On April 16th at 6:30, a group of us, seven girls, met with a College Consultant Sue Kim at the Pinole Valley High School library. But before that, we were told to bring our transcripts and fill out a questionnaire. The questionnaire had questions about us, our fears about college and what we want from her. I was pretty excited to hear what she had to tell us.
After arriving, we received a binder each with forms, papers and calendars that we need. We went over numerous topics such as college entrance exams, being open-minded when it came to college selection and which classes we should take in the fall. We also set up future workshops to go into more depth and go over our college applications.
My mom was comforted to know that she has someone to fill out the FAFSA with who will help her comprehend the college application system. I recognized that I’ve put myself in a box when it comes to colleges I want to apply to. However, I should have an open-mind and try to find a school that fits me, not just ones that are popular or prestigious.
This meeting made me really think about colleges and realize that it’s all happening so soon. In about a year I’ll have to make my final decision on which school I will attend. Scary! It’s quite frightening to know that the future is right around the corner. Nonetheless, I’m glad I have someone like Sue Kim, who knows so much about the process, to help me sift through the horror and answer any questions I have.
You have opened your eyes to the realities of the world. Now you see that the Ivy League Connection has a lot to offer. Spread the word. You had probably believed that being on a community college campus gave you insight into the future. It does on some levels, but the world is bigger than West Contra Costa.
ReplyDeleteIn addition, you learned that the college admission process is rigorous and one that has a lot of opportunities, but pitfalls. Now is your chance to learn and find focus.
Sue Kim is a jewel, but only if you take advantage and LISTEN to all that she has to offer. I want you to succeed Michelle and part of your success will depend on your ability and willingness to listen.
Those associated with the Ivy League Connection have traveled this road. We want you to take the path that will take you to success. Thanks again for your wonderful post and I appreciate you sharing with others the wonders of Sue Kim.
Take care.
Charles T. Ramsey, Esq.
School Board Member
West Contra Costa
Unified School District
Michelle,
ReplyDeleteI have to reinforce some of the comments that Charles made: Having access to Sue Kim can be a godsend but only if you take advantage of what she has to offer.
There are well over 3,000 colleges in the US but finding the right one for you can be a daunting task. There aren't enough days in the year for you to sift through all of the prospecti to whittle down the choices so having an experienced tour guide can make the process SO much easier.
Pointing you in the right direction helps but the assistance in properly preparing for the application process and then getting the application packet filled out to make you shine is just icing on the cake.
Last I heard, we didn't have any children of Bill Gates, Warren Buffett or Larry Ellison living here in West County so I'm guessing that finding a way to pay for these super expensive schools is also a priority for you. I know it would be for me. Sue Kim can also help you so much in finding ways that you may never have even known existed before to finance that education.
I've attended a lot of sessions with Sue Kim and at every session I learn a little more. The process is complicated and and scary and we can all use all of the help we can get.
Best of luck to you, Michelle.
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