Counselors’ Corner
Guidance, College, & Career-Related Information & Opportunities
OLSH CEEB Code: 390845
Students must provide the OLSH College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) Code when registering for the ACT or SAT, and may be asked to enter the code on college applications.
Academic Review Days for 2024-25
Academic review days are scheduled at the midpoint of each quarter. On those days, teacher advisers will review the grades of their advisees (students). Meetings with students and/or parents will be set up as necessary. Any senior failing a course at that time will be placed into assigned study halls for the remainder of the quarter.
Q1 (08/20/24 - 10/24/24) Academic review day: Friday, September 20, 2024
Q2 (10/28/24 - 01/16/25) Academic review day: Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Q3 (01/21/25 - 03/27/25) Academic review day: Friday, February 21, 2025
Q4 (04/01/25 - 06/06/25) Academic review day: Friday, May 2, 2025
NCAA Eligibility for College-Bound Athletes
If you are a current junior or senior who plans to participate in Division I or II athletics in college, please talk to your school counselor about having your transcript submitted to the NCAA Eligibility Center. Transcripts should be submitted at the end of your junior year, and again after high school graduation. Current seniors who did not submit a transcript to the NCAA at the end of junior year should request a transcript upload as soon as possible.
COLLEGE ADMISSIONS TESTING
SAT/ACT Information
Test Date: October 5, 2024 (
digital) Registration Deadlines: September 20 (regular); September 24 (late)
Test Date: November 2, 2024 (
digital) Registration Deadlines: October 18 (regular); October 22 (late)
Test Date: December 7, 2024 (
digital) Registration Deadlines: November 22 (regular); November 26 (late)
Test Date: March 8, 2025 (
digital) Registration Deadlines: February 21 (regular); February 25 (late)
Test Date: May 3, 2025 (
digital) Registration Deadlines: April 18 (regular); April 22 (late)
Test Date: June 7, 2025 (
digital) Registration Deadlines: May 22 (regular); May 27 (late)
ACT Dates for 2024-25
Test Date: October 26, 2024 Registration Deadlines: September 20 (regular); October 7 (late)
Test Date: December 14, 2024 Registration Deadlines: November 8 (regular); November 22 (late)
Test Date: February 8, 2025 Registration Deadlines: January 3 (regular); January 20 (late)
Test Date: April 5, 2025 Registration Deadlines: February 28 (regular); March 16 (late)
Test Date: June 14, 2025 Registration Deadlines: May 9 (regular); May 26 (late)
Test Date: July 12, 2025 Registration Deadlines: June 6 (regular); June 20 (late)
IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING TEST DAY PROCEDURE
Students must present a valid photo ID on the day of the SAT and ACT tests. Accepted IDs include a current, unexpired school year ID, Drivers License, or Passport. If you do not have ID, please see Mrs. Pihlblad or Mrs. Woynar as soon as possible. If you do not have an acceptable photo ID, you will NOT be admitted into the test.
SAT/ACT Accommodations
If your child has a documented disability, he or she may be eligible for certain accommodations on the ACT or SAT. Accommodations for the SAT must be requested six to eight weeks in advance of the testing date. If you are interested in applying for accommodations for either test, please contact your child’s school counselor to initiate the process.
|
Mrs. Darcy Pihlblad
School Counselor A-L
412-262-3975
|
Mrs. Regina Woynar
Director of Counseling Services
School Counselor M-Z
412-264-4650
|
SAT & ACT Test Prep
Over the past ten years,
Goldstein Test Prep has worked with over 130 OLSH students, counseled families through the testing process, and helped students achieve sizable gains. To view current in-person and virtual course offerings, please visit the the
Goldstein Test Prep website or contact program director Mike Goldstein at
[email protected] or at 412-874-7645.
Penn State Beaver will offer two sections of an SAT prep course this fall. During the course, experienced instructors will teach students to:
-
- apply effective tips and strategies for each section of the SAT exam, such as reading and writing, language, and math
- practice with official SAT exams that simulate the real test environment and help them measure their improvement
- weigh the pros and cons of guessing on questions
- save time and answer questions faster and more accurately
- understand the SAT scoring system and how to calculate their score
- use online tools and practice problems from Khan Academy® and Bluebook to enhance their skills and confidence
Both sections of the course will meet on the Penn State Beaver campus on Saturdays from 9:45 AM - 12:45 PM. Section 1 will take place from September 14 - October 26, and is intended to prepare students for the November 2 SAT. Section 2 will take place from October 19 - November 23 and is intended to prepare students for the December 7 SAT.
The cost of the course is only $329 and includes a copy of
The Official Digital SAT Study Guide. To register for Section 1 of the prep course, click
here. To register for Section 2 of the prep course, click
here. A flyer about the course is posted below.
The Western Pennsylvania Learning Academy is offering a one-day, five-hour SAT Boot Camp on Sunday, September 22, 2024. The course will be held from noon - 5:00 PM at Fox Chapel High School. The cost is only $100, and practice materials will be provided. Please see the flyer attached below for more information.
SAT or ACT? How to Choose and Prepare
Students often wonder which college readiness exam--the SAT or the ACT--is best suited to their particular test-taking strengths.
This article by David Huemer of
Your College Strategies, LLC gives very specific advice about which test to choose based on a student's strengths and weaknesses. Mr. Huemer also offers helpful test-taking strategies for both exams, and tips on how to prepare.
When to Submit -- or NOT Submit -- SAT and ACT Scores
Even before COVID-19, many colleges and universities had adopted a "test score optional" admissions policy. Since the start of the pandemic, however, a large percentage of schools have announced that they are no longer requiring applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores. Click
here to read about the factors you should consider when deciding whether or not to submit your scores.
COLLEGE AND CAREER EVENTS AND INFORMATION
ROTC and United States Military Service Academies Information Seminar at RMU
Robert Morris University will host a United States Military Service Academies Information Seminar on Thursday, October 10, 2024 from 5:45 - 8:30 PM at the UPMC Events Center (6001 University Blvd., Moon Township, PA 15108). Students, parents, teachers and administrators are invited to attend.
The represented academies include:
Opening the evening will be Army ROTC and Air Force ROTC presenting information about their respective programs and the lucrative scholarship options that are available to students. Next, each Service Academy will give a 10-minute informational presentation. Closing the evening, all attendees will have the opportunity to walk around to each ROTC and Academy tables to talk with representatives from each program.
Please see the flyer attached below for more information.
College Admissions Visits at OLSH
Each year, admissions representatives from more than 50 colleges, universities, trade schools and military organizations visit OLSH to speak with interested students. Juniors and seniors are eligible to attend these college information sessions, with a limit of ten sessions per student, per academic year.
Juniors and seniors who wish to attend one of these sessions should email Mrs. Kelly Pontiere, Counseling and Admissions Assistant, at
[email protected] at least one day in advance of the event.
The names of students who sign up for college admissions visits will be published on the Attendance List each morning. Teachers always have the option of denying a student permission to attend due a test, review, project, or poor class performance or attendance.
While the majority of college admissions visits occur during the fall semester, some schools do schedule in the spring, so keep checking back for more listings!
| Day |
Date |
Pd. |
School |
| Mon. |
8/26 |
3 |
Emerson College (MA) - VIRTUAL VISIT |
| Mon. |
9/9 |
3 |
Saint Vincent College (PA) |
| Wed. |
9/11 |
3 |
Westminster College (PA) (Will be rescheduled. Date TBA.) |
| Wed. |
9/11 |
8 |
Washington & Jefferson College (PA)
|
| |
|
|
INSTANT ADMISSION DECISION AVAILABLE FOR SENIORS WITH UNWEIGHTED GPAs of 3.0 AND ABOVE!
|
| Tues. |
9/17 |
3 |
Michigan State University |
| Tues. |
9/17 |
4 |
Penn State University |
| Wed. |
9/18 |
8 |
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
|
| Wed, |
9/18 |
9 |
Wheeling University (WV) (formerly Wheeling Jesuit)
|
| Fri. |
9/20 |
8 |
Loyola University Maryland
|
| Fri. |
9/20 |
9 |
Chatham University (PA)
|
| Mon. |
9/30 |
4 |
Centre College (KY)
|
| Tues. |
10/1 |
3 |
Duquesne University (PA)
|
| Tues. |
10/1 |
4 |
The Catholic University of America (Washington, D.C.) |
| Tues. |
10/1 |
9 |
PennWest California (formerly California University of PA) |
| Wed. |
10/2 |
3 |
Carnegie Mellon University (PA)
|
| Wed. |
10/2 |
9 |
Villanova University (PA) |
| Thurs. |
10/3 |
4 |
Robert Morris University (PA) |
| Tues. |
10/8 |
1 |
Franklin & Marshall College (PA) |
| Tues. |
10/8 |
3 |
Ursinus College (PA) |
| Tues. |
10/8 |
4 |
Seton Hall University (NJ) |
| Tues. |
10/8 |
8 |
Marist College (NY) |
| Tues. |
10/8 |
8 |
Saint Mary's College (Notre Dame, IN) |
| Tues. |
10/8 |
9 |
University of Toledo (OH) |
| Wed. |
10/9 |
2 |
Manor College (PA) |
| Wed. |
10/9 |
3 |
George Mason University (VA) |
| Wed. |
10/9 |
3 |
Walsh University (OH) |
| Wed. |
10/9 |
4 |
Rosemont College (PA) |
| Wed. |
10/9 |
8 |
Northeastern University (MA) |
| Wed. |
10/9 |
9 |
Seton Hill University (PA) |
| Thurs. |
10/10 |
3 |
Binghamton University (NY) |
| Thurs. |
10/10 |
8 |
Regent University (VA) |
| Thurs. |
10/10 |
9 |
Boston College (MA) |
| Fri. |
10/11 |
3 |
Slippery Rock University (PA) |
| Fri. |
10/11 |
4 |
Dickinson College (PA) |
| Fri. |
10/11 |
8 |
Saint Francis University (PA) |
| Mon. |
10/14 |
4 |
Community College of Allegheny County (PA) |
| Tues. |
10/15 |
8 |
United States Navy |
| Wed. |
10/16 |
4 |
University of Dallas (TX) To be rescheduled due to PSAT. Date and time TBA. |
| Mon. |
10/21 |
8 |
Sweet Briar College (VA) |
| Tues. |
10/22 |
8 |
St. Bonaventure University (NY) |
| Wed. |
10/23 |
9 |
John Carroll University (OH) |
| Tues. |
10/29 |
8 |
Carlow University (PA) |
| Tues. |
10/29 |
9 |
Gannon University (PA) |
| Wed. |
11/13 |
3 |
Bryant University (RI) |
College Admissions Events
Please note: School with asterisks (*) after their names have been identified as faithful Catholic colleges by the Cardinal Newman Society. To learn more about the Cardinal Newman Society's recommended Catholic colleges and universities, click here.
American University (Washington, D.C.)
In-Person and Virtual Campus Tours Register
Arizona State University
On-Campus and Virtual Tours and Information Sessions Register
Ave Maria University (FL) *
The Ave Maria Experience
September 20; October 18; November 15; February 14; March 14
RegisterWhen you visit the Ave Maria University, you’ll notice some extraordinary things—our world-class professors, our authentically Catholic culture, how we come together to serve others. This is the Ave Maria community and it’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. Our beautiful campus is nestled in South Florida just 40 minutes from Naples. When you visit, you’ll immediately feel at home. Come see what makes Ave Maria so special!
Weekday and Saturday Campus Tours Register
Belmont Abbey College (NC) *
Abby Experience Open House
Friday, September 27; Saturday, October 26 Register
On-campus and virtual visits Register
Benedictine College (KS) *
Raven Day Campus Visits
September 2 & 27; October 14 & 18; November 16 & 22; December 6; Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Opportunities throughout the Year Register
Boston University (MA)
Fall Visit Days
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options
Register
Bowling Green State University (OH)
Preview Days
Bridgewater College (VA)
Open House
October 19; December 7 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Bucknell University (PA)
Open House
September 14; October 5 & 26; February 15 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Capital University (OH)
Fall Open House
October 14; November 11 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Carlow University (PA)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Carnegie Mellon University (PA)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
The Catholic University of America (Washington, D.C.) *
Open House
October 12; November 9
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Opportunities Register
Carlow University (PA)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Case Western Reserve University (OH)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Chatham University (PA)
In-person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Clemson University (SC)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Christendom College (VA) *
Open House
September 21; November 23
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Coastal Carolina University (SC)
Discover Coastal Open House
On-Campus and Virtual Visit Options Register
Columbus College of Art & Design (OH)
Drexel University (PA)
Undergraduate Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Duquesne University (PA)
Duq Day Open House
September 28; October 26
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Edinboro University (PA)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Elizabethtown College (PA)
Fall Open House
September 14; October 26; November 9
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Elon University (NC)
Fall Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options
Register
Franciscan University of Steubenville (OH) *
On-Campus Visits Register
Gannon University (PA)
On-Campus and Virtual Visit Options Register
George Mason University (VA)
On-Campus and Virtual Visit Options Register
Grove City College (PA)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Heritage Valley Kennedy School of Nursing (PA)
High Point University (NC)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
James Madison University (VA)
Academic Open House
October 5; November 16
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
John Carroll University (OH)
On-Campus and Virtual Tours and Admissions Events Register
La Roche University (PA)
Open House
Saturday, November 9, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
RegisterMeet faculty, explore majors and see campus firsthand.
- Learn about the admissions process and financial aid.
- Explore study abroad opportunities that are included as part of your La Roche experience.
- Hear from current students.
- Tour campus and scope out residence halls.
- Enjoy brunch in our dining hall.
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Lehigh University (PA)
Fall Open House
September 15; October 19
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Loyola University Chicago (IL)
In-Person and Virtual Tours and Information Sessions Register
Loyola University Maryland
Fall Open House
October 5; November 9 Register
On-Campus and Virtual Tours and Information Sessions Register
Madonna University (MI)
Like OLSH, Madonna University is a ministry of the Felician Sisters.
Fall Open House
October 19; November 9, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Register
Miami University of Ohio
Fall Open House
September 28; October 25 Register
On-Campus and Virtual Tours and Information Sessions Register
Misericordia University (PA)
Fall Open House
September 28; November 16 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Neumann University (PA)
Open House
October 20 & November 17, 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM Register
You and your family are invited to our Open House. Learn about Neumann University's academic program offerings, campus life, and professional internships. Tour campus with our Neumann Navigators, and meet with members of the campus community. This is college as a Neumann Knight!
Niagara University (NY)
Fall Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Ohio University
Ohio Discovery Day Open House
September 9; October 5 & 18; November 9 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Penn State (Main Campus)
¡Vámonos a Penn State! Bus Trip - Pittsburgh Pick-Up Register
In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, Penn State is inviting students on our annual '
¡Vámonos a Penn State!' bus trip to Penn State University Park on Monday, October 7. Students will enjoy a full day of Latino unity while learning about multicultural student organizations, exploring majors, meeting current students, and enjoying campus tours. Bus transportation from select locations is provided. National Hispanic Heritage Month is September 15-October 15.
Space is very limited, so please register ASAP. If you have any questions, please contact Yaczin Hernandez at
[email protected].
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Penn State Beaver
Campus Visit Program Register
Pennsylvania College of Technology
Open House
October 5; November 3
Register
PennWest University (formerly California, Clarion, and Edinboro Universities)
California - Fall Open House
October 26; November 16
RegisterClarion - Fall Open House
October 26; November 9
RegisterOctober 26; November 9
Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options - All Campuses Register
Point Park University (PA)
Open House
September 21; November 2; February 1
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Princeton University (NJ)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options
Register
Rider University (NJ)
Open House
September 28; October 19; November 8 & 10 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Robert Morris University (PA)
Fall Discovery Day
October 19
Register November 9
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Rochester Institute of Technology (NY)
Open House
October 14 & 26; November 9
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Rosedale Technical College (PA)
Open House
October 19 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Register
Saint Francis University (PA)
Fall Open House
November 2; November 9 (SFU Homecoming)
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Saint Vincent College (PA)
Fall Open House
2025 Open House Dates
February 8, March 15, June 14, August 7 Register
Saturday Information Sessions
Sept. 14, Nov. 2, Jan. 11, Feb. 1, April 26, May 17, July 19
RegisterCampus Tour & Visit Options. Register
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) (GA)
SCAD Day Open House Events (Savannah)
October 12; November 9; January 25.
RegisterSCAD Day Open House Events (Atlanta)
October 5; November 2; January 18.
Register
Seton Hall University (NJ)
Undergraduate Open House
On-Campus and Virtual Tours and Information Sessions Register
Seton Hill University (PA)
On-Campus and Virtual Visit Options Register
Slippery Rock University (PA)
Open House
September 14 & 21; October 19; November 2 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Southeastern University (FL)
SEU Preview Open House
September 27; October 18; November 1 & 22
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options
Register
Syracuse University (NY)
Orange Preview Open House
October 14; November 8 & 11
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Temple University (PA)
Open House
September 28; October 6 & 26 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Thomas Aquinas College (MA & CA) *
In-Person and Virtual Visits Register
The Thomas More College of Liberal Arts (NH) *
In-Person Visits Register
University College Dublin
Virtual Open House - North America
Saturday, November 16, 2024 1:00 PM EST
RegisterHave you ever thought about studying in Ireland? University College Dublin, Ireland's global university, invites all interested students to attend a Virtual Open House this fall, to see what opportunities await you in beautiful Ireland! We consider this essential viewing for all undergraduate applicants from North America. The one hour event will take place on Zoom and will feature information on:
- Introductions to your US based supports
- UCD's application process and timeline
- Scholarship Opportunities and US Federal Aid process
- Current North American students sharing advice, experiences, and campus life
- Breakout rooms to learn more about the academic programmes and current students in those majors
- Q&A
University of Alabama
Bama in Your Town - Pittsburgh Edition Register
Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at 6:30
Location: Cadence at the Strip, 2400 Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Event Description: We invite you to join us to meet your local recruiters and representatives from UA's top academic departments, as well as future classmates from your area.
Campus Visit Options Register
University of Dallas (TX) *
Odyssey Day Open House (for seniors)
October 26; November 16 Register
Crusader Preview Open House (for juniors)
On-Campus and Virtual Visits Register
University of Dayton (OH)
Fall Preview Day
September 29; October 20; November 3 Register
Other In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University of Delaware
Blue and Golden Open House
October 5 & 19; November 2 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University of Kentucky
Big Blue Open House
September 14 & 20; October 4, 14 & 25; November 11 & 15 Register
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University of Mary (ND) *
In-Person and Virtual Visit Days Register
University of Notre Dame
ND on the Road - Pittsburgh Thursday, September 26, 2024 at 7:00 PM until 8:00 PM
Register
Location: Pine-Richland High School, 700 Warrendale Road, Gibsonia, PA 15044
Event Description: You and your family are invited to an ND on the Road event presented by Elizabeth Soller, a Notre Dame Admissions Counselor. The session will include information on academic, community, and spiritual life at the University of Notre Dame, as well as insights into the admissions and financial aid processes. This is a great opportunity to get your questions answered.
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University of Pittsburgh
Fall Blue and Gold Days
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University at Buffalo (State University of New York)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University of Scranton (PA)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
University of St. Thomas, Houston (TX) *
University of Virginia
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Vanderbilt University (TN)
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Villanova University (PA)
Fall Preview Days
Virginia Tech
Fall Open House
September 28 & 29; November 2 & 3
RegisterIn-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Walsh University (OH) *
Discover Walsh Open House
Campus Visit Days & Daily Campus Tours Register
Washington & Jefferson College (PA)
Discovery Day Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
West Virginia University
Discover WVU Open House
In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Westminster College (PA)
On-Campus, Virtual and Saturday Visits Register
Widener University (PA)
Widener Day Open House
Visit Opportunities for Undergraduate Students Register
Wyoming Catholic College *
Xavier University (OH)
On-Campus and Virtual Admissions Tours and Presentations Register
Youngstown State University (OH)
Penguin Preview Day (Open House)
October 26; November 15; February 14; June 27
RegisterOther In-Person and Virtual Visit Options Register
Education, Training, and Employment FAIRS
College Fairs
To make the most of a college fair, take some time to read the "Navigating A College Fair" brochure attached below!
West Pittsburgh College Fair
Wednesday, October 9, 2024 6:00 - 8:00 PM
RegisterLocation: Robert Morris University, UPMC Events Center, 6001 University Boulevard, Moon Township, PA 15108
Making The Most of Your Virtual College Tour
What questions should you ask on your virtual campus tour? What are the important aspects of college for you to consider? Click
here for advice on how to make the most of virtual admissions events.
CampusReel College Search Website Features Student-Made Videos
CampusReel is an online college search tool unlike any other. The site features a collection of more than 10,000 student-made videos that enable students to picture themselves on campus, find their best fit, and get excited about researching colleges. To access the videos, create your free account
here.
Future Pilot Seminars for Aspiring Pilots
Future & Active Pilot Advisors (FAPA) Future Pilot Seminars are free, in-person career seminars providing future professional pilots of all ages with objective and independent information about a flying career. FAPA focuses on career changers, students of all ages (and their parents, teachers and school counselors) and separating military personnel (fixed wing, rotor and non-aviation) interested in learning about pathways to a career as a professional pilot.
Upcoming FREE FAPA Future Pilot Seminars:
Future Pilot Seminars begins at 2 PM. Click here for more information or to register.
- September 21 Tampa Bay, FL
- October 26 Fort Worth, TX
- November 23 Phoenix, AZ
- December 14 Fort Lauderdale, FL
Choosing a Major
- Click here to read about the 10 College Majors with the Highest Salaries for Graduates.
- Click here to read about the The 10 worst-paying college majors, five years after graduation.
- Before choosing a college major, check out this article about the most and LEAST regretted choices, according to graduated students.
- Does it really matter if students graduate from a prestigious university? Liz Weston of NerdWallet argues that the choice of major is far more important. You can read the article here.
How Extracurricular Activities Affect College Admissions
You may have been told that participating in sports, clubs, service organizations and other activities will help boost your chances of being accepted to your favorite college or university. While this is true, does that mean you need to exhaust yourself with numerous extracurricular activities in order to have a shot at acceptance? Read
this article to find out what colleges are really looking for when it comes to your out-of-school pursuits.
What to Do If You've Been Waitlisted
Have you been put on the waitlist for one or more of the colleges to which you've applied? If so, it can be difficult to know whether or not to accept other offers, or hold out hope for your dream school. Take a look at
this article for some advice about what to do if you have been waitlisted.
Understanding the Common App
Did you know that the Common App is now accepted by more than 900 colleges and universities? While the Common App is a convenient and cost-effective way for students to submit college applications, the process of completing it can sometimes be confusing. Click here for a general overview of the Common App and why students should consider using it. Click here to read 5 Tips on Completing the Common Application.
7 Warning Signs an Online Degree Is a Scam
FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION
The 2025-26 FAFSA to Open December 1
If you are the parent of a senior who is planning to pursue post-secondary education at a college, university, trade or technical school, you may apply for federal student aid by filling out the
Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or
FAFSA. The new, simplified
2025-26 FAFSA is scheduled to open on December 1, 2024. You may complete the FAFSA
here.
See the FAFSA Tipsheet attached below for helpful advice and instructions for filling out the 2025-26 FAFSA!
BEFORE filling out the FAFSA, the student applying for aid (and at least one parent) each need to create an
FSA ID. The federal government has recently produced a helpful
video that will walk you through the process of creating an FSA ID. It can take
up to three days for new FAFSA IDs to be confirmed, so make sure you allow time for that before you plan to fill out the FAFSA.
See the FAFSA Tipsheet attached below for helpful advice and instructions for filling out the 2025-26 FAFSA.
Click
here for a handy checklist of
documents and information you will need to complete the FAFSA.
Click
here to read about how to avoid
ten common mistakes people make when filling out the FAFSA!
Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) Events
- PHEAA Webinars - Throughout the year, PHEAA conducts free webinars on a variety of college financial aid topics. Webinars titles include:
-
-
- Creating Your Federal Student Aid Account (FSA ID)
- Financial Aid Timeline - Know What to Do When
- Borrow for Education - What Loan Is Right for Me
- Financial Aid and Planning Q & A
- Understanding the (Financial Aid) Offer Letter and Balances
- PHEAA Keystone Student Loan Program
- Searching for Scholarship
- PA State Grant Completion Workshop
Click
here to see a list of upcoming PHEAA webinars with registration links.
Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) Resources
- Student Aid Index -- The Student Aid Index (SAI) is the eligibility index number that your college’s or career school’s financial aid office uses to determine how much federal aid you’re eligible to receive. You can use this Financial Aid Quiz to estimate the range of your Student Aid Index.
- Calculating Cost – Families can estimate the cost of various colleges via the Net Price Calculator (NPC) at collegecost.ed.
Pennsylvania's Low-Cost Way to Pay for College
A
PA Forward Education Loan can provide affordable options for current seniors and new graduates to pay for college. Learn more
here.
How to Capture a 529 Tax Break When A Student Is in College
Did you know that you can get a tax break by depositing money into a 529 account
for as little as 24 hours before using it to pay for college tuition? Click
here to learn more.
Financial Aid: How to Ask Colleges for More Money
Did you know it is possible to negotiate your financial aid package? Read this article from
Money magazine to learn
how to ask colleges for more money (and get it).
Are you wondering how to increase the scholarship dollars you receive as part of your financial aid package(s)? This article in Forbes magazine explains
how high school students can maximize merit-based college financial aid.
TuitionFit Provides True College Cost InformationStudents often have to wait until after they apply and are accepted to find out a college’s actual price. But what’s the point of applying to a school unless you already know that you can afford it?
TuitionFit makes solving that problem easy by letting students and families share the individual college offers they receive.
TuitionFit organizes and anonymously displays that data so that students can all compare real-time college prices. They keep your identity absolutely safe while creating a catalog of colleges' actual prices offered to students like you. Now you can see real college prices and decide whether to apply elsewhere, negotiate a better price, or take the offer you’ve got. Best of all, it's free to create an account. To learn more, please click
here.
Registering for Selective Service
Did you know that in order to be eligible for Federal Student Aid, all young men 18-25 years of age must register for Selective Service? The law says men must register with Selective Service within 30 days of their 18th birthday. That means men are required to register with Selective Service sometime during the 30 days before their 18th birthday, their 18th birthday, and the following 29 days after their 18th birthday – a 60-day registration period. Men who do not register with Selective Service within the 60-day window are technically in violation of the law and should register as soon as possible. Registration is quick and easy. Just have your Social Security Number ready and fill out this
online registration form. Male students 18 years of age and older who have not registered for Selective Service will be prompted to do so while filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
CONTESTS AND AWARDS FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
Daughters of the American Revolution - Essay and Video Contests
The Jacob Ferree Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is sponsoring a high-school level American History essay contest this fall. Students in grades 9-12 are invited to write an essay of 800-1,200 words on the following topic: Select a figure from the era of the American Revolution (1773-1783). Discuss how he or she influenced the course of the American Revolution, who he or she was and his/her contribution to the founding of a new nation. Figures may be any person, whether a well known figure or an everyday man, woman or child who supported the American Revolution in ways large or small. Only one entry per school will be accepted. All grades will be judged together and only one winner selected. Students who wish to participate must email completed essays to their school counselors by Friday, October 18, 2024. One essay will be selected by OLSH to submit to the DAR by the October 27 entry deadline. The student whose essay is selected for submission will receive a Patriots of the American Revolution Essay Participation Certificate. The Chapter winner will receive a winner certificate, a medal, and a $50 monetary award. Before writing your essay, be sure to read the contest rules posted below. If you have any questions, see your school counselor.
In addition to the essay contest, this year the Daughters of the American Revolution is also sponsoring a video contest! The topic for the video contest is "Enjoying a New Kind of Tea Party!" Students are invited to submit original videos of up to 3 minutes in length, based on the following prompt: In the 1770's there was a movement of protests from the Colonists against the British due to taxes and laws. Along the eastern coast a growing number of patriots held "tea" parties. The Boston Tea Party was on December 16, 1773, and the Charleston, SC Tea Party and the Chester Town Tea Party followed in 1774. In October of 1774, 51 women in Edenton, North Carolina, decided to refuse to buy tea from the British because of their high taxes and laws. In 1775, women in Wilmington, North Carolina, burned their tea for the same reasons. Imagine you are one of these women boldly participating in one of these Tea Parties in North Carolina. Give details of either the Edenton Tea Party or Wilmington Tea Party, describe the tea party, and why you would choose to join them. Then explain if you think it was a good decision. For the video contest, submissions will be judged in grade divisions of grades 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, and 11-12. As with the essay contest, each school is allowed only one entry. Students who wish to participate must email videos to their school counselors by Friday, October 18, 2024. One video will be selected by OLSH for submission to the DAR by the October 24 deadline. Prizes have not been specified but are likely similar to those for the essay contest above. Before creating your video, be sure to read the contest guidelines posted below. If you have any questions, see your school counselor.
ACADEMIC AND LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS
Registration is now open for the fall session of the City of Pittsburgh's
Student Police Academy (SPA)! This academy is being offered
FREE OF CHARGE and is available to all students in grades 9-12, whether they reside inside or outside the City of Pittsburgh.
Students who enroll in the academy will participate in a 1.5 hour class that meets once a week for 10 weeks on the campus of Point Park University. The first class will take place at 6:30 PM on Thursday, October 10, 2024.
The academy will expose students to at least three important opportunities that they will experience as if they were cadets training to be police officers in the Pittsburgh Police Academy. First, they will come to better understand the breadth of education and the understanding of policy and governance of relative statues that factor in the decisions that police officers have to make not only a daily basis...often within "split seconds." Second, students will have the opportunity to converse with police officers from our bureau's various divisions (uniform, detectives, bomb squad, S.W.A.T., vice & narcotics, K-9, etc.) and get to know them as both law enforcement officers and also as human beings...and vice-versa! Lastly, students will learn about potential careers in criminal justice and/or as first responders.
The deadline to register for the Student Police Academy is
Friday, September 27, 2024. Please see the flyer attached below for more information. Students can also learn more and
register online here.
Watch this space as new information will be added throughout the school year.
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Looking for scholarships? While we list a number of scholarship opportunities on this page, we encourage you to take advantage of the following scholarship and financial aid resources as well:
Scholarship opportunities without specific deadlines, or with multiple deadlines:
Scholarships for Class of 2025 High School Seniors
Click
here for FastWeb's list of great scholarships available to members of the Class of 2025!
The College Board has introduced a new scholarship program which has no income, GPA, or SAT score requirements and rewards high school students for taking the necessary steps to plan for college. The
BigFuture Scholarships are now available to Class of 2023 high school students who take college planning steps such as building a college list, practicing for the SAT, completing the FAFSA and applying to colleges. Students will earn a chance to win
scholarships of $500–$2,000 by completing up to six individual college planning steps. The more steps they complete, the more scholarships they are eligible to win. Students who complete all six college planning steps will be
eligible to win a $40,000 scholarship! To learn more about the BigFuture Scholarship program, click
here.
Neumann University (PA) is offering a
$3,000 per year, renewable
Catholic High School Grant to any student who meets their admission criteria and enrolls from a Catholic high school. Students are considered for this award at the time of application to the university and will be notified after their admittance to Neumann University. No additional application is required for the award. To learn more, please visit
https://www.neumann.edu/scholarships/.
Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education (
PASSHE) Foundation distributes
scholarships and awards totaling more than $500K annually to our students and universities. Our scholarships support students at every university in the System. Each scholarship applicant must complete a PASSHE Foundation general application before accessing the desired scholarship. Please see the flyer posted below for more information. Each scholarship title is a hyperlink to the application. Scholarship academic levels will be labeled. (Example: So. for Sophmore) Please feel free to contact Special Projects Manager Robert Nelson at
[email protected] if you have any questions.
Deadlines: Deadlines vary by scholarship. Please click on the links in the flyer for more information.
Franciscan University of Steubenville (OH) is offering a new St. Pope John Paul II Scholarship which will provide incoming students with the opportunity to earn up to full tuition. Students from the Dioceses of Greensburg, Altoona-Johnstown, Erie, and Pittsburgh are eligible to apply for this scholarship, which has been made possible by the generosity of benefactors from Western Pennsylvania. The St. Pope John Paul II Scholarship is available for incoming students and transfers who meet the following qualifications:
- Graduate with a 3.0 or better from an accredited Catholic high school or homeschool program within the Dioceses of Greensburg, Altoona-Johnstown, Erie, and Pittsburgh.
- Demonstrate financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Franciscan University Financial Aid Office.
To remain eligible for scholarship funding in subsequent years, recipients must maintain a 3.0 GPA at Franciscan and actively participate in at least one Catholic faith-based activity. To learn more, please click
here.
Scholarship opportunities with specific deadlines:
Sallie Mae will award a $2,000 scholarships each month to the winners of the 2024
$2,000 Sallie Mae Scholarship Sweepstakes. Current high school juniors and seniors (and their parents) are eligible to enter the sweepstakes. You may learn more or enter
here.
Deadlines: September 30, 2024; October 31, 2024; November 30, 2024; December 31, 2024
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program will award $20,000 scholarships to 150 winning applicants. Current high school seniors are eligible to apply. The online application is available here.
Deadline: September 30, 2024
Niche will award a
$25,000 scholarship to the winner of the
Niche $25,000 "No Essay" College Search Scholarship. Current high school seniors and college students who are planning to attend college or university in 2025 are eligible to apply. You can learn more or enter
here.
Deadline: September 30, 2024
A
$10,000 scholarship will be awarded to the winner of the
CollegeXpress Scholarship. Students 13 years of age or older who are legal residents of the United States are eligible to apply, To learn more or enter, click
here.
Deadline: September 30, 2024
Students at any education level, state, field of study, and GPA are eligible to apply for the
$25,000 Bold.org "Be Bold" No-Essay Scholarship contest. Bold.org believes that the world will be shaped by the bold—the fighters, the risk-takers, the earnest overachievers who won’t take no for an answer—the ones who know that a mountain is climbed one step at a time. Bold.org is built for students who are determined to make the climb. As you join the Bold.org platform, you get the opportunity to showcase your goals, achievements, and drive to scholarship panels via your student profile. The
$25,000 “Be Bold” Scholarship is a no-essay scholarship that will be awarded to the applicant with the boldest profile. To us, boldest does not mean “best”, or “most accomplished”. Being bold means being earnest, determined, and moving. The scholarship will be awarded to the student whose profile is most bold, according to these characteristics. To learn more or enter, click
here'
Deadline: October 1, 2024
High school students can win
scholarships of
$1,000 - $35,000 by entering the VFW's annual
Voice of Democracy audio-essay scholarship contest. In order to enter, students must submit a 3-5 minute audio recording of themselves reading an original essay answering the question, "Is America Today Our Forefathers’ Vision?” The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. Other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first place winner from each VFW Department (state) will win a scholarship of at least $1,000. Before submitting your essay, download the 2024-2025 entry form and find your sponsoring local
VFW Post as applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31. For more details or to enter, click
here.
Deadline: October 31, 2024
Sallie Mae will award
twelve $2,000 scholarships to the winners of the
Sallie Mae "No Essay" Scholarship contest. Applicants must be current high school seniors who have the intention of pursuing a career in the STEM fields. To learn more or enter, click
here.
Deadline: November 1, 2024
The
AWS Welder Training Scholarship is for students seeking welder training in a certificate program less than two years in length through a trade school, community college, or other facility providing welder training. Applicants must be planning to attend a trade school, community college, or other facility providing welder training. The scholarship cannot be used toward an associate or bachelor's degree program. Up to 800 - $1,000 Welder Training Scholarships will be awarded annually. Interested students may learn more or apply
here.
Deadline: November 30, 2024
The
Law Offices of of Scott Glovsky will award a
$1,000 scholarship to the winner of the
Power of Resilience Scholarship contest. Applicants should be in either high school or college (undergraduate or graduate program) and must show good academic standing and have a GPA of at least 3.0. To enter, students must write and submit an original essay discussing a personal crisis and what lessons they learned from that experience both in their own personal life and in the larger community. The essay should discuss how resilience can be used to recover from a destructive situation. You can learn more or enter
here.
Deadline: December 31, 2024
EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
Event Technology Training for High School Students at Tech25
Did you know that there is a place in Pittsburgh where you can receive very affordable (low or even no-cost) training in event production? Event production skills are valuable to any student interested in broadcasting, theater production (including high school theater), audio engineering, lighting design, DJ-ing, or digital content creation.
Until recently--outside of 4-year degree programs at CMU and Point Park--Pittsburgh lacked a facility that could train new technicians in the Event Technology industry at a vocational level.
Tech25 is a non-profit organization looking to change this by making Event Technology education and training more accessible. Whether you are already involved in theater, home recording, live sound, video, or are just getting started, Tech25 is ready for you.
This fall Tech25 is offering the following beginner-level courses:
The classes are open to adults and high school students, and NO EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED.
You can learn more about
Tech25 here.
Ace Wire Spring & Form Company, Inc. in McKees Rocks, PA has been an industry leader in the manufacturing of custom precision compression, extension, torsion, magazine springs and custom wire forms since 1939. They employ the finest team of design engineers, experienced managers, and skilled craftsmen. No 4-year degree is required. Employment benefits include: 401K plans, competitive salaries, job training, health care, vacation time, and family-friendly policies.
Ace has created a YouTube video to inform students about the benefits of a career in the manufacturing industry. You can view the video here. The company currently has openings for the following positions: CNC Machine Operator, Shipper, Sales Engineer, General Laborer, Clerical. Anyone interested in applying should email a letter of interest and a resume to John Higgins at
[email protected], or call 412-458-4830. Please reference the position you are applying for in the subject line of your email.
Aroma Stone Hearth Pizza in Clinton, PA has immediate openings for pizza makers, deli artists, front desk hosts for phone calls/register, and delivery drivers. These positions pay between $9.00 and $14.00 per hour.
Multiple delivery driver positions are available. All deliveries are within a 5-mile radius of the shop. Shift scheduling for all positions is extremely flexible! For more information or to apply, please go to
https://aroma.pizza/.
The new Chick-fil-A location in Moon Township will open soon and is in need of part-time workers! To apply, go to www.Hiremecfa.com or scan the QR code on the flyer attached below.
Choolaah Indian BBQ is a growing fast-casual restaurant located in The Pointe at North Fayette shopping area, not far from OLSH. They have immediate part-time openings for students. Here are the details:
At Choolah, we have great school-work-life balance, where we close at 8:00 p.m. and staff are out by 9:00 p.m., so no late nights! We also offer competitive pay and healthy choices on our menu!
PERKS:
*Flexible schedules, no late nights (open 11a.m. - 8 p.m.; out by 9:00 p.m.)
*Starting pay: $12-$13/hr + tips ($2-$3 avg); Total compensation: $14-$15/hr
*Growth opportunities
*Paid time off
*Free meals on shift
*Fundraising event opportunities
*A great friendly work environment/community
FIVE BELOW in Settlers Ridge (Robinson Township) is hiring at least 20 to 25 part-time, seasonal employees for the 2023 holiday season. The hours for these positions will be restricted to evenings and weekends, and the schedule will be flexible to accommodate students' extracurricular activities. The pay is $11 per hour, plus a 20% store discount. Candidates must be at least 16 years of age and have a valid work permit from their home school district. Click
here to apply. For more information, stop in or call the store at 412-787-3987 and ask for Hiring Manager Colleen Quigley.
Juliano’s Restaurant & Catering (Robinson Township) is hiring part-time workers!. Juliano’s promises a friendly, flexible work environment which adheres to the same ethical standards and philosophies we teach at OLSH! Does your current employer promise to help you develope attitudes which will benefit your future career goals and plans? Juliano's does! Hourly rates for employees range from $14-$17 per hour, depending on experience. Click
here to apply, or stop by in person for a paper application. Questions? Call owner Nick Scalise at 412-787-2959. Please see that attached flyer for details.
Lane Steel Hiring High School/College StudentsLane Steel Co., Inc. is hiring summer help for our Steel Service Center in McKees Rocks. This is an ideal opportunity for high school or college students! We are hiring on both shifts, Monday through Friday, Full-Time or Part-Time: First Shift - 6:00AM - 2:30PM Second Shift - 2:30PM - 11PM Pay Rate: $15.00 per hour Contact: Human Resources
[email protected]; phone: 412-777-1700; fax 412-777-1713 Applications can be found on our website
www.lanesteel.com under the Employment tab. We are looking for summer students to help with our warehouse operations. Responsibilities may include training in packaging, helping to prepare orders, general cleanup, and working in our woodshop and lumber yard. You will need to have your own steel toe boots; we will provide all other PPE.
Mission BBQ in Robinson Township is hiring hourly team members for the following positions: Cashier, Cook, Expo, Host, Assistant Kitchen Manager, and Hourly Manager. Benefits include a flexible schedule, no late nights, holidays off, and free shift meals and dining discounts. See the flyer below for more details, or click
here to apply.
The Mooncrest After School Program in Coraopolis (a ministry of the Felician Sisters) has an immediate part-time job opening for a Program Aide. The Program Aide will be responsible for supervising children grades K through 6 in the After School Program, on field trips and/or in the summer camp program. Duties will include helping with homework during the school year; leading summer activities; providing age-appropriate activities; maintaining a safe, clean site; modeling appropriate behavior; and reporting behavioral and academic concerns to the supervisor. The regular hours for this position are 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM Monday-Friday throughout the school year, with occasional extended hours for field trips, and summer camp hours if applicable. Candidates for this position must be at least 18 years of age; be reliable and report for work as scheduled; and care about, love and respect children. PA Criminal, PA Child Abuse and FBI clearances required. Please see the job description posted below for more details.
The
Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) has approved the creation of the
PIAA Junior Officials Program. This program will allow 16 and 17 year old students to officiate 7th through 9th grade (junior high and middle school) contests as long as they have met all the requirements of a registered PIAA official. Those requirements can be found on the PIAA website here:
Become a PIAA Official PIAA will be waiving the registration fees for any student belonging to this program. Students who are interested should fill out the application form found
here and email it to Kim Hill at
[email protected]. Junior officials will be provided a mentor by the chapter they join and will also be provided training by that same chapter.
Zippia.com has a free online search tool for high school students looking for part-time jobs. Go to
https://www.zippia.com/job-search/high-school-jobs/ to see what positions are available in your area.
SERVICE HOUR OPPORTUNITIES
Archangel Gabriel Parish will once again host its annual Nationality Festival from 4:00 - 9:00 PM on October 3, 4 & 5 in Weirauch Hall and the St. Malachy Cafeteria on the St. Malachy Campus (343 Forest Grove Road, Coraopolis, PA 15108). Student (and adult) volunteers are needed in the following areas:
Donut BoothThe donut booth needs volunteers to prep each day of the festival from 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, and to sell the donuts during the festival. Volunteers can call or text Janet Carlini at 412-999-0913 or
[email protected].
Big 6 Wheel
The Big 6 Wheel will return this year, and we need volunteers to help run the booth. If you are interested, please contact Tim Davis at timd845gmail.com.
Funnel Cake Booth
Volunteers are needed to help run the funnel cake booth during the festival. If interested, please contact Susan Wuenstel at
[email protected].
German BoothThe German Booth is in need of volunteers. If interested, please contact Kristy Mosur at
[email protected].
Italian BoothVolunteers are needed to help serving food, especially on Friday, October 4. If interested, please contact Angela Cross at
[email protected].
If you have any questions or wish to learn about other volunteer opportunities at the Nationality Festival, please contact festival co-chairs Tim Davis (timd845gmail.com) and Karl Foerster (kfoersterverizon.net).
Students 18 years of age or older are invited to participate in the volunteer program at
Allegheny General Hospital. AGH offers a flexible volunteer program designed to accommodate the schedules and abilities of people from all backgrounds. As an academic medical center, AGH trains tomorrow's healthcare practitioners using the most innovative and cutting-edge technology. Volunteering at AGH is a great opportunity to become part of this high-energy, multidisciplinary organization. Volunteer opportunities at AGH include: Clerical/Computer; Cup of Comfort Cart; Emergency Department; Eucharistic Minister; Greeter/Guide; Music for the Soul; Nursing Units; Patient Care Cart; Patient Escort; Patient Mail Delivery; Patient Representative; Pet Therapy; and Trauma Wating Room. Complimentary parking and lunch are provided for volunteers! Volunteer positions are also available at other Allegheny Health Network facilities, including Allegheny Valley Hospital Cancer Institute; Canonsburg Hospital; Forbes Hospital; Jefferson Hospital; St. Vincent's Hospital; West Penn Hospital; and Westfield Memorial Hospital. To learn more or to apply online, visit
www.ahn.org/volunteer-application or call 412-359-3067.
The Beaver County Humane Society Thrift Shop is in desperate need of volunteers. The shop is located at 1900 7th Avenue in Beaver Falls, PA. Contact Caitlin Smith, Volunteer Coordinator at 724-775-5801, ext. 101.