Thursday, February 5, 2015

7 Scientifically Proven Benefits Of Gratitude That Will Motivate You To Give Thanks Year-Round

A recently published article about gratitude, and the benefits of it, uses scientific research to justify the many benefits of being a grateful person. Amy Morin, Psychotherapist and author of 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do, created this simple list for those looking to enhance multiple aspects of their life, and provides a reasoning as to why we should live a more grateful life.

In the article, the author explains that, “gratitude may be one of the most overlooked tools that we all have access to every day. Cultivating gratitude doesn’t cost any money and it certainly doesn’t take much time, but the benefits are enormous. Research reveals gratitude can have these seven benefits:” Scientific research is explained for each of the following benefits and, examples are given to illustrate how this could manifest in your own life.

1. Gratitude opens the door to more relationships
2. Gratitude improves physical health
3. Gratitude improves psychological health
4. Gratitude enhances empathy and reduces aggression
5. Grateful people sleep better
6. Gratitude improves self-esteem
7. Gratitude increases mental strength

We encourage you to read the full article here:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/amymorin/2014/11/23/7-scientifically-proven-benefits-of-gratitude-that-will-motivate-you-to-give-thanks-year-round/ 

In keeping with this year’s theme of gratitude and overall desire to build a more positive atmosphere here at Fairview High School, we will be conducting a 3-week Positive Behavior Support initiative where students can earn Tiger Tickets for random acts of kindness or displays of gratitude. Students will then be able to enter their Tiger Tickets into drawings for myriad of prizes and rewards. 
Stay tuned for more information! 
We are currently seeking monetary or prize donations to enhance our raffle table. If you are able to help, please contact the Fairview High School Counseling Department. 

Gratefully Yours, 
Carla O'Connor 
FHS Counseling Intern



Thursday, January 22, 2015

How to Find and GET Your First REAL Job!

Whether it’s a summer job or a part-time after-school position, you're ready to find a job and start earning your own money? Maybe you're tired of begging your parents for money, or perhaps you're saving up for a car or college. Maybe your family is experiencing hard financial times and you’d like to contribute to the family income stream.


Parents, advantages to you’re teen having a job and many youth themselves think that employment helps develop a wide range of valuable qualities, such as responsibility, time-management, curb shyness with adults, and handling money.

Here are my 10 steps to finding and getting your first real job as a teenager.

Step1: Gather the Essential Information
You will need to physically have in your hand your social security card and a driver's license or a state issued ID card. You will also need a work permit (which needs to be signed by a parent or guardian). Attached to this post is a Power Point presentation, outlining how to obtain a work permit and other important information regarding child labor laws. If you should have any additional questions on obtaining a work permit, come see your school counselors!

Step 2: Write Your Resume
Most teen job employers do not require a resume, so why write one? Because most other teen job-seekers won't have one, which makes you stand out. So stand out and shine and write a resume. Attached to this post, you will find a sample resume and a short video on getting started with your first resume.  

http://video.about.com/jobsearch/Write-a-Resume-for-Teens.htm

For additional help with creating a resume, see your school counselor.

Step 3: What to Wear
Ditch the plaid flannel button down and skinny jeans and purchase (if you don't already have) a nice conservative outfit that you can wear when applying and interviewing for jobs. In order to dress for success as a teenage searching for a job, you do not need to wear a formal adult interview outfit, but looking the part and making a good first impression is essential.

Step 4: What’s Your Approach?
Conduct a little research to help determine the best types of jobs for you. Ask around but don’t always take your friends advice on where you should or should avoid working, go see for yourself. Typically, teens find employment at fast food joints, grocery stores and other retailers, childcare facilities, community programs and camps, resorts and hotels, and business offices, but your options are not limited to these choices. Perhaps you try to find a job related to a career interest, such as working in a veterinary clinic if you have a passion for helping animals. Other places to look for employment in our area:
Go Erie.com, Craigslist, Care.com, directly on the businesses website where you’re interested in working.

Step 5: Practice Your Sell
You need to be able to clearly articulate why you are not only the best teen for the job, but also why you are better than others who may be applying for the position. Practice your interviewing skills with an adult or school counselor.

Step 6: Network
Let everyone know that you’re trying to find a job. Especially if you are seeking a job that does not typically go to a teenager. Letting people know you’re in the market for a job, puts more eyes (and ears) out there looking for you. You still have to apply and interview for the job, but having an adult put in a good word for you can go a long way!

Step 7: Application and Interview
So much important information here, I will outline it for you…
ü  Gather all necessary materials (see step 1) and take them with you, including A PEN. Do not, I repeat, do not, go to a place of employment to fill out an application and ask to borrow a pen.
ü  Wear appropriate, conservative clothing (see step 3) even if you’re just going to pick up an application. You never know when the manager might be there and want to interview you on the spot.
ü  Be polite, use please and thank you. Use a firm handshake and do not chew gum during your interview.
ü  Think about the business you’re applying for and select a down time for that business to stop by and ask for an application or manager. i.e. don't ’t call or stop by a restaurant during lunch or dinner hours!
ü  During the interview, remember to smile, maintain good eye contact, be confident, and talk about how you will make a great employee.

Step 8: Be Prepared for Rejection
Job openings may not be as plentiful as in the past and you will face a lot of competition (i.e. Waldameer). So start your job-search with an open mind and apply to a variety of places, keeping in mind that you may get a high percentage of rejections.

Step 9: Follow-Up and Through
Many managers or business owners will not like what I’m about to suggest to you, but this is a case where following the instructions is not always best. If you filled out an application online, and that was the only way to submit it, I recommend printing a copy and physically handing it to the person in charge of hiring. Politely ask for this person, and if another employee say’s “oh, I’ll get your application to them,” respectfully decline their offer and mention that you’d really like to introduce yourself to the hiring manager. Be persistent. If this opportunity is afforded to you, meaningfully introduce yourself, mention that you applied online and that you’re very interested in the position and let them know that you’ll be making a follow up call after they’ve had a change to look over your application. This would also be a good time to hand them your resume (see step 2).

Then, allow a few days to pass and follow up on the status of your application. Be professional and ask each employer if they have all the information they need to make a decision about your application. Consider sending a handwritten thank-you note, especially after a job interview.

Step 10: Accept the Job Offer and Plan to Shine
Fingers crossed… if you’ve followed all my steps thoroughly… you’ve been offered at least one job and hopefully it’s the one you wanted. Starting with your first day on the job, be committed to being one of the best employees which includes showing up on time and leaving only when your shift is over. Having a respectable recommendation from your first employer and leaving on good terms is crucial to getting your second job.

For information on Child Labor Laws, follow this link...PA Child Labor Laws

As always, if you need any assistance with your job search or application process, please see one of your professional school counselors.

By: Carla O'Connor
FHS School Counselor Intern



Thursday, September 11, 2014

College Planning Tips




The Guidance Office recently went into senior English classes and discussed the college/career planning process with the students.  Starting on September 15th, every senior will be meeting individually with their Guidance Counselor.  This 20 minute meeting will give an opportunity to discuss where the student is at in the planning process for military, college applications and/or work opportunities.  Below is an information sheet that was discussed with students prior to this meeting. A letter home summarizing the individual meeting with your student will be mailed.  

INFORMATION ON HOW TO APPLY TO COLLEGES

Picking a School

Decide what you’re looking for in a school. Think about academic programs, size, location, admission requirements, cost, athletics, activities etc.   Consider using www.collegeboard.org or www.princetonreview.com to help find schools that are a good fit.

Visit as many schools as possible and meet with school reps that come to FHS.  There are dozens of colleges and universities that visit Fairview.  Everyone should meet with four or five college reps to get an idea of what other schools offer. 

Go to a local college fair.   Mercyhurst University (Tues, Sept 16) has over 80 colleges and universities attending, and McDowell and Harbor Creek also have fairs.  Check guidance for those dates.

Applying to a School

Be VERY aware of application deadlines.   Create a time-line for all the schools you’re applying to and check it frequently.

Visiting the schools, being sponsored by an alumni, or meeting with the college rep at FHS or a college fair may allow you to get your application fee waived.  Come right out and ask if there’s a way to have your application fee waived.   Applying to multiple colleges and universities can be very expensive, and it doesn’t hurt to ask.

Students who are on free/reduced lunch may have their SAT/ACT exam and application fees waived.  Please see guidance if this applies to you. 

If you take the SAT or ACT after you send in your applications, make sure you have your scores sent to your schools of choice directly from the testing agency.  You can send it to four schools for free.  Don’t forget to include our school code of 391-365.

Know what type of admission each school has and plan accordingly:

Regular- apply by a given date (usually early January): you are notified in the spring. All applications are read at the same time.

Rolling- apply any time; you are notified in a few weeks after applying. If your schools are on rolling admissions, please still apply by Thanksgiving break. 

Early action- apply to the school in early fall; you are notified early (usually before Christmas) and then given the opportunity to decide.  This is non-binding.

Early decision- apply early: you are notified early.  This is binding and you MUST accept the offer. Only those students who are positive they want to attend a specific school should apply early decision.  Guidance rarely recommends this choice. 

Open- all applicants who have a high school diploma or GED will be accepted. 

The Procedure

Create a resume of activities. Make it as detailed as possible so your teachers/counselor know more about the activities you list.  “Attended PFEW” tells the people writing the recommendation very little.  Be as specific about your activities as possible. If you know what you want to major in, try and design a resume to showcase your experiences and classes in that area. 

Use the provided Letter of Recommendation Form to give to your teachers.  Make sure they know whether the letter will be given to you, uploaded electronically via Common Application/Send EDU or sent to guidance.  Teachers need at least two weeks to complete their letters. 

If you apply online there should be a page to print and give to guidance so your transcripts can be sent to the school to which you are applying.   If there is no form, complete the half page green sheet that is available in guidance so we know where to send your transcripts. 

If you apply using The Common Application or Send EDU you do not have to request transcripts.  You will have to “invite” your teachers and counselor to write a letter and complete a reference form.  Teacher/counselor email address are first initial, last name @fairview.iu5.org  EX:  ecrawford@fairview.iu5.org and lgeorge@fairview.iu5.org

If letters of recommendation are given to you directly, make sure guidance gets a copy.  We will keep it in your file for future use.  Since guidance is usually required to write a letter of recommendation make sure we get your resume and Letter of Recommendation Form

Paying for School

Check the High School link on the Fairview School District’s website for on-going information about local and national scholarships.

Your best bets are the local scholarships on the website. Some scholarships begin accepting applications in October while others don’t begin accepting applications until March or April.  Look at the website now to get an idea of what will be available and when the applications are due.   

Other Reminders


Double check your Twitter/Facebook. Many stories are surfacing about students who are denied admission to universities because of inappropriate pictures or comments on social media.  

Thursday, February 13, 2014

So you want to be a Physician?



Saint Vincent Hospital is hosting a special forum for high school students titled, "So you want to be a physician?"  Students will have the opportunity to listen and interact with physicians, medical students, and residents.  Students will find out:  What is the best way to get a medical education?  What is medical school really like?  What happens after medical school?  Student will hear reasons to choose medicine and how to become a junior volunteer.

This event is taking place on Wednesday, March 5th, 2014 from 6pm-7:30pm at the Saint Vincent McGarvey Learning Center.

Please see Mrs. Crawford or Mrs. George in the Guidance Office to register for this event.

Tuesday, February 4, 2014


Job shadowing opportunities and summer programs are a great way to get a taste for a future career field.  Here are some opportunities available to our students:

The University of Pittsburgh Health Careers Scholars Academy-Pitt
This academy introduces students to the world of health care, including issues of primary care, prevention, public health, career exploration, human growth and development, and area of practice.  Applicants must be at least 15 years old and a sophomore or junior.  Students must have a strong academic record, interest in the health field, and a record of leadership and service activities.  110 students will be selected.  Further information can be found at www.hcsa.pitt.edu

The Pennsylvania School for Global Entrepreneurship-Lehigh University
This program was developed to inspire the spirit of entrepreneurship and expose students to the creative process, cultural understanding and effective business practices required by tomorrow’s leaders.  Applicants must be at least 15 years old and a sophomore or junior.  Students must have a strong academic record and an interest in business, international relations, economic development, and a record of leadership and service activities.  Further information may be found at http://www.iacocca-lehigh.org

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (Penn DOT)
Engineering District 1-0 Job Shadow Program
They offer job shadowing opportunities in civil engineering, information technology, drafting, and diesel mechanic career fields.  This program allows students to spend an entire day with one of their skilled employees. 
How to apply:
  • Submit a letter of interest to include student’s name, address, phone number, job shadow program area of interest and career objectives.
  • Written approval from School Guidance Counselor
  • Submit these items to:  PENNDOT Engineering District 1-0                                                                                                  255 Elm Street                                                                                                                                 Oil City, PA 16301                                                                                                                           Attn: Erin Freer

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

What You Don't Know Can Hurt You



ATTENTION PARENTS:

A free seminar for parents.

FEBRUARY 13, 2014
Time:  6:30pm-8:30pm
Location:  Hirt Auditorium at Blasco

What You Don't Know Can Hurt You

Drugs do not discriminate.

  • Good kids make bad decisions
  • Everyone knows someone who has been affected
  • Educate yourself and be part of a community that cares
Of course talking to your kids about drugs is important, but if your talks are based on your own teen experience, you are missing the mark.  How do you talk about drugs when you don't even know the language?  Come and learn what your kids are facing.  

Expert Panel, Real Time Survey, Local Concerns....

Refreshments provided.  Door prizes and gift cards!  

Please plan to attend!




Friday, January 10, 2014

FAFSA Completion


Edinboro is offering FAFSA completion dates.  They have been generous enough to offer these completion dates to the general public.  If you would like some assistance with your FAFSA, please read the information below and plan to attend. 

Many institutions have preferred FAFSA filing deadlines, after which certain types of aid may be unavailable to students who might otherwise qualify. Edinboro University’s preferred filing deadline is March 15th.

Students may file their FAFSA by visiting www.fafsa.gov. They will need 2013 actual (or estimated if actual is not yet available) tax information for themselves and parents, W2s, investment information and a federal PIN number. The student and signing parent will each need their own PIN number, and they can apply for it while in the FAFSA application or before filing by going to www.pin.ed.gov.

If students and parents need assistance filing their FAFSA, Edinboro University will be hosting FAFSA completion days which are open to the public (You do not have to apply to Edinboro to attend). There are dates available for both main campus and the Erie campus, Porreco Center. No registration is required, but computer availability is on a first-come, first-serve basis. The schedule is as follows:

February 1st, 10am-1pm: Main Campus, Hamilton Hall Basement Computer Lab
February 15th, 10am-1pm: Main Campus, Hamilton Hall Basement Computer Lab
February 24th, 5pm-7pm: Porreco Center, Garden House Lab
March 1st, 10am-1pm: Main Campus, Hamilton Hall Basement Computer Lab
March 8th, 10am-1pm: Porreco Center, Garden House Lab
March 15th, 10am-1pm: Main Campus, Hamilton Hall Basement Computer Lab
March 29th, 10am-1pm: Main Campus, Hamilton Hall Basement Computer Lab

Please contact Edinboro with additional questions.

Megan McQuiston Financial Aid Specialist