Both the ACT and SAT tests are used for acceptance into a university in Omaha and across the country.
With the 2024-25 school year coming to an end, seniors are preparing to graduate and go to college. Rachelle Vidal, a guidance counselor at Omaha South, shares 10 tips for upcoming graduates.
What are some steps juniors and seniors should take to prepare for college?
Pass with As and Bs in classes. Get involved inside and outside of school with extracurricular activities. Volunteer, get internships and research schools of interest.
What is the importance of the ACT and SAT, and how should students prepare for them?
ACT and SAT could potentially give you free college. They could also help you qualify for scholarships. The ACT and SAT tests give you feedback on areas you may need to work on. To prepare there are lots of free sites that have ACT practice questions, and a lot of times South has free classes for ACT preparations. I think test-taking skills are the biggest to prepare with.
How can students find and apply for scholarships?
We have SchooLinks, and all of the scholarships that we know of are uploaded on there. My advice for scholarships is never give out too much information to find scholarships because sometimes they are scams. Fast web or EducationQuest are good resources as well as applying for scholarships at that college.
What are some common mistakes students make on college applications?
Students usually do not use their full legal name. They usually put that they are a graduate instead of an undergraduate. They put in the wrong major, and then they do not qualify for the right scholarships.
What should students do the summer before they start college?
This is a good time to hang out with friends and family because you might not see them again, or you might grow apart. This is also a good time to work and save money.
What should students look for in colleges?
They should look for average class size, local amenities, and does the college offer tutoring. That extra help you might need and talking to the kids that go there and getting their points of view are also important.
What resources are available at South to prepare students for college?
We have our honors and AP classes. We have senior symposium. We also have advisement where students are able to prepare on SchooLinks, not only for researching schools, but also learning about skills to do well. Every teacher does a really good job in doing their part to prepare students.
What are some things students should take to college with them?
If they have documentation for accommodations, they should definitely take those. I also think taking an open mind and a drive to complete school is important. Also, take a positive attitude.
What are the most important qualities colleges look for in students? Extracurricular engagement, volunteer work and interest in the college.
What is one piece of advice you would give to students who are graduating?
Keep reaching toward your goals, and don’t give up. It only gets harder.