welcome message>add Welcome Message (Use Plain Text editor to copy the code into the box)
Best Practice: If a student has a question about where is, I will refer them back to this video. Again and again.

2. Share this ppt created by Naviance with staff and students to see the changes in Naviance. I would even use some slide for "video announcements" in classes. I plan on using this at our parent meetings also so everyone is aware of the resources right at their finger tips.

3. Share this document created by Naviance with your College Counselors and seminar teachers about how to perform tasks for students and "ghost" into accounts. This has been the biggest change with Naviance student and I completely understand it for ethical reasons. And of course there are work arounds, so here is your cheat sheets. Yes I printed it and put it my "Important Things to Know" Folder aka "Survival 2018-2019" folder

Go week 1...next week I will focus on Letters of Recommendation and the new Teacher desk.

Click what? College Counselor resources

2017-09-26T10:56:00.002-07:00

As I look through my inbox and my search history, I realize there are so many resources and some times I just get lost clicking away. As I start another school year, I wanted to start sharing out resources for Counselor and students. Right now I am buried in college lists and financial aid parent meeting planning, so these are top of my list. I also am a data junkie, so make sure you check on my link for "If I had more time". Yes another one day project! Back to being a warrior, not a worrier!

College List Resources

· There’s an app for that! Check out these awesome resources to help students learn more about college lists.

Financial Aid Resources

· Everything you need to know about Financial Aid: https://www.nacacnet.org/knowledge-center/financing-college/
· Upcoming Financial Aid Meeting: Need Financial Aid resources like handouts, power points, lessons plans, etc. Check out this very detailed website full of resources by a search button: https://financialaidtoolkit.ed.gov/tk/search
· uAspire Resource
· Mckinney Vento and Financial Aid Resource

ACT Test Prep

Check this out: https://resources.opened.com/okact/

If I had more time, I would:

This data is interesting, scary and motivating all at the same time. To see our Texas numbers compared to US, helps me see the bigger picture. Check it out:

My thoughts: Houston Floods 2017

2017-08-31T08:40:00.002-07:00

Here are the things I am thinking about or getting questions about: 

When people who work on a hourly basis get paid September 15th, they will be short 6 days on their paycheck. If you work paycheck to paycheck like most of America, then this is a real thing for you. Besides FEMA, is there a list of other places people can reach out for support?
SAT registration deadline for the October test is September 8th. Most of my kids have already used their fee waivers. Asking a family for $ for a test seems ridiculous. (Random fact: If you haven't used your 2 fee waivers, you can still register until the late registration deadline. (Yes I am always thinking about college access) )
How long does it take for families to get FEMA vouchers?
If you rented, what support systems are in place for you?
Where do people go to get resources if they are not in a shelter?
What can we set up for mid-September, October, November and ongoing to help families with resources-clothes, food and necessities? Is there a resource that captures this for all communities?

How are we creating sustainable systems for support? This question is burning in my heart and any resources are greatly appreciated. #houstonstrong #harvey #houstonfloods

Happy #ssd2017 eve!!

2017-05-16T19:32:00.004-07:00

Another year is almost in the books. Senior Signing Day 2017 is here! Students have practiced saying their colleges without screaming, practiced rolling out their pennants upside right and most of all have been reminded to have fun tomorrow at the #SSD2017 at the Toyota Center.

This is my 4th SSD and each ones holds a very special place in my heart. As I reflect with the Class of 2017, I remember when they came to me to start the NHS and their bright, motivated faces as they looked for summer programs in Ms. Lewis' class. As I think of their senior year, I have proudly watch as they submitted college applications and FAFSA/TAFSA/CSS Profiles all at the same time in the Fall. I admired each and every one of them as they rang the bell for the 1st or the 8th time. Every time it is special. And yes these are the moments I live for as a college counselor.

So tonight as I have the same nerves about will I wake up on time. I check my emails and texts one more time to make sure none of my seniors have a last minute dress code questions or where is Bell Street question. I remind myself this is their first and only Senior Signing Day. It is so special and I am forever thankful that I get to watch as we celebrate their first step after North Central to create their story.

If you can't make it tomorrow, you can watch it here:

https://livestream.com/accounts/13074933/SSD17

I like words that start with C...sort of

2017-01-08T19:22:00.002-08:00

I am noticing a trend. If somethings starts with a C, I usually like it. College-love. Cookies-love. Christmas-love. Cameras-love You see the trend too?
So when I saw the ad on my neighborhood page (also starts with CC) for free Cross fit for the month, I thought what the heck. My two favorite things-C and free. Fast forward to one week later, 5 classes completed and endless list of muscles that I can barely move. And I think I like it.

I am attending a 5 am class because it is the only one that works with my schedule at http://capelite.com/ Yes, I am in awe of their kindness and patience with me. This group of people are one of a kind. Anyone that gets up at 5 am on purpose has to be amazing in my opinion. Best memory so far is the day that the bungee cord took me flying across the room straight on my bottom and no one laughed out loud or made of me, I was sold.

Yes my gracefulness along with coordination are not my strengths. And if you know me, abbreviations are also my weakness. It took me all week to figure out what WOD and AMRAP stood for, drove me bonkers. What's next? I will just keep going, why not? What else would I do at 5 am that would be focusing on just me? Yes at first I felt guilt, should I be working on work things? Yet my goal this year is to be a little selfish with my time to focus on me. I am not sure I will ever be able to do a squat with a real barbell over my head without knocking myself out. I can't wait to see what this week has in store for me...can't imagine anything better than the bungee cord!

UIL Chess, a first for all of us

2016-12-08T19:03:00.001-08:00

Chess...yes Chess. Now this is something that I just can't understand no matter how many books I have read. And yes I have purchased a few, maybe 5. Even this one, Beat Dad in Chess There's no shame in my game, competition is a guiding force in my world.

So when Jaden picked up the game, Dad had to be the teacher and competitor. Every night, they play. It's their thing, their bond. Even though I want to be part of it, I just can't. Charleigh tries too yet we are not on their level.

Tonight, his persistence and passion paid off. Please note this was OUR first competitive activity that individual winners would be announced. This entire week, we talked about the importance of having fun and just doing your best. Heck we even had the elf in on this.

So tonight, I showed up at SCE to pick him up and saw the big white pieces of paper when 1-6 on them for each category. I shall not lie, my heart skipped a beat. My mind raced, do I just pick him up and tell him we can't stay to see who won. We do have to pick up Charleigh at dance which is a whole another post about Mommy Fails. (Thank you again J for coming to my rescue)

Some tidbits from our conversation before he found out the results:

**If I get 4th, 5th or 6th place, I will be so happy.

**If I don't place it is okay, I should of studied harder.

**I did have 1 en passant question, I know I got that one right.

**The ten minutes I read that new book you received last night might of helped.

**When she was reading the instructions, I prayed the entire time. God knows what is best if I don't place.

Sidenote: And the most important thing that happened during this 30 minute wait was the DSX (some type of gaming thing) was just laying on table. He watched it and then said "Mom, I need to go turn that into my principal because it is the right thing to do. I don't want that kid to lose it." Yes I watched with tears in my eyes as he walked it up to the principal. He came to that conclusion all on his own, heck the kid is pure golden.

As you can imagine at this point, I just want to grab his backpack and walk out. "Let's go get Charleigh and you can find out tomorrow." Heck I am already proud that he turned in the gaming thingy, the UIL Chess thing is just an extra. Also I am sure his teachers could say something magical if he doesn't win. I had every emotion from happy, angry, sad and worry just thinking about if he didn't win.

You will never believe what happens next, we were walking out and I noticed the lady was writing names again...on the Chess Sign Wall. My heart stopped completely. How will I handle this? What if he doesn't place? He is so sensitive, he is so smart. I am so competitive, where's John? He could handle this. So we stop in our tracks in front of the make shift concession stand. I now have those tears in my eyes, I can feel them. Then I see she is writing next to the #1...breathe now. "J" Heck, a J really. Almost every kid's name start with a J..."A D" Holy Moly...does that say 1. Jaden Stephenson

And then I look over and he has his hand over his mouth, pure sweet humble pride. He is surprised and shocked. And so proud. My kid, 1st place, UIL Chess, a 2nd grader with a mom who doesn't know a thing about Chess and a dad with the basic moves.

As we were checking him out, I wish I would have my wits, I would of videotaped this moment. His AP asked how did it go buddy? Jaden replied "I got 1st place in Chess, I am so proud." Heart melt and a moment saved in my heart forever.

He was so excited to call dad and tell him the awesome news and then of course face time Gigi, Auntie and Crazy Pat to share the excitement. Of course I let him read the facebook posts and he smiled. We then talked about would he get a ribbon, medal, maybe a trophy? "And you know mom I can keep that trophy because I earned it, it's not one of those participation ones that everyone gets." Jaden is already asking about when can he do it again...yes I am on the hunt for chess camps now and another book for me so maybe I can learn a few quick moves.

I am so thankful and proud of my little man. I also know what it means to love someone so much it hurts. Waiting to see how he did reminded me that these are the moments we live for. The reason why I do what I do. So proud and I am so excited to see what is next for you. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Now off to finish reading my book, How to be the best chess player in the school, volume 2.

NACAC 2016

2016-09-23T05:44:00.000-07:00

Today I hit one of my professional goals, kind of.
I have been attending NACAC for years and dreamed of being a presenter at the event. Yet my real life got in the way and I had to make a hard choice.
So I chose to not present and keep a prior commitment. And I am blessed to have amazing colleagues who I have learned from and who will present for me. Thanks Bobby!

Here is my presentation with notes! NACAC 2016

#NSI2016

2016-07-20T08:17:00.000-07:00

Wednesday

Today I have the opportunity to present at #NSI2016 about the Fall Semester program that Yes Prep North Central developed. Shout out to Andria Robinette for the development of the College Material project.

Resources

Leadership Values Worksheet
Presentation
Identifier Words Video

Decide already

2016-05-08T19:55:00.001-07:00

It is that time of the year...time to decide what is next. I feel the stress as soon as I ask a question to a senior. No matter if they have known since they were 5 that they were going to a specific college, all the "what if" questions start pouring in.

Yes it is scary and yes it is exciting but this is what you have spent the last 12-13 years prepping for. This day, this decision day. So you have the brains in your heads and you have a support group, just decide already. And run with it. And as I would tell you, do it well. It is your path and only you can decide how great it is going to be!

Happy May Seniors!

TACAC Resources

2016-04-28T19:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all who came to our TACAC session about "I am College Material".

Here is a copy of our presentation
And here is the book that my counseling practice is based on, Ready, Willing and Able

Also, check out Solution focus counseling techniques.

Last but not least, please just reach out to me if you need or guidance. I love helping other help students!

Follow Yes Prep North Central @nc2college

NSI 2015 Resources

2015-07-08T08:47:00.001-07:00

My Daily Planner Guide
Check In Document
College Ready and College Eligible Skills
Solution Focus Therapy Resources

Follow me at @TXCollegeLady on Twitter/IG

Loans: How much is too much?

2015-04-13T10:41:00.001-07:00

The Class of 2015 and their families are in the middle of looking at financial aid letters, a four letter word that causes a lot of stress and anxiety for most. As like every other person who is confused about something, I googled some answers to the question "how much is too much for student loans?" After combing through the various websites and opinions about taking out loans, I realized I was still in the same boat as the seniors today sitting across from my desk. If only it was as simple as a yes or no.

The reality is Seniors and their families need to make an educated decision about the different about types of loans along with how much. Repeat after me...educated. There is not a magic formula or the "right: amount to take out. College is an investment.

Check out these awesome resources I found:

1.Repayment Estimator Taking the information from your financial aid award letter, you can
use this tool as an estimator of your repayment options. Also, you can research various types of repayment methods.

2. Mapping your Future

How much you can afford to borrow in student loan funds based on your future expected earnings.

The salary you will need in order to afford your student loan payments.

3. Student Loan Borrowers Assistance Save this resource for a future date...so much useful information all in 1
place.

Let me know which resource you find most useful. Also if you need additional help/guidance, feel free to reach out to me!

Just Life Tips Wednesday

2014-11-19T06:51:00.003-08:00

Everything is going so quickly...almost too quickly! Just a few little things I have found this week that have added some joy and extra time to my life! Enjoy and share please!

1. #Alumni: Pay down student loans with Gradible: Gradible is a free platform that provides you with a diverse group of easy to use products to help you pay down your student loans faster and easier. We are committed to reducing the impact that student loan debt has on our graduates and economy, and we’re working with businesses and graduates to help address the problem before it becomes a full blown crisis.
They have started a waitlist, so get on this one ASAP!

2.#staff 9 Things You Should Do Every Weekend To RESET for a Fresh, Smooth Week I challenge you to try at least one...you will thank me later!

3.

4. #all: Easy Thanksgiving Craft:

#lessonslearned

2014-10-22T03:35:00.000-07:00

Check out this week's newsletter here: Happy Reading!

Also here is an awesome scholarship list for the Class of 2015...I LOVE FREE money!

My little secret

2014-09-17T10:14:00.001-07:00

What are you listening to as you work? Today it seems that the princess Pandora station is my go to station. Such happy songs, full of energy and positive messages...why didn't I try this earlier?

Life of a College Counselor

2014-09-17T10:10:00.000-07:00

Just another reason I have the #bestjobever hosted Emory, Notre Dame, UVA and UNC at North Central tonight. #opportunities

College Visit this Tuesday, September 16th

2014-09-11T09:34:00.004-07:00

On September 16th, 7 pm, the North Central College Initiatives team is excited to host Notre Dame, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the University of Virginia, and Emory University along with other prospective students from the Houston area for an evening program.

This event will feature a brief presentation from each of the four universities, followed by a Q&A session. If you would like to attend, please do! Students can register here: https://unc.askadmissions.net/Portal/EI/ViewDetails?gid=6235774da9b746cb1d4a12ab1c902df1403387

If you have additional question or need some college swag from these 4 colleges, see me!