Welcome Back Blue Devils!

ABOUT

Welcome! The College & Career Center is open 7:00am - 3:00pm. Students are invited during lunch every Monday and Wednesday or any other time during the day with a pass as long as a scheduled activity is not taking place. Parents & Guardians are also invited, to call or email  for an appointment to ensure personal assistance.

Parents and students can also make an appointment with Ms. Patterson in the College & Career Center for help on getting started on a college, career or scholarship search. This is especially important for  juniors and seniors.

The College & Career Center holds a wealth of information and resources for students as they ponder "life after high school."  Students planning to attend a post-secondary school, whether it is 2 year, 4 year, or Technical/Trade, should visit the College & Career Center.

MCPS CTE Career Pathways - Comprehensive information regarding the eleven career clusters and their corresponding College Tech Prep career pathway programs and articulation agreements. 

Countdown to Graduation

Planning for graduation begins as soon as you enter Seneca Valley High School. Be sure to take advantage of everything high school has to offer and to plan ahead. Good decisions follow a timetable, so it pays to get yourself organized.

GRADE LEVEL CHECKLIST

9TH GRADE

10TH GRADE

11TH GRADE

12TH GRADE

STUDENT CHECKLIST

Four Year College Checklist

Two Year College Checklist

Trade Schools Checklist

GAP Year Checklist

Military Checklist

Work Checklist

Jumpstart your Brag Sheet in Junior Year!

Attention Juniors! 

Start your Brag Sheets in junior year!  Take some time to be proactive in completing the attached questions(Brag Sheet) so that your Counselors can get to know more about your interests, goals, and more prior to senior year.

What is a Brag Sheet?

Brag sheets are a way for you to help your counselor and teachers write letters of recommendation. These questions give Counselors more insight into who you are outside of school and your interests. Complete the attached Brag Sheet and share it with your counselor to begin the letter of recommendation phase!  

2026 Brag Sheet (Click Here)

MICUA Private College Application Days

Apply to Maryland’s private colleges with no application fees!  

Save the remaining dates!

• October 6, 2025

• October 22, 2025

• November 10, 2025

Ready to explore your future at one of Maryland’s private colleges or universities? In partnership with the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), join us for Private College Application Days and apply to MICUA institutions with no application fees!

This is your chance to take the next step without the usual costs—don’t miss out!

Students can apply through the Common App or directly on each school’s website.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMAT

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opening for the Class of 2026 on October 1, 2025

Spanish-speaking families are welcome to join the Financial Aid presentation in Spanish, held in the College & Career Center, Room C101.

For questions or more details, please contact Ms. Patterson Tammy_R_Patterson@mcpsmd.or or Counseling Services 240-740-3750.

We look forward to partnering with you for a successful school year!

For additional Information on Financial Aid Help Sessions, visit school email and college career center for more information.

How to Pay for College

In-person and Virtual event, Saturday, October 4, 2025

Did you know that the 2026-2027 FAFSA will be available on October 1, 2025? Would you like some help filling out the 2026 -2027 FAFSA? Join us so we may help you complete the FAFSA and answer your financial aid questions.

Virtual and in-person:

Saturday, October 4, 2025  |  10 am – 2 pm  |  Rockville Campus, SV building

Join us for this informative event and learn how to finance your education or workforce training. You can learn about MC Scholarships, financial aid programs, Maryland 529, dual enrollment, and more.

Registration is required. Click here for the link to register.

College & Career Representative Visits in the College & Career Center (Juniors & Seniors)

College Representative Visits

Juniors & Seniors are invited to participate in college rep visits to SBHS to learn more about colleges and universities.  Representatives come to SBHS to talk about their schools and answer questions.  Advantages of participating in college rep visits:

• Meeting the contact from a college or university.  Many times, these are the same people reviewing your application!

• Learning in-depth information about the school, their program offerings, and financial aid.

• In some cases, reps may offer insight on how to receive an application fee waiver for their college or university.

Career Visits

What is a College Visit?

College admission representatives visit Springbrook to share highlights about their colleges/universities, including:

● Admissions requirements Majors & programs

● Campus life, Athletics, Housing, Scholarships and more!

College Visits Period: Monday, September 8, 2025 - Friday, December 19, 2025,

Juniors and seniors must have permission, and a hall pass from the scheduled period teacher to attend a college visit during class time. Passes are available in Naviance registration.

Printed passes are required.

University of Maryland College Park is scheduled on September 16th at 9:40am in the Auditorium. 

Printed hall passes are required at the door.  Only scheduled period teachers can give permission for students to participate in college visits. Not Ms. Patterson!

Presentations last about 25–30 minutes and may be offered during class time and lunch. Students can sign up through Naviance. 

Log into Naviance> select colleges > select visits> review date and time>Register and Print the PASS> Scheduled period must sign and APROVE the ALL PASSES!

College visits during lunch are open to students in 9th - 12th grades, and NO HALL pass is required!  Ms. Patterson will submit student college visit sign-in sheets to the attendance immediately!

College Visit Schedule:  College Visit List is Updated daily!

Military Academies & Colleges Expo

Saturday, October 4, 2025  |  10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  |  National Museum of the United States Army in Fort Belvoir, VA!

Interested in a rigorous, leadership-focused college experience? Don’t miss the Military

Academies & Colleges Expo. Hosted by the Army Historical Foundation, this free event brings together representatives from all U.S. Service Academies, Senior Military Colleges, and ROTC program experts—everything you need in one place to explore the wide range of educational and career opportunities these incredible institutions offer.

Learn about:

• Admissions processes and eligibility for each institution

• ROTC scholarship opportunities

• Life at a Service Academy or Senior Military College

• Paths to commissioning as an officer in the U.S. military

• How a degree from a Senior Military College can also lead to success in the civilian sector

Whether you’re considering active duty, ROTC, or a leadership-focused education that prepares

you for success in both military and civilian careers, this event is for you!

Click here to register

College Success Preparation Parent Night: How to Make College Affordable

Come join us to learn about the nuts and bolts of financing college and the admissions process. The information will be provided in English and Spanish. 

October 7, 2025 - Montgomery College Takoma Park Campus Cultural Arts Center

or

October 9, 2025 - Montgomery College Germantown Campus Bioscience Education Center

Click here to register  |  Click here for the flyer

“The Fire Experience” Career Interest Meeting

On Monday, Oct. 13 from 11:30am-1:30pm Montgomery County Fire and Rescue (MCFRS) is hosting “The Fire Experience” career interest meeting for Grade 10, 11 and 12 students at the Public Safety Training Academy in Gaithersburg, MD. Students interested in a Career Pathway in Fire & Rescue as a High School Cadet, Volunteer or Post-Secondary employed Recruit are encouraged to register by Oct. 6. Seats are limited!

The Fire Experience

• Grades: 10, 11, and 12

• Date: Monday, Oct. 13

• Time: 11:30am-1:30pm

• Location: Public Safety Training Academy- 8751 Snouffer School Rd., Gaithersburg, MD 20879

• Registration: Use the QR code on flyer or this link: https://dub.link/zNKUfuH

  • Register and upload required field trip forms by Mon., Oct. 6

• Transportation: is available to and from the Fire Academy

  • Students will use the High School Cadet bus

  • Pick-up times range from 10:45am-11:10am and a schedule will be provided to registered students

• Lunch: Pizza will be provided

• Event Questions: Contact Shawn Krasa, supervisor, Fire Science Cadet & Work-Based Learning programs, at Shawn_E_Krasa@mcpsmd.org

MCPS Free SAT/ACT Preparation

SAT vs ACT! Click Here! How to Decide Which Test to Take?

https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/act-vs-sat-how-to-decide-which-test-to-take

SAT vs ACT Video Click Here!  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKNK_6NRE6k

How to Apply to the SAT Test! Click Here!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4Xkg7aL_BA

SAT Practice Websites

SAT Registration & Information: www.collegeboard.org

Khan Academy (FREE SAT Test Prep): www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/sat

ACT Testing Dates

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gVes8XfDCpyZXAEAqnh0AdD0FBGFLp0BTiXZkf_yrnw/edit?usp=sharing

SAT Testing Dates

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-RiV24mBpNea8ZacBYkKble90n4leI4_eCRmcK2rWX4/edit?usp=sharing 

SAT Registration & Information: www.collegeboard.org

Khan Academy (FREE SAT Test Prep): www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/sat

ACT Info & Practice

Registration & Information: www.act.org 

ACT Academy (FREE ACT Test Prep): academy.act.org

Gap Year Information

Need A Break After High School? Consider a Gap Year...You May Get Inspired!

What is a Gap Year? A gap year comes under many guises - backpacking, a career gap, a short gap year, traveling, time out, a sabbatical - but they all mean the same thing. It is constructive time out to travel in between life stages. It usually means travelling, volunteering or working abroad. Often it means all three! 

Taking time off after high school before continuing education may be beneficial for some students who need a break...

Get a new perspective on life . . . expand your horizons . . . experience the world in a new way!!!

Whether you get away for a few months or a year, stay closer to home or go to another country, working for an organization that helps people, animals, or the environment all over the world can be a life-changing experience. 

Try these organizations for a truly life-changing experience. Some offer a stipend, room & board!

Service Year - serviceyear.org/

AmeriCorps - www.americorps.gov

City Year - www.cityyear.org

Student Conservation Association - www.thesca.org

Gap Year Resources

How to Ask for (and Get!) a Gap Year Deferral

The Benefits of Gap Years

Gap Year Myths

The Maryland Delegate Scholarship is offered ​to Maryland residents who plan to attend (full-time or part-time) a two-year or four-year Maryland college, university or private career school.  Eligible students must complete the FAFSA or the MSFAA in order to apply.  They must also create an account on MDCAPS.  See above for how to apply for financial aid.

Students should contact their local delegates for instructions on how to apply.  To find your delegate and their contact information, please visit http://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Members/District or mdelect.net.

Which Test Should I Take?

Should You Take the ACT vs. SAT? (Kaplan)
https://www.kaptest.com/sat/sat-vs-act

ACT vs. SAT Comparison (Princeton Review)
http://www.princetonreview.com/sat-act.aspx

SAT and ACT Dates for 2023- 2024

University of Maryland College Park is Test Optional for the Class 2025 

PSAT

PSAT/NMSQT Tools: https://www.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt/your-next-steps-using-results-video

College Board PSAT Website:   https://www.collegeboard.org/psat-nmsqt

SAT Info & Practice

SAT Registration & Information: www.collegeboard.org

Khan Academy (FREE SAT Test Prep): www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/sat

The Princeton Review - Free opportunities and events:  https://www.princetonreview.com/college/free-act-practice-test

www.march2success.com - Free SAT test prep; pre-test allows for personalized study plan; flash cards; interactive games; great resource!

Saturday School - SAT Prep Courses

https://saturdayschool.org/

Montgomery College - SAT Prep Courses:

https://www.montgomerycollege.edu/workforce-development-continuing-education/test-prep/sat/index.html

ACT Info & Practice

Registration & Information: wPSATww.act.org

ACT Academy (FREE ACT Test Prep): academy.act.org

The Princeton Review - Free opportunities and events

www.march2success.com - Free ACT test prep; pre-test allows for personalized study plan; flash cards; interactive games; great resource!

What are the Twelve Ivy League Colleges?

https://www.uopeople.edu/blog/what-are-the-12-ivy-league-schools/

More Helpful College Videos

Navigating College Applications

ACT/SAT/Accuplacer - Which is right for you?

Conversation with College Admissions Reps

How Financial Aid Works

The College Application Process

  Brag Sheets: What is a Brag Sheet?

Brag sheets are a way for you to help your counselor and teachers write letters of recommendation. These forms give them more insight into who you are outside of school and your interests. Fill out these forms, and share them with your counselor and teachers when you ask them for a letter of recommendation!

Have you Created your FSA ID? Help Sessions to Create your FSA ID!

The FSA ID will allow you to sign the free online FAFSA application! Find out how to get an FSA ID (video) and what to do if you forgot your FSA ID (video).

Important note: If you’re a dependent student, one of your parents whose information is reported on the FAFSA form will also need an FSA ID so that he or she can sign your application electronically.

Click to Get Started: www.StudentAid.gov/FSAID https://studentaid.gov/help-center/answers/topic/managing_your_account/search/FSA%20ID

 Financial Aid Information

We understand that going to college can be an expensive investment. Most students cannot afford to attend a college, university, or trade school without the help of some type of financial aid. Financial aid can come in many forms:

Grants: Most types of grants, unlike loans, are sources of free money that generally do not have to be repaid. Grants can come from the federal government, your state government, your college or career school, or a private or nonprofit organization.

Certain scenarios may require that a portion or all of the grant funds be repaid: for example, if you withdraw from school before finishing an enrollment period such as a semester, or if you do not complete a required service obligation.

Scholarships: This is aid that does not have to be repaid. Awards may be based on financial need, academic ability, athletic ability, talent, leadership or service. Internet access is a great source for scholarship searches.

Federal Work Study: Federal Work-Study provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses.

Loans: Loans must be repaid, generally after you have graduated or left school. Some have low interest rates.

Unfortunately, for many students, taking out student loans is the only option to be able to afford tuition and other school-related expenses. If you are considering taking student loans, make sure you understand the different loan types and the costs before you borrow. Take a look at these helpful resources as you start doing research. Below you will also see links to other, helpful sites.

How To Get An FSA ID Video:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yj1Pn-shze8

Line by Line FAFSA Completion Instructional Video: https://www.kaltura.com/index.php/extwidget/preview/partner_id/1155822/uiconf_id/43239991/entry_id/1_zmyihxck/embed/dynamic?

Rob Franek Financial Aid Expert talks about how Financial Aid works

Montgomery College's Financial Aid Outreach Team is now fully staffed and ready to assist you with your financial aid outreach needs.

FSA ID:  In order to apply for Federal Aid, a student and a parent must each obtain an FSA ID which serves as an electronic signature.

FAFSA: Free Application for Federal Student Assistance

FAFSA4caster: The FAFSA4caster is a financial aid estimator that you can use before officially applying for financial aid using the FAFSA.  It will provide you with an estimate of your Expected Family Contribution.

MHEC: Maryland Higher Education Commission.

FINAID: The SmartStudent Guide to Financial Aid.

Net Price Calculator: Each college/university is required to maintain a page designed to help you calculate what the attendance cost might be.  It's not always easy to find but you can type net price calculator in the search box.

Comparing Financial Aid Packages: Once a college offers a financial aid package, families often compare these offers as a factor in choosing which college to attend. Click here

How to decipher the Student Aid Report (SAR)

Create your College List: Super Match Naviance(College Search)

Take the College Quizz

The Naviance Super Match College Search tool within Naviance makes it even easier for students to explore their options and discover colleges that are a match with their academic profile and a fit with what they're looking for in a college experience. 

Naviance Login through MCPS Email:  https://youtu.be/7QS2hVRaN6Y

Career Interest Profiler

https://www.loom.com/share/050531d7c76643dabd53b8cd2742995e     

Super Match: https://www.loom.com/share/f0773b82a58040abb69a8b722ee4d353

Students Applying to Historically Black Colleges and Universities:

HBCU Common Black college Application

https://commonblackcollegeapp.com/    HBCU Video

Create Common Application Account

Create an account on Common Application (commonapp.org) 

Here for a guide to the Common App if you would like to use it as a reference while completing.

Click When registering for the Common Application, make sure to use a personal, professional email that you check regularly.  DO NOT use your MCPS email address!

Add any Common App schools to your Common App account list of schools you’re applying to 

SAT/ACT Registrations/How to Send SAT/ACT Scores

Send ACT scores (www.actstudent. SAT scores (www.collegeboard.org) directly from the testing website to colleges you are applying to. Springbrook High School does not send test scores. This is a student's responsibility!!! Take advantage of free score reports when registering for these tests! 

Match Common Application and Naviance

Match your Common App account with your Naviance account (instructional video on Naviance) NOTE: Eligible students that would like to request college application fee waivers (on FARMS, etc):  Video Click Here

You can request a Common App Fee Waiver in the “Profile” section of the Common App tab. To apply for this fee waiver: (Reminder: Complete the Free/Reduced Lunch Form)

Answer “Yes” to the fee waiver statement.

Select all the indicators in the list that apply to you.

Enter your signature to certify your request.

More info:  https://appsupport.commonapp.org/applicantsupport/s/article/What-do-I-need-to-know-about-the-Common-App-fee-waiver

Request Recommendation Letters from your Teacher(s)

Request teacher recommendations through Naviance, go to “Colleges I’m Applying to”, click “Letters of Recommendation” and find your teacher(s) name in the drop down box to request.  (video instructions) 

For example, request by October 9 for November 1 deadline.

If your college does not accept Naviance, then the teacher is typically provided with a school-specific link or email address for upload.  This typically occurs for non-Common App schools when the student fills out an online application.

For students solely applying to Montgomery College and no other colleges, you do not need to request as letters of recommendation are NOT required.

Transcript Request/Senior Meetings: Visit Counseling Services 

Students will submit the transcript release form to Ms. Perez or Ms. Oakley three weeks  before their first deadline. (Counseling Services)  

When students submit, Ms. Perez and Ms. Oakley please make sure the form is complete and confirm the "checklist" on the top of the paper.

The form can be found on our counseling website (under 2024-2025 College Application and hard copies will be found in the counseling office. 

Please contact Ms. Patterson at Tammy_R_Patterson@mcpsmd.org for any additional questions and support.

Are you Ready for the Workforce?

Resources for students going into the workforce after graduation!  See attached!

We would like to help those students who will soon be heading into the Workforce and need a helping hand with locating a stable income job and help them find more options in either continuing their education in a different environment like Apprenticeships and/or On-Site training.  As of right now, we have two offices where we can hold in-person meetings with individuals. We do offer Virtual Appointments and are always available to speak on other questions you may have. We look forward to hearing from you and your students. 

Jackeline N. Hernandez, Career Coach (Youth Program) 

WorkSource Montgomery Inc.:   (301) 929-6888 EXT: 1557  Phone: (202) 893-2209

Address: 11510 Georgia Ave, Wheaton MD, 20902 Website: worksourcemontgomery.com  

Email: jhernandez@worksourcemontgomery.com

Montgomery College Admission Representative

Kristina Little, Recruitment & College Access Specialist

Montgomery College - Rockville SV 116  Office: 240-567-4146  Mobile: 240-234-0065

Virtual Office Hours: https://calendly.com/kristina-little/mcreplittle 

Twitter: @MCRockRecruiter  www.montgomerycollege.edu/futurestudents   Take a Virtual Tour of MC

 Questions and Answers for Montgomery College, please contact Ms. Kristina Little

 Military:

U.S. Army National Guards, Errol Borkman: errol.r.borkman.mil@army.mil

MD ARMY NATIONAL GUARD SCHOOL POSTING.pdf   

Staff Sergeant Borkman

Maryland Army National Guard

Recruiter 240.805.0153

U.S. Air Force, Jennifer Roush, jennifer.roush@us.af.mil

U.S. Navy, Slldnee Class, Slldneeclass2@navy.mil;

U.S. Army, Charnese Gadsen, Charnese.s.gadsden.mil@arm.mil

Military Links

www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/.../militarycareers - 

MCPS website with information about the military.

www.todaysmilitary.com/

This site provides general information about serving in the military in general and each of the specific branches of the Armed Services. Explore & learn more about military careers. Useful information about eligibility requirements, the ASVAB test, enlisting in the military, and questions to ask a recruiter can be found at TODAYSMILITARY.COM under the JOINING & ELIGIBILITY tab.

www.careersinthemilitary.com

Choosing GUIDED EXPLORATION, will provide students the opportunity to explore the types of military careers that match their career interest profile (RAISEC). Choosing ADVANCED SEARCH allows students to search military careers that match their aptitude strength

 (Math, Verbal, Science/Technology).

Apprenticeship Programs & Opportunities

MCPS Youth Apprenticeship Program - Apprenticeship Maryland - Apprenticeship Maryland is a youth apprenticeship program for students, ages 16 and up, that is designed to lead to sustainable employment and further education based on a student’s selected career.  This program was developed in partnership with the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and the Maryland Department of Labor (MDoL).

Apprenticeship Opportunities - search opportunities on the MCPS Apprenticeships Page

MCPS IEC Chesapeake 'Electrical-School-to-Apprenticeship Program' - MCPS and IEC Chesapeake are partnering to offer Junior students the opportunity to start a Registered Apprenticeship training program in Construction Electricity during their Senior Year. (Flyer - English) (Spanish / Español)

Students accepted into the program will begin their 450 hours of on-the-job paid employment with an electrical contractor in July and Year-1 of the Electrical Journeyman coursework at IEC Chesapeake in September.

During the school year, apprentices will work for an electrical contractor and complete journeyman training in the morning. Then return back to their home high school in the afternoon to complete their courses to graduate.

Once registered apprentices graduate, they transition to Years 2-4 of their Journeyman Training and full-time employment.

Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program (MATP) - Find apprenticeships and apprenticeship programs.

ABC Metro Washington - Our Mission is to develop construction trade professionals through innovative educational programming that provides the metro Washington region with the most highly-skilled workforce. If you are a student considering your initial career path or graduate that wants to change careers, our programs are a viable option for you.

ABC Baltimore Metro

ABC Chesapeake Shores

ABC Cumberland Valley

Job Search Resources for Students

You can also check out Zippia's "Career Advice".  This is a great resource for students with tons of information including:

Jobs for High School Students (Click here)

Job Types

Education

How to find a job

Tips To Help You Land A Job

Interview and Resume Prep

Resources and more!

Our program is currently virtual.  The fee is $40 for FARMS students and $85 for all others.  The enrollment fee is for the entire year, so, once the students complete their SAT, they will have access to subject-level academic support as well.

Colleges and Universities Waiving the Application Fee  Click Here!

College Terms & What Do They Mean?

Early Decision - This is the early admission program offered by many colleges whereby students must commit in advance to attend a certain college if they are admitted under this program. Students should know for sure that this is the one school they want to attend and feel that they meet the stringent requirements for application. It is a binding commitment.

Early Action - This is another early admission program offered by colleges where students must meet the same early application deadlines. However, upon notification of acceptance, students can wait until they have heard from all their schools about acceptance and financial aid before making a commitment.

Regular Admission - This requires students to apply by a set deadline which varies by college.

Rolling Admissions - This means there is no set deadline, but the earlier you apply, the better your chances of getting accepted, especially if your qualifications are borderline.

Priority Deadline - This is a set deadline for applications whereby students who are accepted are given PRIORITY consideration for admission, housing, scholarships, and other aid.

Common Application - This allows students to fill out one standard application and submit it to many schools. It is available online.

Academic Common Market - This program is intended to allow degree-seeking MARYLAND residents to enroll at certain out-of-state institutions in undergraduate programs of study not offered at a MD public college/university and to pay in-state tuition. This is a cooperative tuition-reduction agreement among Southern Regional Education Board states, of which Maryland is one.  If PUBLIC institutions in your home state do not offer degree programs in your field of study, it may be possible to arrange a waiver of out-of-state tuition to attend a cooperating PUBLIC institution in another participating state. These programs may change yearly. For more Information, click here.

Do you Need More Information on Completing the 2024-2025 FAFSA Application?

HELP is AVAILABLE!!!!!!!

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid FAFSA 2024- 2025

Create your FSA ID (Student/One Parent)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yj1Pn-shze8&t=154s

Complete the 2024-2025 FAFSA Application

www.FAFSA.gov

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gUis5lityCQ&t=2s

What Happens After Submitting the 2024-2025 FAFSA Application?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1c1gNefSw78&t=67s

Career Exploration

  uwannadu.com - explore careers, watch videos of professionals in their field, and more

www.onetonline.org - comprehensive tool for career exploration and job analysis; great resource and lots of info!

www.thestemnet.com - STEM Workplace Exposure and Career Exploration

bigfuture.collegeboard.org - Explore careers; see how others made their choices

www.bls.gov/ooh/ - Occupational Outlook Handbook; great resource for in-depth career information

montgomerycollege.emsicc.com - Montgomery College's Career Coach; great resource and free to use; explore careers, take an assessment, create a resume, and more!

 Federal Jobs Network - jobs & scholarships in government

InsideCareer - everything about careers, from the real world

monster.com - is not only a great job finding resource but has a search function that allows you to find career fairs in your area.

futurelinkmd.org - Future Link provides low-income, first-generation-to-college young adults with the tools, skills and resources to achieve lasting economic self-sufficiency. Click on the link to learn more.

SAT Info & Practice

SAT Registration & Information: www.collegeboard.org

Khan Academy (FREE SAT Test Prep): www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/sat

The Princeton Review - Free opportunities and events

www.march2success.com - Free SAT test prep; pre-test allows for personalized study plan; flash cards; interactive games; great resource!

Saturday School - SAT Prep Courses

Montgomery College - SAT Prep Courses

 Resumes

 Sample Student Resume

Sample List of References

You can also check out Resume Lab.

 Learn from actionable resume writing guides and tutorials with hints from resume experts. Find easy step-by-step instructions and fix your resume:

College Application Resume for High School Students Examples & Template

 How to Make a Resume with No Experience

50+ Free Resume Templates to download

Other important resources:

On the Spot Admissions FAQ

The College Essay/Personal Statement

Writing the College Essay

Sample Student Resume & List of References

College & Career Center Suggestions for Success

Colleges Application Sites

The Common Application

www.commonapp.org/ - explore nearly 900 colleges and universities using Common App.

www.commonapp.org/apply/first-time-students - application guide for first-time students

www.commonapp.org/coronavirus - resources and solutions to help students and those who support them during this unpredictable time.

The Common Black Application

www.commonblackcollegeapp.com/ - apply to over 60 HBCUs for one fee. Scholarship opportunities for eligible students.

Please note: Howard, Bowie State, and Hampton Universities are currently not the Common Black Application.

Check their website for the latest list of participating schools.

Naviance:

 https://student.naviance.com/sbhs - Naviance is a web-based program that supports students in exploring and developing their postsecondary plans.

Learn more about Naviance in MCPS

Video ~ Reference Guide - Learn how to use and navigate Naviance.

https://student.naviance.com/auth/fclookup 

How to log into Naviance, please see video below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QS2hVRaN6Y Click Here!

Do you need help logging into Naviance?

Naviance Help Videos

How to Sign into Naviance!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QS2hVRaN6Y

Naviance Login Demonstration

www.youtube.com

Naviance Help Videos:

Naviance Student Tour & Overview

Naviance Student Login

Colleges I'm Applying To - Building Your List

Colleges I'm Applying To - Editing Your List

Letter of Recommendation Requests

Match the Common App with your Naviance account

Request College Transcripts

Requesting a Final Transcript

Setting Your Attending College

Using Google Translate for Naviance (Spanish or other language

Naviance Assessments and Resources

The Course Planner ensures that you are on track in school, are meeting graduation requirements and are taking courses that meet postsecondary interests and plans. You can explore choices, options, and view recommendations from teachers and counselors. This is a requirement for 9-12 graders and can be edited as course selections change.

Naviance Supermatch College Search tool within Naviance makes it even easier for students to explore their options and discover colleges that are a match with their academic profile and a fit with what they're looking for in a college experience. 

The Career Cluster Finder is an inventory that will allow you to match your interests, strengths, and personal qualities with potential career areas or clusters. Your top career areas will be ranked based on your responses.

StrengthsExplorer assesses 10 talent themes for individuals and identifies each student’s three strongest emerging talents, such as Confidence, Dependability, or Future Thinker. It provides explanations of these themes, strategies for capitalizing on each, and action items to help students gain insight into their greatest talents – natural patterns of thought, feeling, and behavior – to leverage in the classroom and in life.

The Career Interest Profiler is an online career interest assessment for students based on Holland codes. It allows students to complete an inventory that analyzes their own interests and pairs the results with potential career matches.

What is Road Trip Nation?

https://www.screencast.com/t/oC2qMirDS

Naviance Assessments and Resources

The Course Planner ensures that you are on track in school, are meeting graduation requirements and are taking courses that meet postsecondary interests and plans. You can explore choices, options, and view recommendations from teachers and counselors. This is a requirement for 9-12 graders and can be edited as course selections change.

Naviance Supermatch College Search tool within Naviance makes it even easier for students to explore their options and discover colleges that are a match with their academic profile and a fit with what they're looking for in a college experience. 

The Career Cluster Finder is an inventory that will allow you to match your interests, strengths, and personal qualities with potential career areas or clusters. Your top career areas will be ranked based on your responses.

StrengthsExplorer assesses 10 talent themes for individuals and identifies each student’s three strongest emerging talents, such as Confidence, Dependability, or Future Thinker. It provides explanations of these themes, strategies for capitalizing on each, and action items to help students gain insight into their greatest talents – natural patterns of thought, feeling, and behavior – to leverage in the classroom and in life.

The Career Interest Profiler is an online career interest assessment for students based on Holland codes. It allows students to complete an inventory that analyzes their own interests and pairs the results with potential career matches.

NEWS: Information for Students with Disabilities

www.mdod.maryland.gov - State of Maryland DOD website. Resources for students with disabilities.

Pre-College / Summer Program Opportunities

A pre-college summer program offers high school students the opportunity to take classes at a college and experience college life during the summer. Many programs offer a residential and commuter option. Students can stay in dorms with their peers, or they can commute from home if they live close to the college.

Summer Programs & Internships - List of summer programs and internships created by MCPS College & Career Information Coordinators.

Terp Young Scholars - Pre-College courses offered at the University of Maryland

Motivated to Matter? Be a Teacher!

Electrical Apprenticeship Program

 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf7NYJGTp-vzCladPaA9JKP22NeLOfk_Z8A6O60eaNKPslgeg/viewform

Here is the information for the MCPS Apprenticeship Program: MCPS Apprenticeship Program

Apprenticeships  https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1YLv83KS0btc6OD9HXwYyXZkkxaBJ4EkrAh9PbZARkKY/edit#slide=id.g8f3487aa94_0_0 

Shawn Krasa: shawn_e_krasa@mcpsmd.org

Brag Sheet/Naviance 

                                                                           How to Access your Brag Sheet!

Sign into Naviance> Select: About Me> Select Surveys from School> Select: Student Brag Sheet

Student/Parent Financial Aid Support

Seniors that need support starting/completing FAFSA/MSFFA Applications.  Please contact

Ms. Diana Benson for free support.

Diana Benson, Education Specialist

Educational Opportunity Center

Diana.Benson@montgomerycollege.edu

(240) 678-9852 

Work cell:  (240) 567-5642 

Why is College Career Readiness Important Now?

College Career Readiness is critical in 9th – 12th grades because it prepares and equips students with the skills necessary to navigate life after high school.

College/Career Readiness Planning/Opportunity Guide Students 9th - 12 Grades

Opportunity Guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_URTCcIRB3j9oD5Bni1HNwlSaadEQTaC/view

College Planning Timeline for All Grade Levels pages 27 - 30 Scholarship Information pages 21- 23

Naviance Log In: Naviance Login through MCPS Email: https://youtu.be/7QS2hVRaN6Y

Career Interest Profiler

Career Test https://www.loom.com/share/050531d7c76643dabd53b8cd2742995e

College Search Supermatch/College Search https://www.loom.com/share/f0773b82a58040abb69a8b722ee4d353

Academic Success Week

College Tours Virtual and In-person: Visit Colleges/Universities for In-Person College Tours

University of Maryland College Park Virtual College Tour

https://www.admissions.umd.edu/visit/virtual-visit

University of Maryland Baltimore Campus Virtual College Tour

https://about.umbc.edu/visitors-guide/

Towson University Virtual College Tour

https://www.towson.edu/visit/virtual-tour.html

Virtual College Fair

https://www.nacacfairs.org/attend/attend-virtual-college-fairs/

Free Virtual College Career Readiness Summer Workshops

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1j5cuSOPi-d3duNUsODsHO8LU3wBUlzhYt8eY8f5oFQM/edit?usp=sharing

Scholarship Opportunities:

$2,000 No Essay Scholarship - $2,000; 9-12 grade; U.S. Cit. or legal res.; register for site; random winner drawn monthly; you can enter once each month for a chance to win.

Pulse of Perseverance Scholarship - $1,000; 9-12 grade; read the book, "Pulse of Perseverance: Three Black Doctors on Their Journey to Success" and submit a 250-word essay and 60 second video; see link for essay and video guidelines.

31 - STOP THE BLEED® Frontline Families Scholarships - $1,000 awards; grades 9-12; open to high school students who have a parent or guardian who has been on the frontline this past year (food delivery and supply chain workers, paramedics, EMT/EMS, firefighters, police, teachers, nurses, doctors, military); write an essay or make a short video telling their family’s story – what their parent(s) or guardian(s) have been doing on the frontline and what they have learned from that.

31 - STOP THE BLEED® National Scholarships - multiple awards of $500, $1,500, and $3,000 plus Stop the Bleed Training Kits for the school; grades 9-12; submit a video or essay.

30 - Cirkled In “No Sweat” Scholarship - $2,500 award; currently enrolled in 8th - 12th; ages 13 and older; legal resident of the United States or the District of Columbia; create an account and tell your complete story through your profile; no GPA or minimum income requirement.

SAT/ACT Preparation

Which Test Should I Take?

§  Should You Take the ACT vs. SAT? (Kaplan)   ACT vs. SAT Comparison (Princeton Review)

SAT Registration & Information: www.collegeboard.org

Khan Academy (FREE SAT Test Prep): www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/sat

The Princeton Review - Free opportunities and events

www.march2success.com - Free SAT test prep; pre-test allows for personalized study plan; flash cards; interactive games; great resource!

Registration & Information: www.act.org

ACT Academy (FREE ACT Test Prep): academy.act.org

The Common Application

• www.commonapp.org/ - explore nearly 900 colleges and universities using the Common App.

• www.commonapp.org/coronavirus - resources and solutions to help students and those who support them during this unpredictable time.

The Common Black Application

• www.commonblackcollegeapp.com/ - apply for all 54 HBCUs for one fee.

Coalition for Access, Affordability, and Success

• www.coalitionforcollegeaccess.org - The Coalition has developed a free platform of online tools to streamline the experience of applying to college. The initial iteration of the platform—including applications for admission to Coalition schools—is now available for students in high school. The Coalition also offers a fee waiver to low-income students.

Student Service Hours

Here are a few upcoming SSL opportunities to share with students:

• The Montgomery County Keeping It Safe Coalition Video Contest is now open and eligible for SSL hours! Students may earn 5 SSL hours for quality video submissions. Interested students may view additional information on the opportunity posting here. 

• The Village at Rockville are looking for student volunteers to create various items for residents in their Assisted Living communities and Long Term Care communities: card making, aprons, dining scarves, and/or weekly activity packets.

• GapBuster Learning Center Inc. operates clubs worldwide to promote communication, public speaking, leadership skills, and educational and cultural exchange. Interested students may view opportunities with this organization here.  

• The Washington Center for International Education is offering two upcoming online programs that have been designed for high school students. “Youth Facing Racism” will take place in March, and “Youth Facing the Global Refugee and Migration Crisis” will take place in April. Interested students should click on the appropriate link for more information on how to register. 

• • Shady Grove MS SSL Coordinator Lara Frashure also created this PHENOMENAL promotional video for both of these SSL opportunities: https://youtu.be/_tHqoPCMY38 Feel free to share the link to this video with students and your school community to promote these two opportunities!

Moving Forward College & Career Readiness Series - For Sophomores Juniors

According to the State of Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation, "an apprenticeship program allows an employee to earn a salary while learning necessary skills to succeed in a high-demand career. Employed from day one of the apprenticeship, apprentices receive on-the-job training and job-related instruction. Apprenticeship programs extend the unique opportunity of preparing workers for careers while simultaneously meeting employers’ needs for a highly-skilled, highly-trained workforce." For more information, see the State of Maryland DLLR's Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Brochure.

Some of the programs here at Springbrook and in MCPS allow students to transition into apprenticeships upon completion. See Ms. Patterson or your counselor for more information.

Construct Your Future - Learn more about the Construction Trades and Apprenticeships!

MCPS Electrical School to Apprenticeship: 

Electrical Apprenticeship Program

 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf7NYJGTp-vzCladPaA9JKP22NeLOfk_Z8A6O60eaNKPslgeg/viewform

Here is the information for the MCPS Apprenticeship Program: MCPS Apprenticeship Program

Apprenticeships  https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1YLv83KS0btc6OD9HXwYyXZkkxaBJ4EkrAh9PbZARkKY/edit#slide=id.g8f3487aa94_0_0 

Shawn Krasa:  shawn_e_krasa@mcpsmd.org

MCPS Electrical School-to-Apprenticeship IEC Flyer, IEC Application & MD Department of Labor Application; link *

https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/uploadedFiles/career-readiness/apprenticeship/0427_21_IEC%20Flyer-merged.pdf

MCPS Program Contact: Shawn Krasa, Supervisor, Work Based Learning Shawn_E_Krasa@mcpsmd.org

https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/career-readiness/apprenticeship/opportunity.aspx

https://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/career-readiness/apprenticeship/students.aspx

Create the following accounts:

• Federal Student Aid ID- Make for Parent AND Student (FSA ID)

• Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

• Maryland College and Processing System- Money for Maryland Colleges (MD CAPS)

General College Information

• Choosing the Right Fit (When Searching for Colleges)

• List of Maryland Colleges and Universities

• Maryland Higher Education Information

• Maryland's Academic Common Market (In-State Tuition for Select Out-of-State Programs not offered at a Maryland institution.)

• Choosing a Major

• Colleges: SAT/ACT Optional

Student Service Learning (SSL) - Students are required to complete a minimum of 75 hours:

Student Service Learning Activity Verification PDF 

Montgomery County Volunteer Center - Are you looking for student service learning opportunities? Check out the Montgomery County Volunteer Center. 

Build a Resume!- It's important for the college applications, scholarships, and employment opportunities:

Montgomery College (MC) Resume Builder Our easy-to-use resumé builder will help you create a professional resumé. 

College Sports and the NCAA 

So you want to play sports in college…Great!  Are you a QUALIFIER?  Do you have the required grade point average or SAT/ACT scores?  Have you taken the right "CORE" courses to qualify for Division I, II or III? What is the difference in these divisions? Can you qualify for a scholarship, a grant? When can you LEGALLY talk to the coach?

If you need help in answering these questions and learning about all the regulations, please visit the website for additional information, visit www.ncaa.org.

College: A Door to the Future

Thinking about going to college? Not sure where to go or where to start? 

One of the services of the College & Career Center is to help students search schools which may be a good match for them in terms of majors, size, location, services, extracurriculars and finances. Some services we offer include:

• Conferences with students and/or parents

• College and financial aid computer searches

• College representative visits to Springbrook HS

• Information about college fairs

• NCAA information

• Financial aid workshop at Springbrook HS

• Links to virtual college tours and presentations

• College & Career Center notices via Naviance emails

These students thought they could not go to college because of the obstacles they faced...cost, grades, responsibilities, feeling overwhelmed. Sound familiar? Visit this website to hear their stories: youcango.collegeboard.org. 

NACAC Virtual College Fairs  Virtual College Tours & Presentations

• www.strivescan.com/virtual/ - virtual presentations for students to explore college opportunities; hear from admissions counselors; gain important college knowledge exploring 400+ presentations and information sessions; 500+ colleges and universities.

• explore.cialfo.co/webinars - view recordings of university  presentations and/or take video tours of campuses

Students can choose from thousands of Zoom sessions offered by more than 600 colleges and universities. They just log in on November 8 and then drop in, ask questions, and hear firsthand about majors and programs, financial aid and scholarships, and much more. 

Big Future

• bigfuture.collegeboard.org/ - College Board's site; research and filter by location, major, and more.

Reach Higher

• www.reachhigher.org/students/ - resources to support students as they work on completing their postsecondary education.

College Wise

• https://collegewiserunway.thinkific.com/ - free resources and courses to help high school students prepare for college admissions.

Information for Students with Disabilities

• www.mdod.maryland.gov - State of Maryland DOD website. Resources for students with disabilities.

Additional College Search Websites

• www.mdgo4it.mhec.maryland.gov - wealth of info and resources to assists high school students plan and prepare for college.

• www.collegeresults.org - examine colleges' graduation rates, and see how those rates have changed over time; compare graduation rates of similar colleges serving similar students; learn about colleges' track records in graduating diverse groups of students.

• www.campustours.com - great information plus interactive Maps and Virtual tours.

• scholarships.com - college matchmaker; search based on a number of criteria

• www.fairtest.org/university/optional - colleges & universities that do not use SAT/ACT scores for admission. Note:always double check with the institution's official site to confirm their admission requirements.

• www.onlinecolleges.net - database of online colleges & universities

• www.collegeaffordabilityguide.org - using analysis based on 10,000,000+ data points from thousands of schools, use this website to research some of the most affordable colleges in the country.

• CollegeCovered.com - a FREE resource to help students and families plan and pay for college.

Federal Government Employee Testing - Students interested in full-time employment with the Federal Government should call the Federal Job Information Center Nationwide Access at (912) 757-3000. This office will provide information on available jobs with the Federal Government as well as information on the clerical walk-in test. Students can talk with a job information specialist by calling this same number. The U.S. Government's official web site for jobs and employment information provided by the United States Office of Personnel Management is usajobs.opm.gov. For employment opportunities at NIH, call (301) 496-2403.

Maryland State Employment - State Merit Systems tests are scheduled at various times during the year and are announced through use of newspaper ads and other recruiting activities. When a test is announced, applicants should file as directed. For information about employment with the State of Maryland, call (410) 767-4850. Check the Maryland Government's official website for jobs and employment information.

College Testing Updates

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS)  is committed to providing students with as many opportunities as possible for students to demonstrate their strengths to colleges and universities while also following the guidance of public health officials.  Our top priority is the health and safety of our students and staff.  

Resources

INTERNET RESOURCES

• medical assistant careers - about, schools, scholarships

• medical assistant degrees - types, career guide

• radiology schools - radiologic tech careers

• pharmacy technician careers - find schools by state

• nursing programs online - types of degrees and reviews

• bewhatiwanttobe - exciting careers

• edu-directory  is a directory of Continuing Education, Vocational Schools, and Trade Colleges.

• InsideCareer- everything about careers, from the real world

• Federal Jobs Network - jobs & scholarships in government

• Montgomery County High School Medical Career & Fire Science Program - for students interested in a firefighter or emergency medical service career 

• monster.com  is not only a great job finding resource but has a search function that allows you to find career fairs in your area.

• irs.gov - has tax information for students.

QUICK LINKS

• • Announcements

  • StudentVUE and ParentVUE Access Link

  • Bell Schedules

  • SVHS Event Photos

  • Counseling Services

  • College & Career Center

  • School Payments

  • Student Service Learning

  • PSAT-SAT-ACT

  • School Policies

  • Library/Media Center

  • Senior Class Page

  • PTSA & Boosters

  • School Improvement Plan

  • Staff Link

  • SVHS Webmaster

MCPS LINKS

Below you will find useful MCPS links to explore!

• MCPS' College and Career Center Page - Get information about MCPS events, financial aid, testing, college planning, career planning, and more!

• Naviance Student - Naviance Student (formerly Family Connection) is a web-based, mobile friendly tool that addresses four key areas of college and career readiness: Self-Discovery, Career Exploration, Academic Planning, and College Planning. Click to find your home school's login and to learn more!

• Student Service Learning (SSL) Page - Get information, see deadlines, and find volunteer opportunities.

• Early College/Dual Enrollment - Dual Enrollment opportunities allow MCPS college ready high school students to take college courses during the academic school year. High school students who enroll and take a college course at any Maryland public college or university are able to do so at a reduced cost. To talk to your counselor to learn more about Dual Enrollment options offered!

• Career & Postsecondary Partnerships - Learn more about MCPS partnerships with businesses and higher education institutions.

• Maryland College Application Campaign (MCAC) - Maryland State Department of Education site with great info and resources for all high school students. Campaign provides support to high school seniors, particularly first-generation students, students from low-income circumstances, unaccompanied homeless youth, foster care youth, students with disabilities, students enrolled in the Juvenile Services Education System, and homeschool students to pursue post-secondary opportunities.

            Please continue to check your emails for Scholarship Opportunities, College Fairs, College Tours and Military, and Trade/Apprentice Opportunities.