Do you know?
This document is required when you apply to most four-year colleges and includes your grades from high school.
High school transcript
A plan you create in your Career Financial Literacy (CFL) class as part your graduation requirements
What is a simple tool you can use to discover careers that match your personality?
A career interest inventory or personality quiz
What is a scholarship, and do you have to pay it back?
Free money for college based on merit or financial need, no need to repay
True or False: You must know your career before applying to college.
False
What’s a major vs. a minor?
A major is your primary field of study; a minor is a secondary focus
If you don’t know exactly what career you want by the end of high school, you’re behind.
False - It's completely normal to be unsure. Taking time to explore options through classes, internships, and experiences is part of finding the right path.
What is the difference between a grant and a loan?
Grant = free money; Loan = must be repaid (sometimes with interest)
Myth or Fact: Trade schools are only for students who don’t like school.
Myth – they offer fast, hands-on paths to high-paying careers
What is financial aid used for?
To apply for federal and/or state student financial aid like grants, loans, and work-study
What is one document or tool you should start building in 11th grade to help with scholarship applications?
A student resume or brag sheet
High school courses that gives you hands-on experience in a career field?
Career Technical Education (CTE)
What are the names of the three staff members in the career center?
Mrs. Schirm, Mrs. Stadelman & Ms. Hall
You can only get financial aid if your parents make below a certain income.
False – Many factors affect aid, including number of people in college and cost of attendance.
What is one benefit of starting at a community college before transferring to a university?
You can save money on tuition while completing general education credits, then transfer to finish your degree.
True or False: The financial aid application has a deadline
No! BUT, but the longer you wait, the less money you might get
All careers that require a 4-year college degree automatically pay more than careers that require trade school or certification.
False – Many trade careers (like electricians, radiation techs, or HVAC specialists) can pay as much or more than some 4-year degree careers, especially early on.
What is work-study?
A program where students work part-time jobs to help pay for school
What is one reason to create a professional email address before senior year?
So you can communicate clearly with colleges, scholarship committees, and job contacts without confusion or unprofessional usernames.
What is one mistake students often make when asking for letters of recommendation?
Asking too late, not providing enough info, or choosing someone who doesn’t know them well.
This is the action students should take if they haven’t yet met any graduation pathway requirements by the end of 11th grade.
Meet with a counselor to create a plan for completing a graduation pathway
What is one way to test out a career interest before committing to it in college or training?
Job shadowing, informational interviews, internships, volunteering, or summer programs.
What is the difference between subsidized and unsubsidized federal student loans?
Subsidized loans don’t accrue interest while you’re in school; unsubsidized loans do.
What is the name of the tool that helps estimate how much a specific college will cost you after financial aid?
Net Price Calculator.