The Office of Admissions and University Housing and Dining Services (UHDS) are looking for candidates to fill positions as TOUR and/or UHDS Ambassadors for the 2012-13 school year. U.S. News and World Report listed on-campus tour guide as the best college job to boost your resume.

Ideal Candidates:

* have a wide range of OSU experiences
* enjoy working with people
* have public speaking skills
* are outgoing
* are self-motivated

Benefits of Being a TOUR or UHDS Ambassador:

* excellent work experience in a professional setting
* positively impact future OSU students and families
* work within a dynamic team environment
* competitive pay
* leadership credit and a resume-building experience

To apply for this amazing student job, click this link: http://oregonstate.edu/visitosu/app

-BM

DO NOT miss the opportunity to get financial assistance with your studies this coming year.

You have the ability to work on the application at your own pace, save changes, and edit your application. Do NOT forget to submit your online application by the February 1 deadline. “In progress” applications will not be reviewed.

You will have the opportunity to detail accomplishments in the following categories as well as a 300 word statement describing your goals:
- Activities and Organizations
- Work or Volunteer Experience
- Awards and Honors

If you have any questions as you are completing the scholarship application, please contact us at askengineering@oregonstate.edu

-bv

If you are interested in applying for the University Honors College you will  also need to apply  for this program no later than Februrary 1st! I have provided more information below for those students who are interested.

University Honors College Application: Deadline February 1st
To apply to the University Honors College (UHC)  you must first apply to OSU, and then fill out the separate UHC application. The UHC application includes two essay questions. There is no additional fee to apply to the UHC. There are specific qualifications to be considered for the UHC, to view these requirements visit: http://oregonstate.edu/dept/honors/you-apply.

Best of Luck!

-AS

For updated information as it becomes available, phone 541-737-8000 or visit alert.oregonstate.edu, the university’s emergency information portal.

-cyn

The Office of Admission has announced the Spring Visit program dates for 2012:

Spring Visit | Monday, February 20, 2012

Spring Visit | Friday, March 30, 2012

Spring Visit | Friday, April 6, 2012

Spring Visit | Friday, April 13, 2012

For high school juniors, OSU Spring Visits are a great opportunity to learn the basics about Oregon State University. You’ll spend the day meeting with representatives from key academic and administrative areas, have a chance to tour the campus, and get some time to speak with current OSU students.

For students that have been admitted for fall 2012, there will also be sessions that will discuss the next steps in the enrollment process including financial aid and scholarship awards, paying the Advance Tuition Deposit (ATD), housing choices and the advising and registration process at START programs during the summer. Also, new this year, we will have stations dedicated for families that wish to pay their ATD at the event.

To register for a Spring Visit event, visit http://oregonstate.edu/visitosu/open-house-programs.

-bv

1. Does OSU offer a Psychology degree?

Yes, it is a nationally top ranked psychology program.  At OSU we pride ourselves on the research that is conducted by students/professors and the psychology program is one that really encourages students to participate in psychology based research.

Psychology Degree Info

2. Does OSU have a Nursing Program?

We do not, However we do offer all the prerequisite courses that a student needs to take before applying to nursing school of your choice.  Our Advisors do a great job of working with students interested in applying to a nursing school and making sure they are on track.

Pre-Nursing FAQ

3. Do I have to live on Campus my first year and where can I live?

OSU does not have a first year student live in requirement, it is a personal choice.  Over 80% of first year students choose to live on campus.  Students who live on campus their first year have a higher GPA and it’s a great environment to meet new people and make lifetime connections.

 Housing Info

4. Are you the Beavers or the Ducks?

Home of the Beavers!

5. What is the weather like in Corvallis?

It does tend to be on the rainy side, I myself am from Eastern Oregon so I am used to dry weather with blazing summers and freezing winters.   I would just suggest investing in a good rain coat and boots.  My favorite season was fall because the temperature was in the 60/70’s and all leaves changing colors was amazing to see all around campus.

6. What is there to do in Corvallis?

There is always something going on at OSU/Corvallis.  There are several events, concerts, games going on year round at OSU.  There are over 300 clubs students can be a part of to become more involved on campus or have something fun to do.  Another great thing about OSU is the location.  We are close to the Coast if you want to have a fun beach weekend with friends and also about 90 minutes from Portland for shopping or enjoy the wonders of a big city. For the students interested in nature there are several hiking, biking, and running trail close by.

About Corvallis

7. Do you prefer the SAT or ACT and what is the required score?

It is up to the student whichever one they decide to take.   If you do decide to take the ACT make sure you also take the writing portion. There is no minimum score to apply however when it comes to scholarships your SAT or ACT test score will be taken into consideration, we encourage students to do the best they can.

OSU Admissions Info

 8. Can I study abroad?

Yes, we have over 200 study abroad programs a student can choose from depending on their major.  We have study abroad counselors who can work with students and help find the right program for you.

Study Abroad Info

9. Do you have WUE (Western Undergraduate Exchange)?

For out of state students we do not participate in WUE however we do offer scholarships that are comparable to what WUE would cover.  In order to apply for those you need to have completed your admissions application and turned in all required materials before the February 1^st deadline. We also encourage student to look at over avenues for scholarships like around your community,scholarship websites, and filling out your FAFSA.  For online scholarship resources, you should never have to submit your bank account or credit card number, it may be a scam.

 Financial Aid Info

10. Why should I go to OSU?

We are Oregon’s Research institution, we are one of the only two University’s in the U.S. to have all 4 designation grants which are the Land, Sun, Sea , and Space Grant.  What that means for our students is there are several opportunities for students to get involved in research and great hands on education.  At the end of the day it’s a personal choice and the best way to make the decision is to see what OSU has to offer students for yourself by coming and scheduling a campus visit.

 Schedule a Campus Visit

-GG

College Goal Oregon is a program that stems from College Goal Sunday, which started in Indiana in 1989 and has now been implemented in 47 states. Thisprogram is a partnership between OSAC, Oregon Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, the YMCA, and financial support from The Lumina Foundation for Education .

College Goal Oregon

Oregon Goal College 2012 will be occurring on the Saturdays of January 7^th, 14^th, 21^st, and 28^th at various locations throughout Oregon. To find a site and date for you to attend, please visit www.collegegoaloregon.gov. What documents should you bring with you? Check it out below:

• Yourself and parent/guardian if possible
• Most recent completed federal tax form. If you haven’t filled out your taxes, estimate. You can send in the exact numbers later
• Current value of assets, including cash, checking, savings, investments, and value of business/farm, if any
• Social security numbers of student and parents
• Driver’s license (if any)
• Alien registration card (if you are not a U.S. citizen.)

Don’t miss out on such a great opportunity!

Oregon State University Financial Aid and Scholarships: http://oregonstate.edu/financialaid/

-AG

Women’s Building

Bay Area seniors and their families are invited to our annual informational session in Walnut Creek, California.  Explore OSU will be held at Embassy Suites – Walnut Creek on Sunday, October 23^rd at 3pm.  The afternoon reception will introduce our guests to OSU.  Information that will be presented during Explore OSU include our Academic Programs, Advanced Credit Opportunities for AP or IB, Financial Aid and Scholarships, Student Life and Extra Curricular Activities, Research Opportunities, International Programs and more.

Pre-registration for the event is strongly encouraged. Bay Area students may RSVP for the program as well as find directions and parking information by visiting the following website:  http://oregonstate.edu/exploreosu/.

Explore OSU Bay Area
Embassy Suites – Walnut Creek
1345 Treat Boulevard
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
Event Date: Sunday, October 23rd
Event Start Time: 3pm
We hope all students are settling into the school year well and gearing up for the opportunities that lie ahead!

Thanks for reading…
cyn

Memorial Union Quad

Seattle area seniors and their families are invited to our annual informational sessions in Bellevue, Washington.  Explore OSU will be held at the Bellevue Art Museum on Thursday, October 20th.  There will be two sessions held at 6pm and 7:30pm.  Students should choose only one session to attend.  Both evening receptions will introduce our guests to our university.  Information that will be presented during Explore OSU include our Academic Programs, Advanced Credit Opportunities for AP or IB, Financial Aid and Scholarships, Student Life and Extra Curricular Activities, Research Opportunities, International Programs and more.

Pre-registration for the event is strongly encouraged. Students may RSVP for the program as well as find directions and parking information by visiting the following website:  http://oregonstate.edu/exploreosu/.

Explore OSU Bellevue
Bellevue Art Museum
510 Bellevue Way NE
Bellevue, WA 98004
Event Date: Thursday, October 20th
Event Start Time: 6pm and 7:15pm

Information will be identical at both sessions so please choose one time that is most convenient.  Space is limited so please don’t forget to RSVP at http://oregonstate.edu/exploreosu.  We hope all students are settling into the school year well and gearing up for the opportunities that lie ahead!

Thanks for reading…
cyn

Fall Visit

Whether you are a senior trying to decide which college to attend or a junior just starting the college selection process, Preview OSU (Friday, October 14th) and Beaver Open House (Saturday, October 22nd) is a great way to discover more about Oregon State University. Select one of our fall visit programs and spend a day with representatives from key academic and administrative areas. You’ll also have a chance to tour the campus, learn about scholarships and financial aid opportunities and talk to OSU students about why they chose to be part of Beaver Nation.

Space is limited so please don’t forget to RSVP by clicking here.

If you cannot attend one of the fall visit programs, we invite you and your family to campus during a Monday through Friday tour. Please click hereto schedule a daily tour (Monday – Friday). If you have questions, please call the Office of Admissions at 1-800-291-4192 or email us at osuadmit@oregonstate.edu

Thanks for reading…
cyn

Oregon’s seven public universities are getting ready to kick off the annual Oregon University System Fall Tour! Last year, the tour reached an estimated 20,000 students at over 200 public and private high schools across the state. New to the tour this year is OSU’s Cascades campus.

During the tour, students are able to receive information about the eight different campuses as well as learn and ask questions about financial aid, core college requirements, and other opportunities that are available to them in helping plan their future.

The tour kicks off next Monday, September 26^th and goes through October 28^th. A brief summary of the tour schedule is below. To view the full schedule and contact your county’s admission advisor, visit http://oregonstate.edu/admissions/recruit-map-0.

Week of Sept 26: Beaverton / Hillsboro & Southern Oregon
Week of Oct 3: Eastern Oregon & Central Oregon
Week of Oct 10: Salem & Portland
Week of Oct 17: Portland & Willamette Valley
Week of Oct 24: Eugene & Oregon Coast

In a statement released through OUS, Joe Holliday, the OUS Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Success Initiatives stated that “The fall tour is a truly a remarkable collaboration between all of our campus admissions personnel and Oregon high schools. High school students and counselors value and appreciate the events and face-to-face conversations with admissions staff, and the admissions reps do a great job expanding students’ awareness of the wide variety of diverse and quality programs our public universities offer. Many high school students don’t know just how many opportunities they have right here in Oregon.”

GO BEAVS!
-kg

Questions regarding and submissions of this scholarship can be directed to the Scholarship Committee via email.

Doc Gilfillan 2011 OSU Scholarship Application

Doc Gilfillan 2011 Scholarship Info Sheet

-bv

Scholarship Application Deadline: Priority Deadline February 1st
“Incoming students are automatically considered for University wide scholarships based on their application for admission and completion of the scholarship portion of the application. Complete applications must be submitted by February 1st for students planning to enter school Fall 2011. Applications filed after this deadline will not be considered for scholarships but will be considered for admission to the university.” Make sure you get all your documents in by this deadline, including your online application, transcripts and SAT/ACT scores if you want to be considered for these scholarships! For a list of the scholarships visit: http://oregonstate.edu/financialaid/osu-scholarships.

University Honors College Application: Deadline February 1st
To apply to the University Honors College (UHC) you must first apply to OSU, and then fill out the separate UHC application. The UHC application includes two essay questions. There is no additional fee to apply to the UHC. There are specific qualifications to be considered for the UHC, to view these requirements visit: http://oregonstate.edu/dept/honors/you-apply.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Priority Deadline February 28th
This FAFSA priority deadline is “used to determine eligibility for some need based aid programs as well as State and Institutional funds.” Make sure to list Oregon State University on the FAFSA form, Oregon State’s school code is 003210. To get more information about Financial Aid at OSU visit: http://oregonstate.edu/financialaid/how-do-i-apply-financial-aid.

Be an eager beaver and don’t wait until the last minute to get your apps in! If you have any questions regarding the information above please contact the Office of Admissions at 1-800-291-4192 or email osuadmit@oregonstate.edu.

-KT

Women's Building

Whether you are a senior trying to decide which college to attend or a junior just starting the college selection process, the Spring Visit program is a great way to learn more about Oregon State University.  There four program dates : Monday, February 21st, 2011, Friday, March 25th, 2011, Friday, April 1st, 2011 and Friday, April 8th, 2011.  Select one of our Spring Visits and spend an afternoon meeting with representatives from key academic and administrative areas. You’ll also have a chance to tour the campus and talk to OSU students about why they chose to be part of Beaver Nation.

Click here to sign up NOW!

Have questions?  Call the Office of Admissions at 1-800-291-4192 or email us at osuadmit@oregonstate.edu

Thanks for reading…
cyn

College Goal Oregon is a free event designed to help Oregon college-bound students and their families with the financial aid application process. These events are open to everyone and financial aid professionals will even be there to help attendees complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Oregon Student Assistance Commission (OSAC) scholarship application. 

If you can’t attend one of these events there are still other opportunities for you to learn about the financial aid process. College Goal Oregon hosts FAFSA Fridays that are free monthly online training webinarsfor Oregon college-bound students and their parents.

To learn more about one of these events or find an event near you go to http://collegegoaloregon.gov.

To our Community College Partners:
I want to bring to your attention a scholarship opportunity for students transferring from a Community College in Oregon to the University Honors College at Oregon State University. This opportunity is supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation. The grant supports students in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) disciplines who have unmet financial need. Up to 20 one-year scholarships of up to $5,000 will be awarded for each of the next four years. Scholarship awardees will participate in a program designed to enhance their transition to the University.

We are now recruiting the second group of transfer students. Applications to the University Honors College are due by Feb. 1st. So we are asking your help in getting the word out. If you know of specific students who might be interested and eligible, please forward the attached poster or have them contact me directly. We would be most grateful if you would print and post the attached poster, announce the program in class, forward the poster to appropriate list serves, or otherwise help us to get the word out. And, if there would be a convenient time for one of us to come to your campus and discuss the program, please let us know.

In addition to the attached poster advertising the program, we have also attached a brief fact sheet with additional information about the program. You can visit the scholarship web page at to learn more about the program and to find the on-line application. And, of course, you can contact me directly.

I look forward to working with you to identify deserving and qualified students to take advantage of this opportunity.
Dan Arp,
Dean, University Honors College

Transition to University and Careers Program
Oregon State University

NSF Grant: Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S-STEM)
Duration: April 1, 2010 to March 31, 2015
Objective: The Transition to University and Careers Program aims to enhance successful transition for qualified science, technology, engineering and mathematics students from any Community College (including the seventeen partner Community Colleges in Oregon) to the University Honors College at Oregon State University. Scholars will participate in a program to ease the transition to University life.
Scholarship: One year, up to $5,000. Up to 20 scholarships awarded annually.
Application:
Applicants must:
•Currently be enrolled in a Community College. (Degree Partnership students are welcome.)
•Have a cumulative college GPA of at least 3.25.
•Have unmet financial need as documented by FAFSA.
•Transfer to OSU (Corvallis campus) with a declared major in one of the STEM disciplines.
•Apply to the University Honors College by February 1st.
•Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.

OSU Faculty Participants:
Dan Arp, University Honors College
Skip Rochefort, Chemical Engineering
Jim Liburdy, Mechanical Engineering
Kevin Ahern, Biochemistry and Biophysics
Janine Trempy, Microbiology

For more information:
University Honors College, visit oregonstate.edu/dept/honors/
or contact Gildha Cumming at 541-737-6400, gildha.cumming@oregonstate.edu
Transition to University Careers Program, contact Dan Arp, 541-737-6400 dan.j.arp@oregonstate.edu

-bv

-EVA

Oregon State University has been named a Best Buy School in the upcoming edition of “The Fiske Guide to Colleges” for 2011.

The revised and updated 2011 edition features more than 300 colleges and universities, and names 45 institutions – 21 public and 24 private – as Best Buys. These institutions fall into the inexpensive or moderate price category with four- or five-star academic ratings.

Best Buy schools are named according to the quality of a

cademic offerings in relation to the cost of attendance.

“The Fiske Guide to College” accepts no consulting, advertising, or other fees from colleges and has no outside relationship with colleges working on its behalf.

Fiske Best Buy College 2011

Also, “The Fiske Guide to Colleges” named OSU as “Best Buy College” a few years ago.  Below is a brief look at the guide’s review of OSU in 2009.

“In the face of today’s skyrocketing tuition rates, students and families in all economic circumstances are looking for ways to get the best value for their education dollar,” read the guide. “Fortunately, there are some bargains to be found in higher education; it just takes a bit of shopping around with a little guidance along the way.”

In the guide’s lengthy entry on OSU, it notes that “OSU “is strong in many departments, including biotechnology, forestry and engineering. Says one satisfied freshman, ‘If you are looking for a college that is close-knit and has a friendly college town, OSU is the place to go!’”

As always…thanks for reading.
CYN

2010 Spring Visit

This year’s Spring Visits have come to a close.  They were a huge success thanks to the hard work and diligent coordination from the folks in the Campus Visitor Center.

What is a Spring Visit you may ask?  The programs are offered multiple times during the spring and are a full one day event.  They are a wonderful opportunity for prospective students and their family members to learn the basics about Oregon State University.  Some of the highlights during the Spring Visit experience are:  Campus and housing tours, mini breakout sessions called, Beaver Briefings, Academic presentations, Financial Aid and Scholarship information, how to apply, an Engineering tour, Honors College presentation and much much more!

In fact, it was such a powerful program for prospective individuals; the Gazette Times did a piece about the visit experience.  Here is a snippet of the article:

Friday was the second of four planned spring campus visit programs at OSU. “We’re probably pushing just over 1,000 (parents and students). That’s normal,” said Carl Thomas, associate director of campus visits and programs. The majority of students and parents were from Oregon; others came from Arizona, Hawaii, Colorado, California, Kansas, Ohio, Illinois, Idaho and Washington.

According to a national survey, 76 percent of students say the campus visit is the number one decision-maker when they choose a school, Thomas said.

Many, like Jimmy, were just looking: looking at the campus, at housing and dining options, into financial aid and academic program offerings.

Tour ambassador DJ Zissen, a senior in human development and family sciences, gathered a group of 50 at the foot of the Memorial Union steps for a campus tour.

He led them under rain-soaked magnolia blossoms, past the Valley Library, pointing out the architecture and clock tower of Benton Hall, the oldest building on campus. “It once housed the entire college,” Zissen said.

Eiayas Bajracharya, 17, from Portland, traveled at the back of the pack. “My intention is to major in engineering.” He came with his parents and younger brother, Aeijan, 10.

“We like this college for engineering courses,” said his father, Ekamana. “He wants to start here.”

“Walk this way,” said Zissen, his voice at times competing with the noise of leaf blowers, a jackhammer and an idling 18-wheeler.

Taking notes, Bryan Beals, 16, from Eugene, wasn’t sure where he’ll attend college or what he wants to study.

“The biggest thing is the diversity of majors,” said Beals. “I’m kinda split between engineering and social sciences.”

Fit was his second-most-important criterion. “I haven’t found the perfect fit yet.”

“Where’s the nearest food?” Beals called out to Zissen when they stopped near Waldo Hall. He inquired about the payment system and made notes.

Food was a hot topic on both the campus and housing tours.

“If you keep food in the refrigerator, is it there later?” Nancy Kaste asked as she passed through a kitchen in Sackett Hall. “Moms wanna make sure their kids are well-fed.”

Her daughter, Kristen, 18, from Tillamook, didn’t have many questions. She was torn between Sackett and Wilson Halls for housing. Otherwise, she knew what she wanted.

“OSU is pretty much …” Kristen said. “Top of the list,” mom said, finishing the sentence. Kristen said, “I’m going to explore the field of agriculture and then decide what I like.”

“To me, college was the highlight of growing up,” her mother said. “I hope she has just as good a time.”

If you missed out on the Spring Visit programs this year that is ok.  You can schedule your campus visit online or by calling 800-291-4192 or 541-737-2626 and asking for the Student Visitor Center.   Campus tours are available Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Please check the site soon for summer tour hours.

As always….thanks for reading!
CYN

U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan announced a new streamlined Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) just in time for students and families to complete the 2010-11 application. Improvements include a much more user-friendly online format and a large reduction in the number of questions asked. A total of 22 questions are eliminated, representing a 28% reduction in questions, and 17 screens are eliminated, a reduction of 65% of web screens.

These updates are in addition to those announced in August 2009. The full list of the most recent improvements can be found in the Simplification Update form from the Department of Education. Here are a few highlights:
• Student and parent sections are clearly identified with side tabs.
• Status indicators guide applicants through web modules, such as demographics, basic eligibility, and dependency status.
• The display of the help text and instructions, which takes up much of the web screen on the 2009-10 form, is enhanced by the use of help text that disappears when you are no longer in a particular section.
• Students with low incomes will no longer be asked for asset information, which is not used to determine their aid eligibility.
• Questions regarding additional financial information and untaxed income are presented in a simplified keyword “check box” format on one page.
Later this month, students applying for aid for the spring semester using the 2009-2010 FAFSA will be able to retrieve and import their tax data from the IRS. In the summer of 2010, students applying for aid in the 2010-11 year will also be able to apply for aid using their tax data. In this process, a link to the IRS will display in the income section of the FAFSA with a message that students may access the IRS site to retrieve income information to complete the application.

Dr. Jill Biden blogged about the new FAFSA on the White House Blog. Be sure to check out the NACAC Admitted Blog post on the FAFSA updates, which also provides links to helpful financial aid information.

2010-11 FAFSA Available
The final version of the 2010-2011 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available in English and Spanish. The PDF documents, among the FAFSA filing options available online, can be downloaded by schools and students to complete for submission. Corresponding FAFSA on the Web Worksheets are also available to assist students and families in completing the FAFSA.

English
2010-11 FAFSA
2010-11 FAFSA on the Web Worksheet

Spanish
2010-11 FAFSA
2010-11 FAFSA on the Web Worksheet

PLEASE NOTE: the correct and free FAFSA website is a .GOV site NOT a .com website.
-bv

To our Community College Partners:

I want to bring to your attention a new scholarship opportunity for students transferring from a Community College in Oregon to the University Honors College at Oregon State University. This opportunity is supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation. The grant supports students in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) disciplines who have unmet financial need. Up to 20 one-year scholarships of $5,000 each will be awarded for each of the next five years. Scholarship awardees will participate in a program designed to enhance their transition to the University.

We are now recruiting the first group of transfer students. Time is short this year because applications to the University Honors College are due on Feb. 1st. So we are asking your help in getting the word out. If you know of specific students who might be interested and eligible, please forward the attached poster or have them contact me directly. We would be most grateful if you would print and post the attached poster, announce the program in class, forward the poster to appropriate list serves, or otherwise help us to get the word out. And, if there would be a convenient time for one of us to come to your campus and discuss the program, please let us know.

In addition to the attached poster advertising the program, we have also attached a brief fact sheet with additional information about the program. You can visit the scholarship web page at oregonstate.edu/dept/honors/future/scholarships/S-STEM to learn more about the program and to find the on-line application. And, of course, you can contact me directly.

I look forward to working with you to identify deserving and qualified students to take advantage of this opportunity.

Dan

Details are below as well as contact information. Please take a look at this lucrative scholarship opportunity!

-bv

Transition to University and Careers Program
Oregon State University
NSF Grant: Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (SSTEM)
Duration: April 1, 2010 to March 31, 2015
Objective: The Transition to University and Careers Program aims to enhance
successful transition for qualified science, technology, engineering and mathematics
students from any of the seventeen partner Community Colleges in Oregon to the
University Honors College at Oregon State University. Scholars will participate in a
program to ease the transition to University life.

Scholarship: One year, $5,000. Up to 20 scholarships awarded annually.
Applicants must:
•Currently be enrolled at one of the 17 community colleges in Oregon. (Degree
Partnership students are welcome.)
•Have a cumulative college GPA of at least 3.25.
•Have unmet financial need as documented by FAFSA.
•Transfer to OSU with a declared major in one of the STEM disciplines.
•Apply to the University Honors College by February 1st.
•Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.

Application:For more information:
University Honors College, visit oregonstate.edu/dept/honors/ or contact Gildha
Cumming at 541-737-6400, gildha.cumming AT oregonstate.edu

Transition to University Careers Program, contact Dan Arp, 541-737-6400
dan.j.arp AT oregonstate.edu

Top college choices
Oregon State (50)
University of Oregon (37)
University of Washington (22)
George Fox (16)
University of Portland (14)

In an accompanying article, Berenise Delgado, a valedictorian from Roosevelt High School in Portland, talks of her dream to attend OSU to be an engineer but the challenges of affording that dream. Oregon State’s ‘Bridge to Success‘ program is designed for those in state students who struggle with college costs.

From the article:

If she has to, she says, she’ll try to take out loans. “Whatever it takes, I’m going to college.”

Late last week, Delgado learned that she’s been awarded a series of grants and scholarships that will allow her to attend Oregon State and even cover the cost of books.

“I’m ready,” she says after looking over the paperwork.

Berenise Delgado-future OSU Beaver; photo courtesy of The Oregonian

Miss Delgado, we are ready for you. Welcome to Oregon State!
-bv

Addendum 12:19pm- Looks like we get some pretty good non-residents as well.

MICHIGAN CITY – Marquette Catholic High School as named 10 Summa Cum Laude seniors, all with a cumulative GPA of 4.0 or higher…Belinda Ng, daughter of Yam Ng, Michigan City, and Sook Ng, Michigan City, will attend Oregon State University to major in apparel design and business.

Memberships and Participation: National Honor Society, dance team, captain, Blazer Award, tennis, French Club vice president, NYLC, volunteer with St. Stan’s volleyball team, drama club, major role in spring musical ’09 and fall play ’08.

Courtesy of The News-Dispatch.

Rodgers duo to discuss what college has done for them

KCC is an annual event designed to assist students, especially those in underrepresented groups including first-generation and low-income, to better understand what college, college academics and the college search process is all about. KCC aims for students to seriously consider college as an option after high school, regardless of where they may choose to attend. Carl Thomas, associate director of admissions for campus visits and programs, sees the altruistic nature of the program,

“We are about promoting higher education. If they come to OSU, great. If they attend a different school, great. We have achieved our goal.”

Thanks to Paul Buker, Oregonian beat writer for noticing.

Finally, the brothers Rodgers, who haven’t been around that long but are already achieving legendary status in these parts, are scheduled to be keynote speakers Saturday at OSU’s annual “Kaleidoscope of Colleges and Cultures” program that celebrates the academic and cultural atmosphere at the school. … James and little brother Quizz are true multi-taskers.

-bv

http://oregonstate.edu/cla/student_opp/scholarships

The deadline for all applications is 5:00 p.m. Friday, April 3, 2009.

The scholarship committee would appreciate your assistance in getting the word about the scholarships. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Thank you.

Kathy Fultz
Academic Advisor
College of Liberal Arts
(541) 737-1675

Best of luck to all applying!
-bv

OSU College of Engineering Scholarships

From the College of Engineering at OSU:

The College of Engineering scholarship application for the 2009-2010 academic year is now available at: https://secure.engr.oregonstate.edu/scholarship/

You are eligible to apply if you are either: (1) a current OSU COE student OR (2) a transfer student applying for Fall, 2009 professional school program admission.

We highly encourage all current students to submit an application.

ALL APPLICATIONS DUE BY FEBRUARY 1, 2009. The COE does not make any exceptions to the application deadline so please apply early!

For more information, visit the CoE website.

-bv

Jay Matthews from the Washington Post:

American education has a tattered reputation in many respects, except for our colleges and universities. They are world leaders in quality and accessibility. The desire to provide our children the best in higher education unites Americans in a unique way. So it dismays me to report that on one issue, the leaders of nearly every four-year college in the country have shown appalling ignorance and hypocrisy. They say they want high schools to provide challenging courses for students thinking of college, but at the same time they discriminate against the most demanding college-level program in high school: International Baccalaureate.

IB has a very strong and challenging requirements to complete not only the coursework but the full diploma. While AP exams are more prevalent in U.S. schools, to say that they are of greater value than an IB course or diploma is, in my opinion false. Again, Jay Matthews:

It is important to note that AP, like IB, is a terrific program, well worth college credit for students who do well on its exams. But many experts say IB is more challenging. IB puts more emphasis on analysis and writing, including requiring a 4,000-word essay for students seeking a full IB diploma. IB final exams are five hours long and rarely have multiple-choice questions, whereas AP exams are three hours and about half multiple choice.

Oregon State believes this enough to provide automatic scholarship and sophomore standing if a student completes an IB diploma program. These students are tailor-made for the rigors of college, especially that of a research university like Oregon State University.

-bv

More students are taking advantage of Oregon State University’s “Bridge to Success� program than its creators expected. Announced last spring to begin with this fall’s term, the program was expected to cover fees and tuition for about 10 percent of its Oregon students, or about 1,500 people.

OSU officials, however, have approved awards for some 2,400 students, about half of whom have income levels that qualify them for assistance with books and supplies.

-snip-

“The Campaign for OSU is doing well, and it has helped us with increased gift aid we can use,� said Kate Peterson, assistant provost for enrollment management and one of the creators of the Bridge to Success program.

This is outstanding news! We at the Office of Admissions are thrilled to see more Oregonians with the greatest need getting help. Big credit goes to the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships for creating and managing the Bridge to Success and to the fundraisers with the Campaign for OSU for bringing in more and more resources!!

-jm

You’re worried about paying for college, and the letter that just arrived in your mailbox sounds like an answer to those worries. It’s inviting you to a “free” presentation on college financial aid, given by a “financial aid expert” who has helped other families save “thousands of dollars.” What could it hurt to attend?

The answer in one word: Plenty.
…

I actually get questions about financial aid seminars and “presentations” quite often. The long and short of it is that there is no way a paid consultant can do anything for you in terms of seeking out scholarships that you can’t do for yourself for free. Furthermore, I would recommend that you NEVER pay to have someone search out scholarships for you or your daughter/son.

The big red flag, though, is any sort of guarantee. Scholarships are almost always competitive and usually have some sort of minimum qualification. There is NO WAY a consultant can guarantee you a certain amount in scholarship dollars; the process is just too subjective.

Many high schools, colleges and universities offer financial aid information nights. These are almost without exception not for profit and totally on the up and up. If you are ever unsure about the legitimacy of a scholarship program or consultant, you should always ask your high school guidance counselor. You can even approach an admissions advisor/counselor if you are really confused about a service…We would love to take a little extra time to educate you on your resources than have you throw your/your family’s hard earned money away.

Some scholarship resources that I would recommend:

Fastweb.com and its informational partner finaid.org: free for the student, one application allows Fastweb to suggest many different programs that you may qualify for.

OSAC (Oregon Student Assistance Commission, Oregon students only): One application qualifies you for thousands of Oregon based awards…As an added bonus, the OSAC uses an essay that is patterned after OSU’s Insight Resume.

What scholarship search resources are you using? Let us know in the comment section.

Happy applying!!

-jm

OSU’s regular application deadline is listed as Sept. 1st on collegeboard.com and I suspect that it may be a type-o. My daughter is looking into OSU for Fall 2009. Can you also explain the difference between priority and regular applications? Thanks.

Lisa brings up a good question. Our actual final application deadline is September 1st before the fall term begins. So, for students wishing to enter the university for fall of 2009, the final deadline for admission is Sept. 1, 2009.

The second part of Lisa’s question deals with the “priority deadline”. Our priority deadline is for scholarship consideration. This year’s priority deadline is February 1st. To put it more direct terms: if a student applying for fall 2009 wishes to be considered for university scholarships, she would need to apply by February 1st 2009.

To reiterate some previous knowledge: the application for admission for fall 2009 is currently available online only. We will begin sending out admission decisions September 15th.

Hope this helps, Lisa! Give us a call: 1.800.291.4192 if you have any other questions.

Happy applying!

-jm

You applied for admission and completed the scholarship app. Now, you might be wondering if there are other ways for you to apply for scholarships at OSU. Thanks to our fearless web guru, Dan Crouch, here’s a list of links to scholarship applications by college.

Ag Science

Business

Education

Engineering: (For Women and Minorities. entering student COE scholarships are awarded through the OSU scholarship app)

Forestry:

Grad School

Health and Human Services

Liberal Arts

Pharmacy

Science

Honors College:

Vet Med

Happy applying!

-jm