UnMazed Magazine: The College Process (July) by UnMazed

UnMAZED MAGAZINE

Your Path to College Master the College Visit Find YourÂ Fit Questions You Need to Ask

July 2018

CONT Featured

Health

college terminology

32 mindfulness for healthier, happier kids and families

14 road to college success 16

campus visits done right

36 media, technology, and mental health

5 misconceptions about attending college in Florida

40 5 ways to respond to bullying

25 college visit checklist

47 power of positive affirmations

diversity fly-in program explained

ask the expert: your key to college

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UNMAZED MAGAZINE

E N T S Education

Parenting

30 30 18

planning for the college experience

29 building credit: a quick guide for teens 42

power of local scholarships

a trip to success: one Florida graduate who beat the odds

infographic- 10 reasons to attend a Florida state college

what you don't hear on a college tour

44 webinars: unmazed student link, July guide 45 why students are not successful at college

46 infographic- 4 ways to utilize your school counselor 48 resources- your college and career resources

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UNMAZED MAGAZINE

UNMAZED Letter from the Editor This past week I took a vacation with

research, showcased the importance

is reaching your hand out and testing

some family members to Europe.

of asking the right questions to find

door knobs to see which doors are

While traveling the beautiful sites of

where a student can be academically

locked and which will open . In my

Central Europe, I would often ask the

and

almost 20 years in education, I have

tour guides about their college

contributors this month have given

personally

successful.

The

seen that analogy come true more times than I can count. Both parents and students are often sure one door was

meant

for

them

and

are

devastated when they find it does not open. I find great joy when families find a door that is open that they never knew existed, almost like a secret garden to their future. So, whether your student is a freshman or going into systems and how students applied and

insightful

were

higher

college process and some of the

education institutes. In Budapest, they

various questions or aspects that many

have 87 different colleges in the

families simply do not know to ask or

capital city alone! However, the tour

look for. For example, Scott Daigle’s

guide explained each college focuses

article on the 5 Misconceptions of

About Attending College in Florida

Medicine,

looked at some of the top terms we

College of Education, and so forth. We

hear about but are unaware of how it

are fortunate to have such a robust

affects

higher

that

McNaugton’s article Campus Visits

technical

Done Right and Bud Jenkins’ article 3

programs, colleges, and universities,

Steps to Smart College Selection share

online

key aspects to the college process that

programs. With over 300 colleges and

everyone should read. Along with

universities available to our Florida

the

students, there is something for every

Checklist, every parent and student

student in our state to reach their

will have the necessary tools to begin

career goals.

navigating through this process no

accepted

just

one

Engineering,

into

major;

College

educational

includes

career

learning,

their

College of

system and

and

variety

information

students.

about

Both

Ashley

College

downloadable

the

Visit

their senior year, use this time to reach out and try all doors, even the ones you never thought of. Visit colleges not on your list: those that are small, big, public, private, in-state, out-of-state, selective

open

access.

Ask

yourselves the hard questions: What am I really wanting out of a college? Do I really see myself here? Do I only want to go here because my best friend/ parent went here? Does this college meet MY needs to get ME where I need to be? The college process is unique to each student and do not limit yourself simply because you do not know.

matter what grade a student is in. This month’s theme of the College Process, includes articles on finding

In Rob Hick’s, Ask the Expert series,

your fit, college visits, and college

he mentioned that the college process By: Dr. Amanda Sterk, Senior Editor and Founder of UnMazed Magazine

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UNMAZED MAGAZINE

July 2018, ISSUE 4

Magazine articles and more can be found at www.unmaze.me Where Florida experts meet for teen success.

Contact us: We enjoy hearing from from parents, students, and educators throughout the state. Send us your photos, letters, or comments to asterk@unmaze.me. Or visit us online: www.unmaze.me Do you want to collaborate? This magazine is designed for educators across the state to share their expertise on a variety of topics. We welcome those who would like to participate in creating this resource.

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5Â

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

UnMazed Where Experts Meet for Teen Success

Contributors SENIOR EDITOR

Amanda Sterk, Ed.D., is author of College UnMazed: Your Guide Through the Florida College & University System. She currently works at Florida SouthWestern State College as Director of Accelerated Programs. Dr. Sterk has been an educator for 20 years as a teacher, school counselor, and administrator. She is founder of the Florida teen resource, www.unmaze.me.

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Katie Reilly is an English teacher at one of the highest ranked collegiate high schools in the state, Florida SouthWestern Collegiate- Lee Campus. She is currently working towards her Master's in School Counseling and is passionate about student success.

FRONT COVER

Cole Kraft, University of Florida photographer at http://colekraftphotography.com. Olivia Muchmore (cover), University of Florida, Bachelors of Agricultural Education and Communication with a specialization in Communication and Leadership Development. Oliva was She was Vice President of Alpha Tau Alpha (Honor society) a CALS Ambassador, and an officer in the Agricultural Communicators and Leaders of Tomorrow Club.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rob Hicks, M.Ed.,has worked in public schools for 16 years. He is a school counselor at Fernandina Beach High School and the Ogburn School. He maintains the "Getting My Guide On" blog about all things school counselor at guidey.blogspot.com and writes about local history. Ashley McNaughton is an independent college counselor and founder of ACM College Consulting, LLC. She has her BS in Business from Bucknell,, and Certificate in College Counseling from UCLA. Alongside her consulting work, she volunteers with ScholarMatch, a nonprofit helping high achieving, low income students get to college. www.acmcollegeconsulting.com. Dr. Jerry Israel, A former college president, prolific writer and speaker on higher education issues, who has served on a host of education boards and commissions, focusing on developing innovative and progressive approaches in higher education leadership. His recent book, "The 75 Biggest Myths About College Admissions." Dave Rathmanner is the VP of Content for LendEDU – a site dedicated to helping consumers with their personal finances. In his free-time, you can find Dave working out, playing lacrosse, or dreaming about his next dog. Sydney Nanberg is an anti-bullying activist, located in Miami Beach, Florida with a mission to educate students and parents on the effects of bullying. sydneynanberg.com. Courtney Faunce is a mental health clinician at Lifescape Counseling Services, LLC,. She specializes in working with young adults and families utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) practices with a humanistic client-centered approach. Donna Marsh is a Holistic Wellness Practitioner and Life Coach. She focuses on whole food nutrition, mindfulness and meditation to create balance and wellness within the body, mind, heart and spirit. If you would like more information about Donna or her individual and family programs, visit www.wellness-starts-within.com or call 315-5722453 to schedule a free 30 minute discovery session.

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UNMAZED MAGAZINE

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Stacey Adams is a Registered Representative of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS), Securities products/services offered through PAS, a registered broker/dealer. Financial Representative, The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Alliance Financial Group is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS. PAS is a member FINRA, SIPC. Insurance policy benefits are reduced by any outstanding loans and loan interest. 2018-60721 Exp 05/20

Bud Jenkins, Owner of Floridian College Planning Resources, LLC., Bud, is passionate about students achieving their higher education goals, He specializes in College/Career Selection, Aptitude Analysis, Shore-Up Wealth Leakage, Reallocate Assets, Protect Retirement, Optimize Cash Flow, Academic, Athletic & Arts Merit Considerations. Scott Daigle is passionate about college admissions. As a former school counselor, and now private college consultant, he understands how to navigate the college process with ease. He is an Independent Educational Consultant at Premier College Advisors. Nury Castillo Crawford is a published author of 3,585 Miles to Be an American Girl. As an immigrant and school principal, she knows what it takes to work hard to reach her goals. she loves sharing her book with classrooms across Georgia and Florida. Cathleen Rose is a WISDOM coach and mentor for students of all ages.With her experience with special education, Cathleen is dedicated to helping students reach their full potential. Do you have a passion for teens? Would you like to write for an innovative magazine written by educators across the state and country? Connect with us today! http://www.unmaze.me/collaborators-3/

Community Partners

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UNMAZED MAGAZINE

UNMAZED

AUGUST

Upcoming Featured Featured: Teens Guide to College Admissions; essay writing, types of applications, building a resume, and letters of recommendation

SEPTEMBER

Featured: Teens Guide to Academic Success; time management, study skills, and college-readiness skills

OCTOBER

Featured: Teens Guide to Financial Aid & Scholarships; local, state and national scholarships, Bright Futures, loans and grants, and award letters

NOVEMBER DECEMBER JANUARY FEBRUARY

Featured: Teens Guide to Mental & Physical Health; bullying, mental health, and wellness

Featured: Teens Guide to Careers; career and technical programs, choosing a major, career exploration, and personality tests Featured: Teens Guide to High School and Program choice; accelerated programs, high school options, and specialized schooling Featured: Teens Guide to Mastering Testing; test preparation, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Cambridge AICE, ACT, SAT, state testing

Do you want UnMazed directly to your inbox each month? Subscribe today at www.unmaze.me! Join 4,000 subscribers

FEATURED Applications Grants Loans

Financial Aid FAFSA

Work Study

Money

Out-of-Pocket Savings/ 529 National Scholarships State Scholarships Local Scholarships Institutional Scholarships Program Scholarships

Career & Technical State Colleges

College Terminology

Types

State Universities Private Colleges & Universities

Size Type Location

Fit

Majors Tuition Activities Selectivity

2+2 Path ays Direct Entry Honors Traditional

Terminology in BOLD will be found throughout this magazine edition. The August and October editions will showcase the other terms.

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10 Â

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Programs

Florida has become a national leader in various college degree pathways, making degree and certificate attainability simplified. However, parents and teens still do not have a handle on some of the basic vocabulary post-secondary

Institutional

institutions use.This list provides a gateway to a better

Common App

understanding of what to ask.Â

Coalition App

2 + 2 PROGRAM:Â 2 + 2 students complete their first 2 years (60 credits or Associates degree) at a 2 year state college or community

Transcript

Documents

college and complete their last 2 years at a 4 year institution. Some

Resume

colleges

and

universities

have

matriculation

agreements among themselves, meaning if you do the first

Essay

two years at College X, College Y will accept you.

Letters of Recommendation

ART

SCHOOL

(ARTS

COLLEGE,

ART

INSTITUTE,

CONSERVATORY): An institution specializing in the visual, performing, and/or creative arts.

Formal Informal

Visits

Virtual College Fair School Visit

ASSOCIATE DEGREE: A type of degree awarded to students at a US community college, usually after two years of classes. An Associates degree can be earned at two-year and some four-year postsecondary institutions. The hours of credit required varies by the program of study but it typically is the equivalent to four semesters of full-time study, or approximately 60 credit hours. ASSOCIATES OF ART (AA): A two year

common core degree that includes math,

science, humanities, communication, social science (~36

Open access

Admissions

Competitive

credits) and electives (~24 credits). Students seeking an AA degree typically go on to a 4 year university.

Selective

ASSOCIATES OF SCIENCE (AS):

Highly selective

An A.S. degree is best suited for students that want to enter a career field after two years, but want the option to transfer to a four-year college in a related field. It requires less core coursework than an A.A., and is more specific to particular major or career path. BACHELOR'S DEGREE: A degree awarded to undergraduates, usually after four years of college classes. Bachelor's degree programs typically take four to five years of college-level coursework, and require approximately 120 credit hours to complete. A bachelors degree is awarded to students who fulfill the requirements

set

the

post-secondary

institution.

Credentials commonly associated with a bachelor's degree are bachelors of science (BS), and bachelor's of arts (BA)

FEATURED Florida Median First-Year Earnings , ,

, ,

Career Certi cate FCS Associate in Science Degree Bachelor's Degree FCS College Credit Certi cate Associate in Arts Degree Bachelor's Degree SUS Data taken from the Economic Security Report, 2017

CERTIFICATE PROGRAM: A Certificate program teaches a specific skill set, and allows students to pursue a specialized area through specific training. Certificate programs may be offered at community colleges, technical/vocational schools, or proprietary schools. The length of training varies from 1847 credit hours on the type of certificate sought) is the same for all. COLLEGE: A college is a common name for post-secondary institutions specifically in reference to institutions that award associate or bachelor's degrees. It may also refer to those post-secondary institutions that only service undergraduate degrees and do not have graduate programs. In addition, within some undergraduate programs colleges may refer to an area of study or program, such as the College of Pharmacy or College of Nursing. COLLEGES THAT CHANGE LIVES: A program that consists of 40 colleges that are dedicated to the advancement and support of a student-centered colleges. These colleges have a goal of each student developing a lifelong love of learning and provides the foundation for a successful and fulfilling life beyond college. FLORIDA STATE COLLEGE SYSTEM (FCS): The Florid College System (FCS) comprises of 28 state colleges that offer a variety of certificate and degree programs, from a few months to bachelor's degree programs to meet regional workforce needs. FOUR-YEAR COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: Four year colleges and universities are post-secondary institutions that award bachelor's degrees to those who complete the required coursework. Four year post-secondary institutions can be for profit, not for profit, public or private. GAP-YEAR PROGRAMS: Year-long programs designed for high school graduates who wish to defer enrollment in college while engaging in meaningful activities, such as academic programs, structured travel, community service, etc.

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HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGE: Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are institutions of higher education in the United States that were established before 1964 with the intention of serving the black community. There are 105 HBCUs today, including public and private, two-year and four-year institutions, medical schools and community colleges. Almost all are in former slave states. IVY LEAGUE: Eight colleges are considered Ivy League because of their selectivity, high rigor, and prestige. They are often ranked some of the best colleges in the world with top access to resources, research, and academic programs. LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGE: Liberal Arts colleges are post-secondary institutions whose curriculum emphasizes broad general knowledge of humanities, social sciences, and physical sciences rather than focusing on a narrow issue or profession (like nursing or social work). Liberal Arts colleges tend to be small in size. POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION: Post-secondary education refers to formal education beyond high school. Post-secondary education institutions include: colleges, universities, technical schools and vocational training centers. The lengths of these programs vary, and upon completion of the desired program one may earn a certificate or degree. PRIVATE COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES OF FLORIDA (PCUF): Private Colleges and Universities of Florida is an organization of 22 of Florida's private post-secondary institutions. PRIVATE UNIVERSITY: A university that is privately-funded. Tuition for a private college or university (before scholarships and grants) is the same for all STATE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM (SUS) of FLORIDA: The state of Florida has 12 universities in its State University System (SUS) that offer a variety of bachelor's and graduate programs.

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FEATURED Road to College Success I had a meeting with a parent and

As with any site, they are only as good

I went for one major, changed three

soon-to-be-senior who were quite

as the information you put in. If you are

times, and went back to my original

unsure how to even start the college

too broad, you will receive schools that

major. The great thing is, I still loved all

process. This is a hard question as

do not meet your needs; too specific

of my classes and find I use my

everyone starts at different stages.

and you might miss out on schools.

business skills while being in education! I would say that interior design class did

Often times I see students have a supposedly clear path to college,

3. I know the career I want.

teach me that was NOT my career path!

know the school, know which dorm,

The student I mentioned earlier was

If this section is you, then your research

know which major… the whole nine

interested in being a dietitian. He

might not begin with colleges and

yards. While these seem to be easy

wanted a good career in medicine,

majors but careers. Take some online

students to work with, I often question

without having to go to medical school.

career/personality tests to determine

what research did they do to get there.

He assumed this was a well paying

your best career according to your likes

I will ask questions like, What are the

career and would always be needed

and dislikes.

retention or placement rates of your

and relevant. So when I asked him

degree program? They look at me

what type of major he needed for it, he

with a blank stare. On the other hand, I

did not really know. I tried using Big

campuses. Once you starting seeing

have students that truly do not know

Future (College Board’s college search

the same schools show up in your

where to begin. For both of these

engine), under Health and Nutrition

searches, it is time to start digging a bit

students on the end of the spectrum, I

and kept coming up with nothing. So

deeper. Peruse their website- what are

walk them through how to do research

we worked backwards. A simple

the graduation requirements for that

about colleges that meet your need.

Google search of education needed

major; what minors could go with it;

Here are some helpful tips in starting

for a dietitian yielded us a major in

what are some the internship/ research

the college process, no matter the

dietetics. From there a simple Google

programs you can get involved in; what

stage you are in.

Florida

universities

Visit

college

websites

and

is the application process, etc.

with undergraduate dietetics yielded 1. Know yourself.

us about eight results. Presto, we now

6. Talk with people around you.

Begin by thinking about what type of

have somewhere to start with!

Start asking your friends, teachers, professionals, etc. on where they went

school are you looking for? Big, small, urban, rural, private public, etc. This is a

4. I have no idea what I want to do.

to school and what they liked or

reflective process, not one your mom

The college search is always a bit

disliked about it. Even asking them how

can do for you. Sometimes you do not

harder when you do not have a plan

they found their school would be

know

visiting

except to go to college. Part of the

informative.

campuses and seeing if the school

college process is helping you figure it

graduated with this major from this

feels like a fit."

out.

school, would you hire me?

this

until

you

start

good

question:

2. Use internet search tools.

Tips to Finding Your College Fit There are some great free college searches out there about colleges that fit your criteria.

By: Dr. Amanda Sterk, UnMaze.Me

FEATURED What Affects College Decisions STEP 1

Location Close, far, in-state, out-of-state

STEP 6

STEP 2

Majors

Tuition

Liberal arts, 2 or 4 year degrees

Price of attendance after FAFSA & scholarhips

STEP 5

Selectivity Do they accept only a few or many of the applicants?

FINDING YOUR FIT

STEP 3

Type Big, small, public, private

STEP 4

Activities Study abroad, internships, sports

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UNMAZED MAGAZINE

FEATURED CAMPUS VISITS DONE What may seem to be a long drive for

those

curricula.

schedules and attend one which best

a boring tour given by an overly peppy

Interested in science? Take a good

matches your interests. In addition to

guide who speaks faster than ever

look at the labs, look at what students

the academic facilities, you may be

imagined possible is actually more

are doing in their classes, speak with

interested in athletics, arts, or another

valuable than most families think if

some

side of campus. Explore those as well.

done right. Giving the students a

schools will not be able to or want to

Scheduling

clearer picture of what they want and

accommodate

individual

athletic competition, concert, or other

don't want from their future college,

requests, you can take the initiative to

student event is a fun and easy way to

allowing

do most of these things on your own

explore beyond the tour.

them

demonstrate choices,

interest

getting

chance to

their

classrooms

professors.

and

RIG

Although such

many

your

tour

around

top

questions

answered and showing them what they are working for and where they may be in a short time are all reasons not to forgo campus visits. Here are 5 tips for getting the most out of your campus visits. Research First - walk onto campus with some knowledge of the school and programs you are interested in. It is unlikely you will know exactly what you want to major in, but you probably have some ideas. These visits are a chance to sort through them. You should have your questions that were not answered online ready to go so that you can ask the admissions counselors or program directors on site. Tailor your Tour – make arrangements ahead of time with the admissions office to meet the people you want to meet and see what you want to see. If you think you are interested in English, try to schedule a meeting with an advisor for that department and look at

Photo of: Olivia Muchmore, UF graduate

while on campus and if it is a school

Get a Feel for Student Life – general

you

student characteristics and social life

persistent. Some schools also have

can vary significantly by campus.

open

geared

Visiting campus while school is in

specifically towards certain majors or

session is crucial. Take the time to eat

departments. Pay attention to their

in a campus dining hall, visit the library,

are

truly

houses

interested or

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visits

in,

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

HT tour the student activity center, and

have no interest in can prove helpful

pick up a campus paper and other

as it shows them a different side of

information on student activities to get

things and gives them a clearer picture

a feel for campus life. If you cannot

of what they do not want. You wouldn't

attend a tour while students are on

buy a car without driving it or a house

campus before applying, try to revisit

without seeing it, so why would you

later.

pay for an education at a school that

could potentially cost more than either

Explore the Area – campus location

of those without visiting beforehand?

can play a big part in your decision and it is better to find out what you think of the town/city now. Safety, transportation

and

entertainment options are

Do the campus visits, and do them right!

Toğ Ŭū QuestionĨ tČ Asù

among the things to take into

consideration

by Ashley McNaughton, AMC College Consulting

How will my classes be taught?

off-

campus.

How do you help graduates find employment?

Take Notes – after a few tours, the campuses and

What activities can I be involved in?

information may seem to blur together. During or after your visit, do not

What type of student is best suited for this college?

forget to write down your thoughts. You can even

How do you support me when I need help?

snap a few pictures to jog your memory later. Big or small,

urban

rural,

What types of scholarships/financial aid is available?

religious or not – a student may have no idea what they

prefer

until

What is your retention rate?

they

experience it in person.

Campus

What do you say is the culture of the college? visits

are

invaluable

for

showing a student what qualities they

How can I make my application stand out?

want in their future school. Even visiting a school a student knows they

What is there to do off campus?

PARENTING Planning for the College Experience

t's that time. Parents look at their children and realize everything is about to change. Soon, your child will head off to college as teenager, and return as an adult. And for the teens about to embark on this quest, you are likely to return with a sack full of debt.

How will we all

handle it??! If you are a parent of a young child, like with all savings, the sooner you start the better.

One of the ways to

accomplish this is with a 529 Savings Account.

This is a tax-advantaged

savings plan designed to encourage saving for college. According to the Securities and Exchange Commission's website (sec.gov) 529 plans are known as "qualified tuition plans." There are two types of 529 plans: prepaid tuition plans and college savings plans. All 50 states and the District of Columbia sponsor at least one type of 529 plan.

Another permanent

early

savings

(whole)

life

tool

insurance.

While the primary purpose of life insurance

the

death

benefit

protection, the cash value that builds inside of a permanent life insurance policy can be used to fund expenses for college. But unlike a 529, the cash value in the life insurance policy can be utilized for things other than a college education. And in addition to the cash value, a permanent insurance policy will provide protection for that child and his or her future family. If you are ready to enter college soon, there are steps you can take to

average cost of a 4-year public college

the FAFSA form for their own need-

for in-state students stands at around

based financial aid awards.

$9,970 per year, and $25,620 for outof-state students per year, according

There are federal loan options like the

to the College Board website. High

Stafford loan, which has more flexible

School students need to start planning

repayment options than private loans.

EARLY.

Sometimes, private loans may have

Utilize

the

website

collegescholarships.org . Thousands of

lower

dollars

year

student loans, but that will often

because people do not either know

depend on your credit history, and may

certain scholarships exist or don't take

require a parental co-signer.

the time to apply. Don't wait until the

last minute to check out this website.

One last word.... Parents, I know sparing

your child from the burden of student

Another option is filling out the the

loans may seem like a wonderful gift,

Free Application for Federal Student

but

Aid

retirement to pay for your child's

untouched

(FAFSA).

every

going

interest

don't

rates

than

jeopardize

your

own

studentaid.ed.gov you can fill out the

college

application to determine financial aid.

scholarships,

In addition to the application, there are

variety of repayment plan options for

many resources on this website from

that.

different types of aid (I.e. scholarships,

institution is going to give you a loan

grants, loans, work study jobs) to

for your retirement.

understanding

the

eligibility

requirements to obtaining aid. In fact, many institutions also use

mitigate the cost. Currently, the

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education.

federal

grants,

Remember,

By: Stacey Adams, Financial Planner for Alliance Financial Group

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

There loans, no

and

are a

financial

FEATURED FIVE MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT ATTENDING COLLEGE IN FLORIDA With the fifth largest population in the

1) Florida Prepaid Plan – Everyone

2) The Top 20 Program – People hear

United

here knows that you can lock in your

that their student can automatically be

overabundance of applicants who wish

child’s tuition at a young age and not

admitted to a Florida public university

to remain in the state of Florida to take

have to pay the difference when they

if they graduate in the top 20% of their

advantage of the in-state tuition rate.

finally graduate from high school.

senior class. While this is true, the fine

However, with that also comes the fact

However, most are not aware that any

print says that you have to be rejected

that we have 5 of the 10 largest

policy holder can receive a full refund

from your first three choices and then

universities in the country right here:

the state will find a place for you at one

University of Central Florida (@60,000),

tuition/fees and dorm (if you have also

University of Florida (@50,000), Florida

signed up for that plan). Meaning, if

International

you happened to pay $3k per year a

Generally speaking, I do not know

decade ago, now you can get

many students who legitimately had

States,

there

University

(@50,000),

Florida State University (@45,000) and

the

current

average

value

of the other nine remaining campuses.

July 5th, 7:00 pm, Live webinar Click to register!

@$6700/year in return to use at a

the grades and test scores but were

private

out-of-state

not admitted to their top three picks.

quite

college. So you do not lose any of your

The state will find space for you at one

differently in our admissions process

money by going elsewhere. If you

of the under-enrolled campuses in the

than they do in other places. So I

were lucky enough to also purchase

system, usually out in Pensacola or up

would like to take a moment to point

the housing option, then that is a good

in Jacksonville as these are a couple of

out a few related topics that people

chunk to put toward another college.

the lesser in demand options.

University of South Florida(@40,000). As

result,

things

work

school

might not understand fully.

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UNMAZED MAGAZINE

3) Early Decision – Pretty much the

expect that you will automatically be

semester statistics are reported. There

whole world thinks that they are at an

admitted into University of Florida – it

are

advantage if they apply to college

just does not work that way. There are

attending college in Florida, and I will

through the Early Decision (ED) option.

28 public, two-year community/state

continue with the next five popular

However, what they do not realize is

campuses that are feeding into the 12

misconceptions in next month’s issue.

that they are now putting themselves

public, four-year universities. There

Later in the Fall, I will begin to discuss

up against (in comparison) the top

are simply not enough spots for

the specific statutes that are written

applicants to that school. If they are all

everyone who wants to go to UF or

into law here that greatly affect how

in the same review pile of applications,

FSU. You have to remember that each

the

then

preferred

year there is still a new high school

are administered. As always, please

treatment? In the state of Florida, the

graduating class that will take up the

feel free to contact me directly with

only college that even has ED as a

majority of the spots that Fall.

any questions that you may have

choice

who

gets

the

application

many

unique

public

state

features

universities

the

University of Miami. University of Florida’s deadline of November 1st is not ED, they just need that much time to review so many applicants before they announce their acceptances in February. Florida State University’s deadline of October 15th is also not ED, it is just their preferred date as they also have just as many forms to review by committee. 4) The 2+ 2 Program – This is where a student attends the first two years of college at a community/state campus and then transfers into a public, fouryear university. You must earn the actual associate degree and then a block of 60 credits lateral to the school offering the bachelor’s degree. The law says that you must be admitted to one of the 12 public campuses but it does not say that the applicant gets to specify which one it is. In other words, you cannot graduate high school with a 2.2 GPA, earn an associate and then

"There is an overabundance of applicants who wish to remain in the state of Florida to take advantage of the instate tuition rate... So things work quite differently in our admissions process than they do in other places." 5) Summer Applications – There is a

about your college admissions process

common

– whether they be related to public,

belief

that

applying

for

admission to a summer term will make

private,

it easier to be admitted. The confusion

schools. I am open to accepting calls

in-state

out-of-state

is that this is true for some campuses

from anyone across the state or

and not for all. UF, for example, reads

elsewhere. Thank you for your interest

all the applications for both Fall and

and good luck in your search for the

Summer terms at the same time

right academic program and setting for

without putting any consideration to

your particular style of learning.

which term the prospective student has chosen. So there is no advantage in this instance. However, if you are applying to FIU, there is an average drop of 0.3 between the two GPA’s admitted and another noticeable drop between the average test scores accepted. This is due to the lower demand for the summer term and some gray areas in the way that non- By Scott Daigle, College Consultant at Premier College Advisers

J ULY 2018

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

EDUCATION A Trip to Success: One Florida Graduate Who Beat the Odds

My name is Nury Castillo Crawford,

becoming a published author with the

five into their home. Our stay there was

and I was born and raised in Peru,

release of my first book: "3,585 Miles to

far

South America for the first ten years of

be an American Girl".

immediately, I could sense the tension

my life. I'm what most people would

between the adults. My aunt made

consider in the mid-life stage of my life

That seems like a lot, huh? Well,

notable efforts to ensure my sister and

(although

just

believe it or not, it wasn't that easy to

I could see she was not thrilled about

categorize me as "old"- I'm okay with

get where I am today. As I mentioned,

us being in their home.

that). I am the mother of three sons,

my family and I migrated to the United

the youngest a current graduating

States from Peru with no grasp of the

About four years later, my family

senior is headed to a university in

English language. My family, including

moved to Tallahassee, Florida, where I

Atlanta,

my father, mother, myself, my eight-

was enrolled and graduated from

computer programming degree. I have

year-old sister and my three-month-

Rickards High.

been a life-long educator for over 20

old baby brother, all arrived in Indiana

different than the school culture in

years and have held positions as a

where we stayed with my mom's

Indiana, but I managed to make

classroom

family in a bedroom for a year.

progress and maintain an acceptable

Although

still

GPA. Most of my teachers seemingly

huge

did not care if anyone showed up to

most

Georgia

teacher

administrator. added

teens

would

pursuit

and

school

Recently

CEO/Founder

I've 1010

Publishing to my resume in addition to

understood

was that

young, it

was

I a

commitment by my aunt and uncle to

from

and

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

almost

The culture was

class, but I connected with my

welcome a family of J ULY 2018

pleasant

Florida House Bill 851, 1009.26 allows post-secondary schools to allow instate tuition for undocumented students who attended and graduated from a Florida high school for at least 3 years. Undocumented students are not eligible for financial aid, but can seek financial aid in forms of private, non-government scholarships. Florida ranks 5th with 27,000 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) residents. There are 690,000 DACA recipients. Miami/ Fort Lauderdale ranks 11th in largest concentration areas with 11,400. Top five countries of origin for DACA recipents; Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, Hondruas, and Peru. Data from Miami Herald language

arts

teacher

and

the

semester, I qualified for the financial

midst of the constant discussion about

discipline administrator.

support and by the time I graduated I

immigrants in the news. First, I started

had received several scholarships and

1010 Publishing, which was born out of

Research notes that it takes about six

kept my Pell Grant.

my desire to help others in the process

years to master a second language but

seeing

their

personal

writing

throughout my entire school years I

College life is a bit different than high

transformed into a published project.

never received remedial support or

school life, for starters you’re left up to

Then, I released my first book: "3,585

ESOL support. Since becoming an

you to be your own advocate. If you’re

Miles to be an American Girl", which

educator, I now see how unfair this was

not outspoken, college independence

was heavily influenced by my real

to me. My senior year, I realized many

can push you to finding that inner

experiences moving to America.

students were talking about college. I

power to find the resources and

hadn't thought of it and although my

support you need to be successful.

It is a bilingual children's story inspired

parents were very supportive, it was

Those who don’t find that voice within

by my own journey to the USA. An

not a true priority. They were in survival

them are likely to prolong challenges

inspiring story of an immigrant girl who

mode. So, I made an appointment with

and even commit to failure. I taught for

encounters challenges but succeeds

the school guidance counselor myself.

one year and decided to go back for

with the support of her family and

The meeting lasted less than five

my Masters Degree. Everyone told me

teacher. A wonderful resource that

minutes, and he plainly told me

there was no financial support for grad

supports the emotional intelligence

college was difficult and that I should

school, but you guessed it, this did not

standards of empathy, caring, and

become a secretary.

stop me. I walked up and down that

support.

university until someone told me I

I already had it in my head that I would

could receive a fellowship (just so

go to college, so I made it a point to go

you know a month before they had

out and look for myself.

also told me there were no funds

I was in

Tallahassee, so I drove to the two major

universities

and

picked

to support me).

registration paperwork. One was very

As I began grad school I was already a

welcoming

personable,

married woman and had a baby boy. I

Florida A&M University, so in my mind I

taught while attending gradate school

immediately chose it. At this point, I

to support me. As I began grad school

was

Pell

being a full time wife / mom. About a

Grant support, so I worked all summer

year ago, the passing of my mom

to earn enough money to pay for my

inspired me to share my story in the

too

and

late

receive

any

first semester. By the second

J ULY 2018

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

By Nury Castillo Crawford, School Principal and Author of 3,585 Miles to be an American Girl

FEATURED College Visit Checklist Formal Informal

Visits

Virtual

Other options to find out more about a

College Fair

particular college:

School Visit

COLLEGE FAIRS College fairs are another great way to

It is extremely important that you visit

get the flair for a college. You are able

the

colleges

which

you

are

ask

questions

college

interested. While some schools may

admission

look great on paper, they may not

school. College fairs remind me of

meet your expectations or simply "not

"speed dating" you are able to talk to

feel right." I have seen too many

multiple different colleges all in one

students who accept a spot, only to

stop. I had a student who attended the

transfer

National

because

after it

the

was

first not

semester what

they

representative

Association

for

the

College

Admission Counseling (NACAC) that

expected. When I ask, "Did you visit?",

runs

most readily admit they did not.

Jacksonville and Fort Lauderdale . She

There are two types of college visits:

visited a school that did not have a line

every

year

Orlando,

UnMazed Tips # Create a separate email account just for college related materials that both the student and parent have access to.

# Store your usernames and pass ords in one place.

and found a connection at an out-ofFORMAL

state college. They flew her out for a

With a formal visit, you contact the

visit for free and she received a full-

school, take the tour and are told

ride scholarship. Tip: Still go in with a

about their programs. This may include

list of questions, but attend colleges

a lunch in the cafeteria, a look into

that are not on your "formal" and

dorm life, and maybe even sitting in on

"informal" list. This is a time to explore

a class. These tours are important and

schools you would not normally know

should be done. Ask a lot of questions

of.

to really learn about their school and if it is the right fit for you. (See below for

SCHOOL VISITS

what to ask!)

School visits happen when admission representatives come to your school

INFORMAL

one-on-one. These are some of my

Informal tours are just as important.

favorite conversations, and allows you

This is when you get off the beaten

to get to know the school more

path and go around yourself. At this

personally and ask questions. Typically

time you should check out what

the college's admission representative

surrounds the campus (do you feel

is designated to your county, which

safe, where is the local bank/grocery

means they know your school and

store, do you need a car, etc.). They

programs available to you. They are

can also provide an opportunity to talk

usually

you'd

application and are your contact if

encounter on a formal visit. Remember

questions arise. This is a great person

your questions then as well!

to get to know.

different

people

than

the

J ULY 2018

first

review

your

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

# Practice email etiquette before sending anything to colleges.

# Do not be afraid to ask questions; however, make sure it is not already listed on their website.

C o l l e g e

ACADEMICS —How much time do students typically spend on homework? —How much writing and reading are expected?

SCHOOL:

—What is the average class size of introductory classes? —How widely used are teaching assistants on your campus? —What is the average class size of upper-division courses? ACADEMIC PERKS

LOCATION:

—What opportunities are there for undergraduate research? —How many students participate in undergraduate research? —Is there a culminating senior year experience? —Do you have an honors college? —Do you have a learning community or other freshman experience?

TYPE OF VISIT:

FINANCIAL AID —What is your average financial aid package? —What is the typical breakdown of loans versus grants?

V i s i t C h e c k l i s t

—What percentage of financial need does the school typically meet? —What is the average merit award?

DATE OF VISIT:

—What percentage of students receive college grants? —What is the average college debt that students leave with? —What work-study opportunities are there? GRADUATION TRACK RECORD —What is your four-year graduation rate? —What is your five-year graduation rate?

NAME & CONTACT INFORMATION OF OUR ADMISSION REPRESENTATIVE:

—What does it take to graduate in four years? —What percentage of freshmen return for sophomore year? ACADEMIC SUPPORT —What type of tutoring program do you have? —How do you provide academic advice to students? —Do you have a writing center and how do I access it? —What kind of learning disability resources do you have? OUTSIDE OPPORTUNITIES —How many students at the college get internships?

Choose a number system to keep track of how much you like the answers to the questions below (for instance, 1-5, 1=doesn’t work at all to 5=perfect for me).

—What percentage of students study abroad?

Total the numbers at the bottom to compare

—What type of career services do you have?

____ Total

STUDENT LIFE —What kind of dorm choices are there? —What percentage of students live on campus? —How long are dorm accommodations guaranteed? —How many students live on campus? —Do most students go home on the weekend? —What percentage of the study body belongs to a sorority or fraternity? —What activities are offered to students? —What clubs do you have on campus?

Form can be downloaded for free at: www.unmaze.me- or click on the icon.

3 H

FEATURED Steps to Smart College Selection

igh school seniors all over the

assessment to determine the career

you have to know what these schools

country are beginning their decisions

path(s) that suits who they are. Also,

are prepared to offer you and what

on which university to attend. For

have your student go on job shadows

they are going to take from you. Your

some, it will be where they spend the

and career interest interviews so that

college

next four years of their lives obtaining a

they have a real world idea of the

include evaluation of the percentage

degree

them

actual jobs they are considering. Once

of students that graduate in four years

opportunities to work in a field or

this is done, search for schools with

and the amount of free need and

occupation that they love. For far too

academic strengths in the area that

merit-based aid they are likely to

many, this choice will be where they

your child is interested. Be sure the

provide your family. You need to know

spend the next year realizing that it

institution has a history of graduating

before you select the school how

was the wrong institution for them and

students in four years.

much it is going to cost you.

that

will

grant

selection

process

should

will find themselves starting over the following year. For others, it will be

In the end you should evaluate dozens

where they spend five or six years

of schools regardless of the sticker

obtaining a four year degree only to

price. A closed mind will cost you

realize they don't truly like the career

money. By applying this process to

path they are heading down. It doesn't

each school, you will be able to narrow

have to be this way.

your choices down to five or six Step two is the "Heart." You are going

possibilities. Return your applications

One university. One major. Four years.

to spend a huge amount of money on

to all five or six schools and then allow

Those should be the goals for every

each

all offers to come in before making any

family sending their kids off to college.

shouldn't they love it? Actually they

Failure to achieve these will cost you

have to love it! Before selection, they

significantly more money to educate

need to experience and be excited

your child. A simple three-step process

about the classrooms, the campus, the

will greatly increase your likelihood of

dorms, the football team or whatever it

success

is that is important to them. Get them

the

college

selection

process.

child's

college

education;

decisions.

on the campuses and experience what life would be like before you start paying for it. This cannot be duplicated by perusing a brochure or searching the internet. There is no substitution for the real thing.

By: Bud Jenkins, Owner of Floridian College Planning Resources, LLC

Step one is the "Head."This is a logical approach to selection of a college and a major. Before selecting a major, have your child complete a career

Step three is the "Hand." Financially

J ULY 2018

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

PARENTING Building Credit: A Quick Guide for Teens

oo often, young adults face a

how credit scores work, let alone

loans? Your payment history is used to

rude awakening as they enter

teenagers. However, credit isn’t as

predict future payments. If you were

into their late teens and early 20s.

mysterious as some make it out to be.

late in the past, will you be late going

Suddenly they are out on their own,

forward?

looking to secure their first credit card,

To start, there are three leading credit

private student loan, or car financing,

bureaus in the United States including

Credit Utilization (30%): If you have a

only to discover that they have no

Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion that

credit card with a $5,000 limit, are you

credit history on file with any of the

will determine your credit score. They

using all $5,000? Even if you have

major credit bureaus.

each use five different factors, all

access to thousands of dollars of

weighted differently, to determine your

potential credit, the percentage of that

It's a shock to find out that, even

final score which can range from 300

credit

though you’ve never defaulted on any

(the worst) to 850 (the best).

influences your credit score. Try to

debt or bills, you aren’t able to secure

keep your credit utilization below 30

some of the most basic types of credit.

The items below are listed from

percent to make sure your utilization

To avoid this, teens and their parents

greatest to least influence over credit

helps your score and doesn’t hurt it.

should start thinking about building

score:

credit well before the young adult’s

Credit History (15%): One of the main

18th birthday.

Payment History (35%): Do you have a

reasons why parents should help their

history of making on-time and full

teens secure credit early is because

How Credit Works

payments

the

Truth be told, adults barely understand

major

bills,

including. utilities, cell phones, and

J ULY 2018

you

length

have

actually

credit

used

history

does influence a credit score. While

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

decades of history isn’t necessary, the

age limits. Bank of America, Chase, and

consuming to review monthly bills, but

earlier you get started, the better.

Capital

examples.

you never know what errors you could

Before setting up your teen as an

find. Did a restaurant overcharge your

Credit Mix (10%): Having a reasonable

authorized user, speak with the issuer

credit card? Did your phone company

mix of different types of credit plays a

to confirm they report (at the very

miss one of your payments? Reviewing

small but important role in your score.

minimum)

bills can save you money and save

Having two to three different types of

authorized users to a credit reporting

your credit score over the long run.

credit, including student loans, credit

agency. This will help to build the basis

cards, and more, will help.

of a credit history for your teen.

Another easy mistake to make when

you are trying to build credit is to sign

New Credit (10%): Each time you apply

Another option for teens who have

up for absolutely every offer that

for or open a new line of credit, a

moved out from their parent's house is

comes your way. Just because part of

lender may perform a hard credit pull

new

your credit score is based on a credit

which will reduce your score slightly.

organizations that report on-time rental

mix, doesn’t mean you should go crazy

Over time the effect dissolves, but if

payments to a credit reporting agency.

accepting every credit option put in

you have new credit on your history,

Until recently, credit scores were

front of you. Only apply for what you

this will slightly decrease your overall

unaffected by on-time rent payments.

truly need and can manage.

rating.

However,

organizations now developing ways for

Final Thoughts

Why Credit Is Important

renters to make their monthly rent

The idea of building a credit score can

Credit is how lenders, banks, and -

payments count.

be overwhelming for teens with little

even in some cases - landlords,

personal finance knowledge. Though it

determine if you are likely to default on

Credit Mistakes/Traps to Avoid

can

your financial obligation. If you have a

An easy mistake for first-time credit

complicated. Know the details of your

history of late payments on your credit

holders is to get in over their heads.

credit cards and loans and make sure

card, will you also continue to make

After all, if you’ve never had a credit

to understand how they affect your

late payments on your student loan?

card before, it's easy to spend much

credit score before you take them out.

more than you can pay off each month.

Spend smartly with your credit and

Your credit score is a picture of your

Make sure to keep track of how much

don’t bite off more than you can chew.

financial

you have spent on your credit card and

If you can do these things – along with

lender’s decision to offer you credit

never spend more than you can pay

understanding how credit generally

and the appropriate terms for the

off before your due date.

works – then you will be well on your

credit. The lower risk they deem you to

way to building that perfect score of

be, the better interest rates you may

Also, be wary of any credit card offers

850.

qualify for. If the banks assess you as

that seem too good to be true.

too risky, it will be challenging to

Whether that be an amazing bonus

source any credit at all.

offer, a super low interest rate (below

15% or so), or something else, chances

How Teens Can Start Building Credit

are they are looking to prey on newbie

Even for teens who still live at home

credit holders and may have some

and are financially dependent on their

hidden fees or fine print that will cost

parents, there are ways to develop

you in the long run.

credit history early on.

Another mistake is to avoid looking at

For example, some credit cards allow

your

for secondary authorized users, with

bills before paying them. Yes, it’s time

past,

which

influences

One

work

are

the

with

some

credit

one

there

credit

card

history

are

the

many

statements

new

J ULY 2018

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

stressful,

it’s

not

overly

By: David Rathmanner, VP of Content at LendEdu

Florida ranks 45th in nation for student debt. Florida students owe an average of $24,261. Florida ranks 2nd cheapest for in-state tuition and fees.

Data from Sun Sentinel

HEALTH

Mindfulness for Healthier, Happier Kids and Families What is mindfulness? I think of it as

The action we choose as a result of our level of awareness in the present moment . Having present moment awareness allows us to create and experience

happiness,

gratitude,

peaceful and focused mental state and a general sense of well-being. It helps us

deeply

connect

ourselves, our loved ones and our environment. Mindfulness nurtures our relationship

with

our

bodies,

our

emotions, our thoughts and assists us to communicate more honestly and effectively. Mindfulness teaches kids and young adults to be aware of their environment, their own thoughts and their

feelings.

cultivates

self-

confidence,

compassion

and

empowerment.

When

and

children

habitually

mindfulness,

the

parents

family

practice builds

foundation of support and trust. Children today are experiencing life differently than we are as adults. They are experiencing life differently than we did at their age. It helps us and them to understand this and to remain present and aware rather than be distracted by past or future events. Today in the United States alone one in three kids between the ages of 10-17 are; overweight or obese, have been bullied or bullied someone else, have experienced at least one episode of severe depression or, have recently used drugs or alcohol.

Kids are under tremendous pressure

Mindfulness is a practice, meaning we

academically and socially. They are

aren’t

concerned about their own safety in

mistakes. And that’s okay. Old habits

school. Parents want their children to

are sometimes difficult to break and

be happy, healthy, confident people.

new ones take some time to form. Be

The best way to guide them is to be an

gentle with yourself. Having self-

example of these qualities.

awareness to be present and choose

our actions in each moment gradually

Listed on the other page are four ways

removes us from a victim mentality

you can begin to cultivate mindfulness

where things happen to us and into a

within yourself. Just remember, your

place of empowerment where we are

authenticity is vital. If you simply go

creating our experiences through our

through

own intention and behavior. We all

expectation of a certain outcome, the

have this power, we all have this

point is lost. Really make the effort for

choice. It’s up to us to make sure our

yourself first. Taking care of you is the

kids know this too.

most selfless thing you can do for your

children.

the

motions

J ULY 2018

with

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

perfect

and

all

make

4 Ways to Cultivate Mindfulness 1. Choose healthy foods and take time to enjoy your food. Pay attention to flavors, textures, smells. Offer gratitude for your food, to the earth and your food source, to the farmers who grow and harvest it, to the truck drivers who haul it to the stores and markets, and to the store workers. Bring awareness to the process and energy offered that enables you to enjoy the food on your table. This teaches children to appreciate what they have and the efforts of others. 2. Get outside, put your bare feet on the Earth. Connect with nature. Notice wildlife, flowers, trees, the sky and the air. Even if it’s only for a few minutes each day, whether you sit in still contemplation, meditate or go for a walk; this practice will help clear your thoughts, reduce stress and energize you. 3. Be conscious of your words. The energy of the words you choose affects you more than you may realize. And your words have incredible power to affect your children. Even with good intention, a word like should, for example, can have a negative impact. Do your best to avoid telling yourself and others, including your children, what they should do, should wear, should think, should feel or should be. Rather than telling your kids how NOT to behave, try affirming and being an example of what kind, loving and appropriate behavior looks like. 4. Practice non-judgement. Practicing kindness, empathy, compassion and love toward yourself and others guides children to do the same. This teaches children the value of all people, themselves included. Understand that we are all on our own journey of learning and growth in life and we are all better off when we are kind to ourselves and when we support and lift each other up, despite our differences.

1 in 3 kids are overweight or obese, have been bullied, have experienced depression, or recently used drugs or alcohol.

By Donna Marsh, Founder of Wellness Starts Within

FEATURED Diversity Fly-In Program Explained What is a Fly-In Program? Many colleges will offer programs that

visitation weekends! It’s a great

subsidize travel for students who are

opportunity to connect with students

otherwise

their

who are seriously considering applying

campuses due to financial constraints.

to the institution and potentially meet

Students who apply and are accepted

your future classmates.

participate in a visiting weekend on the

When visiting a college campus, you

college campus at little to no cost.

might

Most schools will open up these

following questions:

unable

programs

visit

specifically

want

ask

yourself

the

Raise.Me Colleges with Fly-In Option Emory University

for

Grinnell College

underrepresented groups to glimpse

1. Can you see yourself here? Do you

life on their campuses while hopefully

University of Denver

feel comfortable or challenged in this

removing cost as a barrier to access.

Gustavus Adolphus College

space?

University of St. Thomas (MN)

The bottom line: if you are interesting

Missouri University of Science &

in visiting a college campus but can’t

2. Where do students live? Do most

Technology

afford the travel costs to get there,

stay on campus? If not, where do most

University of Evansville

don’t rule it out – you may be eligible

students

Tulane University

for the fly-in reimbursement!

far away is it from class buildings?

get

housing

and

how

Kenyon College Oberlin College

Why Apply for a Fly-in Program?

3. What would your life look like

Carnegie Mellon University

Making a trip to a college campus is

outside of classes? What surrounds

Franklin & Marshall College

one of the best ways to determine if

the campus?

Whitman College Lehigh Unversity

you want to apply to a school. You’ll be able to picture what your life could look like as a student and learn the ins special

benefit

visiting

campus through a fly-in program is that you experience college life with other peers accepted into the program. Due

the

special

programming

prepared for you and the cohort of students

selected

program,

you’ll

for

get

town/city? What

are

the

major

industries and could you see yourself

and outs of student life. The

4. What are the characteristics of this

the an

fly-in

insider’s

perspective of the college—even more so than visiting during standard college

Rennsselaer Polytechnic Institute Colby College College of the Atlantic

getting a job here? 5. What do students do for fun? What are the major clubs and organizations? 6. What makes this school unique? 7. What aspects of the college do they pride themselves on, and do they align with your interests? By Thea Lee for Raise.Me Link to article For more on micro-scholarships visit Raise.Me.

J ULY 2018

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

UnMaze.Me

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Â 35

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

PARENTING

Media, Technology & MENTAL HEALTH We all recognize the longstanding

having access to our devices. Having

become like a stranger in your home.

controversy

internet and free WiFi have seemingly

Our children are exposed to these

children and teens. Does the content

become a basic need for Americans.

various forms of media for much

influence

and

This allows us to always be connected

longer periods of time than ever

behaviors? Or are we immune the any

by posting moments of our lives online

before. Broadcasting companies no

negative effect media may possible

in real time. The concept of instant

longer produce public interest media

have over us?

gratification starts to spill over into

content. Rather, content material is

Maybe the question is not so much

other areas of our thinking. In terms of

precisely chosen to increase ratings

what are we gaining from engaging in

our mental health, there is no quick

and shareholder earnings. It can be

various forms of media, but what are

fix. We have to consciously repel our

easily

we losing? What have our phones,

urges to fix the problem and focus on

tragedies and exploiting the latest

televisions, commercials, dare I say

our

truly

scandal is what currently gets our

Facebook replaced?

process in order to achieve mental

attention and drives up the ratings. The

wellness.

constant replay of negative headlines

Patience and Solitude

and consumerism starts to incite the

There is no doubt using Google to fact

Amplification of Negativity

same mindset in us and in our children.

check has been a savior in desperate

In The Other Parent by James P.

times. However, we sometimes see

Streyer, he writes that over the past

Quality Time Together

ourselves easily frustrated without

sixty years media has calculatedly

Television programs were originally

on our

media’s

effect

personalities

feelings,

thoughts,

J ULY 2018

and

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

understood

that

amplifying

Positive Impact on Teens & Technology A 2009 PEW Internet Survey found that owning a cell phone & participating in a variety of Internet activities likely makes people cultivate more diverse social networks.

PEW's Amanda Lenhart found that kids who text more often are more likely to spend time with friends in person.

Additionally, an Oxford Internet Institute study that examined 200 teens over the span of three years found that subjects gained new communication skills through tech use.

July 26th, 7:00 pm, Live webinar

Negative Impact on Teens & Technology

Click to register!

Eighth-graders who are heavy users of social media increase their risk of depression by 27 percent, while those who play sports, go to religious services, or even do homework more than the average teen cut their risk significantly.

A 2004 study found that for each hour spent watching TV or playing video games, a child's obesity risk doubles.

A study found that larger amounts of time spent on social media lowers girls' self-esteem and body images. developed to bring families together.

increase mental wellness. There are so

access

Of course, some shows and media

many ways to be mindful and the

Social media has in fact brought

continue to bring families together. At

benefits are endless. The key feature

families

the same time, parents must be

of acquiring mindfulness is to get back

connected

mindful

time

to the basics of life. To bring your

Technology

allows

together and excessive use of media

thoughts to each of your senses as

information

and technology in replace of authentic

with grounding exercises. Or another is

accessible to anyone at anytime. Our

human interaction. Quality time talking,

to focus on one deep breath. When we

advancements are truly incredible.

discussing,

learning,

find time in our busy schedules to

teaching, and modeling body language

open a window, take a walk outside,

However, as with most things, balance

are

teen

enjoy this beautiful Florida weather we

and self-awareness are key. So if any

development. We must talk and learn

become open to appreciating each

of the above applies to you or your

to communicate with each other in our

moment.

family, what is one simple thing you

own homes so that our kids will have

can agree to do differently today?

the

balance

quality

debating,

essential

foundation

for

child

and

successful

In 2018, media and technology are

communicators outside of the home.

pretty much mainstream and here to

No matter how convenient social

stay. Realistically, we will probably not

media or computer-based software

all of a sudden throw away all of our

may be, we cannot forget the vitality

electronics, quit our jobs, and relocate

of quality time together.

our families to live in nature in peace

and solitude. In fact, we have so many

Mindfulness and Nature

things to be grateful for with the

Many therapeutic modalities teach

advancement

mindfulness as a way to restore

technology. Adaptive technology have

positivity, regulate emotions, and

allowed individuals with disabilities

J ULY 2018

media

and

greater

together

independence. and

across be

keeps

distances. platforms shared

of and

By Courtney Faunce, MA, Lifescape Counseling

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

INFOGRAPHIC

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ASK THE EXPERT "I am starting to really panic about senior year and college admissions! What should I do?" Senior year of high school has a lot of

represents the task of completing

In December, January and February

moving pieces. As a student prepares

the

Most

admission decisions start to come

for a life after high school there is a lot

students are going to get into some

back and students are getting a good

to do, especially if that student intends

of the colleges they apply to and be

answer as to which doors will be

to go to college. If you look at these

denied admission to others. They’re

open to them. Then, hopefully in

things as a one giant to do list, I fear it

just figuring out what their options

March and April, maybe earlier, it’s

appears

are.

time to move your feet and decide

overwhelming

especially

college

applications.

which door to walk through. I hope

when you consider that the end result of it, leaving the nest, can present a lot

The FAFSA opens in October and

that by then, seniors have had a little

of anxiety. However, if you break these

students would be wise to get their

more time to process the emotions

tasks down and understand the timing

admissions applications out of the

that come at the precipice of heading

of them, they are in fact manageable

way as early as they can in order to

off into the big, wide world. Now,

and that can alleviate a lot of the

focus on this step. Parents will

anxiety young people feel as they

need to step in and help with this.

seniors heads

approach graduation. The

first

step

get

about roommates and new

with

friends, their own dorm or

college.

apartment, a new city, the college lifestyle, etc. I think

that should happen in the of

most seniors are just at a

September,

October,

and

into

November.

For

many

different place emotionally in

say, helping

the preparation for adult life

at the beginning of the year

that says, Whoa, this is it. time

summer rolls around. So, I like to ease those concerns with a visualization. Imagine you are a hallway with a whole bunch of doors. Some of those doors are locked, but some will open

really

important

successful transition.

Your Key to College

My life is going to be really next

than, and

them pump the breaks on

handle. It’s a slap in the face

the

March

September

seniors, this is a lot to

different

which

They can start to get excited

This is generally something months

around

their

legitimate options for them.

the

going

applications for

wrap

campuses are going to be

beginning of senior year is to

can

Of course, once the college decision is made there is still work to do. Students and families need to make sure financial aid is in order, secure

housing,

sign

for orientation, etc.At least

In the fall of senior year, all you are

Remember, just because a school

doing is reaching your hand out and

offers

not

through the door of their choosing

testing door knobs to see which

obligated to accept them. Students

and are ready for what’s on the

doors are locked and which will

should

other side.

open. Your feet don’t move in this

themselves to feel the emotional

stage.

You’re

you not

loans

you’re

unnecessarily

allow

not

burden of student debt before they

choosing which door to walk through

even have which campus they are

yet. Relax. This visualization

going to.

J ULY 2018

this

point

they’ve

walked

By Rob Hicks, Founder of Guidey.Blogspot.Com & School Counselor

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

HEALTH

Ways to Respond to Bullying Tell Someone

Bullying is an epidemic that is not only occurring in schools, but also online and even in the work place. Whether it is physical, emotional, or even cyber bullying, bullying is a serious pitfall for many, and the way in which we respond is crucial for our well-being.

5 Ways

While we cannot necessarily put an end

bullying,

must

take

To Respond to Bullying

advantage of what we can do and make ourselves a priority. If you have

Be Assertive

experienced bullying, you are not alone and there are people here to help! Try taking these steps to improve

Words

the situation. DISENGAGE: Bullies are looking for a reaction from you. Do not retaliate and do not give them the response they

Body Language

seek. This will only add to the fire and make the situation worse. Keep this in mind before responding.

Understand It Isn't You

Tone of Voice

UNDERSTAND IT ISN’T YOU: When someone intentionally does something to try and hurt you, understand that

1. Words You need to stand up for

message. Do not engage in violence

they are actually hurting inside. They

yourself and say no. It is okay and

and try to remain calm no matter how

are struggling, and therefore, they are

necessary. Approach the situation or

angry you may feel. It may even help

antagonizing you to make themselves

bully in a confident and respectful

to have a mantra that you repeat in

feel better. If someone is bullying you,

manner and in a non-aggressive way.

your head such as

understand that there is nothing wrong

Let

with you! They are acting out based on

unacceptable

how they feel internally.

tolerated! Despite how you may feel

2. Body Language When it comes to

them

know and

that it

will

this

not

keep calm

you’ve got this.

on the inside, they need to know that

responding in an assertive way to a

BE ASSERTIVE: Being assertive is

you will no longer be treated poorly.

bully, you want to make sure that they

broken down into three parts:

Sometimes it can be difficult to say no,

understand

1. Words

but begin practicing and it can help

through your body language. Bullies

2. Body Language

you to become more comfortable.

will pick on people who they think will

3. Tone of Voice

Keep saying no until the bully gets the

not stand up for themselves, which is

J ULY 2018

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

how

serious

you

are

By Sydney Nanberg, sydneynanberg.com

Reach Out

E press Yourself

Respond Internally

Bullying Resources to Help: Stopbullying.gov StopBullyingNow.com TeensAgainstBullying StompOutBullying.org The Trevor Project- LGBTQ Youth Teaching Tolerance GLSEN- Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network

Disengage

TELL A FRIEND, LOVED ONE OR

2. Reach Out Connect with friends, get

SOMEONE YOU TRUST: Don’t keep

involved in hobbies you love and do

this a secret. Let someone know what

things that make you feel good!

is going on and ask for support. That

Responding

person may not only be able to

doing what boosts your self-esteem.

comfort you, but also assist you in

Go for a run, spend time with family,

taking the next step.

take your dog for a walk, read a book,

internally

also

means

get your nails done and do whatever RESPOND INTERNALLY: Learning how

makes YOU happy. Surround yourself

why the way you present yourself is

to respond to bullying internally will

with people who bring out the best in

crucial. Here is how you will do it (even

not only help you to respond to the

you. Take care of yourself. No one

if you don’t feel it). • Stand up straight •

physical bully, but it will help you to

deserves to be bullied, and victims of

Keep your head held high • Shoulders

cope and grow from the situation. Here

bullying must remember that they are

back • Take a few deep breaths • Look

are a couple of ways to respond

not alone! Practicing these methods

them straight in the eye and hold that

internally:

mentioned above can help you to gain

contact.

confidence in yourself, learn better 1. Express Yourself Bullying can be

communication,

3. Tone of Voice While words and

painful and many people who are

relationships and a better future!

body

extremely

victims end up engaging in self-

important when responding to a bully,

sabotage. You need to prevent this and

If you or anyone you know is being

so is your delivery and tone of voice.

remind yourself that you do not

bullied, don’t forget to report it. Talk to

You want to deliver your message in a

deserve that. Grab a notebook and use

someone you trust and take action! We

calm, strong and confident voice. Try

it to journal. You can even use an

are in this together.

not to speak too quickly. Speak slow

electronic

and steady, and don’t let the reaction

document. Writing down your feelings

of a bully get in your way. Take action

can have such a positive effect on your

Instagram: @iamsydneynanberg

and do what makes you smile, it helps

mind. It can give you a safe and private

Follow my journey on Facebook:

you to gain confidence and, therefore,

place to record your feelings and what

Iamsydneynanberg

better understand your self worth!

is occurring.

language

are

notebook

J ULY 2018

build

positive

Word

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

journey

PARENTING What You Don't Hear on a College Tour

A simple assumption to get started.

received the tools needed to live a

They know that primarily if someone

Few, if any, students would enroll at a

more enriched life. But colleges don’t

doesn’t buy from them again that their

school

the

like to talk about the drop out rate.

product or service isn’t good enough.

opportunity for them to earn a degree

For students who don’t graduate,

Colleges too often blame the student

as an outcome of their education. Yet

going to college can be a waste of

for failing to achieve the desired goal.

shockingly,

time and money, even more so than

Students would never enroll if the

decades, fewer than half of students

not going at all.

college didn’t offer degrees.

enrolling

many, many students leave without

that

did

for in

not

the

provide

past

American

eventually graduate!

several colleges

Yet

That success

Now to be sure, many students who

having accomplished what they came

percentage varies greatly from school

don’t graduate from an institution will

after. With so many choices, students

to school. It is important that students

actually transfer and earn a degree

above all need to identify those

learn which schools do best at creating

elsewhere. The goal, however, should

schools that understand they share in

an environment where a well-intended

be to make the right decision the first

the responsibility to make their product

student can thrive and graduate.

time as to where success can be

and service better.

achieved. The investment in time and

University officials proudly report that

money made if a student fails to

A prepared, motivated student will be

their

graduate just isn’t worth it. Businesses

successful anywhere. Colleges take

money than high school graduates do,

study

credit for the achievements of those

and that college graduates have

closely than higher education does.

graduates

earn

much

customer

J ULY 2018

persistence

students even though they likely had

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

SUS RETENTION RATES

FCS RETENTION RATES

SUS GRADUATION RATES

87%

66%

61% Statistics from: FCS and SUS

Nationally, 1 in 3 first-year students do not return for sophomore year. Retention Rates are calculated by students who return to a post-secondary institution for a second year. This is an important indicator of student success. While every college will have some attrition, the retention rate traditionally indicates the more likely students find the college a good fit for them and are being successful. Graduation Rates are important indicators of student trajectory. The longer it takes for a student to graduate, the more loans they accrue and the less time they are in the workforce. Florida is working towards students graduating within four years, even making laws where tuition doubles after 4 years and a 132 credits.

little to do with that success. Many

persist to graduation provide ongoing

colleges, however, are reluctant to

revenue and also deliver powerful

share the blame for students’ failures.

testimonials to future students about

the value and benefit of the school

The key to good decision-making in

they are attending.

selecting a college is to search for one

that

make

There is always a risk that students will

student success its priority.

consistently

That

not succeed, and they need to do their

approach will lead to a true win-win

part by taking their college careers

situation

seriously.

for

the

works

school

and

the

But with so many good

student.

choices out there for places to study,

students are best served if they pay

Such emphasis on facilitating student

attention to schools that understand

success is a good business practice for

they have a responsibility also to

a college. It makes sense to bring

students to do everything they can to

students

back

make their product the best it can be.

semester.

Airlines reward frequent

flyers. Colleges should equally value

semester

after

their repeat customers. Students who By Dr. Jerry Israel, Author of 75 Myths About College Admissions and former college president J ULY 2018

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

UnMazed Student Link Live Webinars July 5th SIGN UP Webinar Link *Register for the weekly series

7:00 pm for live session Cannot make it live? Sign up and we will send you the replay!

Where Experts Meet for Teen Success.

Join Scott Daigle, College Consultant at Premier College Advisors, and Dr. Amanda Sterk for 5 Misconceptions of Attending College in Florida. Scott has extensive experience helping families navigate through the college system here in Florida and out-of-state.

July 12th Join Joseph Madigan, Associate Director of Admission at Florida Southern College, and Dr. Amanda Sterk for Your Guide to Finding your College Fit. Joseph is passionate about students finding their right college 'fit"and explains exactly what parents and students should be looking for in choosing a college.

July 19th Join Sydney Nanberg, Founder of "I am Standing Up to Bullying" campaign to bring awareness of the impact of bullying today, for 5 Ways to Respond to Bullying.

July 26th Join Courtney Faunce, a mental health clinician at Lifescape Counseling Services, LLC, a private practice agency located in central Ft. Myers, Florida, for Media, Technology and Mental Health.. She specializes in working with young adults and families

Why Students are Not Successful @ College Homesickness

Roommate problems

Financial worries

Lack of college fit

Poor academic habits

Not getting involved beyond the classroom

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UNMAZED MAGAZINE

Ways to Utilize Your School Counselor

Make the college process easier STRATEGY #1

STRATEGY #2

College Resources

Scholarships

School counselors have a wealth of resources to help students through the college process; brochures, workbooks, college information, etc. This information can greatly streamline the college process and make it less confusing and overwhelming.

Many organizations email school counselors about scholarship opportunities locally, throughout the state and nationally. Counselors can help you organize all the needed documents to be able to apply for scholarships.

STRATEGY #3

STRATEGY #4

Recommendations

College Visits & Fairs

2/3 of colleges place considerable importance on counselor and teacher recommendations in making college decisions.

Admission representatives visit high schools throughout the state wanting to speak directly to high school students.

Recommendations can help explain family background, special circumstance, and specific student attributes.

Counselors are key in organizing these important events and can inform parents and students when they are happening.

HEALTH Power of Positive Affirmations

Let’s face it. Today our children are

You are too ugly to win the beauty

affirmations. Positive affirmations can

dependent on how others think. They

contest.

be written on a post-it notes and

may even create their own thoughts

You are too fat to run the mile.

placed in a spot that is visible to our children every morning so that they

around something that was said to them, whether it was good or bad.

These limiting beliefs are brainwashing

can be read every day. When they are

Often times, these negative thoughts

our children into thinking they are not

read every day our brain starts to

lead to our children having limiting

good enough, or that they cannot have

believe the positive affirmation.

beliefs.

what they want.

children may let the negative beliefs

Some

Sometimes

our

linger in their mind before they bury

affirmation:

children surround themselves with do

the beliefs deep inside. We may not

Money flows to me in unexpected

not know that they are projecting these

realize it, but slowly these beliefs are

ways.

limiting beliefs onto them.

destroying their lives by doing this.

I am going to be a successful athlete.

I am going to get into a top-rated

friends,

Now is the time to start teaching our

college.

teachers, family members, and other

children that they are good enough

I am an awesome friend, who is honest

people who cross their paths.

and that they deserve to have what

and trustworthy.

they want. Now is the time to teach

I am beautiful inside and out and I will

Our children have heard at least five

our children they do not have to limit

win the beauty contest.

limiting

themselves to what people tell them.

I can successfully run a mile with time

turned five, and the list continues to

to spare.

grow as they get older. Just to give

All our children have to do is …

you an idea, some limiting beliefs may

BELIEVE!

include:

Money does not grow on trees.

We can help our children believe that

You will never be an athlete.

they are good enough and that they

You will never get into that college.

deserve to have what they want in life.

You cannot be a good friend until you

In order to get our children to believe,

do this for me.

they can start by practicing positive

people children

the

who could

beliefs

people

are be

that

These

influencing peers,

before

they

our

have

For a while our

J ULY 2018

UNMAZED MAGAZINE

examples

positive

By: Cathleen Rose - Soaring Soul, LLC

unmazeÏ

Your #1 Florida Teen Resource Directory

Teen Support

Academic Support Personal & Social Support Volunteering/ Internship Programs & Clubs

College & Career

Community

High School Programs

Family Resources

Money Management/ Financial Planning

Educational

Scholarships & Financial Aid -

Teen Event Planning

Colleges & UniversitiesCareer & Technical Colleges

280+ Resources

Local, Statewide, National J ULY 2018

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RESOURCES Your College Resources National Resources- College & Career Research U.S. Government Publication, www.ed.gov/pubs/ U.S. News & World Report, www.usnews.com/education College Affordability Guide, www.CollegeAffordabilityGuide.org Colleges of Distinction, www.collegesofdistinction.com March 2 Success, www.march2success.com/indexes.htm National Association of Independent Colleges & Universities, www.naicu.edu Big Future, https://www.bigfuture.collegeboard.org/ Onet, http://www.onetonline.org/ Guide to Catholic Colleges and Universities, http://www.catholiccollegesonline.org/ Historically Black Colleges and Universities, http://www.edonline.com/cq/hbcu/alphabet.htm NCAA Eligibility Center, http://web1.ncaa.org/ECWR2/NCAA_EMS/NCAA.jsp Peterson's Guide to Colleges and Universities, http://www.petersons.com/ E-Campus Tours, http://www.ecampustours.com/ Florida Resources- College & Career Research Florida Shines, www.FloridaShines.org Florida College Access Network, http://www.floridacollegeaccess.org/ Private Colleges & Universities of Florida (PCUF), http://pcuf.net/ Florida State University System (SUS), http://www.flbog.edu/ Florida College System, https://www.floridacollegesystem.com/ Florida Career & Technical Education, http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adultedu/career-tech-edu/ FutureMakers Coalition, http://www.futuremakerscoalition.com/college-planning/

For more links to resources visit https://unmaze.education J ULY 2018

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