• High School College and Career Counselor FAQ

     

    General Questions

    What services does the College and Career Counselor provide?

    • I am here to assist students with college applications/selection, career exploration, scholarship services, financial aid guidance, and job preparation.

    How do I schedule a meeting with the counselor?

    • You can schedule an appointment with me via email. Walk-in appointments are available to students during lunch and depending on availability.

    Do you help with scheduling courses?

    • No. Please use the Counselor Google Classroom or reach out to your student’s academic counselor for questions related to scheduling. The Counselors will meet with each student individually after Spring Break to discuss courses, graduation requirements, etc.

     

     

    College Preparation

    When should I start planning for college?

    • As early as you can! Ideally, planning should begin in your freshman year to align coursework and extracurriculars with your college goals. Check out the “College/University Resources” section for more information!

    What is the timeline for applying to college?

    • Freshman & Sophomore Year: Focus on academics and extracurriculars. Get involved!
    • Junior Year: Research colleges, take standardized tests, and visit campuses.
    • Senior Year: During the summer, start your applications. When you arrive back at school in August you should be finalizing applications, editing your essays, and scheduling any tests you need to boost scores. You will also apply for FAFSA, Bright Futures, and national scholarships in the Fall.  Local scholarships come out in the Spring.

    What is the difference between Early Action, Early Decision, and Rolling Admissions?

    • Early Action is an application process that allows students to apply to schools early, while still giving the option to choose whether you would like to attend.
    • Early Decision is a binding college application option that requires students to attend that specific school if they are accepted.
    • Rolling Admissions is the process in which applications are reviewed as they are received, and decisions are released as they are ready.

    What is Common App?

    • Common App is a free online platform that allows students to apply to multiple colleges and universities with one application.

    When should I submit my application?

    • The sooner the better, but before your application deadline date! College applications are hard deadlines. You can find application deadlines on their websites or on Common App.

    Do I need a résumé?

    • YES! You will need a resume for letters of recommendation for college applications, job interviews, and scholarships.

    Do I need to fill out the SSAR?

    • It depends on the university! Once applying through Common App, check your university student portal and it will let you know if they require you to complete the SSAR.

    I need my transcripts, where can I get them?

    • Current CSHS Parents and/ or students can complete a transcript request form located in the front office and online. It can take several business days to fulfill a transcript request, so be sure to request it before the given deadline. Any students who have graduated from Coral Shores must reach out to Registrar directly.

     

     

    Scholarships and Financial Aid

    Where can I find scholarships?

    • Right here under the “Scholarships” tab as well as the Canes Counselor Google Classroom (student only access). Each location gets updated as I receive scholarships!

    Why don’t I see any local scholarships?

    • Local scholarships typically start popping up around February and March!

    When should I apply for financial aid?

    • Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) starting October 1 of your senior year.

    What if I don’t qualify for financial aid?

    • Many schools offer merit-based scholarships or payment plans. We can guide you to explore alternative funding options or will ask if you have applied for FAFSA.

    Where can I find information on the Bright Futures Scholarships? 

    Career Planning

    How can I decide on a career path?

    • Take career assessment tests online, explore job-shadowing opportunities, and discuss your interests. Job opportunities are posted to the Canes Counselor Google Classroom.

    What options are available if I’m not going to college?

    • I can help you explore trade schools, apprenticeships, military careers, and other opportunities!

     

    Parent Questions

    How can parents support their students’ college and career goals?

    • Encourage your students to research and explore their options, attend college visits with your student, and stay informed with the programs your student is interested in.

    What parent resources are available?

    • We host parent nights and provide handouts on college readiness and financial aid. This webpage also has many helpful guides and links to utilize!

    Can parents meet with the counselor?

    • Absolutely! Please send me an email to schedule a call or appointment to discuss your student’s progress or specific concerns.

     

    Helpful Links:

    https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/

    https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/plan-for-college/apply-to-college

    https://www.floridastudentfinancialaidsg.org/pdf/bfhandbookchapter1.pdf

    https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/getting-credit-placement/search-policies

    https://counselors.collegeboard.org/college-application/class-rank?ep_ch=PR&ep_mid=11076383&ep_rid=219718037