Staff: Diane Ahlberg and Jody Hansenmarch 1St, 2016

Staff: Diane Ahlberg and Jody HansenMarch 1st, 2016

(763) 569-7665 or (763) 569-7627

The CCRC newsletter is provided on a monthly or semi-monthly basis to provide information on activities and events that are helpful to Park Center students and their parents. This publication is also on Park Center’s website ( (under Academics or under Quick Links at right of home page).

ACT TEST INFORMATION

Test Date / Registration Deadline / (Late Fee Required)
April 9, 2016 / March 4, 2016 / March 5-18
June 11, 2016 / May 6, 2016 / May 7-20

TEST FEE PER TEST OPTION:

• ACT (No Writing)$39.50
• Includes reports for you, your high school, and up to four college choices (if valid codes are provided when you register).
• ACT Plus Writing$56.50
• Includes reports for you, your high school, and up to four college choices (if valid codes are provided when you register). The Writing Test fee is refundable, on written request.

Students need to register on-line at

Students receiving free/reduced lunch can have their test fees waived TWICE by bringing a copy of the letter they received from Food Service to the CCRC to receive a waiver. Fee waivers do not include late fees.

Students can register for the SAT and SAT Subject Tests at

Preparing for the ACT Test booklets that include a full length practice test, including the writing test, strategies to prepare for the test and what to expect on test day are available in the CCRC.

You can take a free ACT or SAT practice tests online at:

This spring juniors will have an opportunity during Advisory to sign up to take the April 19th ACT for free!

Congratulation to our Park Center Wastebasket Revue Scholarship recipients:

Grant Engeman Spencer JohnstonGrace Arel Alison Christianson Prarabdha Yonzo Martha Oware (not pictured)

Park Center has an Act SixScholar!!! Act Sixis an urban leadership scholarship that prepares and empowers young people from urban communities to change their neighborhoods through education and leadership development. This program brings together a diverse, multicultural group of emerging urban leaders who want to use their college education to make a difference on campus and in their home communities.

Congratulations to Grace Arel who was awarded the Bethel University Act Six full scholarship!

Advanced Placement Test Registration—2016

The cost of each exam this year is $60.00. The fee includes the cost of the exam, administrative costs, payment for exam proctors and facility/supply rental, if necessary. All fees must be paid by March 10th, 2016. There will be no refunds issued, so please think carefully before registering to take a test.

Registration Deadline is 2:00 PM on Thursday, March 10th, 2016.

Late registration will take place from 3/11 to 3/17 - an additional $20 late fee will be added. No exceptions!

All forms and fees for the exam are to be handed in to the College and Career Resource Center.

Tests offered at Park Center will be:

English 12 Literature and Composition / Wednesday, May 4th at 8:00AM
Calculus AB / Thursday, May 5th at 8:00AM
Calculus BC / Thursday, May 5th at 8:00AM
English 11 Language and Composition / Wednesday, May 11th at 8:00AM
Statistics / Thursday, May 12th at 12:00PM

HENNEPIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE APPLICANTS…. IMPORTANT TRANSCRIPT INFORMATION

When sending your transcript through Parchment to Hennepin Technical College you must use the following e-mail address as the recipient’s address:

BROOKLYNK: Get Work Ready! Learn real skills for a real summer job! This training will help you gain the skills you need to get a real job this summer. Trainings will be fun, led by local professionals, and focus on topics such as: Networking, Resume Building and Professionalism. The mission of BrookLynk is to prepare youth with essential job skills, experiential employment opportunities, and professional social networks to develop personal pathways to college and career. Pick up an application in the CCRC. Applications are due Sunday, March 13th. No exceptions!

The MnSCU Two-Year Occupational Grant Program provides an opportunity for students in qualifying programs to go to MnSCU two-year colleges for free. The sooner you complete your FAFSA and college admission application the more likely you are to qualify to be a participant in the grant. Don't let this amazing opportunity pass you by! If you have any questions about the grant, completing your FAFSA, or college applications stop by the CCRC.

Did you know that North Hennepin Community College is expandingtheir 4-year partnerships? Currently, Bemidji State University, Bethel University, Concordia-St. Paul, Metropolitan State University, MSU-Moorhead, and St. Cloud State University are on their campus offering a variety of bachelor degree options for current NHCC students.

COLLEGE & MILLITARY REPS COMING TO THE CCRC

University of Wisconsin – SuperiorTuesday, March 1st10:00AM

University of Minnesota – DuluthTuesday, March 1st1:00PM

United State Army – Active Duty & ReservesWednesday, March 2nd2:00PM

Minnesota State University – MankatoFriday, March 4th9:00AM

Hibbing Community College Monday, March 7th12:30PM

NOTE TO STUDENTS AND PARENTS: The CCRC publishes the Scholarship Bulletin and Newsletter approximately every two weeks. The Scholarship Bulletin lists all the scholarships that we have received information on, including scholarships that are offered by local organizations which are available to residents of Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center or students who attend a District 279 school. Because these programs have restricted criteria, there is less competition and better “odds” for the student to be awarded scholarship monies. The CCRC Newsletter has information on events that are occurring in the area, testing information, and special programs that are being offered at Park Center PLUS helpful “Tidbits from the CCRC Staff”. These publications are distributed to the students’ advisory classes and are published on Park Center’s web site. If students and/or parents would like to have a copy of the Scholarship Bulletin (12th grade) and/or the Newsletter (all grade levels) sent directly to theire-mail, we are asking that you send a request to Jody Hansen at and we will add you to our distribution list.

UPCOMING EVENTS

CCRC Mini Sessions:

• Thursday, March 3rd – 9:45AM – “YCAP: The Youth Career Awareness Program at Dunwoody College of Technology”. Dunwoody College of Technology is looking for students of need to participate in a six week summer sessionexploring opportunities and personal skill development that could lead to a$20,000 scholarship. Come and learn about this exciting opportunity. (More information below.)

Watch the schedule for future CCRC Mini Sessions on“Apprenticeships”, “ACT prep”and more!

The Youth Career Awareness Program (YCAP)- Dunwoody College of Technology: YCAP is a merit-based scholarship program designed to help you find a career that matches your interests and talents, and then prepare you to succeed in that profession. Students accepted into the program are current high school juniors, seniors and potential first year Dunwoody College of Technology students. All applicants must be in good academic standing at their schools (2.5 G.P.A or higher), driven to succeed, interested in learning more about Dunwoody’s technical careers and have a strong financial need.

In addition to their mission, their goals are to provide more females and students of color who come from a disadvantaged background, the opportunity to attend college. The program begins with a six-week summer session, during which the YCAP students come to the Dunwoody campus to learn more about the various technical programs offered at there. Students also improve their academic skills by taking college level courses and working on web-based academic software. Each grade level has a different summer experience.

Students who graduate from high school and complete YCAP are eligible to receive a $20,000 scholarship to attend Dunwoody College of Technology.

Women in Technical Careers – Dunwoody College of Technology is looking for women who are interested in pursuing a two year degree in automotive, construction, computer technology or manufacturing and robotics. Scholarships of $10,000 per year plus many other benefits are available for woman in need. For more information visit , e-mail , or call 612-381-3362.

Dunwoody College of Technology Open House: March 15th, April 19th and May 24th – 3:00- 7:00PM. RSVP at 612-381-3041 or go to

Anoka Ramsey Community College will be hosting two open houses this spring for you to explore their nearly 100 programs. Learn about career programs and programs that transfer into four-year degrees, saving you time and money! Coon Rapids Campus: Wednesday, March 30th from 5:00PM – 7:00PM – Legacy Room and Cambridge Campus: Thursday, March 31st from 5:00PM to 6:30PM – Student Life Lobby. RSVP online at

Attention 9th through 12th grade! Great opportunity to learn how your government works as well as network! It’s that time again for the great annual Youth in City Government Day! The event for both cities of Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park will be on Monday, April 11th from 3:00pm-8:30pm.

The cities are now accepting applications for youth in grades 9th-12th who live or attend school in Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park. The application deadline is Tuesday, March 8th. The Brooklyns Youth Council is accepting applications on behalf of both cities as well for each school.

You can apply online at:

Youth will have the opportunity to learn about how the city works, tour the facilities, and meet the City Council members, Mayors and more!To learn more, please visit their website at

Outstanding juniors considering applying to the United States Military Academy - West Pointshould start their applications right now. They are looking for strong academic performers, excellent athletes and those students who exhibit the highest level of personal character. Students accepted to West Point will receive a top-ranked fully funded undergraduate education, including tuition, room and board and health care. Go to for more information.

Hennepin Technical College will be hosting a College Preview Night on Tuesday, April 12th at the Brooklyn Park Campus - 9000 Brooklyn Blvd, Brooklyn Park, MN 55445. Be prepared to ignite your future when you meet faculty and staff, tour the campus, learn about programs and majors and explore financial aid opportunities. The event begins at 6:30PM. For more information go to

Attention junior women!St. Catherine University is taking application for their annual summer enrichment program called the First Step Summer Institute. The program is COMPLETELY FREE!!! This program is open to current sophomore and junior women of color who have at least an average GPA of 2.75 and an interest in higher education. You will learn about the skills needed to have access to and thrive in college. You will also learn about applying for financial aid, scholarships, and grants. More information is available at If you have questions you can . Applications are available in the CCRC.

Breakfast with the Admiral – On Saturday, March 5th, 8:30AM – 11:00AM at the Minneapolis Golf Club, Admiral Carter, Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy, will be discussing the mission of the Naval Academy, recruiting process, and current initiatives, including the USNA Center for Cyber Security Studies. Register at

Minnesota Business Summer Venture 2016 - MBSV is powered by Best Prep and is a week-long summer camp for high school students interested in enhancing communication skills and finding career direction.

At MBSV, 9th - 12th grade student attend sessions led by industry experts and motivational speakers, participate in hands-on activities, and live on a college campus. Students can attend MBV at St. Cloud State University (July 10-15, 2016) or St. John's University (July 24-29, 2016). Cost of the Program is $150 for the week which includes room and board ($200 after April 18, 2016.) Applications are accepted on a "first come/first serve" basis. Financial Aid is available. Applications and more information are available in the CCRC

Hibbing Community College invites you and your family to their spring Open House on Thursday, April 7th at 3:30 – 6:00PM. HCC faculty, staff and students representing academic program, admissions, student services, disability services and financial aid will be available to talk about programs career options. There will be campus tours, prize drawings and a light dinner offered. For more information call 218-969-4520 or e-mail

2016 Minnesota Aviation Career Education Camp - Minnesota Aviation Career Education Camp is looking for students whowant to visit a wide variety of aviation facilities and talk to engineers, pilots, maintenance technicians, college aviation program staff, air traffic controllers, security personnel, and others about what it is like to work in various aviation fields

• Fly an airplane, helicopter, and glider under the supervision of experienced pilots
• Tour corporate aircraft and facilities
• Experience hands-on demonstration in air traffic control, pilot training, and aircraft maintenance
• Learn the basics of flight, aviation systems, aviation-related industries, and much more
• Tuition includes all meal, lodging, activities and flights

Who can attend? You must be entering grades 10-11-12 in the 2016-17 school year. MN students and students who have a least one parent or guardian living or working in MN have priority in registering.

What does it cost? $650 ($50 application fee included). There is financial assistance based on individual need. Please contact Diane.D. or call 612-708-6840.

New York University has many classes, workshops and events designed specifically for high school students. These programs offer a wide range of subject to choose from and are made to fit a variety of busy schedules. Start exploring what NYU has to offer at

Camp College - The Inclusion, Access, and Success Committee is excited to announce that applications are now live for MACAC’s second annual Camp College! Students and mentors can apply today to be an important part of this year’s Camp College event at Bethany Lutheran College on July 11-12, 2016.Camp College is designed for current high school juniors (graduating class of 2017) from non-traditional backgrounds that would benefit from a college readiness program. The selection committee will give additional consideration to students from rural areas, first-generation college students, and students from low-income households. Students will have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.

Student and mentor applications are now available online at: for both students and mentors are due on March 15th.

In partnershipwith Minnesota College Goal, St. Cloud StateUniversityis hosting aFinancial Aid Workshop event and providing free professional assistance with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The workshop date is March 18th from 1:00 – 4:00PM. The event will take place in the Miller Learning Resource Center - 206/207.

Energy Explorers – Career Exploration 2015-16 Program continuesonTuesday, March 15th at 6:30 – 8:00PM at the Great River Energy headquarters, 12300 Elm Creek Blvd in Maple Grove. This program continues with "Operations Management – Creating value from your garbage”. How does Great River Energy turn YOUR garbage into electricity? Tour their Resource Processing Plant, where 300,000 tons/year of household waste is converted to fuel and recyclable products. Learn about careers in the operation andmanagement of thisimportant renewable energy facility.

Montana State University is hosting MSU Fridays on campus on March 11, and April 8. These all-day campus visit events offer prospective students and their families the opportunity to meet with faculty and students, explore academic facilities and tour the campus and residence halls. Online registration is available at

Illinois Wesleyan University will be holding auditions on March 5th. Go to iwu.edu/music/admissions for more information.

Have you heard about the MnSCU Two-Year Occupational Grant Program? This new grant provides students graduating this year (Class of 2016) an opportunity to enroll at any two year college, such as North Hennepin Community College, for FREE in an eligible career program.
To be eligible for the grant, students must meet the following criteria:

• Graduating high school or completing a GED in 2016

• Start college in fall 2016 in an eligible career program. Many Associate in Science (A.S.), Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.), and certificate options at NHCC are included. Please see website for listing of programs.

• Meet income and financial aid requirements, such as not having full tuition already covered by the Pell or MN state grant and be from families making less than $90,000 in adjusted gross income

• Be a resident of Minnesota

More info about this free college grant program, including eligibility requirements, can be found at or on theOffice of Higher Ed website.
Students should apply for this grant by completing the following:

1. Apply to NHCC for acceptance into an eligible career program for Fall 2016

1. Apply for financial aid using the FAFSA or Dream Act application. This will serve as the student's application for this grant program. It will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so encourage students to do this early!

1. Complete remaining admissions steps to register for fall semester 2016

Division I Academic Requirements: College-bound student-athletes must meet a core-course progression requirement to be eligible to compete in the initial year of full-time enrollment at an NCAA Division I school. Students who do not meet this new requirement will not be able to compete in the first year of enrollment at an NCAA Division I school. Frequently asked questions can be answered here:

The NCAA 2015-16 Guide for the College Bound Athlete can be found at