It's THAT time of year!

Yup, the time of year that all seniors and their parents dread. Fill out the FAFSA time of year! If you have completed your tax forms, then get right to it. Go to www.fafsa.ed.gov. Don't use any site with fafsa.com or .org other nonsense or you will miss out on the whole FREE part of the FREE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID. Both parent and student need to get their PIN number first as this serves as your electronic signature.

If you are a student who has lived in foster care, is under legal guardianship, or has a homeless status, then you may not need parental information. For figuring out your dependency status, check out this link.

Go ahead, get started. If you want help, come to our FAFSA workshop. Register here for this step by step workshop on completing the FAFSA. There is other help available too. See Mrs. Sanders in E109 for assistance.

Interested in the Performing Arts

In these difficult economic times, students are hearing that they should choose a college major that leads directly to a career. This may include nursing, pharmacy, engineering or a myriad of others. This often leads the student interested in music, art, or the performing arts confused and discouraged.

Students and parents may want to remember that a theatre major, for example, is not limited to performing on stage. These students are trained to speak and demonstrate in front of a crowd, develop creative ideas, and relate ideas to an audience. Many businesses would love to have someone with those skills. Check out this site from UNC Wilmington's Career Center to see other skills and potential jobs for students majoring in theatre.

Study for Technical College Placement Test

Interested in a two-year technical school in South Carolina? Then plan on studying for and taking the COMPASS test. According to Midlands Tech web site the COMPASS scores "indicate course placement as the starting point for your educational career." The test measures skills in mathematics, reading, and writing. Sign up today in E109.

FRANCIS MARION

On-site application review by Francis Marion will be held on Thursday, 1st and 2nd periods in the Science Atrium for Richland Northeast seniors. Application fees will be waived. You must sign up with Mrs. Sanders at ksanders@richland2.org by the end of the day on Wednesday.

Gap Year (s)

Some students want to take time prior to beginning college work to travel, work, or explore career options. City Year is an organization that may be a good fit if going straight to college is not for you. Check out their website and visit during one of their open houses. The first open house will be held here in Columbia on November 1.

Tuesday, Oct. 19

Tonight, Midlands Technical College is hosting a Senior Information Night at the Airport Campus beginning at 6:00 pm. The meeting will be held in the Academic Center. All seniors and their parents are invited to attend.

College Fair Friday

Richland Northeast Cavaliers who are in the 11th or 12th grade are invited to our Annual Educational Opportunities College Fair this Friday, October 8. It will be held in the gym during 1st period. You are asked to wear your favorite college t-shirt or sweatshirt to promote the day! Over 70 colleges and universities are scheduled to attend! Parents, you are welcome to! Just sign in at the main office.