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College & Career Newsletter
May 12-18, 2024
Welcome Students & Families
Scroll through for important information regarding College/Career
How to reach us?
For general questions and inquiries please email (Please do not use the link at the bottom of this Newsletter to contact us)
Ms Ignaitis: tignaitis@seq.org
All HCA, Study Skills Students and Last names A-L
and/or
Ms Yeager: tyeager@seq.org
All DAA, ELD Students and Last names M-Z
Important Dates and Deadlines
UPCOMING EVENTS/DUE DATES:
May 15th: 9th-11th grade Financial Aid Informational Meeting hosted by Stanford University (on zoom)
May 16th - College and Career Fair (see flyer below)
It is Never Too Early to Learn About Financial Aid
Upcoming Flex Sessions
May 16th - Plumber Career Presentation for Flex (see Career Section for more info about the Trades)
May 23th - Electrician Career Presentation for Flex
May 24th - Learn about a Going to a Liberal Arts College on the East Coast During Flex
From the Counseling Office
- Last day for students to request 2024-25 course requests changes 5/24
College, Career, & Community Fair
Thursday, May 16th, 2024 at Sequoia HS
COLLEGE TIP OF THE WEEK
Why take a Concurrent Enrollment Class? Using Community College Classes to Strengthen Your College Applications
Some students spend a lot of money on summer programs to enhance their college applications. Although these programs are not bad, students think they can have an edge in the admissions process by attending a prestigious college program but most of the college summer programs have no connection to the school’s admission process. Taking the initiative to use local resources to take a college class through concurrent enrollment is just as impressive and FREE! Having college courses on your application makes it stand out and can show you are capable of a higher academic level of work.
Possible Credit for College
If the class states it is UC/CSU transferable, there is a good chance you will get credit at a four-year college that can save you some money and time in the future.
Note, not all colleges allow students to bring in credit. It is up to the individual college as well as the major whether or not they will take the credit.
Take a Class Not Offered at Sequoia High School
There might be a subject you are interested in not offered at Sequoia or a subject you are particularly strong in and want to challenge yourself beyond our high school offerings. Both are good reasons to take a concurrent enrollment course at community college. Learning for learning's sake is a sought after quality!
How to Enroll:
Students who want to take a class at one of the local community colleges this summer should follow the detailed instructions on their High School Student webpage
Visit the following sites for specific updates and information:
Canada College: https://canadacollege.edu/concurrent/
College of San Mateo: https://collegeofsanmateo.edu/highschool/
Skyline College: https://skylinecollege.edu/outreach/concurrentenrollment.php
De Anza: https://www.deanza.edu/admissions/dual/index.html
Foothill: https://foothill.edu/reg/admission/highschool.html
SUMMER PROGRAMS: Do you need an official transcript?
If you need a transcript sent to a summer program, request in Naviance.
DIRECTIONS:
“Colleges” tab on the top of the homepage
Scroll down to “manage transcripts” (Under Applying to College)
Click the red button “Plus”
And then click “Other transcripts”
Finally, complete the information needed for the transcript request.
THERE is a 5 School Day turn around to send the transcripts, so plan accordingly!
Interested in learning more about Boston-area Colleges?
Email Ms. Yeager, tyeager@seq.org, so that we can share more about our recent college visit to Boston.
Davis Women in Business High School Outreach Events
EXPLORING COLLEGE OPTIONS: Duke, Georgetown, Harvard, Penn and Stanford
May 12th
In Person @ Stanford University
The Exploring College Options programs start promptly. We suggest arriving 15 to 20 minutes beforehand to complete the sign-in process and find a seat. Programs typically last one and a half hours.
Please feel free to bring your parent or guardian to the program, and if you have any friends who you think might be interested, please direct them to this website for registration information.
If you cannot attend this event, please go to our website for a complete listing of regional Exploring College Options programs.
Registration Information: Due to limited space, we ask that only one guest accompany each student to the program.
Juniors Meet with College Counseling Expert Alice Kleeman - Topics: Financial Aid and Choosing a Major
May 14th
Alice will offer a session on May 14 in the Community Room at the Redwood City Library from 6:00-7:30 p.m., discussing the bare basics on financial aid for 20-30 minutes and a brief talk about majors/minors and what they mean, leaving time for questions about anything else!
As always, this session is for juniors only—no parents or students at other grade levels. Thanks.
Camp College: a FREE virtual boot camp program offered by WACAC
All sessions will be on Wednesday afternoons at 4pm Pacific, beginning on May 15. Go here to register.
May 15: Building a college list
June 12: How college application decisions are made
June 19: Getting starting on your app: essays and activities
August 7: Personal Writing for the Common App and UC app
August 14: Avoiding Missed Opportunities on the Common app / UC app
August 21: Ask the Experts: Q & A for Common App & UC
Week-Long Virtual Event: Excellence and Experience at UChicago May 20-23rd
Coalition for College wants to help you by sharing the latest resources and guidance they need to confidently approach the college admissions process in the future. Joining together with University of Chicago
All events will be conducted virtually.
Monday, May 20th, 6-7pm: Case Studies
Register Here
This is your chance to see what an application looks like and how applications are reviewed! Together, you and admissions counselors from UChicago and Coalition for College will review applications, and decide who is admitted, waitlisted, or denied admission. See you in the committee room!
Tuesday, May 21st, 6-7pm: Essay Writing Workshop
Register Here
You will discuss how essays can add an important perspective to a student’s application and learn how different kinds of essays are considered in a holistic review process.
Wednesday, May 22nd, 6-7pm: First Things First at UChicago
Register Here
First Things First is a series all about the importance of and value in being first—whether you are going to be the first in your family to attend college, the first to move out of state, or the first to try something completely new and different, these are events for everyone. Join admissions officers and first-generation college students for a conversation on navigating the college search process, discovering your college fit, and finding your college home.
Thursday, May 23rd, 6-7pm: Black Excellence at UChicago
Register Here
Juniors: What you can do NOW to submit a Letter of Recommendation (LOR) as a Senior
As you begin to build your college list, find out if you need letters of recommendation to apply. After researching and understanding the requirements for each school, begin to figure out what teachers would best REINFORCE your application. (You can also wait and use your senior year teachers)
Ask your teacher(s) in person if they would be willing to write you a strong letter of recommendation.
If they agree to write a LOR for you , complete the Class of 2025 Teacher Letter of Recommendation Survey on Naviance. (Under your Initials , Surveys from your School)
Teachers rely on this survey to shape your LOR. You need to take your time and answer each question completely.
The better the survey, the better the LOR.
More details will be provided at the beginning of your senior year at the IB/College Grade Level Meeting on how to Officially Request a Teacher.
College Board Account
If you took the PSAT in the Fall, you may have created a Big Future app account to see your PSAT Scores. This is the not the same as a College Board Account. If you will be taking the SAT, make sure to create a College Board Account.
California Youth Climate Policy (CYCP) Leadership Program
Due May 27th
9th-11th grade
During the program, students participate in a summer retreat (August) and monthly workshops (August - January) that focus on foundational knowledge and skill-building activities related to environmental and climate action. Students then apply their knowledge and skills on leading a campaign that passes climate policies (or builds on existing policies) in their school or district. Throughout the program, participants receive mentoring from adult coaches, as well as support in developing and implementing a personal leadership plan. Students who complete all program requirements are eligible to receive a $500 stipend. WEBSITE
San Mateo County Youth Commission
Due: May 31st
Grades: 9-12th
An advisory commission to the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, established in 1993 to address youth need in the county and provide youth voice in local government. The Youth Commission is comprised of 25 youth between the ages of 13-21 who reside in San Mateo County. Commissioners serve a fixed term following the school year cycle from August to May. WEBSITE
Redwood City Police Department Youth Academy - Free Summer Program
DUE: ASAP
ELIGIBLE AGES: 13-16 yrs
Three day summer program from July 15-18th
Topics Include: Canine Presentation, Crime Scene Investigation, Firearm Safety, Juvenile Crime, SWAT, Taser Demo
If interested, pick up an application in the College and Career Center
Impact Internship - Disclaimer
DUE: May 19th
This program is ONLY free for students you are eligible for Free or Reduced Lunch.
Stanford Neuroscience Journal
DUE: May 30th
ELIGIBLE GRADES: 9-11th
Scientific publications remain the key mechanism for scientists to communicate the results of their original scientific research and findings to the field of medicine. Must be in high school during the 2024-2025 school year
MIT Open CourseWare
ALL YEAR
9th-12th
MIT OpenCourseWare is a free and open collection of material from thousands of MIT courses, covering the entire MIT curriculum. No registration. WEBSITE
INTERESTED IN LAW ENFORCEMENT?
San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue - Law Enforcement Exploring Program
The San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Programs are designed to give the youth of our community a chance to experience different levels of law enforcement first hand. This program is nationally known as “Exploring” and is part of the co-ed division of Boy Scouts of America.Explorer Post 830 specializes in Search and Rescue training.
Pick up a flier in the College and Career Center for more information or
Interested candidates can contact us via email at
Wellness Peer Advocates
Are you looking for opportunities to complete community service hours for school, college, work, or personal growth? Look no further! The Teen Resource Center is excited to announce Wellness Peer Advocates, and we invite you to join us.
Being a part of Wellness Peer Advocates not only allows you to fulfill your community service requirements but also demonstrates your commitment to promoting well-being and mental health awareness on our campus. Plus, it looks fantastic on college applications and resumes!
If you're interested in joining or learning more, please reach out to Sam Reynaga at sam.reynaga@star-vista.org
San Mateo Youth Climate Action (SMYCA) - Virtual Meetings
ELIGIBLE GRADES: All Grades Welcome
Youth-led climate policy and education initiatives from across San Mateo County. Students collaborate across the county, virtually. Students can make a long-lasting impact across cities as a whole. Current initiatives awaiting students include projects such as climate divestment in cities, building electrification policy, in-school/in-home climate literacy initiatives.
Students are welcome to schedule a meeting with SMYCA representatives over Zoom to learn more (https://calendly.com/smyca/officehours).
South County Teen Leadership Council
The South County Teen Leadership Council run through the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Activities League offers high school students a free program that provides mentoring, travel conferences, field trips, leadership and organizes community service projects.
Weekly meetings are from 4-6pm in Redwood City
If you are interested, email, call or text Mason Lok
650 474-1394 mlok@smcgov.org
Pick up a flier in the College and Career Center.
Civil Service Fellowships
Can Apply All Year
All Grades
Rhizome, a nonprofit organization built by and for students, is offering a community service, leadership, and civic engagement opportunity through their Civic Service Fellowship. Their website includes info on how the Fellowship boosts mental health determinants, leadership skills, and community connectedness while making an impact and receiving service hours. Check it out if you’re interested in civics, service leadership, or learning how to make a genuine impact.
Redwood City Police Department Cadet Program
Ages 14-21 must have a 2.0 Applicants interested in exploring a career in law enforcement while providing volunteer service to the RWC community.
To Apply Click Here
Volunteer with AYSO EPIC
Help volunteer with AYSO EPIC, a program for the mentally and physically disabled to have the opportunity to play community soccer.
City Trees Volunteer Opportunities
CityTrees loves working with volunteers from our community. The easiest way to volunteer with CityTrees is to sign up for an upcoming event.
At CityTrees, diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the core of who we are. Our commitment to these values is central to our mission. We know that working together and having varied perspectives helps generate better ideas and will result in a larger and healthier tree canopy.
There are opportunities all year round
Do you Like Computer Science? Code for Fun Camp Summer Positions
MINIMUM AGE: 16 yrs old
Code for Fun is a non-profit organization located in the Bay area and we will be offering summer coding camps in your city.
We are looking for students who are committed to volunteering and passionate about computer science.
This is a great opportunity to earn community service hours, learn leadership & people skills, develop time management & organizational skill
Until There's a Cure - Unpaid Summer Internship
May 13th
Until There’s A Cure is a national organization based in Woodside, CA is seeking fun and creative individuals for our internship program. We are dedicated to eradicating HIV/AIDS by raising awareness and funds to combat this pandemic. This is an incredible opportunity to learn and engage in cutting edge, meaningful work for a nationally renowned nonprofit AIDS organization. Our interns play a vital role in our organizational success, and can anticipate a challenging, fun, and rewarding experience. Flier in College and Career Center with job positions and more information The student can send their resume to our email: info@utac.org
Healthy Cities Tutoring
There is a waiting list for students who need tutors!
Project Read - Redwood City Library Volunteer Opportunity
This is a great opportunity for SHS students to be matched with a younger student to tutor once or twice a week.
If interested contact:
Email - rclread@redwoodcity.org
Phone- 650 780-7077
For more information go to their website and scroll down to the Teen Volunteer Section.
(Flier in College and Career Center)
Girls That Code - Online Activities
They “release activities bi-weekly— some online, some offline, of varying levels of difficulty. Each activity features a woman in tech who pioneered innovative technology.” Click here for more information
Ronald McDonald House Charities Bay Area
Help families able to stay close to their sick children
Families with critically ill children are going through some of the hardest moments of their lives. By helping us keep our programs running smoothly, hosting in-kind drives or fundraisers, and spreading the word, you make it possible for families to keep their focus on their children
Year long opportunities to volunteer
For more information, click here for their website
Volunteer Opportunity with Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity is in need of volunteers, 16 years old and older, to help at our construction site in Daly City. If you are curious about Habitat and how you can get involved, we are holding informational sessions to provide a glimpse of our work. In these sessions, you can also expect to hear about the Covid-19 protocols currently in place to ensure the safety of volunteers.
Click Here for more information on how to volunteer
Monthly SHS Scholarships & Student Opportunities Lists
Click HERE to go directly to the Sequoia High School website for the most updated scholarship and student opportunities lists.
If you find a scholarship you are interested in and want the link to the website or more information be sure to log in to your Naviance account, under the College tab, click on Scholarships and Money, then Scholarship list, and put the name of the scholarship in the search box, then click on the name of the scholarship.
May Scholarship List Available!
On Sequoia website under College and Career
Cameron Impact (Early)
Due: May 22nd
Grade: 11
3.7 cumulative unweighted GPA Community service, leadership and extra curriculars. Must be US citizen
All about Trade Apprenticeships
More than 80,000 women and men working in one of more than 800 occupations in California construction trades began as apprentices. To enter the building trades, you must start as an apprentice.
An apprenticeship is an excellent career choice if you;
like to work with your hands
are willing to serve an apprenticeship for up to five years, depending on the trade
have dexterity, mechanical ability, problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively with a team
want to earn a living wage and good benefits
want the opportunity to advance in your career
If you are interested in pursuing a trade apprenticeship, the following are great resources to begin your search and/or learn more about opportunities within California:
California Apprenticeship Coordinators Association website
Division of Apprenticeship Standards
A local resource is Trade Introduction Program - San Mateo
San Mateo County Union Community Alliance and Local Apprenticeship Programs offer a certificated Apprenticeship-Readiness Training course to prepare you for a career in an union building trade.
Main Requirements:
18 yrs old by the time of the training
Up-to-date Covid vaccinations
Valid Driver’s License
High School Diploma
Be able to do physical work
They have multiple orientations throughout the year - Next Orientation is June 1st
Utility Box Mural Project $500 Stipend - City of San Carlos
DEADLINE TO APPLY: May 24th
Students can apply and go through the selection process to paint the utility box on San Carlos Ave & Club Drive.
This is a great opportunity for students to add this experience to their resumes. The selected artist(s) will receive a total of $500 once the project is completed. The deadline to apply is March 1, 2024 at 4pm. More info can be found HERE
Teacher Aides at Growing IQ
Grades: High school junior or senior
Requirements: Interest in child-care/education field, enjoys working with preschool and elementary aged students, able to assist in managing a classroom of 5-10 students for up to two hours, with high energy and an uplifting attitude. Apply Now by sending your resume to lily@growingiq.com or call 650.502.2447.
Mercato de Che Fico - Is Hiring!
ELIGIBLE AGE: At least 16yrs old
The newest grocery store in Menlo Park is looking for employees for the following areas:
Food Service (deli and gelato)
Registers
Sales Floor
Flexible Hours
Reach out Careers@CheFico.com or come by in person - 1300 El Camino Real, Suite A, Menlo Park
Fliers in College and Career Center
Recreation Leaders I/II and Program Coordinator positions with San Carlos Parks and Recreation Summer Camp programs
San Carlos Parks and Recreation is looking for individuals who are passionate about giving back to the community, motivated, enthusiastic, and responsible. Engage a fun and positive leadership experience while also having the opportunity to make an impact on kid’s lives. Come join our Parks and Recreation staff as a Recreation Leaders I/II or Program Coordinator in our Summer Camp Programs! Learn more and apply today at https://www.calopps.org/city-of-san-carlos.
Ladera Oaks Lifeguard Job Opportunity
Minimum Age: 15 yrs old
$18.00 an hour (can be negotiated based on experience)
Peninsula Swim School- Looking for Swim Instructors
Ages: 15 1/2 and up
We are currently looking to hire more swim teachers to join our team. We offer flexible hours and provide paid training. See flier for details.
Redwood City Parks and Recreation - Program Leader II for After School Programs
ELIGIBLE Minimum Age: 16yrs
Make an impact on youth in our community by leading youth in various activities Assist in helping students excel in school by providing them with academic support Participate and create recreational enrichment activities that help generate a positive social environment for youth Develop professionally and enhance your leadership skills Gain experience in youth development and education
For more informationCity of San Carlos Part-time Recreation Leaders
City of San Carlos Parks and Recreation Department is looking for part-time recreation leaders to oversee gym rentals and sporting events.
Pick up a flier in the College and Career Center
In-N-Out Burger
Flexible hours, Free Meals, Gain Work Experience
$21.00 hour
Apply at In-N-Out.com or
Pick up a flier in the College and Career Center
Assistant and Lead Soccer Coach Positions
16 years and older
Will be here on campus Monday August 28th at lunch.
Super Soccer Stars is currently looking for Part-Time assistant and Lead Coaches in the Bay Area for their Fall season (Paid training available starting immediately).Current Openings: https://apply.workable.com/super-soccer-stars/j/52A1133161/
Hummingbird Music School is looking for fun and talented high school musicians to join our team of Music Teachers!
Minimum Age Requirement: 16yrs
Part-time work is available teaching group Piano Classes and Ukulele Classes at local elementary schools, as well as private lessons (in all instruments) in-person or online. Pay is $60/hour for group classes and $45/hour for private lessons. Please apply online at http://hummingbirdmusicschool.com/about
Pick up a flier in the College and Career Center
Kumon Tutoring Center
No Experience required, Entry level
Paid Minimum Wage
Looking for students with good math and reading skills who are available to work Tuesday and Fridays 3-7pm. If interested email at lihueiw@yahoo.com or text at 650-799-4099
Pick up a flier in the College and Career Center
Mathnasium of Redwood City, a Math-Only Learning Center
Looking for high school students with exceptional math skills through Algebra I and Geometry to join our team! We offer competitively paid part-time jobs at Sequoia Station with flexible scheduling and ongoing training opportunities. Join us for the opportunity to make a REAL difference in a child’s life by passing on a love for math!
Our starting salaries are $17.00-$19.00 depending on what level of math the instructors can teach.
If interested, please apply online
Pick up a flier in the College and Career Center
How To Videos for students now on our website!
Complete the 2023-2024 Meal Application
We want all families to complete this confidential meal application so that qualifying students can receive reduced cost bus passes, internet, prom tickets, grad night tickets, college application fees and IB testing registration. To complete the meal application, click here.
Missed the Grade Level College/IB Meeting
The grade-level presentations in English and Spanish ( without the recording) and handouts are available on the Sequoia College and Career webpage.
Past Newsletters
May 5-11, 2024 COLLEGE TIP: Letters of Recommendation - Why are they important/required? CAREER: All about Trade Apprenticeships
April 28-May 4, 2024 : COLLEGE TIP- UC and CSU Admit Rates FINANCIAL AID - WUE Explained
April 21-27, 2024 COLLEGE TIP: Students: Tips for Cultivating Teacher Relationships - Helpful for Future Letters of Recommendation CAREER: Careers in the Military Sealift Command
April 14-20, 2024 COLLEGE TIP: How to Choose a Major FINANCIAL AID: Financial Fit - Resources to Help Your Family
UPDATED FOR BREAK March 31-April 13th
March 31- April 6, 2024 COLLEGE TIP:Planning on Visiting Colleges During Spring Break? Tips from Georgia Tech CAREER:Careers to Consider: Mortuary Science/Funeral Service
COLLEGE TIP: College Search - LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION from O's List FA: Don’t Let Sticker Price Suck You In
March 17-23, 2024 COLLEGE TIP: College Search Number 1 Tip from Tufts - QUESTIONS To Ask Each College CAREER: 8 jobs in criminal justice that aren’t being a cop
COLLEGE TIP: 3 tips for a productive summer from Johns Hopkins University FINANCIAL AID: Competitions and Contests Can Enhance your Admission Prospects and help you Earn Money for College
March 3-9, 2024 COLLEGE TIP: Summer Opportunities- NOW IS THE TIME TO APPLY
CAREER: Why Industrial Hygiene is a Smart Career Move in Today’s Health-Conscious World
Feb 18-March 2, 2024 Winter Break Two Week Edition
COLLEGE TIP: Study Resources for the SAT, FINANCIAL AID: I Can Afford College - website resource
COLLEGE TIP: Should I Take the SAT/ACT? - If you are thinking about applying to a college, look at its testing policies and start planning CAREER:
Why choose a job in the medical field?
COLLEGE TIP: Get Involved - Club Day FINANCIAL AID: New Term from Dept of Ed- Student Aid Index (SAI)
COLLEGE TIP:Look Beyond the Minimum Eligibility: Admit Rates, Selectivity and Eligibility v Selectivity
COLLEGE TIP: One Way to Stand Out in a College Application - Show Impact
JUNIORS: How to Get on the Waitlist for School Day SAT CONTESTS Open to All Grades, CSF Application Period for Fall 2023 Opens
COLLEGE TIP: Reflect Won You Are as an Application While Updating Naviance Resume JUNIORS: Junior Specific Opportunities
FIRST SEMESTER
Dec 23, 2023- Jan 13, 2024 Holiday Break
COLLEGE TIP: Help to Start Volunteering, CAREER: How to Become a Pilot, STUDENT OPPORTUNITES: Updated Lists for January JUNIORS: Last Chance to Sign Up for School Day SAT
JUNIORS: Sign Up for School Day SAT, COLLEGE TIP: End Your Semester Strong, FINANCIAL AID: What is the FAFSA and CADAA
Dec 10-16, 2023 COLLEGE TIP: Your Transcript is Central to Your Application - Get Organized for the End of the Semester CAREER: 10 Fastest-Growing, High-Paying Jobs for the Future from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
COLLEGE TIP: Managing Stress, ANNOUNCEMENT: How to Access PSAT and Next Steps Meeting
FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION: Talk to Parents About Paying For College and Creating a Budget
COLLEGE TIP: All about the Five College Consortium
FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION: What types of federal student loans are available?
Nov 5-11, 2023 COLLEGE TIP: Why take a Concurrent Enrollment Class? Using Community College Classes to Strengthen Your College Applications CAREER: 5 In-Demand Jobs You Can Get With a Two-Year Degree
Oct 29-Nov 4, 2023 COLLEGE TIP: Visual and Performing Arts Programs in College, FINANCIAL AID: Terms: Need and Merit Based Aid (Do you still need to take the SAT/ACT?)
Oct 22-28, 2023 COLLEGE TIP: UC Admission Data and Definition of A-G CAREER INFORMATION: Why should you pursue a Career in Law Enforcement?
October 15-21, 2023 College Tip: Liberal Arts Colleges, FINANCIAL AID:Sticker Price vs What You’ll Actually Pay
Oct 8-14, 2023 COLLEGE TIP: Pros and Cons of Out-of-State Colleges FINANCIAL AID: Paying for College is a Family Affair and Here’s How It Works
Oct 1-7, 2023 COLLEGE TIP: What is a Research University? CAREER: Careers in Engineering
Sept 24-30, 2023: Updated Only
Sept 17-23, 2023: COLLEGE TIP: Types of Colleges/Universities, CAREER: Public Service Careers that Will Pay for Your College Degree
Sept 10-16, 2023: COLLEGE TIP: Importance of Getting Involvement FINANCIAL AID: Researching FA During College Visits
Aug 27-Sept 2, 2023 CSF, How and Why to Sign Up for a College Visit
Sequoia High School College & Career Center