1. General Information For LCHS students

2.  Tonight’s program will include: *Preparation for underclassmen for the college process. *Tour of “Family Connections.” *Awareness of the LCHS Guidance website. *Questions?

3.  What is the right college for your student? *Someone else’s choice? *US News & World Report’s #1? *The college that the family can afford? Remember it’s not about finding the best college, it’s about finding the right college.

5.  3300 colleges and universities in U.S. alone  55 four year colleges in Virginia  Students generally apply between 4 and 8 colleges  How does a student narrow the choices down to fit their needs?

7.  Geographic Location  Size and Diversity (what does 400 mean to you?)  Cost (public vs. private)  Academic Opportunities (majors)  Personal Opportunities (friends, sports)  Reputation  Who teaches undergraduates?  Retention rate

8.  Can I get in to the college of my choice?  What are colleges looking for?

9. Most Important  Grades/GPA/Class Rank (transcript)  Strength of schedule  Testing scores (ACT vs. SAT, 1 st test spring of 11 th grade year, use the PSAT) Secondary  Activities and Leadership  Essay/Personal Statement  Recommendations

13.  Community College the right choice  Giving students an opportunity to grow academically, emotionally, socially.  Giving families an opportunity financially.  Virginia’s articulation agreement. Virginia’s articulation agreement.

14.  Top colleges attended by 2011 LCHS graduates: ( 61% four year college, 24% two year college) NOVA 47 Radford34 VA Tech23 VCU16 JMU14 CNU13 Liberty11 UVA 9

15.  No matter your skills, talents or abilities or interests – there is a college for you!  “College is a match to be made not a prize to be won”  Most important year – junior year  Do research early  Be honest, use guidance office, and make sure to include campus visits

18. Questions? Thank you – good night!