Rochester High Counseling DepartmentMrs. O'Toole-Seyka A to BQ
Ms. Kinney BR - DA Ms. Caggins DB - H Mr. Green I - MON Ms. Sorentino MOO - SE Mrs. Messing-Mirabito SF - Z Ms. Allen Counseling Intern Kathy Karwacki - Secretary 248-726-5407 Karen Garr - Registrar 248-726-5427 |
Rochester Community Schools' Counseling Mission Statement
The Mission of the Rochester Community Schools guidance counselors is to provide a comprehensive program of counseling and guidance services to all students. Designed to meet the developmental needs for academic planning, along with personal and social growth, this program assists students in their pursuit of rewarding educational and career goals and positive life choices.
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District High School Counselors collaborated together for the purpose of providing quick and easy access to resources and information for high school students and families regarding this unusual time away from school and issues surrounding the coronavirus. We can get through this together with the support of each other, proper resources and good intention. Click here to access this resource.
https://sites.google.com/a/rcs-k12.us/rcs-high-school-counseling/home
Attention Juniors - Update on College Applications

HS Counselors will be hosting a Zoom meeting to offer guidance in applying to colleges, recommendations,
choosing a college,
admission deadlines and more!
Students are welcome to join and ask questions.
Join either session:
Tuesday May 26, 2020 at 1pm
OR
Thursday May 28, 2020 at 1pm
Information to join the Zoom will be provided at a later date in the Falcon Flier.
choosing a college,
admission deadlines and more!
Students are welcome to join and ask questions.
Join either session:
Tuesday May 26, 2020 at 1pm
OR
Thursday May 28, 2020 at 1pm
Information to join the Zoom will be provided at a later date in the Falcon Flier.
Virtual Honors Convocation Ceremony
We have been planning for Rochester High’s Virtual Honors Convocation. This event provides us with an opportunity to recognize our outstanding seniors. Our goal is to give acknowledgement to as many outstanding seniors as possible. We were asking students to provide us information if they have
received any outside scholarships. We also needed to verify your scholarships by emailing a copy of the scholarship to Karen Garr at kgarr@rochester.k12.mi.us. The deadline for this is May 1, 2020.
We already have the names of students who will receive the Scholars of Highest Distinction, Scholars of Distinction and Scholars of Achievement recognitions, so you do not need to add this information.
This event will be broadcasted LIVE on
May 12th @ 7:00 PM via Youtube
(NOTE: This date is a correction from a previous post)
received any outside scholarships. We also needed to verify your scholarships by emailing a copy of the scholarship to Karen Garr at kgarr@rochester.k12.mi.us. The deadline for this is May 1, 2020.
We already have the names of students who will receive the Scholars of Highest Distinction, Scholars of Distinction and Scholars of Achievement recognitions, so you do not need to add this information.
This event will be broadcasted LIVE on
May 12th @ 7:00 PM via Youtube
(NOTE: This date is a correction from a previous post)

NOTICE FOR ALL SENIORS:
We need to gather information regarding our senior’s plans after high school in addition to the information for our Virtual Honors Convocation and their scholarships.
Here is the link that we ask ALL SENIOR STUDENTS to fill out: https://forms.gle/eFHZDCFLFdjWViQp8
We need to gather information regarding our senior’s plans after high school in addition to the information for our Virtual Honors Convocation and their scholarships.
Here is the link that we ask ALL SENIOR STUDENTS to fill out: https://forms.gle/eFHZDCFLFdjWViQp8
Update on AP
Important Information for AP testing
There has been a lot of information provided by College Board to students who are taking an upcoming online AP test. Below are important resources for students and families:
The first of this process is for students to check the email address they have on file with College Board (in their AP account). This is the email that testing information is sent to.
After confirming your email address, the most comprehensive document to read on testing is here. It is long, but very detailed. Most questions can be answered if you read though this testing guide thoroughly:
https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap-testing-guide-2020.pdf?SFMC_cid=EM305178-&rid=47388674
On testing day this checklist is suggested for students to follow.
https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/pdf/ap-student-exam-day-checklist.pdf
Please review these videos and links below and if there is still confusion, families can call the AP College Board customer service line: 1-888-225-5427
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNs9nK006xI&list=PLoGgviqq4844oyQviUHOOddAaMOdDAqpk&index=1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHZ2zpqlZNE&list=PLoGgviqq4844oyQviUHOOddAaMOdDAqpk&index=3&t=0s
Rochester Schools Counseling Google site (with comprehensive AP information included)
https://sites.google.com/a/rcs-k12.us/rcs-high-school-counseling/home
We are excited to let you know that Rochester University has partnered with RaiseMe! As you may already know, RaiseMe is an online platform for 9th-12th grade students to earn money for college. As the college search season is well underway, we wanted to encourage you to share this news with your students.
Through RaiseMe, your students can earn “micro-scholarships” (performance-based scholarships) from Rochester University and 320+ other colleges for their high school achievements, beginning in 9th grade. Students can earn for A’s, community service, extra-curricular activities, and everything in between. Specifically, students can earn the following through Rochester University’s micro-scholarship program with RaiseMe:
Earn $120 for each A in any course
Earn $60 for taking an honors course
Earn $10 for every hour of community service
Earn $1,000 for attending a Warrior Day
Through RaiseMe, your students can earn “micro-scholarships” (performance-based scholarships) from Rochester University and 320+ other colleges for their high school achievements, beginning in 9th grade. Students can earn for A’s, community service, extra-curricular activities, and everything in between. Specifically, students can earn the following through Rochester University’s micro-scholarship program with RaiseMe:
Earn $120 for each A in any course
Earn $60 for taking an honors course
Earn $10 for every hour of community service
Earn $1,000 for attending a Warrior Day
Virtual College Fair
Promoting the Publics:
Michigan Spring College Fair The fair will be taking place through CollegeFairsOnline. The fair will take place May 5-7, 2020. We will all be "live" during the following days and times: Tuesday, May 5th - 11 a.m. to 2 p.m . Wednesday, May 6th - 2 to 5 p.m. Thursday, May 7th - 5 to 7 p.m. |
Connecting with Undergraduate Admissions On March 28th we welcomed 100+ admitted students and parents for Loyola Weekend Online. While the admission staff missed the energy and fun of our annual on-campus event we were grateful that so many people joined us to learn more about Loyola and connect with current students. Students, families and counselors may review information sessions, short video tours and next steps presentations. In the coming weeks we will host additional online events highlighting academic programs, student organizations and student services. In addition to our large online events, students can schedule an individual appointment with an admission counselor most weekdays.
For current freshmen, sophomores and juniors we host information sessions and student panels most weekdays and Saturdays. We are also happy to present virtually to high school groups. If you would like to schedule a presentation, student panel or Q&A with a counselor for your students please email Sujith Sajan, Assistant Director/Visit Coordinator at visitloyola@luc.edu.
For current freshmen, sophomores and juniors we host information sessions and student panels most weekdays and Saturdays. We are also happy to present virtually to high school groups. If you would like to schedule a presentation, student panel or Q&A with a counselor for your students please email Sujith Sajan, Assistant Director/Visit Coordinator at visitloyola@luc.edu.
Update from Albion College
Nobody should forgo education as a result of heightened financial duress stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Albion College’s Michigan 2020 Promise is exclusive to graduating high school seniors and transfer students. Albion College will cover 100% of tuition and fees for Michigan families making under $65,000 annually, after the Michigan Tuition and Federal Pell Grants are applied*. Families are responsible for room and board charges; however, federal loans may be applied toward these costs.
We care about all Michigan families. Families making over $65,000 at minimum will receive $92,000, or as high as $136,000 in scholarships over the course of 4 years.
This promise is a testament of Albion’s incredibly generous alumni, loyal donors and board of trustees.
If you have students that would be a good fit for Albion, we are still accepting applications and would be happy to work with anyone you recommend.
We hope you are staying safe and healthy,
Albion College Office of Admission
We care about all Michigan families. Families making over $65,000 at minimum will receive $92,000, or as high as $136,000 in scholarships over the course of 4 years.
This promise is a testament of Albion’s incredibly generous alumni, loyal donors and board of trustees.
If you have students that would be a good fit for Albion, we are still accepting applications and would be happy to work with anyone you recommend.
We hope you are staying safe and healthy,
Albion College Office of Admission
An Update from Kettering University

At Kettering University, we hope you and those you care about are staying safe and healthy through this time of uncertainty. What a crazy time it has been! We have really missed meeting you this spring.
Campus may be closed for now, but you can still connect with our admissions counselors virtually through upcoming virtual college fairs and events. They are free to attend and a great way to start your college search! Register at the links below. Look forward to meeting you soon!
Campus may be closed for now, but you can still connect with our admissions counselors virtually through upcoming virtual college fairs and events. They are free to attend and a great way to start your college search! Register at the links below. Look forward to meeting you soon!
- May 4-6 from 12pm-8pm ET: Navigate 2020: Virtual Conference and College Fair
- May 4 from 3:30pm-4:30pm ET: GoPRO Live Chat - Chat with current Kettering students who participated in robotics during high school and how this has helped them be successful at Kettering
An Update form Northwood University
Career planning tips!
A Message from Oakland University

OU is now offering test-optional admission!
In order to help remove barriers to enrollment amid the ongoing public health crisis, Oakland University will now offer test-optional admission for the fall of 2020 and 2021 to students with a cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher.
At this time, we feel that offering test-optional admission is the best way we can support students who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. We want to be sure we are doing all we can to assist our future students in reaching their goals for postsecondary education, despite the challenges they have faced with delayed or cancelled tests.
Oakland University is committed to helping prospective students and their families during this challenging time. View our FAQ here or contact us at visit@oakland.edu or (248) 370-3360.
In order to help remove barriers to enrollment amid the ongoing public health crisis, Oakland University will now offer test-optional admission for the fall of 2020 and 2021 to students with a cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher.
At this time, we feel that offering test-optional admission is the best way we can support students who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. We want to be sure we are doing all we can to assist our future students in reaching their goals for postsecondary education, despite the challenges they have faced with delayed or cancelled tests.
Oakland University is committed to helping prospective students and their families during this challenging time. View our FAQ here or contact us at visit@oakland.edu or (248) 370-3360.
A Message from Walsh College

Walsh College is hosting an online session for high school students on Friday, May 8th to learn about our business and IT programs and the opportunity to start by attending a community college. Information will include how to save money with a local transfer program, along with admission and scholarship information. When students click on the date below to RSVP, they will receive a confirmation email with a zoom link to join the session.
Walsh Now Program Information Session
Learn how to get a jump start on your bachelor’s degree and save over $30,000 by taking classes concurrently at your community college and Walsh.
Friday, May 8
11:30am - 12:30pm
Walsh Now Program Information Session
Learn how to get a jump start on your bachelor’s degree and save over $30,000 by taking classes concurrently at your community college and Walsh.
Friday, May 8
11:30am - 12:30pm
The Financial Impact of COVID-19
May 6, 2020
5-6 pm ET
The Financial Impact of COVID-19
Target audience: female high school students and families, counselors, educators, and CBO leaders
Register Here!
Hear from Ashley Bianchi, Director of Financial Aid at Williams College, as she gives her insider's perspective about how highly selective colleges and universities' financial aid offices are responding to COVID19. She will also provide advice and tips for families applying for financial aid next year or in future years, as well as insights about how to keep up-to-date with the latest information.
5-6 pm ET
The Financial Impact of COVID-19
Target audience: female high school students and families, counselors, educators, and CBO leaders
Register Here!
Hear from Ashley Bianchi, Director of Financial Aid at Williams College, as she gives her insider's perspective about how highly selective colleges and universities' financial aid offices are responding to COVID19. She will also provide advice and tips for families applying for financial aid next year or in future years, as well as insights about how to keep up-to-date with the latest information.
A Message from Wayne State University
This is also a great time for current freshman, sophomore and junior students to earn micro-scholarships through RaiseMe by participating in online activities. Taking a virtual tour of campus, for example, is worth a $250 scholarship. Scheduling and attending a one-on-one meeting with an admissions counselor, available through several video-conferencing platforms, will add $50 to a student’s RaiseMe account, and registering for and attending a virtual recruitment event will add $100.
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REQUESTING TRANSCIPTS WITH PARCHMENT
NEED MONEY FOR COLLEGE?
Click on this link to access the counseling website for all the up to date information on the scholarships we know about at this time. |
Addressing High School Seniors’ Concerns: Partnership with the Skillman Foundation
Together with the Skillman Foundation, we have published a blog and digital media kit for you to share through your online platforms to answer some initial questions high school seniors are struggling with as they look to their future during this uncertain time.
Blog: Detroit High School Seniors, We’ve Got You! Quick Answers to Your FAQs, where we hope to answer initial questions high school seniors are struggling with. Together, we address concerns they may have regarding graduation, college/postsecondary applications, and more.
Digital Media Kit: Click here to access the media kit.
In it, you have access to:
Media kit resources are currently available in English and Spanish (thanks to our partners at the Michigan Hispanic Collaborative). We are working on Arabic translation and will update you when it is available. If you would like assistance on how to leverage and distribute the kit, Skillman Communications Fellow Mark Navarro (313-393-1247, mark.navarro@skillman.org) can assist you.
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
Please share the senior FAQ blog and materials from the digital media kit widely to get these answers in the hands of the youth who need them.
Together with the Skillman Foundation, we have published a blog and digital media kit for you to share through your online platforms to answer some initial questions high school seniors are struggling with as they look to their future during this uncertain time.
Blog: Detroit High School Seniors, We’ve Got You! Quick Answers to Your FAQs, where we hope to answer initial questions high school seniors are struggling with. Together, we address concerns they may have regarding graduation, college/postsecondary applications, and more.
Digital Media Kit: Click here to access the media kit.
In it, you have access to:
- Images with common questions surrounding graduation, college acceptance, and more
- A list of questions and answers to use for social media post text
- Instructions on how to use the kit and construct social media posts
Media kit resources are currently available in English and Spanish (thanks to our partners at the Michigan Hispanic Collaborative). We are working on Arabic translation and will update you when it is available. If you would like assistance on how to leverage and distribute the kit, Skillman Communications Fellow Mark Navarro (313-393-1247, mark.navarro@skillman.org) can assist you.
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
Please share the senior FAQ blog and materials from the digital media kit widely to get these answers in the hands of the youth who need them.
College Admissions Exams - UPDATE
ACT -- The April 4 test has rescheduled to June 13 across the US in response to concerns about the spread of the coronavirus. The next ACT national test dates are June 13 and July 18. The ACT will be offering online testing options with an all essay option. FAQ: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/covid-19.html.
SAT -- College Board has canceled the May 2 test. More FAQ can be found here: https://pages.collegeboard.org/natural-disasters.
SAT -- College Board has canceled the May 2 test. More FAQ can be found here: https://pages.collegeboard.org/natural-disasters.
College Admissions Exams
SAT Quick Facts
Frequency 7 times/year Duration 3 hours, 50 minutes Sections Math, Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, Optional Essay Cost $46-$60 Max. Score 800/section (Essay reported separately) Avg. Score Score information not available |