How to Write a Professional Email for College

Last updated June 30, 2026

In this article

Whether you’re applying for a job, communicating with educators, or exploring careers, knowing how to write professional emails is essential. In this article, we show you how to write a professional email with a few real-life examples!

Applying for a Job

While many companies use specific hiring platforms for candidates to submit job applications, some may accept applications over email. When applying for a job over email, you will need a few items to make a strong first impression:

  • Your resume. Every job you apply forwill require you to submit a resume. Your resume should include things like your work and volunteer experience, academic history, and skills or achievements. Before applying, submit your resume to us for free review and feedback!
  • Your cover letter. While not every job you apply for will require you to submit a cover letter, we recommend that you write one anyway. You can draft a basic cover letter and tailor it to each position you apply for. Regardless of the position you’re applying for, it’s important to make sure that your cover letter clearly explains your interest in the position and the experiences (work, volunteer, etc.) that make you the best candidate for it. Both your resume and cover letter should be attached to the email you send for the hiring manager’s review.
  • Your professional email. Because you’re attaching your resume and cover letter, your email to the hiring manager can be brief. In your email, you will want to introduce yourself, briefly explain your interest in the position, and direct the hiring manager toward your resume and cover letter for review. 

Sample Email

Subject: Interest in [name of position] at [name of company]

Dear [hiring manager’s name],

My name is ____, and I am a senior at ____. I recently came across the [name of position] opening at [name of company], and I wanted to express my strong interest in this opportunity.

As a self-motivated individual with experience as a [insert job or volunteer experience here], I believe I have the skills and passion necessary to thrive in this role. 

I am eager to learn more about the [name of position] role and how I can contribute to the team at [name of company]. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my background and interests align with the needs of your company.

Attached below are my resume and cover letter for your review. Thank you very much for your time and consideration. 

Best regards,
[your name]
[your phone number]
[your email address]

Emailing Educators 

Whether you need extra support from your high school teacher or have a question for your academic advisor in college, it’s important to communicate clearly, effectively, and professionally with your educators. Read more below to learn how to communicate respectfully with an educator.

Sample Email

Subject: Request to Meet About [name of subject, topic, etc.]

Dear [educator’s name],

I hope you’re doing well. My name is ____, and I’m a ___ student in your ____ class. I’m writing to ask if we could meet soon to discuss [name of subject, topic, etc.]. 

I’m happy to meet during your office hours or whenever is best for you. Please let me know if we can arrange a time.

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to speaking with you.

Best regards,
[your name]
[your phone number]
[your email address]

Requesting an Informational Interview

If you come across someone on LinkedIn or through your network, you can reach out to them to request an informational interview. Informational interviews are one of the best ways to learn more about the career pathway you’re interested in, directly from a person working in it. Read more below about requesting an informational interview. 

Sample Email

Subject: Request for an Informational Interview

Dear [professional’s name],

My name is ____, and I am a student at ____. I am very interested in learning more about [specific field or industry], and I [came across your LinkedIn profile, was put in touch with you by ____, etc.]. 

Given your experience and success in [specific field or industry], I would appreciate the opportunity to conduct an informational interview with you to learn more about your career journey and any advice you may have for people interested in pursuing a similar path. I would love to meet for a 15-20 minute conversation over the phone or on a video call at a time that is most convenient for you. 

Thank you very much for your consideration. I look forward to the possibility of speaking with you and learning from your experiences!

Best regards,
[your name]
[your phone number]
[your email address]

Do you have any questions about writing professional emails? Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.

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Five Tips for Teens to Practice Financial Self-Care

Last updated June 30, 2026

In this article

For many people, talking about or navigating finances can cause anxiety. However, taking the initiative to learn more about money management and how to wisely save and spend can help you practice financial self-care and reduce some of that anxiety. Here are five tips for practicing financial self-care.

Set clear and realistic financial goals

It’s important to have clear financial goals for the future. Whether they’re immediate goals, like saving $15 per week by making coffee at home, or long-term goals, like paying $50 extra per month on your student loans, having something clear and realistic that you want to achieve is key. We recommend setting a small monthly goal first to give you the momentum to tackle a bigger goal the next month!

Be intentional with your money

Knowing when and how to be intentional with your money can prevent you from overspending. We recommend doing three things before buying something you may not need:

  1. Sleep on it! If you give yourself time to think about it more, you may realize you don’t actually want or need it.
  2. Play “Would I rather?” For example: “Would I rather buy this pair of jeans now or save the money for a new phone instead?” This can help you prioritize your long-term goals.
  3. Consider how much use you’ll get out of the item. Can it be used more than once? Is it practical? Does it bring you joy?

If you’re still undecided, try using the value-based spending formula. When you want to buy something, take the cost of that item and divide it by your hourly pay (if you have a job). For example, if your pay is $15 per hour, a $30 pair of jeans is 2 hours of work. Doing this will help you consider how much you actually want or need that item. 

Set aside money for emergencies

Having a “rainy day” fund, or money purposely set aside for emergencies, can lessen your financial burden if something unexpected happens. If you need to get your car fixed or go to the dentist, you can pull from your emergency fund without throwing your budget off. We recommend setting aside 5-10% of your monthly income to go into this fund, whether it’s putting cash in a separate envelope or opening a second checking account. If your employer pays you through direct deposit, ask if you can split your deposit into two accounts (checking and savings), that way a portion of your paycheck can be deposited into your savings account without even thinking about it. It may not seem like a lot at first, but it could make a big difference in the future!

Budget for expenses that make you happy

Financial self-care doesn’t have to be all about saving! Treating yourself to something every once in a while is a great way to stay motivated. Set aside some fun money each month to spend on something that makes you happy, such as clothes or going out with friends. Use our budgeting guide to learn how to break down your monthly expenses and calculate how much money you could put towards guilt-free spending (we recommend 10% of your monthly income).

Creating a budget for the first time? Check out our budgeting tips here! 

Talk to people about money

When you talk about money with others, you lessen the stigma that surrounds it. Talking about money sounds uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to be! There’s no shame in confiding in the people you trust about your financial situation and goals. Try partnering with a friend or family member to be your budget buddy. You can both make budgets and compare progress at the end of each month. Having someone to hold you accountable can offer you encouragement to keep going, and make you more likely to achieve your goals!

Do you have any questions about practicing financial self-care? Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.

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The Way: Trades

Last updated June 30, 2026

In this article

This is The Way: Career Stories to Find Your Way–a video series created by Get Schooled. In this series, you’ll hear from professionals in all types of industries about how they found their way and the advice they have for young people starting their first jobs. We’re here to help you find your way!

Following Your Artistic Passion with Mary Elizabeth L!

Company: Custom jewelry/jeweler/goldsmith

Title: Business Owner

Experience at current job: 4 years as business owner, 28 years as goldsmith

Postsecondary: Kansas City Art Institute (4 year college of art and design)

Mary Elizabeth is a Goldsmith and entrepreneur. She went to college and was also an apprentice. Now she works with people to build custom jewelry!

No Bad Days at the Chocolate Factory with Nate C!

Company: Dandelion Chocolate

Title: Lead Chocolate Maker

Experience at current job: 3 years

Postsecondary: Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Nate is a Lead Chocolate Maker at Dandelion Chocolate. He says that solving problems every day and making a great product is what ensures that there is never a bad day at the chocolate factory!

 

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Post-High School Graduation Job Requirements, Resources and Options

Last updated June 30, 2026

In this article

While long-term studies show that higher education increases the likelihood of completing a degree and achieving long-term career success, we recognize that some students may choose a different path, such as entering the workforce. If you’re considering finding a job after high school, use the resources we list below to make an informed decision about your future.

Why students enter the workforce immediately 

Some common reasons for entering the workforce right after high school may include:

  • Immediate financial need – The urgency to earn money quickly is real for many students.

  • Burnout from school – After years of education, some students feel exhausted and need a break.

  • Uncertainty about career goals – College is a significant investment, and not knowing what to study can make the decision overwhelming.

  • Gap years – Some students may take a gap year to work and save money or explore different careers. 

It’s okay if you want to take a break from school or pivot in a new direction—sometimes, life circumstances change, or you simply need time to reassess your goals. However, having at least a general idea of your long-term plan is crucial. A clear direction helps you stay motivated, make informed decisions, and avoid feeling stuck. Employers and industries value experience and consistency, so having a roadmap—whether it’s a degree, certification, or skill-building—can keep you on track for career growth. Flexibility is important, but without a plan, it’s easy to lose momentum or miss opportunities that align with your future goals.

What you need to apply for jobs

Before you start applying for jobs, make sure you have these essential documents:

  • Resume – A clear summary of your skills, education, and experience.

  • Cover letter – A brief letter explaining why you’re interested in the job and what you can bring to the role.

  • References – Contacts who can vouch for your work ethic and skills.

Creating your first resume? Use one of our templates! Need a second opinion on your resume before sending it to employers? Send it to us for a FREE resume review

Need help building your resume? 

Create a job-ready resume in minutes with Resume Builder! No matter your job experience, our AI-powered Resume Builder will create a personalized resume for you! After a guided conversation, your skills and activities will be turned into a draft resume—no blank page, no stress. Click the image below to begin!

Clickable button that advertises Get Schooled's Resume Builder tool - Use our Free First Job Resume Templates!

Job search strategies

Finding a job after high school requires strategic planning. Consider the following:

  • Utilize job boards and career websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and local city and state job resources.

  • Network with family, friends, and school counselors who may have job leads.

  • Look into workforce development programs that offer training and job placement assistance.

  • Research industries with high-growth potential in your area, such as healthcare, manufacturing, or technology.

The reality of career advancement without a degree

While it is possible to build a career without a college degree, certain barriers exist:

  • Many high-paying jobs require certifications or specialized training.

  • Career growth opportunities may be slower without formal education.

  • Some industries have limited advancement opportunities for those without degrees.

  • Jumping into the workforce may seem like the best option now, but think about the long-term payoff. A degree or certification often leads to higher wages, greater job stability, and increased autonomy in your career. If you need to work right away, consider employers who offer tuition reimbursement or opportunities for advancement.

It’s important to note that a degree is not the only path to a successful career. Many industries value skills, experience, and determination just as much—if not more—than formal education!

Finding good-paying jobs without a degree

If college isn’t in your immediate plans, look for jobs that offer stability and growth potential:

  • Union jobs – Employers like Safeway and Fred Meyer provide benefits like tuition reimbursement and health insurance.

  • Apprenticeships and trade jobs – Fields like electrical work, plumbing, and construction offer strong earning potential with proper training.

  • Entry-level corporate jobs – Companies in retail, customer service, and administrative roles sometimes offer opportunities for advancement.

  • Healthcare support roles – Jobs like medical assistants or pharmacy technicians require certifications and minimal college but offer room for growth.

Your path, your success

No matter the route you take, success is built through continous learning, adaptability, and perseverance. Whether through traditional education, hands-on experience, or self-directed learning, there are many ways to achieve your career goals. 

Final thoughts

No matter your path, the key is to keep learning and growing. Whether through work experience, trade certifications, or eventually pursuing a degree, investing in yourself is the best way to build a stable and rewarding career.

Do you have any questions about finding a job after high school? Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.

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Job Resources for Undocumented & DACA-Protected Students

Last updated June 30, 2026

In this article

Understanding what is needed to work in the United States can be confusing for anyone applying for a job for the first time. This can potentially be even more complicated depending on your immigration or legal status in the country. Fortunately, there are job options available for both undocumented youth and youth who have specially protected legal status, such as DACA recipients. In this piece we’ll break down what your job options are and where to find job resources!

(Lee este artículo en español aquí!)

Picture of a job application and a pen - Job Resources for Undocumented & DACA-Protected Youth

Immigration and work authorization policies can change due to court decisions and federal action, so it’s important to stay informed using trusted, up-to-date sources.

Determining your right to work

There are a few categories of legal status that you may fall under according to the federal government. Depending on your status, you’ll have different legal options in terms of what kinds of work you can obtain. We’ll break down the most common statuses below and link to great resources to learn more.

DACA and TPS recipients

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program provides young people who were brought to the U.S. as children with protection from deportation, a social security number, work authorization, and more. DACA, however, is facing some legal challenges. If you currently have DACA status, your right to work is still in place. While new recipients are not being processed, you still may be able to process a renewal so be sure to check your status before you apply to any jobs.

  • Because DACA remains subject to ongoing legal challenges, recipients should regularly monitor renewal deadlines and policy updates before applying for or changing jobs.

  • Even if you currently have valid work authorization, delays in renewals or processing may occur, so planning ahead is especially important.

The Temporary Protective Status (TPS) program provides temporary immigration status to people of certain countries experiencing problems that make it difficult or unsafe for their nationals to be deported back to those countries. TPS designations and extensions are determined by the federal government and may change, so be sure to confirm your country’s current status and eligibility.

Both of these programs offer recipients the ability to work legally in the United States. Here are some key terms and documents you’ll need to know to work successfully with these statuses:

  • Employment Authorization Document (EAD) – As a DACA or TPS recipient, you will be eligible to receive an employment authorization document, or EAD. This document is all the legal proof you need to work! In order to keep your EAD valid, be sure to make sure that your DACA or TPS status is up to date and active.
  • Form I-9 – This is a legal form that employers are required to have all new employees complete. The federal government uses this form to ensure that all employers are hiring employees who are legally entitled to work in the United States. Your EAD is a valid form of identification and proof of your legal right to work and should be the only proof you need when you fill out your I-9 form.
  • Social Security Number (SSN) – A Social Security Number is a government-issued identification number that is used to track earnings, file taxes, and can be used as a part of loan applications among other things. As a DACA or TPS recipient, you may be eligible to receive a SSN. While a SSN is not required to legally work in the U.S., it is highly encouraged to obtain one because it can make things like filing taxes, applying for financial aid for college, and obtaining further employment easier.

Undocumented individuals

If you do not have legal work documents in the United States, like the ones a DACA or TPS or green card holder have, your path to employment can be a bit more complicated – but there are still ways for you to earn money! While securing employment can be difficult for undocumented people, since all employers in the U.S. require new hires to submit an I-9 form, there are still ways for them to earn money legally. Here are some key things to know before you start earning money:

  • Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) – An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). An ITIN is given to people who are required to pay taxes but who do not have, and are not eligible to obtain, a SSN. The ITIN allows people to report earnings to the IRS, open interest-bearing bank accounts with certain banks, and even start a business in the U.S. Getting an ITIN is the first step in earning money legally as an undocumented individual!
  • Form W-7 – This is the form you’ll need to complete in order to get an ITIN from the government.
  • Given increased immigration enforcement concerns in some areas, undocumented individuals should be exercise caution when sharing personal information and seek guidance before pursuing new work opportunities

  • A good practice to have is to avoid employers or job postings that promise “guaranteed” work authorization or ask for unnecessary personal or immigration documents.

How undocumented individuals can earn money in the U.S.

Because employers in the U.S. cannot hire employees without legal authorization, the best way to earn money as an undocumented youth is as an independent contractor, freelancer, entrepreneur, and through worker cooperatives. Once you have an ITIN, you can legally earn money (and pay taxes) in these ways:

  • Independent Contractor or Freelancer – The “gig economy” refers to a segment of the labor market in which clients contract with workers, often via apps, for specific tasks and activities. This includes things like being a driver for a ride share app like Uber or Lyft, working as a freelancer on apps like TaskRabbit, or even jobs such as computer programmers.
  • Entrepreneurship – Working for yourself is never a bad idea! This could include selling products on Etsy or eBay, providing services in your neighborhood, tutoring, babysitting, and more. Read our list of side hustles you can start today for some inspiration!
  • Key Resources to Help –
  • If you have questions about your rights or work options, consider reaching out to a trusted nonprofit or legal aid organization for personalized guidance. Immigrants Rising is an amazing organization that helps young people earn money and know their rights. They have tools about getting started as an independent contractor, brainstorming your next business, and even offer grants to help you start your own business. If you are in college, be sure to talk to someone at your career center. Many schools have specific programs to support youth with a range of immigration statuses. They may have specific internships or fellowships that you can apply for. 

Knowing your rights and figuring out ways to make money can be confusing and challenging, but we’re here to help! Do you have a question or need further assistance with finding or securing a job as a DACA recipient or undocumented person? Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.

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Understanding Need-Aware & Need-Blind College Admissions Policies

Last updated June 22, 2026

In this article

Before applying to colleges and universities, it’s important to know that some schools have different policies when it comes to taking a student’s financial information into consideration during admissions. To help you understand what these policies are, known as need-blind and need-aware, we break them down for you!

How do colleges determine financial need?

Colleges access students’ financial information through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)state aid application, or the CSS Profile. On these applications, you will list your family’s size, income, and asset information to help the federal government and your college determine the right amount of aid for you. Regardless of your family’s financial situation, we highly recommend completing the FAFSA or your state’s application to receive the most amount of financial aid possible for college! 

Need-blind

A need-blind admissions policy means that colleges will not take a student’s financial situation into consideration when making an admissions decision. There are a little over 100 colleges in the U.S. that have need-blind admissions policies. Need-blind colleges are typically elite schools that have the financial means to approach admissions in this way. Examples of need-blind colleges include Harvard University and Brown University. 

It’s important to know that just because a college has a need-blind admission policy, it does not mean they will automatically give you a financial aid package that covers all of your costs. Need-blind is only for admissions purposes. 

Need-aware

Need-aware means that colleges may or will take a student’s financial information into consideration when making an admissions decision. Every college handles this differently. A need-aware admissions policy can make a difference for students whose application may not be as competitive. If a school has this policy, a student’s financial need might be taken into consideration for an admissions decision.

Meeting financial need

Now that you know the difference between need-blind and need-aware admissions, be sure to research the financial aid policies of schools you’re interested in before applying. If a college says they will “meet demonstrated financial need,” it means that they’ll ensure your financial aid package reflects your demonstrated need. 

For example, if the total cost of attendance for a school is $20k per year, and the school determines that your family can contribute $5k to your education, it will offer you a financial aid package that makes up for that needed $15k. For example, the Husky Promise at the University of Washington guarantees that full tuition and fees will be covered by grants or scholarships for income eligible Washington state students. 

If you are set on attending a specific college but have some concerns about affording it, be sure to apply for scholarships early to help offset any educational costs that may not be covered by financial aid. 

Financial questions to consider when researching colleges 

  • What is this school’s admissions policy concerning financial need?
  • Does this college meet full financial need? 
  • What financial aid options are available to students?
  • Does this college award merit and need-based aid and scholarships? 

Strategies to maximize your financial aid

  • Apply to a mix of need-blind and need-aware schools. 
  • Research promise programs in your area to see if any colleges near you offer free or reduced tuition programs. 
  • Apply for different forms of financial aid (FAFSA, state aid, CSS Profile, and scholarships).
  • Apply to scholarships year-round!  

Do you have any questions about applying to or attending college? Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.

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Understanding College Refund Checks: What They Are and How They Work

Last updated June 25, 2026

Starting college means learning to manage new financial responsibilities that may be completely new to you. One of the most exciting yet confusing topics for students is financial aid refund checks. If you’ve heard of students getting “extra money” from financial aid after tuition is paid, they might be talking about refund checks! We’ll walk you through what refund checks are, how they work, and how to make the most of yours if you receive one. 

Important update on financial aid and refund checks

Recent news reports suggest that the U.S. Department of Education may reduce the amount of Pell Grant funding available to students in future academic years. If these changes are applied, they could impact how much financial aid students receive overall. This may also affect the size of financial aid refund checks or whether students receive one at all. Because Pell Grants are a major source of aid for many students, even small changes can have a significant impact on college affordability. Keep in mind that policies like this can change, so it’s important to stay informed by checking official updates from StudentAid.gov or trusted news sources. You can also contact your school’s financial aid office to understand how any potential changes may affect your specific situation.

What is a refund check?

A refund check is money that your school gives back to you if there is a surplus after your financial aid has been applied to your account. This can happen when the total amount of your grants, loans, or scholarships exceeds the cost of tuition, fees, and on-campus housing (if applicable). If there is money left after your financial aid has been applied to your student billing account, then that amount is known as a credit balance. Colleges are required to refund you any credit balances on your student billing account via direct deposit, check, or credit towards future tuition and fees with your permission within 14 days

How do I know if I’m getting a refund check?

Students will know if they are receiving a financial aid refund check after all of their tuition and fees have been covered for the term and there are remaining funds. Here is the general cycle of financial aid that may lead to a student receiving a refund check from their college: 

  1. Complete or renew your FAFSAComplete or renew your FAFSA application. 
  2. Check your status – Log in to studentaid.gov and click “My Activity”. If any corrections are needed, be sure to take action.
  3. Wait for your offer – Your college(s) will craft a financial aid offer letter based on your FAFSA. Call your school’s financial aid office if you have concerns.
  4. Review your offer(s) – Review financial aid offer letter(s) with your family or a trusted educator.
  5. Accept aid – Follow the steps outlined in your offer letter to accept the grants, scholarships, loans, and/or work-study you want for the upcoming school year.
  6. Disbursal of aid – Your school’s financial aid office will apply your aid directly to your student account.
  7. Pay off remaining balance – If there’s any unpaid tuition and fees remaining, you’ll be responsible for covering it.

OR 

  1. Receive a refund – If there is money left after covering tuition and fees, you’ll get a refund to use for other college expenses, like books, supplies, and transportation. If this comes from a loan, you can reduce the amount you accept. 

When are refund checks disbursed?

It varies by college, but it’s usually right before the start of the term after the add/drop deadline. Most colleges will post the refund disbursal schedule directly on their billing or financial aid website. 

What can I use my refund check for?

It’s best to use a financial aid refund on education-related expenses. This can include rent, books, supplies, transportation costs, and food. It may be tempting to use the money on personal, non-school related expenses, but it’s important to use these funds wisely. While checks may feel like “free money,” it’s important to understand that if the funds come from a loan, you will have to pay them back with interest, so be sure to only accept what you need. 

What are things to keep in mind about refund checks?

While it’s exciting to be receiving money, it’s important to consider the implications. 

  • Budget your money: Make a budget to get the most out of your refund check! It’s easy to spend quickly, but keep in mind that refunds usually only come at the start of the term. If you don’t have a job, you’ll want to stretch that money to last the whole term. 
  • Only take out loans that are necessary: Refunds are often the result of taking out more money in student loans than you actually may need. If your refund feels like too much, you can return the extra money to your student loan provider. It may feel like free money now, but it’s money you’ll eventually need to pay back later. Contact your school’s financial aid office for details about returning funds. 

Financial aid refund checks should be used to support your experience as a student while teaching you to effectively manage your money! If you have any questions or concerns, connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.

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Earn Free Money for College with the Oregon Promise Grant!

Last updated September 16, 2025

In this article

Attention Oregon high school students! Promise programs can be found across the country, and while they may vary in eligibility and application requirements, they all share one common goal: to make college more affordable for the students in their community! In this article, we share what you should know about the Oregon Promise Grant.

A young black man leans over a desk and writes on paper - Earn Free Money for College with the Oregon Promise Grant!

What is The Oregon Promise Grant?

The Oregon Promise Grant is a statewide grant that helps recent high school graduates and GED test graduates in Oregon pay for tuition at any community college across the state. Students must apply for the Oregon Promise Grant during their senior year or immediately after GED test completion. 

Why Should I Apply For The Oregon Promise Grant?

The Oregon Promise Grant provides a great opportunity for students attending community college to receive their associate degree or earn enough credits to transfer to a four-year college to receive their bachelor’s degree. Because the Oregon Promise is a grant, this money is free–meaning it doesn’t need to be repaid! This can significantly cut down your costs while you pursue your college goals. For the 2025-2026 academic year, eligible students could receive between $2,202 and $4,584 in aid.

Who Qualifies For The Oregon Promise Grant? Am I Eligible?

Here are some eligibility requirements for the Oregon Promise Grant: 

  • Be a recent high school or GED test graduate.
  • Have a cumulative high school GPA higher than 2.0, or a 145 grade on all GED tests.
  • Live in Oregon for at least 12 months before starting college (if you are a dependent student, your parent(s) must also live in Oregon).
  • Have no more than 90 college credits attempted or completed.
  • Attend an Oregon community college by your required start term.

Undocumented students are eligible for the Oregon Promise Grant, too! You’ll just need to submit your ORSAA by the appropriate deadline. Check out more eligibility requirements here!

How Do I Apply?

  1. Submit the Oregon Promise Grant application in your OSAC Student Portal.
  2. Submit the FAFSA or ORSAA, making sure to list at least one Oregon community college on it.

What’s The Deadline to Apply?

Students who graduate between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026 can start applying in mid-September 2025.

Need help with your Oregon Promise Grant application, FAFSA, or ORSAA? Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.

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Asking for Letters of Recommendation & References? Make a Brag Sheet

Last updated September 18, 2025

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Whether you’re applying for a job, a scholarship, or to college, you will most likely be required to submit letters of recommendation or references. Letters of recommendation and references, written by individuals you have previously worked with in an academic or professional setting, can highlight your skills, experience, and qualities that make you a great candidate for the opportunity you’re applying for.

Because letters of recommendation and references are important supplements to your applications, it’s important to give your recommenders as much information about your strengths, skills, and experiences as possible so they can write you the best, most accurate recommendation possible. That’s where a brag sheet can come in handy! Here’s everything you should know about brag sheets– like how they work and how to start creating yours!

What is a brag sheet? How can my brag sheet help my recommender?

A brag sheet is similar to a resume. It’s a place where you can list all of your accomplishments, work and academic experience, leadership skills, extracurricular activities, and employment and volunteer history. Simply put, it’s a high-level overview of all of your relevant experience that your recommender can look at when they’re writing you a letter of recommendation or providing a reference for you.

How to create your brag sheet

Brainstorm

Starting from your first year of high school, brainstorm, write down, and organize your achievements and experiences into categories. These categories can include things like:

  • Academics
  • Leadership
  • Employment
  • Extracurriculars/clubs
  • Awards received
  • Volunteer experience
  • …and more!

Shape your story

Narrow down the experiences in each category to two or three activities that had the biggest impact on you, and then use these activities to create your story. For example, if you are in the drama club at school or act in local theater productions, you might describe your favorite performances, how these roles have helped you grow as a person or an actor, and what your experience was like balancing school with an extracurricular activity. As you weave these stories about your activities and accomplishments throughout high school together, you will have a cohesive, compelling story that shows what makes you unique. That’s your brag sheet!

Send your brag sheet

When someone agrees to write you a letter of recommendation or provide a reference for you, be sure to send them any and all important information about the opportunity you’re applying for. This can include things like what the opportunity is (a college application, a scholarship, a job, etc.) when they will need to submit their letter of recommendation or provide their reference, and when you can expect to have a decision. In addition to all of this information, send along your brag sheet and let your recommender know that they can contact you if they have any questions. Lastly, don’t forget to stay thank you! Be sure to share your appreciation with them for their willingness to make time for you!

Want more tips on creating a brag sheet for your letters of recommendation or references? Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.

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Ways to Cope Through Academic Struggles

Last updated June 18, 2026

In this article

Struggling academically in high school or college can be a frustrating and challenging experience, but it’s important to remember that it doesn’t define you as a person. Whether you’re dealing with burnout, a learning disability, a difficult subject, or a lack of motivation, there are strategies and resources you can use to move forward toward academic success.

A young black man sits at his desk with a computer in front of him and holds an open book - Ways to Cope Through Academic Struggles

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Take care of yourself

Taking care of both your mental and physical needs can help your body be better positioned to process stressful situations. Here are some things you can do to take good care of your health:

  1. Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks to stay hydrated.
  2. Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet.
  3. Try to limit processed foods and fast food.
  4. Get the recommend 8 or more hours of sleep each night to allow your body to rest and recover.
  5. Engage in physical activity for at least 30 minutes (or walk 10,000 steps) each day.
  6. Stay connected with friends, family, or a support system.
  7. Don’t hesitate to talk to someone if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
  8. Create a daily routine to stay organized and reduce stress.

Find time for rest, recovery, and joy

Taking time to engage in hobbies or activities that you enjoy and connecting with family and friends who support you are also ways to help you feel a bit more grounded, especially during times when you feel challenged. Mindfulness activities can help when you’re feeling stressed or burnt out. Try some of these practices to help build and maintain resilience:

  1. Practice meditation or deep breathing exercises daily to calm your mind and reduce stress.
  2. Pay attention to your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Acknowledge them, but don’t dwell on them.
  3. Stay present in the moment by focusing on your senses. Take in the sights, sounds, smells, and sensations around you.
  4. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you stay present, such as listening to music, going for a walk, or practicing a hobby.
  5. Schedule time for joy. It might feel silly, but we schedule time for work, school and other responsibilities. Schedule time or block off time in your calendar that you will use for something that brings you joy!

Manage stress

Everyone handles stress differently, so it’s important to identify healthy coping mechanisms that work for you. Some people find relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga helpful, while others prefer to listen to music or journal their thoughts and feelings. Here are a few stress management tips that could help you when academic pressures are high:

  1. Identify the sources of your stress and develop strategies to address them.
  2. Take breaks throughout the day to engage in relaxing activities, such as reading a book or taking a walk.
  3. Use positive self-talk to encourage and motivate yourself.
  4. Develop a support network of family and friends you can talk to when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed.
  5. Break the work into small approachable tasks rather than trying to tackle everything at once.

Never be afraid to ask for help!

It’s important to recognize when it’s time to reach out for help. If you’re struggling academically, don’t be afraid to talk to your professors or academic advisor about your concerns, or seek out tutoring or academic coaching services. If you have a learning disability or face other academic challenges, don’t hesitate to request accommodations that can help you succeed.

It can also be helpful to understand what kind of learner you are. Everyone learns differently, so it’s important to identify your preferred learning style. Some people are visual learners, while others prefer hands-on or auditory learning. Once you know your learning style, you can tailor your study habits and strategies to fit your needs.

Watch out for burnout

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it can be easy to push yourself too hard and end up burning out, or not having the time, energy, or motivation to take care of important tasks. Make sure you’re taking regular breaks throughout the day and prioritizing the self-care activities that are important to you.

Remember, academic struggles don’t define your worth or your future. With the right support and strategies, you can overcome challenges and achieve your goals! Do you have any questions? Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.

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