NMSF Semi-Finalist notification and process

Paying for College National Merit Aid
21

<p>Our school gave us a blank copy of the complete package. The school’s portion is as follows:</p>

<p>A letter of recommendation and characterization that should outline characteristics that cannot be gleaned from grades and test scores;</p>

<p>A designation of the rigor of coursework taken (below average, average, rigorous, most rigorous);</p>

<p>Checking a box designating the description of the SF in academic achievement, ECs, and Personal Character (from below average to outstanding);</p>

<p>Academic Record;</p>

<p>Senior Year Coursework;</p>

<p>HS Profile Info (Including curriculum info, e.g.-highest level courses offered)</p>

22

<p>If this is the only national merit semifinalist the initial work for the school profile does involve some work (Although I am not excusing their lack of follow through on this). The school profile involves entering a fair amount of data on all course offerings given by the school and how many of those offerings the student has completed.<br>
Keep pushing!</p>

23

<p>So, HVD, any updates?</p>

24

<p>The application is complete, SAT scores have been sent.<br>
Now we wait some more.</p>

<p>I called NMSC directly to confirm. They are so nice, friendly and helpful.
Everyone here on CC has been the same. Thanks you all for your help (and empathy).</p>

25

<p>HVD - just a suggestion, but since college application season is now in full swing and your GC seems overworked/lazy, you should consider writing a Letter of Recommendation for your son and giving it to the GC. He would probably appreciate having one less item to complete and you would retain control over the process.</p>

26

<p>Uh… I don’t care HOW overworked the GC is, a letter of recommendation from a parent (except in situations were a small number of colleges request it) is NOT helpful. What would be helpful is to assist your son in putting together a resume and having your son get that to the GC so all the info on his accomplishments (both academic and non-academic, in and out of school) is readily available.</p>

27

<p>Thanks for all of your advice.
I don’t want to let this particular post spread too far from the original topic or get into too much GC bashing.
But, rest assured, I’m now working VERY closely with my children’s Guidance Counselors, including getting them a complete resume and what they call the parent’s "brag letter.
Thank you again for all of your advice…</p>