Titan Club Scholarship Deadline Extended

Tuesday, April 9th at 3:30.

Aspiring Animation Profession Scholarship Program

Interested in a career within the field of animation?  Maybe web design, cartooning, digital media, or game design is your passion.  If so, check out the Aspiring Animation Profession Scholarship Program that provides money to help fund your education. 

The scholarship is limited to high school seniors in the US pursuing an animation related degree program at an accredited post-secondary school or college.  The list of approved degree programs can be found on the website.

Selection Criteria

• Scholarships may be used at any accredited post-secondary school or college.
• Selection is based on the students high school academic performance combined with the student's application essay.
• Selection is determined by the AnimationCareerReview.com staff.
• Scholarship is a one-year non-renewable scholarship.
• Application and essay are submitted online at www.AnimationCareerReview.com.
• A single $1000 scholarship will be awarded.

Aspiring Animation Profession Scholarship Program

Federal Service Language Academy Summer Program at North Georgia

The FSLA is designed for those interested in federal service careers in organizations such as the FBI, CIA, Department of State, or U.S. Military after they graduate from college. It’s a 3-week residential program.

For detailed information to include dates and costs:

www.northgeorgia.edu/summeracademy

Participants study a language such as beginning or advanced Arabic, Chinese, Russian, German, Korean, French, or Portuguese. They:

· hear presentations from organizations such as the FBI, CIA or other career areas.
· participate in a physical fitness program.
· live in a residence hall on the Dahlonega campus.
· do not have to be prospective Cadets.

We’re taking applications now. Deadline is April 1^st. To apply, please have them visit the web site.

Thanks!

Keith Antonia
Director of Cadet Admissions

Several New Scholarships on Scholarship Postings

There are several new scholarships that have been posted on the "Scholarship Postings" page.  You may access that by simply clicking on "Scholarship Postings" on the menu bar at the top of the Guidance Blog.  Some of these have due date that is coming up during Spring break.  Hurry up and get connected to some book money!!

GGC Application Fee Waived Again

Please click on the link below to look at the post from Georgia Gwinnette College and to apply online with their online application.

GGC Application Fee Waived

More Useful Financial Aid Information: Private Educational Loans

FINANCIAL AID INSIDER
For the week of March 17, 2013

Because institutional scholarships awarded to accepted students (based on their talent, need, high school grades or ACT/SAT scores) may only cover a percentage of college costs, Financial Aid Insider offers tips and information about lesser-known sources of student financial assistance.

This issue: Private Education Loans
Based on information on the web at: www.finaid.org

• Private Education Loans help bridge the gap between the actual cost of your education and the limited amount the government allows you to borrow in its programs.
• They are offered by private lenders; there are no federal forms to complete.
• Eligibility for private student loans often depends on your credit score.

Private Education Loans vs. Federal Education Loans

Some families turn to private education loans when federal loans don't provide enough money or when they need more flexible repayment options.

• Private education loans tend to cost more than the education loans offered by the federal government, but are less expensive than credit card debt.
• Federal education loans offer fixed interest rates that are lower than the variable rates offered by most private student loans. Federal education loans also offer better repayment and forgiveness options.
• Since federal education loans are less expensive than (and offer better terms than) private student loans, you should exhaust your eligibility for federal student loans before resorting to private student loans.

Interest Rates and Fees

• The interest rates and fees you pay on a private student loan are based on your credit score and the credit score of your co-signer, if any.
• Generally, if your credit score is less than 650 (FICO), you are unlikely to be approved for a private student loan.
• It is better to apply for a private student loan with a co-signer even if you could qualify for the loan on your own. Just applying with a co-signer usually results in a slightly lower rate, as such loans are not as risky for the lender. Moreover, the interest rates and fees are usually based on the higher of the two credit scores. So if your co-signer has a much better credit score than you, it could result in a much lower interest rate.
• Parents who are considering an alternative education loan often also consider a home equity loan or a PLUS loan. PLUS Loans were discussed in issue #3 of the Financial Aid Insider. Request a copy by emailing finaid@lagrange.edu.
• A list of the most popular private student loans and private consolidation loans can be found here.

The next Financial Aid Insider will explore how to avoid Financial Aid Scams. 

LaGrange College Admissions & Financial Aid Team
finaid@lagrange.edu
(800) 593-2885

Georgia Tech . . . More Than Just Engineering

Interested in Georgia Tech but not really geared towards math or science?  Georgia Tech is more than just a top engineering school . . . GT also has a growing liberal arts program. 

Georgia Tech is hosting a Shadow Day on April 4th to allow prospective high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to preview life as a student enrolled in the Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts.  Students have the opportunity to meet current liberal arts majors, attend classes, lunch with professors, and meet with academic advisors.

This opportunity is perfect for juniors that are beginning to consider college options OR seniors that have been admitted to Georgia Tech for the fall, but are undecided on their major.  For more information and registration for this event, visit http://shadowday.iac.gatech.edu

Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts Shadow Day Invitation

Summer Science Program Sponsored by the Pharmacy School at UGA

The Dean Stuart Feldman Summer Science Institute is designed to provide an introduction and overview of the many career opportunities which are available in the pharmacy profession. The six-day summer program exposes high school students to classroom and laboratory experiences, and provides components of what students should expect from the college experience.
Participants are expected to arrive on campus by 8:00 AM daily and must participate actively in all facets of the program. Rising juniors or seniors in high school, who are interested in sciences and pharmacy are encouraged to apply.
Accepted students must participate in the program from June 2–7, 2013.

Here is the link to more details: http://www.rx.uga.edu/index.php/student_affairs_office/summer_science_institute/

Want to Support the Great Things Happening at NOHS?

North Oconee High School Families,

It is time for the "Chevy Drive Program"!!!  Last year, we were sponsored by Athens Chevrolet and given the opportunity to raise funds through test drives. This year, we have the opportunity to do it again! We will use the money raised to purchase professional development opportunities that will help ensure your student has the very best trained teachers and staff possible.

Here are the details -

For every individual that goes to Athens Chevrolet by April 30th and test drives a car, $50 will be given back to the school. All you have to do is go by the dealership, test drive a car, and validate your test drive voucher card online. When you arrive at the dealership tell them that you are here for the "North Oconee High School" test drive, and they will put you in the car of your choice or you can select from the cars they already have sitting close by. No pressure from the dealership, just a great opportunity to support the school!  If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call Mike Kulp at (706) 769-7760.

Don't forget APRIL 30th is the deadline.

 

Athens Technical College Has Scholarship Money Available

Please see email we received about scholarships from Athens Tech:

 

Did you know that applications are now being accepted for the High School Merit-Based Scholarship for Athens Technical College? Your help is needed! Please encourage your students who you know meet the criteria to apply for this merit-based scholarship.

Every year there are so many eligible students who never apply. With your knowledge of your students and their abilities, your influence in encouraging them to apply would be significant and beneficial to the student!

Please go to http://www.athenstech.edu/Foundation/scholarship.cfm to review the criteria. We will also be glad to come to your office and answer questions or provide information on the High School Merit-Based Scholarship as well as about Athens Technical College.

Please note that complete application packets are DUE to the Athens Tech Foundation Office, Room F-136, by 4pm Thursday, April 4, 2013. The recipients will be announced Friday, April 26, 2013.

Again, THANK YOU for encouraging your students to apply for the High School Merit-Based Scholarship at Athens Technical College!! This scholarship is administered through the Athens Tech Foundation so if you have questions or need additional information please contact the Foundation office at 706/425-3046.

Sincerely,

Liz Dalton

Elizabeth T. Dalton, Director

Athens Tech Foundation

Camp Strong 4Life

At Camp Strong4Life, students struggling with weight are given support that they need to make meaningful and lasting changes.  A fully-trained staff, activities that inspire lifestyle changes and family involvement are all features of this week-long camp where campers will participate in outdoor fun and make memories that last a lifetime.  This camp is for students 9 to 14 with a BMI greater than the 85th percentile.  The cost is $350, but there are needs-based scholarships available.  It includes one full week for the campers and two required family weekends.  This also offers a Leaders-In-Training Program for teens ages 15 to 17.  Visit http://choa.org/campstrong4life to register now.  Space is limited.

Spring Open House at University of North Georgia

The Watkinsville campus of University of North Georgia (Fformerly known as Gainesville State College) will be holding an open house on Saturday, March 23, 2013 from 8:30 to 12:00.  This is a great way to see first-hand all of the opportunities that you have at this extremely affordable and convenient location.  If you are interested in this event, both information and reservations can be accessed by going to http://ung.edu/future-associates/visit-campus.php. 

Congratulations to All the Georgia Tech Acceptances

Seniors who applied to Georgia Tech found out this weekend their admissions status.  We look forward to sending another fatastic crop of students to Tech in the fall.  For the young men who were accepted, there is a Bryan Memorial Scholarship of $1000 sponsored by the Chi Psi chapter at Georgia Tech.

Bryan Memorial Scholarship Application

Girls State Information

Girls State is a leadership action program where qualified females (HOPE GPA of 3.0 or better) from the junior (rising senior) class take part in a practical government course. It is designed to develop a working knowledge of the structure of government and to impress upon the citizen the fact that our government is just what we make it. Along the way, delegates have the opportunity to learn the political process by organizing a "mythical" 51st state. Each level of government is run by those delegates who are elected to serve. Instruction is presented on the law and court system, parliamentary procedure and Georgia political history. The 2013 session will be held Sunday, June 9th through Saturday, June 14, 2013 at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Georgia.
This program is a very good experience and a good resume builder. There is a application procedure, and not everyone who applies will be accepted. Students who are accepted will have an American Legion Post who will sponsor the $210 fee so this program will be cost-free to the participant. Applications for this program are due to the counseling office no later than March 28th, 2013 at 3:45. The application is linked below. Please go to www.georgiagirlsstate.org for more information about this program.

Girls State Application

Boys State Information

Boys State is a leadership action program where qualified males (HOPE GPA of 3.0 or better) from the junior class take part in a practical government course.  It is designed to develop a working knowledge  of the structure of government and to impress upon the citizen the fact that our government is just what we make it.  Along the way, delegates have the opportunity to learn the political process by organizing a "mythical" 51st state.  Each level of government is run by those delegates who are elected to serve.  Instruction is presented on the law and court system, parliamentary procedure and Georgia political history.  The 2013 session will be held Sunday, June 9th through Saturday, June 15, 2013 at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, Georgia.
This program is a very good experience and a good resume builder.  There is a application procedure, and not everyone who applies will be accepted.  Students who are accepted will have an American Legion Post who will sponsor the $200 fee so this program will be cost free to the participant.  Applications for this program are due to the counseling office no later than March 28th, 2013 at 3:45.  The application is linked below.  Please go to www.dogboysstate.org for more information about this program.

Boys State Application

Kaplan Course at NOHS Cancelled

Kaplan will try again in the fall to have the course make.  Remember that by taking at NOHS, you are saving on the cost of a Kaplan course AND you are saving on gas by not having to drive to Downtown Athens.  We will again advertise Kaplan opportunities in the fall. 

Interested in an Electrical Career?

From: Chuck Little, H.R. Director
Atlanta Electrical Contractors Assoc. (AECA)
770-454-6400

Well, the one day we build up to each year (by visiting classrooms) for your SENIORS is just around the corner.  Our annual AECA Career Day (make application to the school and have a job interview) will be conducted on FRIDAY, APRIL 5th, from 10 am to 12 noon.

Letters have just gone out (the last 30 days) to all past SENIORS who have indicated an interest in getting into our Apprenticeship program, whereby we PAY them go to full-time work and send them to part-time school (TUITION FREE). At the end of five years, as mere 23 year-olds, they will be making right at $58,000 per year (with no student loan debt)! This is a GREAT post-secondary PATHWAY to a technical career that is not given much consideration in today’s world of schooling and work.

There is “no catch.” They just have to show up for work on the days required & not get fired (based on their work ethic) and pass in class (one day every two weeks) throughout the five years of paid training. They must be able to pass a test with Algebra 1 and 10th grade reading level (given in the summer time, not at the Career Day).  They must be legal to work in the U.S. and have a real social security number, as well (along with some other qualifications).

You can download and print off the “letter of invitation” (tells them what to bring) and “registration form” (needs to come back to us) at www.atlantaelectrcial.org (click on the red Career Day button to do so).

Typically, we will have anywhere from 60-80 SENIORS participate. One school has already signed up about 15 students. PARENTS, TEACHERS, AND COUNSELORS ARE ALL INVITED, TOO (just let us know who is coming).

Don’t hesitate to call or write if you have any questions. With every good wish...

 

Chuck Little, H.R. Director

Reading Skills and Speed Reading Offered at UGA

Offered this summer on UGA campus will be programs on reading skills and speed reading for children and adults. Please see the attached brochure for more information.

Reading Skills and Speed Reading Programs

Are You Interested in Business, Marketing, Culinary Arts, Hotel/Lodging Management or Event Planning?

The Hospitality Careers Academy is a competitive summer program that will be held at the Classic Center in Athens and The Ritz Carlton at Lake Oconee this summer.  During the week long academy, students will listen to guest speakers in the industry, participate in job shadowing and industry tours, take part in team building and leadership activities, all while working towards the culminating project that integrates the skills and information they have gained throughout the week's activities. The cost for this opportunity is $300, which includes a week's worth of lodging and food expenses.   Applications are due April 20, 2013.  To learn more, click the link below:

Hospitality Industry Summer Program Application and Information

Two Summer Opportunities at UGA

The Terry Business Academy is a selective, pre-collegiate summer program.  This program focuses on entrepreneurship and business.  This is an intensive one week program will allow rising juniors and seniors to experience many aspects of business in an exciting environment with students who share a common interest and drive.  The Terry Business Academy will take place on June 23-29 and a second offering will take place on July 7-13.  Application deadline is March 29, 2013 and can be accessed by going to the link at the bottom of this blog entry.

Terry Accounting Residency Program is open to rising juniors and seniors and is also free of charge.  In this program, participants will learn more about the accounting profession.  This program will take place June 12-15.  Applications are due by March 29, 2013.  For more information and to apply, click on the link below.

www.terry.uga.edu/diversity.

The 411 on Student Loans from LaGrange

Often, institutional scholarships awarded to accepted students (based on their talent, need, high school grades or ACT/SAT scores) only cover a percentage of college costs. Financial Aid Insider offers tips and information about lesser-known sources of student financial assistance.

This issue: Federal Direct Loans
Source: www.finaid.org There are two types of Federal Direct Loans: subsidized and unsubsidized.

• With a subsidized loan, the government pays the interest while you're in school. To receive a subsidized Direct Loan, you must be able to demonstrate financial need.
   
• With an unsubsidized loan, you pay all the interest, although you can have the payments deferred until after graduation by capitalizing the interest. This adds the interest payments to the loan balance, increasing the size and cost of the loan. All students, regardless of need, are eligible for the unsubsidized Direct Loan.
   
• Repayment begins after the student graduates or drops below half-time enrollment. The standard repayment term is 10 years, although one can get access to alternate repayment terms by consolidating the loans.

Direct Loan Limits The chart below illustrates the annual and aggregate loan limits for the subsidized and unsubsidized Direct loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2008.

Many students combine subsidized loans with unsubsidized loans to borrow the maximum amount permitted each year.

Annual Loan Limits - Direct Loan
Dependent Students (whose parents were not denied a PLUS loan)	Combined Base Limit for Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans	Additional Limit for Unsubsidized Loans	Total Limit for Unsubsidized Loans (minus subsidized amounts)
First-Year Undergraduate (Freshman)	$3,500	$2,000	$5,500
Second-Year Undergraduate (Sophomore)	$4,500	$2,000	$6,500
Third-Year and Beyond Undergraduate (Junior, Senior)	$5,500	$2,000	$7,500

Direct Loan Interest Rates and Fees These reductions, in place since 2008, are available only to undergraduate students, not graduate students, and only for subsidized Direct loans.

Phased-in Cuts in Interest Rates on Subsidized Loans for Undergraduate Students
Year	Interest Rate Subsidized Loans (Undergraduate Students)	Interest Rate Other Loans (Graduate or Unsubsidized)
2008-09	6.0%	6.8%
2009-10	5.6%	6.8%
2010-11	4.5%	6.8%
2011-12	3.4%	6.8%
2012-13	3.4%	6.8%

FAFSA Deadline?

Confused about FAFSA deadline dates?

Financial aid is a confusing process, and it becomes even more so when you have to consider deadlines.  The counseling office has noticed there seems to be a lot of confusion (maybe even panic???) about deadline dates and financial aid terminology. 

There is NO deadline for the FAFSA set by the federal government.  Students can complete and submit the FAFSA at any time.  However, EACH college has a deadline for when the FAFSA must be received in order for financial aid to be applied toward tuition.  These deadlines vary.  So when one student says that the FAFSA is due March 1st, that may be the case for their college.  It is very important for students to check with the financial aid office of the school they plan to attend for specific college deadlines regarding aid.

Another point of confusion is the terminology used when considering deadlines.  There is a Priority deadline and there is a Final deadline for submitting the FAFSA to a college.  For example:  UGA's Priority deadline for financial aid is March 1st.  UGA's Final deadline for financial aid is July 15th. 

What is the difference?  It all has to do with consideration for the types of financial aid awarded. 

To be considered for Limited Need-Based Funds, a student must submit the FAFSA by the Priority deadline.  These funds include: Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Work-Study (FWS), Federal Perkins Loan or any limit-based scholarships given through the college (i.e. scholarships awarded from the college, specific to the college).  Students who submit by the Priority deadline are considered for these types of limited-funds; funds are distributed by those who meet eligibility criteria and on a "first-come-first-served" basis.  Not all students who submit the FAFSA by the Priority deadline will receive these limited-funds.  In fact, limited-funds for a particular college may run out before all students are even considered.

To be considered for Non-Limited Need-Based Funds, a student must submit the FAFSA by the Final deadline.  These funds include:  HOPE/Zell Miller Scholarship and Federal Student Loans.

For more clarification on the difference, check out how UGA explains the financial aid process:
http://osfa.uga.edu/application.html#dateslf

You can also reference the Financial Aid information under the "Toolbox" on the blog page from our Parent/Student Financial Aid Night at NOHS held January 15th, 2013.

Again, please remember, dates VARY depending on the college.  When in doubt, call the financial aid office at your college.