When applying to college involves scouring a bunch of websites for obscure information that you can’t find on the Common App, writing multiple essays for multiple colleges that are all at least slightly different, following up on letters of recommendation you requested months ago, and making sure you’re not missing out on a single scholarship, it’s always great to have someone of expertise to provide guidance on the subject. Ms. Analorena Encarnacion, commonly known as Ms. E, is in her second year of being the College and Career Facilitator (CCF) at Seven Lakes, and she’s here to help.
“At Seven Lakes High School we have high achieving students, thus it is a pleasure meeting with them and actually walking through their college plans,” Ms. E said.
Ms. E started her career as a coach and educator, then pursued a master’s degree at Texas A&M in her 5th year in education. She was offered a college and career position one month before graduating, and has been working in the field for 5 years since.
“As a first generation student, I was excited to know that this position would fulfill my dreams of being a facilitator to all students and assist them with their future career decisions,” Ms. E said.
With her Masters in Psychological and Brain Sciences, Ms. E has always been interested in the science of the human body and its development.
“If I were to do high school all over again, I would apply to an Ivy League school, specifically Harvard,” Ms. E said. “I would study Human Developmental and Regenerative Biology. I have always appreciated the way the human body works. What a great way to discover even greater things about the human body.”
College applications are incredibly elaborate and are all about prioritizing what’s important, and Ms. E has advice for students in that regard.
“Year after year, higher institutions voice that the personal statement (essay) is what determines how well the student will fit in their institutions,” Ms. E said. “They look at grammar, creativity, humor and any other unique qualities that you can compile in an essay. Letter of recommendations don’t fall short, they are as vital as your personal statement. Be nice, well mannered, and stay classy when requesting letters of recommendation!”
As she enters her second year, Ms. E plans to expand her role in facilitating career advances for seniors.
“I have learned so much about Seven Lakes High School and the new responsibilities as a College and Career Facilitator,” Ms. E said. “One of those responsibilities is coordinating the dual credit courses. As for implementation, I’d like to expose students to as many colleges and universities as possible; therefore, you will begin seeing more visits in the rotunda this year than before. I’ve also started senior meetings where my goal is to meet with every senior this year in regards to their post graduation plans.”
Ms. E has thoroughly enjoyed her job and environment at Seven Lakes throughout her first year as the CCF.
“I love the research, updates and the partnerships that Seven Lakes High School has to offer both to their staff and students,” Ms. E said. “My co-workers and students are amazing and a great reason to be part of Seven Lakes High School.”
