College Crossroads

November 2009

2009-12-11T08:14:00.000-08:00

A NOTE FROM MS. JAMES,
COLLEGE ADVISOR

I would like to thank the parents, students and faculty who attended College Night. It was a huge success. Kudos to Mr. Pallisco-C.O.S.A, the Student Government officers, and senior class officers who assisted during this annual event. They all did an excellent job. Seniors, please hand in your college applications as soon as possible. Do not wait until you have received your SAT scores. Submit all applications with a January 1, 2010 deadline by December 17, 2009 so they can be processed before the winter recess. The College Board will send your SAT scores to the schools you have listed on your registration form.

FINANCIAL AID

Jamaica High School’s Financial Aid Night will be held on Thursday, December 3rd from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

In preparation to apply for federal student aid, high school seniors should get a PIN at www.pin.ed.gov in order to complete FAFSA (free application for federal student aid) application online. One of your parents must also get a PIN. Submit your FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1, 2010. The website is www.fafsa.ed.gov. There is a link for a TAP grant if you plan to attend a college in New York State. Please note that male students 18 or older must register for selective service to receive federal financial aid. Other financial aid websites are www.finaid.org and www.fastweb.com.

SCHOLARSHIPS

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Epsilon Pi Omega is awarding scholarships to graduating high school seniors of African, American or Caribbean decent in the amount of $1,000. Applicants must have been a Queens resident and have a grade point average of 85% or better by the end of the junior year. There should also be evidence of community service. Completed applications are due on January 31, 2010. Come to the college office for an application.
The AXA Achievement Scholarship in association with U.S. News & World Report provides $670,000 in annual scholarships to young people throughout the nation. One-time scholarship awards of $10,000 are available. The deadline is December 15, 2009
and the website is www.axaonline.com/rs/axa/about-us/33b_axa_achievement.html.

Other scholarship websites are: www.jackierobinson.org; www.uncf.org; www.gmsp.org (Gates Millenium; www.ronbrown.org/p-ad.htm; www.thurgoodmarshallfund.org; www.uncf.org; www.bestbuy.com; www.blackstudents.blacknews.com; www.schoolsoup.com

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

The 2010 SUNY application is available online at www.suny.edu/student. There are NO paper applications for CUNY & SUNY schools. You MUST apply to CUNY on line at www.cuny.edu/apply. If you apply to any college online, you must still come to the College Office, Room 141, to fill out a “Request For Transcript Card: in order for your application to be complete. Applying online does not mean you can ignore deadlines. All deadlines must be strictly adhered to in order for your application to be considered.

When applying to State University of New York (SUNY) colleges, the priority deadline is December 1st for General Admissions and the Education Opportunity Program (E.O.P.). SUNY colleges have rolling admissions. The tuition for four-year SUNY colleges is $4,970 a year and the room and board is $9,780 a year. The tuition for SUNY community colleges is $3,410 and the room and board is $9,780 a year. The tuition for SUNY community colleges is $3,410 a year.

When applying to City University of New York (CUNY) colleges, the priority deadline is February 1 for General Admissions and the SEEK/College Discovery Program. The tuition for four-year CUNY colleges is $4,600 a year, and $3,150 a year for community colleges. Queens College just opened new dorms this past August. They range from $4,250 per semester to $6,250 per semester. Lehman, Hunter, and City Colleges also have dorms.

To recognize graduates of NYC high schools who attained a “B” or higher average, CUNY is awarding a Peter F. Valone Academic Scholarship. Visit www.bmcc.cuny.edu/finaid/grants/vallove.html. to apply .

October 2009

2009-10-09T06:20:00.000-07:00

A MESSAGE FROM MS. JAMES,
COLLEGE ADVISOR

Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year.

Seniors: You may begin handing in your college applications this month. Visit College Open Houses and attend College Fairs. Come to the College Office, Room 141, for scholarship information. Register to take the SAT Reasoning Test and/or Subject Test. You may also want to register for the ACT Test. Your senior folder should be complete by now with letters of recommendations, and a questionnaire or resumé.

Juniors and Sophomores: You are required to take the PSAT on Wednesday, October 14. Visit College Open Houses and attend College Fairs.

Freshmen: It’s not too early to get ready for college. You should:
Attend classes regularly.
Achieve high grades.
Study hard.
Participate in school activities.
Do school service.
Build your vocabulary.
………………………………………………………

A LOOK AHEAD

Jamaica High School’s College Fair will be held on Tuesday, October 27, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Our Financial Aid Night will be held on Thursday, December 03, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

TEST DATES

These are the SAT Reasoning and Subject test dates for the 2009-10 school year:

Test Date Registration Deadline
October 10 September 9
November 7 October 1
December 5 October 30
January 23 December 15
March 13 February 4
May 1 March 25
June 5 April 29

You may register online at www.collegeboard.com or come to the College Office, Room 141, for a registration booklet. The fee is $45.00.

The ACT test dates for the 2009-10 school year are:

Test Date Registration Deadline
December 12 November 6
February 6 January 5
April 10 March 5
June 12 May 7

You may register online at www.actstudent.org or come to the College Office, Room 141, for a registration packet. The fee is $31.00 (no writing) or $46.00 with writing.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

The 2009 SUNY application is available online at www.suny.edu/student. The College Office has the paper application for SUNY schools. There are NO paper applications for CUNY schools. You MUST apply to CUNY online at www.cuny.edu. If you apply to any college online, you must still come to the College Office, Room 141, to fill out a “Request For Transcript Card” in order for your application to be complete. Applying online does not mean you can ignore deadlines. All deadlines must be strictly adhered to in order for your application to be considered.

Fee Waivers are available for the SAT reasoning and subject tests, ACT test, SUNY application and CUNY application. Show proof of your parents’ income to Ms. James in the College Office, Room 141, to see if you are eligible.

Syracuse University has 10 Full Rides for
African American Men and Women
interested in pursuing a five-year professional
Degree in Architecture. If interested, contact:
Mark Robbins, Dean, School of Architecture
(315) 443-2256 or http://soa.syr.edu/index.php
The address of the school is, School of Architecture, Syracuse University, 201 Slocum Hall, Syracuse, NY 13244-1250.

………………………………………………………

OPEN HOUSES

The dates for Open Houses at individual colleges are posted outside the College Office, Room 141, and on the bulletin board outside Room 127. Please check this information often as new dates are added regularly.
………………………………………………………

COLLEGE FAIRS

The Long Island National College Fair
is on Sunday, October 4, 2009 from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. It is being held at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
For more information visit www.nationalcollegefairs.org.
COLLEGE FAIRS (CONT.)

Big Apple College Fair is being held on
Thursday, October 15 at Washington
Irving H.S., 40 Irving Place, New York, NY
from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m and on Sunday,
October 18 at St. John’s University, 8000 Utopia Pkwy., Jamaica, NY from 1:00 p.m -4:00 p.m.

SCHOLARSHIPS

The Burger King Scholars Program is sponsoring $1,000 scholarships which are available to all high school seniors. To apply, log on at: www.haveityourwayfoundation.org/bksp_application.html
Access Key: BKS. The application process closes on February 2010.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is sponsoring $10,000 - $20,000 scholarships for high school seniors. To apply, log on at https://www.coca-colascholars.org/cokeWeb/index.jsp
The deadline is October 31, 2009.

Akademos, Inc. operates a discount, online bookstore found on the internet at www.TextbookX.com offering new and used textbooks. This company has a scholarship for undergraduate or graduate students attending an accredited college or university between November 1, 2008 and October 31, 2009. You can apply online for the scholarship at:
www.Akademos/TextbookX.com2009Scholarship

DiversityScholarships.com is giving away a $10,000 scholarship every single month to a high school or college student who is 18 years of age or older. The scholarship award can be used to pay for tuition, books, housing, and more. For more details visit: www.DiversityScholarships.com

www.collegeedge.com - helps students select majors, careers, colleges, and scholarships

www.collegenet.com - offers college search, online college applications, and financial aid assistance

www.fastweb.com - free scholarship search service, career planning, and college search

www.finaid.org – tips, questions, and information regarding financial aid

www.hesc.org – NYS scholarships and grants

www.mapping-your-future.org – college and career planning information

www.nycolleges.com – 100+ private colleges and universities in NY

www.petersons.com – information on SAT, scholarships, college selection

www.scholaraid.com – free scholarship service

www.schoolfinder.com – offers assistance on identifying interests, colleges, and scholarships

www.wiredscholar.com – scholarship search and financial aid information

www.scholarships.com – find money for college

www.fafsa.ed.gov – Free Application for Federal Student Aid – submitted January 1, 2008

www.pin.ed.gov – obtain a federal pin number to fill out the FAFSA online

www.ed.gov – U.S. Department of Education

www.finaid.org – college cost projector

www.monster.com – job search

College Crossroads June 2009

2009-06-12T07:05:00.000-07:00

A NOTE FROM MS. JAMES, COLLEGE ADVISOR

Dear Seniors:

As this school year ends, I would like to congratulate you. I thank you all for your cooperation and diligence. As you move on to the next phase of your lives, may you all be happy in your chosen fields and always remember to give back to your communities and to those less fortunate. Keep in touch; I’m just an e-mail away. Good luck to you in your future endeavors.
………………………………………………………

Seniors: Please bring an envelope addressed to the school you will be attending in the fall so that we can send them your final transcript. Be sure to use a 44¢ stamp.

Seniors: All graduating seniors must complete a post high school survey and submit it to the College Office. If you did not receive one, please come to Room 141 for a copy.

Seniors: Please continue to bring all acceptance letters to the College Office so we can make a copy for our records. Scholarship and grant award letters should also be brought into the College Office for the same reason.

Juniors: The deadline to complete your senior folder (recommendations and a questionnaire) is June 12.

Freshmen and Sophomores: We welcome you in the College Office. Please stop by Room 141 during your lunch period to start your college search.

SCHOLARSHIPS & GRANTS

K udos to the following students:

Tekeisha Busby was a recipient of the African Christian Teachers Award in recognition of her commitment to others and exemplary character.
Cherrell Green was chosen to receive a Pace Incentive Award of $5,000 per year from Pace University.
Kimberly Isaac was awarded the NAUW 2009 Scholarship from the National Association of University Women in the amount of $1,000.
Reaz Khan
New York Lottery 2009 Leaders of Tomorrow awarded him a $5,000 scholarship.
Adelphi University chose him to receive a Recognition Award in the amount of $4,000.
Robeena Raghubir will receive an Honors Scholarship Award from D’Youville College in the amount of $49,500 for a total of five years.
Elisa Uwurugo
The Scholarship Committee of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority chose her to receive $1,000.
The Hollis Presbyterian Church has chosen her as a finalist for the Bernice Eaton Inspirational Incentive Scholarship.

Cathy Williams has been invited to participate in the Summer Medical and Dental Education Program at Yale School of Medicine.
College Acceptances !
Private Colleges
Adelphi University
American International College
University of Bridgeport
Canisius College
Cheyney University
Delaware State University
Drew University
Drexel University
Fairleigh Dickinson University
University of Hartford
Hofstra University
Long Island University
University of Maryland
University of Michigan
Mount Saint Mary College
Newbury College
University of New Haven
New York Institute of Technology
New York University
Niagara University
Otterbein College
Pace University
Penn State University
Polytechnic Institute of NYU
Roberts Wesleyan College
Rutgers University
Seton Hall University
St. John’s University
The College of Saint Rose
Syracuse University
Union College
Virginia Intermont College
Virginia State University
Virginia Union University
Washington and Jefferson College
Wells College
College Acceptances !

SUNY
University at Albany
Buffalo State University
University at Old Westbury
University at Oswego
University at Stony Brook

CUNY
Baruch College
Brooklyn College
City College
Hunter College
John Jay College of Criminal Justice
LaGuardia Community College
Lehman College
Borough of Manhattan Community College
Medgar Evers College
New York City of Technology
Queens College
Queensborough Community College
York College
Congratulations
Class of 2009 ! ! !

College Crossroads: April-May 2009

2009-04-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

COLLEGE CROSSROADS

Jamaica High School
Walter G. Acham, Principal
Dr. Reuben: Coordinator, Pupil Personnel Services
Ms. James: College Advisor

Congratulations to the top ten ranked students for the 2009 graduating class:

**Rudan Singh, Valedictorian**
*Toufiq Mahmud, Salutatorian*
Shirley Souffrant
Philipnary Thuyamany
Salma Haque
Farhana Zahan
Robeena Raghubir
Zora Jiles
Christian Padillon
Cristina Narayan

………………………………………………………
SCHOLARSHIPS & GRANTS
K udos to the following students:

Saud Al Shaikh has been chosen to receive the Provost Excellence Award in the amount of $4,000 annually from Long Island University.

Sequoyah Douglas will receive the University of Bridgeport Award in the amount of $12,000 per year.

Tracey George received from the University of Bridgeport a UB Honor Scholarship in the amount of $10,000 for the 2009-10 academic year.

Cherrell Green will receive the DSU Advantage Grant from Delaware State University in the amount of $2,500 for the 2009-10 academic year.

Reaz Khan was chosen to receive from St. John’s University an STJ Grant in the amount of $12,315 for the 2009-10 academic year.

Beena Khemai was awarded an Academic Achievement Award in the amount of $6,000 per year from the New York Institute of Technology.

Liakat Morshed
Long Island University chose him to receive the Provost Excellence Award in the amount of $4,000 annually.
v St. John’s University awarded him an annual Academic Achievement Award in the amount of $10,000.

Samuel Okunola will receive the Provost Academic Scholarship in the amount of $11,000 yearly from American International College.

Christian Padillon
v Canisius College has awarded him a Dean’s Academic Scholarship in the amount of $13,000 each year.
v St. John’s University chose him to receive an Academic Achievement Award in the amount of $10,000 annually.

Ponam Seeratan
v Newbury College awarded him the Nighthawk Award in the amount of $7,000 per year renewable for eight consecutive semesters.
v University of Bridgeport awarded him a UB Award in the amount of $12,000 for the 2009-2010 academic year.

Cathy Williams is the recipient of a $1,500 Ruth Howell Scholarship from The Laurelton Club of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Club, Inc.

James Wills has been awarded an Academic Achievement Award in the amount of $9,000 from
St. John’s University.

...................................................................................
STUDENT OF THE MONTH

Cathy Williams has been selected “Student of the Month” for February.

Theodosia Boothe has been selected “Student of the Month” for March.
...................................................................................

Seniors: Please continue to bring all acceptance letters to the College Office so we can make a copy for our records. Scholarship and grant award letters should also be brought into the College Office for the same reason.

Seniors who did not apply to college as yet should come to the College Office and see Ms. James during their lunch periods. Also, if the college you applied to needs mid-year grades, please come to the College Office so we can send this information.

...................................................................................

THE REMAINING SAT DATE FOR 2008-09 IS AS FOLLOWS:

Test Date Registration Deadline
June 6 May 5 (Late registration May 15)

...................................................................................

The dates for the free SAT classes
at Jamaica High School for Juniors
are as follows:

Six (6) Saturdays

April 4, 25
May 2, 9, 16, 30

Class sessions will be divided into Math and
Verbal sections. Free Metrocards will be given.

...................................................................................

...................................................................................
FILE THE FAFSA
(Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

S
eniors, you should be applying for financial aid now! Don’t wait to be accepted to a college to apply for aid. We have FAFSA forms in the College Office, Room 141. The website to file online is www.fafsa.ed.gov. You can obtain a PIN (personal identification number) at http://www.pin.ed.gov/.

...................................................................................

F.Y.I.

CUNY York College is offering three (3) new majors in the all: Journalism, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Nursing Education. The tuition alone for a four-year CUNY school is $4,000.

There has been a surge in applications at SUNY schools because of the economic recession. Schools such as New Paltz are becoming not only more popular, but also more selective, asking for an average SAT score (Math and Reading) of 1160. At the present, the tuition alone for four-year SUNY schools is $4,660. When you add fees, room, board, transportation, and personal expenses to the tuition, the cost of attendance is $18,370.

...................................................................................

REMINDER

Seniors:
1. File the FAFSA. Also apply for the TAP Grant if you are going to a school in New York State.
2. May 1 is the deadline for most colleges to send in your tuition and housing deposit to hold your space for fall admission.
Juniors:
Your senior folder should be completed by June 12, 2009. Please get three (3) academic teacher recommendations. Also, please submit your questionnaire or resume to the College Office, Room 141.
...................................................................................

College Crossroads March 2009

2009-03-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

COLLEGE CROSSROADS
Jamaica High School
Walter G. Acham, Principal
Dr.Reuben
Pupil Personnel Services
Ms. James Coordinator,
College Advisor

MARCH 2009

SCHOLARSHIPS & GRANTS
Congratulations to the following students:

Asma Anwar has been awarded a Presidential Scholarship in the amount of $12,000 for the 2009-10 academic year.

Theodosia Boothe was selected by the University of Bridgeport to receive an Honor Scholarship for 2009-10 academic year in the amount of $10,000.

Tekeisha Busby will receive from the University of Bridgeport a Trustee Scholarship in the amount of $15,000 for the 2009-10 academic year.

Dominique Dawson was awarded a Success Grant worth up to $40,000 ($10,000 per year) from Franklin Pierce University.

Cherrell Green has been chosen by Long Island University to receive the C.W. Post Recognition Award in the amount of $9,000.

Asha Henman was presented with an annual Academic Achievement Award in the amount of $10,000 from St. John’s University.

Kimberly Isaac was chosen to receive an Honor Scholarship in the amount of $10,000 for the 2009-10 academic year from the University of Bridgeport

Zora Jiles –
Drexel University has selected her to receive $10,000 as a Dean’s Scholar.
Hofstra University has awarded her a Presidential Scholarship of $14,000 per year, totaling $56,000 over four years of enrollment.

Reaz Khan
Adelphi University chose him to receive an Achievement Award for $5,000 and also a Recognition Award in the amount of $2,000.
Long Island University – C.W. Post Campus was selected to receive a renewable Freshman Achievement Award in the amount of $6,000.

Kimberly Issac was selected by the University of Bridgeport to receive an Honor Scholarship in the amount of $10,000 for the 2009-10 academic year.

Christian Padillon –
Johnson & Wales University chose him to receive a Presidential Academic Scholarship in the amount of $6,500 renewable annually.
Niagara University selected him to receive a Presidential Scholarship in the amount of $10,500 per year.

Dookumarie Persaud was chosen to receive a Presidential Academic Scholarship in the amount of $6,500 renewable annually from Johnson & Wales University.

Alexa Pinckney will receive a $4,000 Nighthawk Award from Newbury College renewable for eight consecutive semesters.

Shirley Souffrant was offered the Dean’s Award in the amount of $17,200 from Drew University for the 2009-10 academic year.

Philipnary Thuyamany –
University of Hartford selected him to receive an Alumni Grant of $11,000, renewable annually.
St. John’s University was chosen to receive an annual Academic Achievement Award in the amount of $7,000.
Seniors: Please continue to bring all acceptance letters to the College Office so we can make a copy for our records. Scholarship and grant award letters should also be brought into the College Office for the same reason.

Seniors who did not apply to college as yet should come to the College Office and see Ms. James during their lunch periods. Also, if the college you applied to needs mid-year grades, please come to the College Office so we can send this information.

SAVE THE DATES!
SAT PREPARATION COURSE
Wednesdays, March 4 – April 29, 2009
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
NYJTL Headquarters
58-12 Queens Blvd., Suite 1
Woodside, NY 11377
Cost: $90
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
COLLEGE FAIR 2009
Saturday, March 21, 2009
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
St. Albans Congregational Church
172-17 Linden Blvd.
St. Albans, NY
.................................................................................
THE REMAINING SAT DATES FOR 2008-09 ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Test Date Registration Deadline
May 2 March 31 (Late Registration April 9)
June 6 May 5 (Late Registration May 15)

THE REMAINING ACT TEST DATE FOR THE 2008-09 SCHOOL YEAR IS:

Test Date Registration Deadline
June 12 May 8
...................................................................................
FREE SAT CLASSES
AT JAMAICA HIGH SCHOOL
FOR JUNIORS Get prepared for the June 6th SAT!

Six (6) Saturdays (from 9a.m. – 12 noon)

April 4, 25
May 2, 9, 16, 30

Class sessions will be divided into math and verbal sections. Free Metrocards will be given.

SIGN UP BY MARCH 31 IN ROOM 141

FILE THE FAFSA(Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

Seniors, you should be applying for financial aid now! Don’t wait to be accepted to a college to apply for aid. We have FAFSA forms in the College Office, Room 141. The website to file online is www.fafsa.ed.gov. You can obtain a PIN (personal identification number) at www.pin.ed.gov. Your PIN allows you to check the status of your FAFSA, make corrections, electronically sign to speed up the process, and fill out an online renewal form next year. Remember, you must complete and submit a FAFSA every year to apply for federal student financial aid and for most state and college aid.

To apply for federal aid, follow these three steps:

1) Assemble the information needed to complete the FAFSA. You will need the following to fill out the form:
· Social security number
· Current bank statements
· Driver’s license (if any)
· Current mortgage and investment records (if any)
· Alien registration card (if not a U.S. citizen)
· 2007 federal tax return (estimates are okay on tax questions)
· 2007 untaxed income records (if any)
· 2007 W2 forms and other records of money earned
· Parents’ 2007 income tax return (if considered dependent)

2) Complete the FAFSA. If completing online, once finished, print the FAFSA summary (step 6 online) as well as the “Submission Confirmation” page, or write down your confirmation number and date. If completing the paper version, make a copy for your records.

3) Review your Student Aid Report (SAR). The SAR is proof that your FAFSA was received. You can make changes or revisions to your SAR online or through the mail. You should receive your electronic SAR in 1-3 days if you signed with your PIN or 2-3 weeks if you completed the paper version.

If you don’t receive your SAR in 3-4 weeks, or if you need help with the application, call the FAFSA Help Desk at 1-800-433-3243.

College Crossroads: January 2009

2009-01-07T09:10:00.000-08:00

COLLEGE CROSSROADS
HAPPY NEW YEAR – JANUARY 2009
Jamaica High School
Walter G. Acham, Principal
Dr. Reuben Ms. James
Coordinator, Pupil Personnel Services College Advisor

A NOTE FROM MS. JAMES,
COLLEGE ADVISOR

GOOD LUCK on your final examinations and Regents examinations this month. Continue to submit college and scholarship applications to the College Office, Room 141.

SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS

Congratulations to the following students:

Juan Adelson has been chosen by the New York Institute of Technology Scholarship Committee to be the recipient of a $6,000 Academic Achievement Award, renewable for four years.

Sequoyah Douglas has been awarded a Presidential Scholarship in the amount of $12,000 for the 2009-2010 academic, renewable annually.

Zora Jiles
v Academic Achievement Award in the amount of $10,000 annually by St. John’s University.
v Semifinalist in The New York Times College Scholarship Program.

Shirley Souffrant
Presidential Scholarship in the amount of $12,000 for the 2009-10 academic year by the University of Bridgeport renewable annually.
Canisius College Academic Scholarship for $6,000 per year, totaling $24,000 for under-graduate study.

Philipnary Thuyamany
Trustee Scholarship for $15,000 for the 2009-10 academic year, renewable annually, from the University of Bridgeport.
Semifinalist in The New York Times College Scholarship Program.

Cathy Williams was selected to receive an Alumni Grant from the University of Hartford in the amount of $7,000 annually ($3,500 per semester), renewable annually.
...................................................................................
TEST DATES

These are the remaining SAT Reasoning and Subject test dates for the 2008-09 school year:

Test Date Registration Deadline
March 14 February 10
May 2 March 31
June 6 May 5

You may register online at http://www.collegeboard.com/ or come to the College Office, Room 141, for a registration booklet. The fee is now $45.00.

The remaining ACT test dates for the 2008-09 school year are:

Test Date Registration Deadline
February 7 January 6
April 4 February 27
June 13 May 8

You may register online at http://www.actstudent.org/ or come to the College Office, Room 141, for a registration packet. The fee is $31.00 (no writing) or $46.00 (with writing).

OPEN HOUSES
The dates for open houses at individual colleges are posted outside the College Office, Room 141, and on the bulletin board outside Room 127. Please check this information often as new dates are added regularly.

FILE THE FAFSA
(Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

Seniors, you should be applying for financial aid now! Don’t wait to be accepted to a college to apply for aid. We have FAFSA forms in the College Office, Room 141. The website to file online is www.fafsa.ed.gov. You can obtain a PIN (personal identification number) at www.pin.ed.gov. Your PIN allows you to check the status of your FAFSA, make corrections, electronically sign to speed up the process, and fill out an online renewal form next year. Remember, you must complete and submit a FAFSA every year to apply for federal student financial aid and for most state and college aid.

To apply for federal aid, follow these three steps:
1) Assemble the information needed to complete the FAFSA. You will need the following to fill out the form:
Social security number
Current bank statements
Driver’s license (if any)
Current mortgage and investment records (if any)
Alien registration card (if not a U.S. citizen)
2008 federal tax return (estimates are okay on tax questions)
2008 untaxed income records (if any)
2008 W2 forms and other records of money earned
Parents’ 2008 income tax return (if considered dependent)
2) Complete the FAFSA. If completing online, once finished, print the FAFSA summary (step 6 online) as well as the “Submission Confirmation” page, or write down your confirmation number and date. If completing the paper version, make a copy for your records.
3) Review your Student Aid Report (SAR). The SAR is proof that your FAFSA was received. You can make changes or revisions to your SAR online or through the mail. You should receive your electronic SAR in 1-3 days if you signed with your PIN or 2-3 weeks if you completed the paper version.

If you don’t receive your SAR in 3-4 weeks, or if you need help with the application, call the FAFSA Help Desk at 1-800-433-3243.

...................................................................................

The 2008 SUNY application is available online at www.suny.edu/student. The College Office has the paper application for SUNY schools. There are NO paper applications for CUNY schools. You MUST apply to CUNY online at www.cuny.edu/apply. If you apply to any college online, you must still come to the College Office, Room 141, to fill out a “Request for Transcript Card” in order for your application to be complete. Applying online does not mean you can ignore deadlines. All deadlines must be strictly adhered to in order for your application to be considered.

...................................................................................

v CUNY, SUNY, SAT and ACT fee waivers are still available. Come to the College Office to see if you are eligible.
v Continue to apply for scholarships. Check the college bulletin board outside Rooms 141 and 127.

Seniors: Please continue to bring all acceptance letters to the College Office so we can make a copy for our records. Scholarship and grant award letters should also be brought into the College Office for the same reason.

Seniors who did not apply to college as yet should come to the College Office and see Ms. James during their lunch periods. Also, if the college you applied to needs mid-year grades, please come to the College Office so we can send this information.

...................................................................................
The APPLICATION FEE is waived for the following schools:
Drexel University
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Fordham University
Hartford University
Johnson and Wales University
New York University
New York Institute of Technology
St. John’s University
University of Bridgeport
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College Crossroads:October 2008

2008-10-17T08:50:00.000-07:00

OCTOBER 2008

A MESSAGE FROM MS. JAMES,
COLLEGE ADVISOR

Welcome to the 2008-2009 school year.

Seniors: You may begin handing in your college applications this month. Visit College Open Houses and attend College Fairs. Come to the College Office, Room 141, for scholarship information. Register to take the SAT Reasoning Test and/or Subject Test. You may also want to register for the ACT Test. Your senior folder should be complete by now with letters of recommendations, and a questionnaire or resumé.

Juniors and Sophomores: You are required to take the PSAT on Wednesday, October 29. Visit College Open Houses and attend College Fairs.

Freshmen: It’s not too early to get ready for college. You should:
Attend classes regularly.
Achieve high grades.
Study hard.
Participate in school activities.
Do school service.
Build your vocabulary.
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A LOOK AHEAD

Jamaica High School’s College Fair will be held on Tuesday, October 28, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Our Financial Aid Night will be held on Thursday, December 11, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

TEST DATES

These are the remaining SAT Reasoning and Subject test dates for the 2008-09 school year:

Test Date Registration Deadline
December 6 November 5
January 24 December 26
March 14 February 10
May 2 March 31
June 6 May 5

You may register online at www.collegeboard.com or come to the College Office, Room 141, for a registration booklet. The fee is now $45.00.

The remaining ACT test dates for the 2008-09 school year are:

Test Date Registration Deadline
December 13 November 7
February 7 January 6
April 4 February 27
June 13 May 8

You may register online at www.actstudent.org or come to the College Office, Room 141, for a registration packet. The fee is $31.00 (no writing) or $46.00 with writing.

Please Mark Your Calendar!

The PSAT will be administered
on Wednesday, October 29, during school time for all students in 10th and 11th grades.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

The 2008 SUNY application is available online at www.suny.edu/student. The College Office has the paper application for SUNY schools. There are NO paper applications for CUNY schools. You MUST apply to CUNY online at www.cuny.edu. If you apply to any college online, you must still come to the College Office, Room 141, to fill out a “Request For Transcript Card” in order for your application to be complete. Applying online does not mean you can ignore deadlines. All deadlines must be strictly adhered to in order for your application to be considered.

Fee Waivers are available for the SAT reasoning and subject tests, ACT test, SUNY application and CUNY application. Show proof of your parents’ income to Ms. James in the College Office, Room 141, to see if your are eligible.
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OPEN HOUSES

The dates for Open Houses at individual colleges are posted outside the College Office, Room 141, and on the bulletin board outside Room 127. Please check this information often as new dates are added regularly.
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COLLEGE FAIRS

2nd Annual Queens Library College Fair
Saturday, October 18
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Queens Library at Long Island City
37-44 21 Street
(718) 752-3600
Saturday, October 25
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Queens Library at Flushing, Room A & B
41-17 Main Street
(718) 661-1200

Big Apple College Fair
Sunday, October 19
1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
St. John’s University
8000 Utopia Parkway
Queens, NY
Here are some important websites to help you prepare for your academic future:

www.collegeedge.com - helps students select majors, careers, colleges, and scholarships

www.collegenet.com - offers college search, online college applications, and financial aid assistance

www.fastweb.com - free scholarship search service, career planning, and college search

www.finaid.org – tips, questions, and information regarding financial aid

www.hesc.org – NYS scholarships and grants

www.mapping-your-future.org – college and career planning information

www.nycolleges.com – 100+ private colleges and universities in NY

www.petersons.com – information on SAT, scholarships, college selection

www.scholaraid.com – free scholarship service

www.schoolfinder.com – offers assistance on identifying interests, colleges, and scholarships

www.wiredscholar.com – scholarship search and financial aid information

www.scholarships.com – find money for college

www.fafsa.ed.gov – Free Application for Federal Student Aid – submitted January 1, 2008

www.pin.ed.gov – obtain a federal pin number to fill out the FAFSA online

www.ed.gov – U.S. Department of Education

www.finaid.org – college cost projector

www.monster.com – job search

College Crossroads: March 2008

2008-03-03T11:06:00.000-08:00

RETIREMENT

Best wishes to Mrs. Giunta, Assistant Principal, Pupil Personnel Services, who retired on February 1, 2008. She will be missed.
...................................................................................
WELCOME BACK DR. REUBEN

The Guidance staff would like to welcome back Dr. Reuben who is returning from a surgical procedure. We wish her good luck in her new assignment as Coordinator of Pupil Personnel Services.
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A MESSAGE FROM MS. JAMES, COLLEGE ADVISOR

* CUNY, SUNY and SAT fee waivers are still available. Come to the College Office to see if you are eligible.
* Continue to apply for scholarships. Check the college bulletin board outside Rooms 141 and 127.

Seniors: Please continue to bring all acceptance letters to the College Office so we can make a copy for our records. Scholarship and grant award letters should also be brought into the College Office for the same reason.

Seniors who did not apply to college as yet should come to the College Office and see Ms. James during their lunch periods. Also, if the college you applied to needs mid-year grades, please come to the College Office so we can send this information.
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SAVE THE DATE!

8TH ANNUAL COLLEGE FAIR
Saturday, March 15th
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

St. Albans Congregational Church
172-17 Linden Blvd.
(718) 657-8282
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THE REMAINING SAT DATES FOR 2007-08 ARE AS FOLLOWS:

Test Date Registration Deadline
March 1 Stand-by only
May 3 April 11
June 7 May 6
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FREE SAT CLASSES at JAMAICA H. S.
FOR JUNIORS
Get prepared for the June 7th SAT test

Six Saturdays:
April 5, 12
May 3, 10, 17, 31

Class sessions will be divided into Math and Verbal sections. Free Metrocards will be given.

SIGN UP BY MARCH 31!
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ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Kudos to Shirley Alisha Williams for receiving an $11,000 scholarship from L.I.U.-C.W. Post Campus.

Kudos to Ricardo Nicolas for receiving a tuition award for $5,500 per year from the New York Institute of Technology.

Congratulations to Delroy Waugh!
He received the Dean’s Scholars Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement ($20,000 over 4 years) from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
* He has received an invitation to be part of the Daniel Acker Scholars Program at SUNY University at Buffalo, representing full tuition for up to four years of full-time undergraduate study.
* He has been offered a place in St. John’s University’s Honors Program.
* He has been chosen as a semifinalist for the N.Y. Times Scholarship.
* He is a semifinalist in the Ron Brown Scholarship Program, one of 61 semifinalists for the 20 finalist positions. More than 5,600 African American high school seniors applied this year to this program.
* In addition, he has been selected as one of 250 finalists in the Coca-Cola Scholarship Program. He has been invited to attend their Scholars Weekend in Atlanta, all expenses paid, where he will either be chosen as a National Scholar with a total award of $20,000, or a Regional Scholar with a total award of $10,000.
We hope he becomes a finalist for all of these scholarships. Way to go Delroy!

FILE THE FAFSA(Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

Seniors, you should be applying for financial aid now! Don’t wait to be accepted to a college to apply for aid. We have FAFSA forms in the College Office, Room 141. The website to file online is www.fafsa.ed.gov. You can obtain a PIN (personal identification number) at www.pin.ed.gov. Your PIN allows you to check the status of your FAFSA, make corrections, electronically sign to speed up the process, and fill out an online renewal form next year. Remember, you must complete and submit a FAFSA every year to apply for federal student financial aid and for most state and college aid.

To apply for federal aid, follow these three steps:

1) Assemble the information needed to complete the FAFSA. You will need the following to fill out the form:
Social security number
Current bank statements
Driver’s license (if any)
Current mortgage and investment records (if any)
Alien registration card (if not a U.S. citizen)
2007 federal tax return (estimates are okay on tax questions)
2007 untaxed income records (if any)
2007 W2 forms and other records of money earned
Parents’ 2007 income tax return (if considered dependent)

2) Complete the FAFSA. If completing online, once finished, print the FAFSA summary (step 6 online) as well as the “Submission Confirmation” page, or write down your confirmation number and date. If completing the paper version, make a copy for your records.

3) Review your Student Aid Report (SAR). The SAR is proof that your FAFSA was received. You can make changes or revisions to your SAR online or through the mail. You should receive your electronic SAR in 1-3 days if you signed with your PIN or 2-3 weeks if you completed the paper version.

If you don’t receive your SAR in 3-4 weeks, or if you need help with the application, call the FAFSA Help Desk at 1-800-433-3243.

KNOW THE FINANCIAL AID LINGO
Expected Family Contribution (EFC): The portion of a family’s financial resources that should be available to help pay for college. EFC determines your need and your eligibility for federal financial aid.

Institutional Grants and Scholarships: Gift aid that is awarded by colleges from their own resources.

Merit-Based Aid: Programs that determine eligibility by evaluating a student’s ability and/or potential, based on academic records, athletic or artistic ability.

Need-Based Aid: Programs that determine eligibility by evaluating the family’s resources.

Pell Grant: The single largest grant program from the federal government.

Perkins Loan Eligibility for this federal program is based on demonstrated need. Participating colleges make these 5% interest loans directly to students. Interest does not accrue while the student is in school, and repayment doesn’t begin until nine months after graduation.

SAR: Student Aid Report. A receipt for a submitted FAFSA, you can make changes or revisions to your SAR online or through the mail.

Subsidized Federal Stafford Loan: A need-based loan made by a bank, savings and loan, or some other lender. Interest doesn’t accrue while the student is in school, and borrowers don’t begin repayment until six months after graduation.

TAP: Tuition Assistant Program. State-based financial aid.

Unsubsidized Federal Stafford Loan: This program has basically the same terms as the Subsidized Federal Stafford Loan, except that eligibility is not based on need, and interest accrues even while the borrower is in school.

Verification: A process of review to determine the accuracy of the information on a student’s financial aid application.

MY TO DO LIST

¨ Check out the college fair
¨ Sign up for free SAT prep classes
¨ Pick up the FAFSA application
¨ Apply for scholarships
¨ Bring all acceptance letters to the College Office
¨ _______________________________
¨ _______________________________

Jamaica High School: November 2007

2007-11-08T11:12:00.000-08:00

JAMAICA HIGH SCHOOL
Walter G. Acham, Principal, I. A.
NOVEMBER 2007

THE CLASS OF 2007 HAS BEEN ACCEPTED TO THE FOLLOWING COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

Adelphi University; Adirondack Community College; Berkeley College; Briarcliffe College; Cazenovia College; Cheyney University; College of New Rochelle; DeVry University; Drexel University; Dutchess Community College; Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University; Florida Institute of Technology; Hamilton College; Hampton University; Howard University; Hofstra University; Johnson C. Smith University; Johnson and Wales University; Keiser University; Long Island University-Brooklyn Campus; Long Island University-C.W. Post Campus; Lincoln University; Miami Dade College; Monroe College; New York Institute of Technology; New York University; Oral Roberts University; Pennsylvania State University; Quinnipiac University; Roberts Wesleyan College; Rochester Institute of Technology; St. Francis College; St. John’s University; Siena College; Temple University; University of Bridgeport; University of Hartford; University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology; Wesleyan University; Wells College

CUNY Baruch College; Brooklyn College; Bronx Community College; City College; College of Staten Island; Hunter College; John Jay College of Criminal Justice; Kingsborough Community College; LaGuardia Community College; Lehman College; Medgar Evers College; New York City College of Technology; Queens College; Queensborough Community College; York College

SUNY Binghamton University; Buffalo State; Canton; Cobleskill; College at Old Westbury; Delhi; Fashion Institute of Technology; Maritime College; Stony Brook; University at Albany; University at Buffalo
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………

Room 128
Ms. Giunta, Assistant Principal, P.P.S.
Ms. Reynolds, Secretary
Ms. Di Donna, Office Aide

Counselors: Room 125
Ms. Aguilar, Dr. Reuben, Ms. Martin-Daye
Ms. Harris, Office Aide
Room 127
Mr. Fernandez, Ms. Johnson
Ms. Puglia, Office Aide

College Office: Room 141
Ms. James, College Advisor
Mr. Joseph, Academic Intervention Specialist
Ms. Hofer, Secretary
Ms. Cepeda, Office Aide
Ms. Ramsingh, Office Aide

Social Worker: Room 127
Ms. Leader

SPARK: Room C-2
Ms. Williams

A NOTE FROM MS. JAMES, COLLEGE ADVISOR

I would like to thank the parents, students and faculty who attended College Night. It was a huge success. Kudos to Mr. Pallisco, C.O.S.A., and the members of Student Government who assisted during this annual event. They all did an excellent job. Seniors, please hand in your college applications as soon as possible. Do not wait until you have received your SAT scores. Submit all applications with a January 2, 2008 deadline by December 7, 2007 so they can be processed before the winter recess. The College Board will send your SAT scores to the schools you have listed on your registration form.

FEEDBACK ON COLLEGE NIGHT

“I felt that College Night was a very good experience. I got to speak with representatives from colleges I wanted to apply to, such as SUNY Albany and SUNY Stony Brook. I feel that the information they gave was very useful. In addition to being helpful, I felt it was delightful to see so many of my peers looking to go to college.”
- S. Alisha Williams

“College Night ’07 was a great success. The student turn-out was actually surprising because more students attended than expected. Every student seemed concerned, involved and engaged in their educational opportunities, which proves that education is a top priority for Jamaica High School seniors.”
- Jermaine Wright

“My feelings on the College Fair are great. There was a great variety of many different types of colleges, such as CUNY, SUNY and private colleges. There were Senior Colleges, as well as Community Colleges. The atmosphere in the cafeteria was cozy and welcoming. As soon as you walked in, you were greeted and introduced into a place of information ready to be given out. I believe that the College Fair left students feeling very positive about their college choices. Even if everyone’s mind was not made up yet, they at least had an idea as to where to start.”
- Chabidou Sampain

“College Night was a good experience. I am glad that I went. I was looking for colleges, especially with majors such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, social work, childcare and development. I asked many questions and was glad when they were answered. College Night gave me a variety of colleges that I want to apply to.”
- Shaniece Frye

“College Night really helped me decide my future. I finally decided what school I’m going to attend. The University of Albany really stood out to me. Their medical field caught my attention. The College Fair gave me more insight about my major, also with the Navy and Marines. I learned they can help me and give me a push through college.
- Latoya Harris

“College Night was very interesting. I learned a lot about different colleges, CUNY and SUNY. I was looking for colleges to pursue my career as a social worker. I visited the tables of Stony Brook University, York College and Lehman College. I requested information from all three of these colleges. I plan to go to York College, thanks to the College Fair.”
- Dominique Rodriguez

“The College Fair was a good experience for me. I saw different colleges and military branches that can help improve me successfully. Some of the colleges that were there weren’t for me. That’s why I settled with the Marine Corps. I found out many different opportunities through the Marines Corps to benefit my wants and needs. I also saw some colleges I was interested in like John Jay College and Monroe. When I finish with the Marine Corps, those are places I plan to go.”
- Theresa Freeman

A LOOK AHEAD

Our Financial Aid Night will be held on Thursday, December 6, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

There are no paper applications for CUNY. You must apply on line at www.cuny.edu.

CUNY fee waivers have arrived. Come to the College Office, Room 141 to see if you are eligible.

The 2008 SUNY application is available online at www.suny.edu/student. The College Office has the paper application for SUNY schools. If you apply to any college online, you must still come to the College Office, Room 141, to fill out a “Request For Transcript Card” in order for your application to be complete. Applying online does not mean you can ignore deadlines. All deadlines must be strictly adhered to in order for your application to be considered.
……………………………………………………
www.fafsa.ed.gov – Free Application for Federal Student Aid – submitted January 1, 2008

www.finaid.org – college cost projector

TEST DATES

These are the SAT Saturday test dates for the 2007/08 school year:

Test Date Registration Deadline

January 26 December 26
March 1 January 29
May 3 April 1
June 7 May 6

You may register online at www.collegeboard.org, or come to the College Office, Room 141, for a registration booklet.

The ACT test dates for the 2007/08 school year are:

Test Date Registration Deadline

April 12 March 7
June 14 May 9

You may register online at www.act.org, or come to the College Office, Room 141, for a registration packet.

DON’T BE FOOLED

A genuine scholarship can help to pay for college, but beware of con artists. A financial aid service is probably false if there’s any application fee for a scholarship, there’s any advance fee for an educational loan, or if a scholarship is “guaranteed.” Be suspicious if you’re told that “Billions of dollars of aid went unclaimed last year.” That’s simply untrue. “We apply on your behalf.” The reality is you must always submit your own application for a scholarship. “We have a high success rate.” In fact, fewer than 1% of the people who pay for scholarship services actually obtain one.
For more information, including legitimate (and free) ways to find scholarship money go to www.finaid.org on the web.
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Here are some important websites to help you prepare for your academic future:

www.collegeedge.com - helps students select majors, careers, colleges, and scholarships

www.collegenet.com - offers college search, online college applications, and financial aid assistance

www.fastweb.com - free scholarship search service, career planning, and college search

www.finaid.org – tips, questions, and info. on financial aid

www.hesc.org – NYS scholarships and grants

www.nycolleges.com – 100+ private colleges and univ. in NY

www.petersons.com – info. on SAT, scholarships, colleges

www.schoolfinder.com – offers assistance on identifying interests, colleges, and scholarships

www.wiredscholar.com – scholarship search, financial aid info.

www.scholarships.com – find money for college