Sonoma Valley High School

College Information

Welcome! Our goal is to provide every student with a structured sequence of school-based and work-based learning activities, which will help him or her to make appropriate choices for their future educational plans. By combining careful planning with “real-world” exploration, students will be in a better position to take the next step in life after graduation from Sonoma Valley High School.

College Handbook (Bilingual)
This College Handbook offers a step-by-step guide for high school students on college planning, applications, testing, extracurriculars, and financial aid, along with advice for special situations like athletes and undocumented students
College Fairs
Explore key questions to ask college representatives at fairs, covering topics like admissions requirements, popular majors, campus life, financial aid, and more to help you make informed decisions about your college choices
College Entrance Exams
Learn about college entrance exams like the PSAT, SAT, and ACT, along with test prep strategies and important test day tips. Find out how these exams impact college applications and access helpful links for registration and further resources.
Your College List
Learn how to build your college list by categorizing schools into safety, target, and reach options based on your GPA and test scores. Use this guide and organizational tools to refine your choices and manage application details as you approach senior year
Athletes
Learn about collegiate athletics, from competitive Division I and II programs to more relaxed intramurals. Get insights on NCAA recruitment rules, creating an athletic resume, and balancing academics with athletics. Explore options for scholarships and NAIA schools.
Undocumented Students
Undocumented students can pursue college education and access scholarships that don't require citizenship. Learn about California Assembly Bill 540 (AB 540) benefits, tuition exemption, and tips for completing UC/CSU applications as an undocumented student.
Students Interested in Military / ROTC
Explore military service or ROTC opportunities available on many college campuses. Find ROTC programs, gather information from local recruiters, and access resources for scholarships and military service options
Paying for College
Learn about various ways to pay for college, including savings plans, scholarships, grants, and loans. Find information on FAFSA, the Dream Act, and the CSS Profile for financial aid applications, along with tips for avoiding scholarship scams and managing student loans
Students with Disabilities
Explore resources for students with learning disabilities to aid in the transition to college. Learn about programs like Think College, IDEA, and the HEATH Resource Center, which provide information on rights, scholarships, support services, and accommodations

Other Resources

Helpful Books

Fiske Guide to Colleges, by Edward B. Fiske
Complete Book of Colleges, by The Princeton Review
The Insiderís Guide to Colleges, by Yale Daily News Staff
Colleges That Change Lives and Looking Beyond the Ivy League, by Loren Pope
Admission Matters, by Sally P. Springer, Jon Reider and Joyce Morgan
College Match: A Blueprint for Choosing the Best School for You, Steven R. Antonoff

College Cost Calculators

These links below are helpful tools to find out what you will really need for college, beyond just the basics of tuition and books. Use one of these free calculators to obtain an idea of what your financial need will be:

College & Career Center – Contact Info

Mrs. Lisa Conner

Department: Counseling
Title: College & Career Center Adviser
Work Experience Education Teacher
Email: lconner@sonomaschools.org
Office: (707)933-4022

Education: Degrees/Credentials: B.A. Art, UCLA
Single Subject Clear Credential, CSULB
Certificate of College Counseling with Distinction, UCLA

Mrs. Wendy Swanson

Title: Work-Based Learning Coordinator
Email: wswanson@sonomaschools.org
Office: (707) 933-4048

Degrees/Credentials: B.A. Biology, University of the Pacific
J.D. University of California—Davis