Today’s Tip for Peace…

     I've had the privilege of working in some of the freshman health classes as a follow-up to their curriculum on stress management.  In the class we learned about breathing, affirmations, progressive relaxation and the use of positive thinking and guided imagery.  We also did some very simple deep breathing techniques to help us to learn how to relieve anxiety and nervousness.   It is amazing how three simple inhales and exhales can change our mood and stress level!  So keep becoming aware of your breath and focus on a longer exhale than inhale.  Remember also that whatever peace you bring must begin on that little piece of earth where you are in this moment. Thank you, Kimberly Borin

Some Dates to Keep in Mind…

·         October 28th, 7:00 pm - Financial Aid Night Part 1 – Local Scholarships, The Gateway Program, NJ Stars Program and Raritan Valley Community College

·         November 13th, 7:00 pm - Financial Aid Night Part 2 – College Financial Aid Process and the FAFSA form.

·         February 4^th , 7:00 pm – Junior College Workshop Part 1  – All the ins and outs of the college process and what you need to do to get started.

·         February 12th, 7:00 pm – Junior College Workshop Part 2  – More information about the process including recommendations, the college essay and more!

Notes for Seniors…

·         Senior Transcript Review- Seniors received their transcripts over the summer.  Please be sure you review all the details of the transcript for accuracy.  This is especially important for seniors.

·         Junior Packets - Please be sure to complete junior packets as soon as you can and deliver them to your counselor.  These are required for recommendation letters.

·         Visiting Colleges – Please note that the form for visiting colleges is on the guidance website.  Your guidance counselor must have the signed form at least three days before your visit to the college.

·         College Applications – Many of you have already handed in your college applications.  Please be sure that all of the information is complete and is handed directly to your counselor.

Notes for Juniors…

1. Be sure to carefully review the transcript that was sent to you a few weeks ago.  Review it for all course, credits, grades and graduation requirements.
2. Explore financial aid options and college planning with your parents/family.
3. Take the most challenging courses you can – maintain a strong schedule with consistently good grades.
4. Research, write to, and visit prospective colleges – be sure to meet with your counselor about the TCCi program – get your password and start looking up colleges.
5. Attend college fairs and speak to campus representatives.
6. When you visit please be sure to use the college visitation form found on the guidance web page and please be sure to check the procedures for it too!
7. Sign up for the SAT test or the ACT (if your school requires it)  Info about the SAT can be found at: www.collegeboard.com/.student/plan/action/juniors.html
8. Take leadership roles in clubs, activities and other volunteer and service organizations.
9. Start to think about which teachers you may want to write you a recommendation.  Provide them with a list of activities and accomplishments as a reminder of your work.  Provide your guidance counselor with a junior packet well before the end of the junior year in order for the counselor to write a recommendation. (Packet found on guidance website)

• TCCi – You should be accessing your TCCI program – You will want to start looking for colleges and other post high school options.   If you don’t remember your password or how to log in – please stop by the guidance office and I can give you the information you need.  P.S. see the link below for the sign-in page.

Notes for Sophomores and Freshman…

1. Plan which classes to take during high school.  Challenge yourself to take more difficult classes (as long as you can maintain good grades.)
2. Join clubs and activities.  Take the lead when possible.
3. Keep in contact with teachers, counselors and activity advisors who you connect with.  They can write recommendations and serve as mentors later.
4. Talk about saving for college and/or post-high school plans with your parents/family.
5. Volunteer – It’s a great experience
6. Think about your future, start to plan what you want to do!
7. Research summer programs.  As about academic, internship or work opportunities in your community.