Dear SJ Families, Spring and Summer are my favorite seasons….. I love the outdoors, the beach and the nice weather. For the first time ever at SJHS, we will host an outdoor College Fair on May 20, 2021. I am excited about this for a number of reasons - our students will have human interaction with college representatives, it is outside under a tent, the weather will be nice ( from my mouth to God’s ear ) and it is yet another step towards normalcy in this community. So please mark your calendar for May 20, 2021 !   We have lots going on in the College and School Counseling office for the month of April… please read on!   Sincerely, Mr. Nash

In this Edition:   Promote Self Care and Positive Mental Health Upcoming Presentations for SJ Students Update on Senior Internships College Counseling for Juniors and Seniors Upcoming Events

Promoting Self Care and Positive Mental Health From Mrs Seperack Now that spring is here, we hope all will get outside and enjoy the much-awaited sunshine and warmer climate. This is a great way to practice self-care which can directly affect our mood for the better.  The St. Joes Counseling Office is passionate about supporting and promoting positive mental health. If anyone is struggling or knows someone who is struggling with stress, anxiety, depression or with their mental health in general, please come into the Counseling Office and ask to speak with Mrs. Seperack or your School Counselor. We are always here to help!

Upcoming Presentations and Counselor Meetings for SJ Students The College and School Counseling team will meet with groups of students in the classrooms to begin College Planning (Juniors) and Career Exploration through SCOIR’s You Science (Sophomores). Parents can learn all about the College Planning process this Summer (late August) and at our College Planning night for Seniors and Parents in early September. If you want to get a head start, take a look at our College Planning Videos on our website. Freshman should make one last appointment with their counselor to discuss plans for the summer.

Updates on Senior Internships from Mrs Clark

While the COVID-19 pandemic has prevented student internships this year, there are still volunteer positions available for seniors! If you are interested in volunteering in one of the areas listed below, please reach out to Mrs Clark at cclark@sjcadets.org Volunteering Positions Available: Business/Sales Health Care/Emergency Response Marketing/Social Media Management Journalism Engineering (18+ only)

College Counseling for Juniors and Seniors The month of April is a busy month for Juniors and Seniors. Please follow the advice below for each class:

SENIORS

JUNIORS

Attend Accepted Student Days at Colleges: Get “one last look” (virtual or in-person) before making your decision. Many colleges are still offering Accepted Student Days, check their website for details. Evaluate all Financial Aid Offers: If you need help evaluating financial aid award letters, contact Mr. Nash. Also, click here for more information and resources about financial aid and paying for college. Explore Outside Scholarship Opportunities: Yes, colleges offer merit scholarships but outside scholarships are available as well. Mrs. Mallon has sent these opportunities to your SCOIR account and we also have hard copies in the counseling office. Stop in and have a look at all available scholarships. Submit Another Application: If you’re not satisfied with your college options, then consider submitting another application. Please discuss this with your Counselor, who will help you identify colleges that are still accepting applications. Update SCOIR: When you decide where to attend, jump up and down because you’re excited that the process is over and please update your SCOIR account! May 1, 2021 - National Candidates Reply Date: The date that you should send an enrollment deposit to the college of your choice. Waitlisted Students: Please read this blog for practical advice if you find yourself on a waitlist.

Set Up Your College Planning Meeting: If you have not yet met with your college counselor to start the college planning process, then please do so as soon as possible. Create Your College List and Visits: Now is the perfect time to develop your list of colleges and plan some spring and summer visits. Consider Your College Essay Topics: The college essay is the last assignment in your junior English class. Please start to think about a topic. Here is a resource for you to start the process. Questions: If you have any questions, please contact your college and school counselor or Mr. Nash in the counseling office.

Upcoming Events

College Fair May 20, 2021 | 6:30 to 8:00pm Outside under the tent and open to all students and families.   NCAA Athletic Recruitment Workshop May 20, 2021 | 5:30 to 6:30pm In the gymnasium. College and High School Coaches will present information on being a recruited student athlete.   Transition to College Presentation May 26, 2021 Seniors, please attend a presentation about a successful transition from high school to college by Fairfield University Dean of Students, Dr. Will Johnson.

HELP IS HERE FOR ALL OUR STUDENTS Cadets: if you are not feeling like yourself or if something is weighing on your mind, please consider making an appointment with your counselor or our social worker, Mrs. Seperack. She is an SJ alum and has helped thousands of students with a variety of challenges over the years. All meetings are confidential.