OSAC

Common App Essay Prompt 5!

Considering a career in the trades? Here are some tips.

Summer College Prep Tips!

Seniors—now is the perfect time to start drafting your Common App essays! This week, we’re featuring Prompt #4: Reflect on something someone has done for you that made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude motivated you?

High schoolers: if you’re writing college essays, here’s a big Common App prompt to think about. It asks you to reflect on a time you questioned or challenged a belief or idea—and why. It’s not about having the “perfect” answer; it’s about showing your growth and how you think. You’ve got plenty of experiences that can fit this one.

Our Career and College Road Trip wraps up with a deep dive into construction careers! We kick things off in Bend by volunteering to help build homes. Then it’s off to Klamath Falls or Portland to check out pre‑apprenticeship programs. After that, we head to Lane Community College to explore carpentry and other skilled trades. And finally, we end at the iconic VISTA House—wondering how on earth they managed to build something that incredible.

Save the Date!
The ASPIRE Fall Conference will be held on October 2, 2026, at the OSU–Cascades campus in Bend. A complete schedule of workshops will be available in August. Registration is now open. https://oregonstudentaid.gov/aspire/events-and-training/