Families & Students Home

Each College and Career Advocacy class at Washington High School elects a student representative to help students in their class improve our community, participate in ongoing leadership development, and develop plans to share the benefits of their accomplishments. In the process, every student at Washington has the opportunity to build Essential Skills to help them succeed in college and in the 21st-century workforce.

High Impact Practice for College Success:

Leadership Through Service

This program aligns with the three high-impact practices of College for Every Student (CFES)– Mentoring, Leadership Through Service, and Pathways.  Research has shown that these practices raise aspirations and develop the Essential Skills including, adaptability, grit, resilience, teamwork, leadership and other key qualities that promote social and educational uplift.

Our Advocacy Representative groups were implemented in partnership with College for Every Student.

KCKPS Diploma+ Scholarship Fair
Washington High School
Fall Semester

KCKPS College Fair
District Office/KCKPS TEC
Fall Semester

NACCAP Kansas City Area Christian College Fair
Maranatha Christian Academy
Late September

Shawnee Mission College Clinic
Shawnee Mission East
Mid October

National Portfolio Day (Art Schools)
Kansas City, Missouri
Late October

Getting Started
Step One:  Identify Your Career Interests
The first step to choosing a college/career goal is to identify your interests.  What is on the list of things you LIKE to do?  What do you NOT LIKE to do?  There are many career interest inventories to help you figure it out.  Here are just a few that our Wildcats can use:

• Career Cruising (Username = KCK-StudentID, Password = Date of Birth mmddyy)
• JA My Way (Sponsored by Junior Achievement. Any person may create a free account to see job recommendations and other activities)
• Myers Briggs/Jung Typology Test (LONG test, but provides details descriptions of personality and preferences)

Step Two:  Find the jobs that fit your interests, are in demand, AND pay wages that fit your lifestyle needs.
The second step to choosing a college/career is figuring out which careers fit your interests, are in demand, AND pay wages that fit your lifestyle needs- Even entrepreneurs need to know which industries to start businesses in.  The good news is that there are a couple of resources that make this research easier, including:

• Career Cruising (Username = KCK-StudentID, Password = Date of Birth mmddyy)
• United State Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (AMAZING information here!)

Step Three:  Find the certificate and degree programs fit the jobs you are interested in.
The descriptions provided by Career Cruising and the Occupational Outlook Handbook included recommendations for education.  Use that information to identify a few certificate and degree programs that fit your interests.  This is a critical step for Wildcats who plan to enlist in the military as well– Our military branches provide educational programs too!

Step Four:  Find the colleges, universities, and military branches that offer the certificates/degrees you are interested in.
Now you can search for the schools that provide the best education to prepare you for the career(s) you love!  This is usually the part students enjoy most.  Search and compare the certificate and degree options that will help you compete for your dream job.  While you are at it, you might as well compare admission criteria, housing options, campus size, cost, and other factors that you value.

The good news is that there a a couple of resources that make this research easier, including:

• Big Future by CollegeBoard (AMAZING information here!)
• Career Cruising (Username = KCK-StudentID, Password = Date of Birth mmddyy)

Step Five:  Get to know your schools/military branches.
Now that you have found a few schools and/or military branches that offer the program you need, get to know them well.  These are a few areas to explore first:

• Admissions/Recruitment Office (Call the school and SPEAK to an admissions representative/recruiter to be sure you are getting the latest and greatest information that will ensure you prepared.)
• Financial Aid Office (Call the school and SPEAK to a financial aid representative to be sure you are getting the latest and greatest information about school scholarship deadlines- They have the $$$.)
• Program Department (Call the school and SPEAK to a representative in the office that offers the certificate/degree you are seeking to be sure you are getting the latest and greatest information about opportunities for high school students, special department scholarships, and other guidance.)
• Athletics Department (Yes, military branches have competitive sports too!) (If you are athletic, call the school or branch office and SPEAK to a representative in the athletics office to be sure you are getting the latest and greatest information about opportunities for high school students, special athletic scholarships (even in smaller sports you have never played), and other guidance.)
• Office for Student Life (Call the school and SPEAK to a representative in the office for student life to be sure you are getting the latest and greatest information about opportunities for high school students, special scholarships from various student organizations, and other guidance.)
• Offices for Disability Services (Students with disabilities should call the school and SPEAK to a representative in the office for disability services to be sure you understand all of the support available to you.)

Are you participating in the Wildcat Senior App challenge? Well, we have great news for you! Below, you will find direct links to college and university applications. The applications are in order by financial aid priority date to be sure you get the maximum scholarship and financial resources possible. Ready… set… APPLY!

In-State and Nearby College and University Applications
Emporia State University
Emporia, KS 66801 • (620) 341-1200

• Step 1: Admission Application
• Step 2: Transcript Request (Includes Admission Fee Waiver for Qualified Students)
• Step 3: Institutional Scholarship Application
• Step 4: Other Scholarships
• Step 5: Get Familiar with Work Study

Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS 67601 • (785) 628-4000

• Step 1: Admission Application
• Step 2: Transcript Request (Includes Admission Fee Waiver for Qualified Students)
• Step 3: Institutional Scholarship Application
• Step 4: Other Scholarships
• Step 5: Get Familiar with Work Study

Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS 66506 • (785) 532-6011

• Step 1: Admission Application
• Step 2: Transcript Request (Includes Admission Fee Waiver for Qualified Students)
• Step 3: Institutional Scholarship Application (Included with Admissions Application)
• Step 4: Other Scholarships
• Step 5: Get Familiar with Work Study

Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg, KS 66762 • (800) 854-PITT or (620) 235-4251

• Step 1: Admission Application
• Step 2: Transcript Request (Includes Admission Fee Waiver for Qualified Students)
• Step 3: Institutional Scholarship Application
• Step 4: Other Scholarships
• Step 5: Get Familiar with Work Study

University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS 66045 • (785) 864-2700

• Step 1: Admission Application (not available online @ this time)
• Step 2: Transcript Request (Includes Admission Fee Waiver for Qualified Students)
• Step 3: Institutional Scholarship Application (Included with Admissions Application)
• Step 4: Other Scholarships
• Step 5: Get Familiar with Work Study 

University of Missouri- Kansas City (UMKC)
Kansas City, MO  64110 • (816) 235-1000

• Step 1: Admission Application
• Step 2: Transcript Request (Includes Admission Fee Waiver for Qualified Students)
• Step 3: Institutional Scholarship Application
• Step 4: Other Scholarships
• Step 5: Get Familiar with Work Study 

Wichita State University
Wichita, KS 67260 • (316) 978-3045

• Step 1: Admission Application
• Step 2: Transcript Request (Includes Admission Fee Waiver for Qualified Students)
• Step 3: Institutional Scholarship Application (Included with Admissions Application)
• Step 4: Other General Scholarships
• Step 5: Departmental Scholarships
• Step 6: Get Familiar with Work Study

Washburn University
Topeka, KS 66621 •(785) 670-1010

• Step 1: Admission Application
• Step 2: Transcript Request (Includes Admission Fee Waiver for Qualified Students)
• Step 3: Institutional Scholarship Application (Included with Admissions Application)
• Step 4: Other Scholarships
• Step 5: Get Familiar with Work Study

Johnson County Community College
Overland Park, KS 66210 • (913) 469-8500

• Step 1: Admission Application
• Step 2: Transcript Request
• Step 3: Institutional Scholarship Application
• Step 4: Other Scholarships

Kansas City Kansas Community College
Kansas City, KS 66112 • (913) 334-1100

• Step 1: Admission Application
• Step 2: Transcript Request (Includes Admission Fee Waiver for Qualified Students)
• Step 3: Institutional Scholarship Application (page not available @ this time)
• Step 4: Other Scholarships
• Step 5: Get Familiar with Work Study

Curious about college admission tests?  Your advocate and the WHS CCC has the information you need!  Most four-year colleges and universities rely on standardized tests to determine how ready you are for college-level work. A good test score can help you get into your school of choice, earn scholarships, and receive advanced placement or college credit.  The table below provides an overview of the tests you should take each school year.

The organizations that offer the SAT and the ACT also offer tests that are meant to be taken in sophomore or junior year. The PSAT/NMSQT is available as practice for the SAT, and PLAN is available as practice for the ACT. These preliminary, or introductory, tests make great practice tests because they have the same formats and question types as the admission tests.  There are many website online, like The College Board, Learning Express Library (link provided on the left), and YouTube, that offer test preparation advice- Be sure to check them out!

Note:  KCKPS provides the spring ACT for juniors and the PLAN for sophomores during the school day at no cost to students.  Students may take the ACT more than once in an effort to get the highest score possible.   If you are interested in scheduling additional tests or getting ahold of some study tools, talk to your advocate or visit the College & Career Center in room 125.

Sophomores 

Note:  KCKPS provides the PLAN for sophomores during the school day at no cost to students.

Juniors 

Seniors 

Need to study for a test?

Free resources are available at the Learning Express Library.
Click here to create a free Learning Express account now.

ACT Study Materials

• ACT Dates and Sign Up Info
• ACT Progress Tracking Sheets

ACT Practice Test I
ACT Practice Test II

English Prep
English Test

Math Prep
Math Test

Reading Prep
Reading Test

Science Prep
Science Test

Writing Prep
Writing Test

Answers and Explanations

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is the first step toward getting federal aid for college, career school, or graduate school.  The federal government provides more than $150 billion in grants, loans, and work-study funds each year, but you have to complete the FAFSA to see if you can get any of that money.

To apply for federal student aid, you need to complete the FAFSA® or Free Application for Federal Student Aid.  Completing and submitting the FAFSA is free and quick, and it gives you access to the largest source of financial aid to pay for college or career school.  In addition, the Kansas state government and colleges use your FAFSA data to determine your eligibility for state and school aid, and some private financial aid providers may use your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for their aid.

If you’re ready to fill out the FAFSA now, go for it!  If you’d like more information or help getting the FAFSA done, we can help.  Visit the WHS College & Career Center in room 125 or attend one of the following FAFSA days:

• TBA

Did you know the WHS College & Career Center gives students rewards for turning in the FAFSA?!!  
Visit room 125 for more info. 

Step One:  Identify Your Career Interests
The first step to choosing a college/career goal is to identify your interests.  What is on the list of things you LIKE to do?  What do you NOT LIKE to do?  There are many career interest inventories to help you figure it out.  Here are just a few that our Wildcats can use:

• Career Cruising (Username = KCK-StudentID, Password = Date of Birth mmddyy)
• JA My Way (Sponsored by Junior Achievement. Any person may create a free account to see job recommendations and other activities)
• Myers Briggs/Jung Typology Test (LONG test, but provides details descriptions of personality and preferences)

Step Two:  Find the jobs that fit your interests, are in demand, AND pay wages that fit your lifestyle needs.
The second step to choosing a college/career is figuring out which careers fit your interests, are in demand, AND pay wages that fit your lifestyle needs- Even entrepreneurs need to know which industries to start businesses in.  The good news is that there are a couple of resources that make this research easier, including:

• Career Cruising (Username = KCK-StudentID, Password = Date of Birth mmddyy)
• United State Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (AMAZING information here!)

Step Three:  Find the certificate and degree programs fit the jobs you are interested in.
The descriptions provided by Career Cruising and the Occupational Outlook Handbook included recommendations for education.  Use that information to identify a few certificate and degree programs that fit your interests.  This is a critical step for Wildcats who plan to enlist in the military as well– Our military branches provide educational programs too!

Step Four:  Find the colleges, universities, and military branches that offer the certificates/degrees you are interested in.
Now you can search for the schools that provide the best education to prepare you for the career(s) you love!  This is usually the part students enjoy most.  Search and compare the certificate and degree options that will help you compete for your dream job.  While you are at it, you might as well compare admission criteria, housing options, campus size, cost, and other factors that you value.

The good news is that there a a couple of resources that make this research easier, including:

• Big Future by CollegeBoard (AMAZING information here!)
• Career Cruising (Username = KCK-StudentID, Password = Date of Birth mmddyy)

Step Five:  Get to know your schools/military branches.
Now that you have found a few schools and/or military branches that offer the program you need, get to know them well.  These are a few areas to explore first:

• Admissions/Recruitment Office (Call the school and SPEAK to an admissions representative/recruiter to be sure you are getting the latest and greatest information that will ensure you prepared.)
• Financial Aid Office (Call the school and SPEAK to a financial aid representative to be sure you are getting the latest and greatest information about school scholarship deadlines- They have the $$$.)
• Program Department (Call the school and SPEAK to a representative in the office that offers the certificate/degree you are seeking to be sure you are getting the latest and greatest information about opportunities for high school students, special department scholarships, and other guidance.)
• Athletics Department (Yes, military branches have competitive sports too!) (If you are athletic, call the school or branch office and SPEAK to a representative in the athletics office to be sure you are getting the latest and greatest information about opportunities for high school students, special athletic scholarships (even in smaller sports you have never played), and other guidance.)
• Office for Student Life (Call the school and SPEAK to a representative in the office for student life to be sure you are getting the latest and greatest information about opportunities for high school students, special scholarships from various student organizations, and other guidance.)
• Offices for Disability Services (Students with disabilities should call the school and SPEAK to a representative in the office for disability services to be sure you understand all of the support available to you.)

Career Cruising Activities (PDF)
College Research Guide

Curriculum Vitae
When should you start keeping track of your school performance and extra activities?  The answer is right NOW.  A curriculum vitae is a document that helps others easily see all of your accomplishments throughout high school.  For more information and an example, check out this presentation.

Ready to make your vitae right now?

Resumes, Cover Letters, and References
When should you start getting career related experiences and building a network? The answer is right NOW.  Resumes, cover letters, and references are typically used by employers during the interview process for internships and jobs.  For more information and examples for high school students, check out this presentation.

Ready to make your resume right now? Link to download our template.

Admissions and Scholarship Essays
When should you start writing your essays?  The answer is right NOW.  To work smart, begin saving essays that you write in classes so you do not have to start from scratch your admission and scholarship essays.  The most helpful essays are the ones that describe your values, interests, and college/career plans.

Ready to write your essay now? 

Need help writing your essay?
Free resources are offered by the Learning Express Library.

Link to create an account now.

WHS Counseling Department Services & Supports

• Educational Planning: Assisting students with high school coursework, post-secondary education, or with vocational choices after high school.
  Counseling Services: Available when students encounter personal problems.
• Peer-Assisted Student Support: Peer tutoring, peer mediation, and conflict resolution. Students may request these services in the Counseling Office.
• Student Evaluations: Used to determine if the pupil is making satisfactory academic progress; diagnose and identify learning problems; address students special needs; help students know themselves better so they can make sound educational and vocational plans.
• Vocational Planning: Aptitude testing and interest inventories that can be administered to students.
• Registrar Services: Enrollment, withdrawals, transcripts, and student records.
• Translator/Interpreter: For parents and students.

Be sure to talk to your school counselor if you are interested in taking college courses.

Preparing for Success

Freshman

1. Know your teachers and leaders.
2. Visit the library once a week and the College & Career Center once a quarter.
3. Develop and know your study habits and patterns.
4. Become a member of one school extracurricular activity
5. Take care of classroom assignments FIRST!

Sophomore

1. Focus and concentrate on the October ACT Plan test.
2. Create a scholarship vita to track your school accomplishments.
3. Visit the College & Career Center once a month.

Junior

1. Meet with your counselor to review your courses for this year and plan your schedule for senior year.
2. Prepare for the ACT.
3. Visit the College & Career Center three times a month.
4. Identify at least three colleges you would like to apply.

Senior

1. Visit the College & Career Center once a week.
2. Check on applications and financial aid deadlines for the schools you plan to apply.
3. Register October ACT.
4. Apply to at least three colleges by October 15th and three scholarships by November 1st.

Do you think a disability can keep you or someone you care about from going to college?  Well, we have great news for you!  Every college and university provides support and accommodations for students with disabilities through their offices for disability services.

These offices provide reasonable accommodations and services to students with disabilities.  Each designated office requests and maintains disability-related documents; certifies eligibility for services; determines and develops plans for reasonable accommodations such as academic adjustments, auxiliary aids, and/or services as mandated under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Amendments Act (ADAAA) of 2008 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

While you are here, take a moment to visit one of the many web pages for Offices for Disability Services provided below- These are just a few examples of the amazing resources you will find on every college campus.

Emporia State University
Emporia, KS 66801 • (620) 341-1200

Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS 67601 • (785) 628-4000

Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS 66506 • (785) 532-6011

Pittsburg State University
Pittsburg, KS 66762 • (800) 854-PITT or (620) 235-4251

University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS 66045 • (785) 864-2700

University of Missouri- Kansas City (UMKC)
Kansas City, MO  64110 • (816) 235-1000

Wichita State University
Wichita, KS 67260 • (316) 978-3045

Washburn University
Topeka, KS 66621 • (785) 670-1010

Johnson County Community College
Overland Park, KS 66210 • (913) 469-8500

Kansas City Kansas Community College
Kansas City, KS 66112 • (913) 334-1100

If you’d like more information, we can help!  Visit the WHS College & Career Center (CCC) in room 125 or request a CCC teacher to help with your transition plan.  

Firm volunteers have mentored more than 850 high school students in 23 cities nationally.

Ernst & Young LLP, which collaborates with the non-profit College for Every Student (CFES) on the firm’s College MAP initiative, announced it expanded the program to 10 additional schools and almost doubled the number of under-represented students it mentored for the 2013-2014 school year.

College MAP provides support to underserved students as they consider the dream of higher education. The program helps students navigate the application and financial aid process, provides access to resources, and exposes them to the benefits of higher education.

According to the Lumina Foundation, almost 25 percent of low income students who score in the top quartile of standardized tests never go to college. Yet 65 percent of jobs in the US will require post-secondary education by 2020, according to Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce. College MAP works to narrow that gap by demystifying the process of applying to and affording college.

“At some College MAP schools, there is no assumption that students will graduate and go on to college,” said Rick Dalton, President and CEO of College For Every Student. “EY’s role is to get the process started and to unlock the potential of students who might not consider these possibilities otherwise. EY mentors not only introduce these possibilities and facilitate them, but they commit to helping the kids make the difficult transition to college. On a personal level, I’ve seen this really have an impact.”

“At some College MAP schools, there is no assumption that students will graduate and go on to college,” said Rick Dalton, President and CEO of College For Every Student. “EY’s role is to get the process started and to unlock the potential of students who might not consider these possibilities otherwise. EY mentors not only introduce these possibilities and facilitate them, but they commit to helping the kids make the difficult transition to college. On a personal level, I’ve seen this really have an impact.”

College MAP Milestones

Since launching the program as a pilot in 2009, EY professionals have mentored more than 850 high school students. The reach of the program is rapidly expanding. This year, the fifth anniversary of College MAP, saw the addition of 10 new schools to the program’s roster, for a total of 23 schools. Additionally, program participants almost doubled to 560 students last year alone, from 290 students collectively in the first four years of the program. These 560 students worked with approximately 360 EY mentors. College MAP currently mentors students in these 23 US cities: Atlanta, Austin, Birmingham, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Providence, Richmond, Rochester, San Antonio, San Francisco, San Jose, Secaucus, and Toledo.

The program is having an impact – more than 90 percent of students who have participated in College MAP have enrolled in a two- or four-year institution. In addition, the EY College MAP Scholarship Fund, introduced in 2013, has distributed more than $220,000 to College MAP graduates to date.

Program Overview

The College MAP curriculum includes monthly workshops, college visits, and tutoring tied to financial skills that will help students succeed in college and make the most of their financial futures in general. The program has a unique approach — it matches small groups of EY professionals with groups of students, so all volunteers work in teams. This has several main benefits: multiple mentors can provide different perspectives for guidance to students, busy client-serving professionals are able to balance work and a long-term mentoring commitment, and the group of students becomes its own supportive academic community.

Another important element of the College MAP program is the strong mentoring relationships formed between the EY professionals who volunteer as mentors and the students who participate. More than three quarters (76 percent) of at-risk students who have mentors aspire to enroll and graduate from college versus about half (56 percent) of at-risk young adults who had no mentor, research from the National Mentoring Partnership  shows. Many of the EY mentors are first-generation college students themselves, so they are able to share personal stories and serve as first-hand examples of exactly the type of success that can be achieved. College MAP also fosters inclusiveness skills in EY people, and mentors say they have a greater sense of belonging at the firm as a result of their participation in the program.

“College MAP is mutually beneficial to mentors and mentees in their career development,” said Deborah Holmes, EY Americas Director of Corporate Responsibility. “The program helps to light a path to higher education and a brighter career for mentees, but also helps EY people to hone their skills like demonstrating leadership, public speaking, collaboration, inclusiveness and even mentoring within the firm.”

Students across the country will be marking the milestone of completing the College MAP program with graduation ceremonies in May and June. A few examples include:

• Students at the Richard R. Green High School in NY will be celebrating their graduation from College MAP on June 17 at EY’s headquarters at 5 Times Square in Manhattan. The students will be attending a Yankees game afterward
• Boston’s event for students of the Madison Park Technical Vocational High School is on June 14 and students will celebrate at Kings Boston, a local bowling alley
• On May 29, students at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Early College High School in Denver, celebrated with a formal dinner at Maggiano’s Restaurant with mentors, scholars and their parents/siblings

For more insight on the College MAP program, read this recent piece in the Lumina Foundation’s quarterly Focus magazine:Lumina Foundation website

About EY

EY is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. The insights and quality services we deliver help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to all of our stakeholders. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients and for our communities.

EY refers to the global organization and may refer to one or more of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

This news release has been issued by Ernst & Young LLP, an EY member firm serving clients in the US.

Are you interested in professional certificates at one of Kansas City’s community colleges or technical centers?  If so, a gold collar certificate or degree program may be for you.  Community colleges in the Kansas City Metropolitan Area offer programs that prepare students for jobs that pay $30-70k per year ($15-35 per hour), have high projected job growth, require a two-year degree or less for entry, require high-skill, and have strong local demand.

We encourage you to take a look at the list of selected gold collar jobs and the local colleges that prepare you for them included below.  If you’d like more information or help connecting to a community college or technical center, visit the WHS College & Career Center in room 125 or attend one of the following campus field trips:

• TBA

Details about these jobs can be found with the following career research tools:

• United State Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (AMAZING information here!)

Drafters and Engineering Technicians
(Architectural, Civil, Mechanical/Manufacturing, Computer/Electronics)
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$59k median national wage / $58k median Missouri wage Computer Networking Specialists and System Administrators
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$74k median national wage / $67k median Missouri wage

Construction Managers
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$84k median national wage / $72k median Missouri wage

Electrical Powerline Installers and Repairers
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$64k median national wage / $70k median Missouri wage

Environmental/Occupational Health and Safety Technician
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$42k median national wage / $42k median Missouri wage

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technicians
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$82 k median national wage / $82k median Missouri wage

Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$44k median national wage / $46k median Missouri wage

Industrial Electrician
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$53k median national wage / $54k median Missouri wage

Industrial Machinery Mechanics
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$48k median national wage / $46k median Missouri wage

Machinists and CNC Programmers
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$36k median national wage / $35k median Missouri wage

Millwright
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$50k median national wage / $62k median Missouri wage

Solar Photovoltaic Installers and Technicians
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$40k median national wage / $38k median Missouri wage

Tractor-Trailer and Heavy Truck Drivers (CDL-A)
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$38k median national wage / $38k median Missouri wage

Welders
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$35k median national wage / $33k median Missouri wage

 Information Security Analyst / Cyber Security Analyst
(available at MCC-BR, LV, MW, PV)
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$89k median national wage / $77k median Missouri wage

Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics Managers
(available at MCC-BR, LV, MW, PV)
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$66k median national wage / $63k median Missouri wage

Web Developer
(available at MCC-BR, LV, MW, PV)
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$63k median national wage / $54k median Missouri wage

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$37k median national wage / $36k median Missouri wage

Veterinary Technician
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$31k median national wage / $30k median Missouri wage

Dental Assistant
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$35k median national wage / $34k median Missouri wage

Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$31k median national wage/ $32 k median Missouri wage

Graphic Designers
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$45k median national wage / $40k median Missouri wage

Licensed Practical Nurses
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$42k median national wage / $37k median Missouri wage

Medical Records and Health Information Technologies
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$35k median national wage / $35k median Missouri wage

Occupational Therapy Assistants
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$55k median national wage / $54k median Missouri wage

Radiologic Technologist and Technicians
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$41k median national wage / $37k median Missouri wage

Registered Nurses
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$66k median national wage / $57k median Missouri wage

Surgical Assistants and Technologists
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$43k median national wage / $40k median Missouri wage

Physical Therapy Assistants
20-29% projected growth (2012-2022)
$53k median national wage/ $51k median Missouri wage

Accountant
(available at MCC-BR, LV, MW, PV)
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$65k median national wage / $57k median Missouri wage

Computer Programmer
(available at MCC-BR, LV, MW, PV)
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$76k median national wage / $69k median Missouri wage

Database Administrator / Database Programmer
(available at MCC-BR, LV, MW, PV)
10-19% projected growth (2012-2022)
$79k median national wage / $77k median Missouri wage

Data collected from U.S. Department of Labor

The History and Importance of the HBCU Experience | Dr. Elwood Robinson | TEDxAugusta

The educational experiences found in Historically Black Colleges and Universities are preparing students to succeed in a world that is in great need of their perspectives. Dr. Robinson provides insight into the way considering culture in under-served populations is key to helping students learn, lead, and thrive.

Dr. Elwood Robinson is the thirteenth chancellor of Winston-Salem State University. He has over 30 years of higher education experience working at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority Serving Institutions. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from HBCUs.

Alabama

• Alabama A&M University
• Alabama State University
• Bishop State Community College
• Concordia College Selma
• Miles College
• Oakwood College
• Stillman College
• Talladega College
• Tuskegee University

Arkansas

• Arkansas Baptist College
• Philander Smith College 
• University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

California

• Charles Drew University of Medicine & Science

Delaware

• Delaware State University

District of Columbia / Washington, DC

• Howard University
• University of the District of Columbia

Florida

• Bethune-Cookman University
• Edward Waters College
• Florida A&M University 
• Florida Memorial University

Georgia

• Albany State University
• Clark Atlanta University
• Fort Valley State University
• Morehouse College
• Morris Brown College 
• Paine College
• Savannah State University
• Spelman College

Kentucky

• Kentucky State University

Louisiana

• Dillard University
• Grambling State University 
• Southern University and A&M College
• Xavier University of Louisiana

Maryland

• Bowie State University
• Coppin State University
• Morgan State University
• University of Maryland, Eastern Shore

Mississippi

• Alcorn State University
• Coahoma Community College
• Jackson State University
• Mississippi Valley State University
• Rust College
• Tougaloo College

Missouri

• Harris-Stowe State University
• Lincoln University of Missouri

North Carolina

• Barber-Scotia College
• Bennett College
• Elizabeth City State University
• Fayetteville State University
• Johnson C. Smith University
• Livingstone College
• North Carolina A&T State University
• North Carolina Central University
• St. Augustine’s College 
• Shaw University
• Winston Salem State University

Ohio

• Central State University
• Wilberforce University

Oklahoma

• Langston University

Pennsylvania

• Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
• Lincoln University

South Carolina

• Allen University
• Benedict College
• Claflin University
• Clinton Junior College
• Denmark Technical College
• Morris College
• South Carolina State University
• Voorhees College

Tennessee

• Fisk University
• Knoxville College
• Lane College
• LeMoyne-Owen College
• Meharry Medical College
• Tennessee State University

Texas

• Huston-Tillotson University
• Jarvis Christian College
• Paul Quinn College
• Prairie View A&M University
• Texas College
• Texas Southern University 
• Wiley College

Virginia

• Hampton University
• Norfolk State University
• Saint Paul’s College
• Virginia State University
• Virginia Union University

West Virginia

• Bluefield State College
• West Virginia State University

The Military is comprised of 12 Service branches: five Active Duty and seven part-time duty. Part-time duty consists of five Reserve and two Guard branches. Each branch varies greatly in service commitment, location and how its members contribute to the overall mission of protecting our country, though all branches are on the same rank-based pay scale. Knowing the differences between the Services will help you choose which branch fits you best.

Service Branches Compared

Full Time

Army
As the oldest branch of the U.S. Military, the Army protects the security of the United States and its resources.

Marine Corps
The Marine Corps is often first on the ground in combat situations.

Navy
The Navy defends the right to travel and trade freely on the world’s oceans and protects national interests overseas.

Air Force
The U.S. Air Force protects American interests at home and abroad with a focus on air power.

Coast Guard
The Coast Guard protects America’s waterways and deploys with the Navy during wartime.

Part Time

Army Reserve
The Army Reserve trains part time near home until needed, and members deploy alongside the Army.

Army National Guard
Army National Guard members deploy with the Army on a part-time basis, with a special focus on homeland security and relief programs.

Marine Corps Reserve
Marine Corps reservists train domestically until needed, then deploy with the rest of the Corps.

Navy Reserve
The Navy Reserve trains service members close to home until they are needed in action.

Air Force Reserve
The Air Force Reserve gives service members the opportunity to train and serve on a part-time basis, as needed.

Air National Guard
The Air National Guard trains part time to assist in domestic disasters and international conflicts.

Coast Guard Reserve
The Coast Guard Reserve offers a part-time service opportunity for service members to train near home.

From Todays Military website

Did you know that some companies offer tuition reimbursement for their employees?  This is a program where the employer may pay for the employee’s education at colleges, including technical schools, and universities. Tuition reimbursement benefits are also called tuition assistance, and vary greatly from company to company.

Study hard – or get stuck with the bill
Most companies that offer tuition reimbursement base the amount on the employee’s grade in the course or courses- Be sure to ask which grades you need to earn in your classes.  In addition, some companies pay for the course at registration, but others reimburse the cost only after successful completion of the coursework. When investigating a tuition assistance program, ask about timing of reimbursement, since that could make a difference in how many classes you take at one time.

Featured Employers

Company: UPS Earn and Learn

Position: Part-Time Package Handler

• Seniors in high school may apply, must be 17 or older
• No experience needed- company will provide training after hire
• Hourly Rate: $10.15 – $11.00
• Tuition Assistance: $5,250 per calendar year/lifetime maximum $25,000
• Eligibility begins the day of hire

Company: BlueKC- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City

Position: Full-Time Customer Service Representatives (work from home)

• Must have diploma/GED (seniors should apply immediately after graduation)
• Need 1-2 years of sales experience (prepare by working a retail sales job during high school)
• Hourly Rate:  $17.00
• Company provides laptop and home internet service
• Tuition Assistance: $5,000 per calendar year for undergraduate program/$10,000 per calendar year graduate program
• Eligibility begins day of hire

Company: Verizon Wireless

Position: Part-Time or Full-Time Sales Representative

• Must have diploma/GED (seniors should apply immediately after graduation)
• Tuition Assistance: Up to $8,000 a year for full-time/$4,000 for part time
• Benefit can be applied to Associate’s, Bachelor’s and MBA degrees
• Need 1-2 years of sales experience (prepare by working a retail sales job during high school)
• Wireless plans and devices included with employee benefits

More opportunities coming soon!