For a PDF version of these questions and answers, click here.
How many credits do I need to
graduate? 22
Do I need to take any tests
to get into college?
Check with your counselor about college admission testing such as
the PSAT, SAT I, SAT II or ACT. In the fall of your junior year you will
have the opportunity to take the PSAT test, which is comprised of several verbal
and math sections. The PSAT serves two purposes: It is used as a practice for
the SAT I, and it is a qualifier for the National Merit Scholarship Competition.
The SAT I is also a three-hour test, mainly multiple choice, that measures
verbal and mathematical abilities. SAT II tests are given in 13 subjects and
last one hour each. Once you receive your standardized test scores you should
review them with your counselor. Registration materials and guidebooks for all
tests are available year round in the guidance office. All registration
materials must include the school CEEB code.
What is the school CEEB code?
Southside High School: 331830
Elmira Free Academy: 331820
When should I take the SAT I or ACT test?
We recommend that you take the SAT or ACT not later than the
spring of your junior year. This will enable you to retake either exam if
needed. Most colleges will accept your highest combined scores when they are
reviewing your application. Most studies show that students can significantly
raise their scores through review classes.
How do I sign up for the SAT or ACT?
Registration material is available in each guidance office. You
may also go on-line to www.collegeboard.com or www.act.org.
When do I take the SAT II test?
Students who apply to highly competitive colleges should think
about taking the SAT II while course material is fresh in their mind.
Colleges that require SAT II generally require the SAT II writing test plus two
others. We strongly recommend that you take at least two of your SAT II s by the
end of your junior year. Students who are in accelerated courses should consider
taking an SAT II subject test as early as the end of their sophomore
year.
Do colleges visit the high schools?
Yes, quite a few do. We invite you to attend information sessions
held by the various college representatives as they visit throughout the year.
Each guidance office advertises the times and dates of the various college
visitations.
Do colleges only look at grades?
Colleges typically use grades as only one factor when deciding
whether to offer admission to a student. While this is a significant factor,
they also consider the activities you have been involved in, employment
opportunities you have had, as well as community and civic involvement.
When should I visit a college campus?
The spring and summer of your junior year is the most ideal time
to schedule campus visitations. Only by visiting a campus will you be able to
discover whether that particular college environment is a good fit for you. If
you have an opportunity, an overnight stay will give you a chance to attend
classes, talk with students, tour the bookstore and student union. In order to
set up a college visitation you must call the specific college admission office.
Plan ahead and have a specific date and backup date in mind. Most college
visitations are arranged in a group format. If you think you will need an
individual visitation, be sure to request it.
Will I need to include a letter of recommendation with my application?
Most schools will require letters of recommendation. We recommend
that each student ask three different people to write letters of recommendation.
These letters can come from previous teachers, counselors, advisors and
employers.
Will I have to write a personal essay to get into college?
Most colleges will require that you write a personal essay. This
is an excellent opportunity to provide the admission personnel information about
your particular strengths.
Will I have to have an interview to get into college?
Interviews are rarely required by colleges but it is another
opportunity for you to obtain direct information about the school and provide
them with a more personal look at yourself.
What do I need to do to submit my college applications?
Bring in your completed application and all components, including
fees, to the guidance office. Be sure to provide all of the necessary
information. We will attach an official copy of your high school transcript and
pay the postage to have it sent.
How does my son/daughter access their counselor?
We encourage all students to see their counselor during a study
hall or during advisement. If it is an emergency, they can access the counselor
as needed. Students should have a pass to come to the guidance
office.
My son or daughter has no idea what they want to do after high school. Where do we begin?
Each guidance department has great access to a variety of resources that encourage career exploration. One great resource available to students is www.access.bridges.com where students can build their own account and use a step-by-step process that supports career exploration and college searches.