When do you see students?
We see students during school hours. As former teachers we know how valuable class time is. Therefore, we do our best to call students only out of elective classes, and students are generally only out of class about 15-20 minutes.
Are you BPCC/BRCC/LSU recruiters?
We do not represent any particular school. We are an independent non-profit that assists students with figuring out their best fit. If students meet the admission requirements for a 4 year university, they are encouraged by us to attend. If they do not, we show them their other options.
What is your vision for the future?
In the next three to five years the vision of Career Compass is to strategically expand the programs statewide, so that every school system in Louisiana that wants the services of Career Compass are offered the opportunity to do so.
What does Career Compass actually do?
We provide assistance with the following:
• Completion of ACT application
• Financial assistance for the ACT if needed
• Payment online for ACT through Career Compass credit card
• Creation and implementation of a “College Success Plan”
• Information on area schools, including specific programs available
• Assistance with completion of FAFSA (financial aid) in the Spring
• Assistance with completion of applications for colleges, technical schools, and other post-secondary institutions, and at certain schools, a waiver for the application fee
• Financial assistance with applications for post-secondary schools, if needed
How are you funded?
As a nonprofit organization, Career Compass welcomes tax-deductible donations from both individual and corporate sponsors. Our services are improving the workforce of Baton Rouge and we know this is something local businesses will benefit from. Additionally, we actively seek grant opportunities and the local and federal levels, as well as from private grant funding sources. Career Compass offers the local post-secondary institutions various advertising benefits, such as a hot link on our website, for a nominal yearly fee.
How are Career Compass coaches different from guidance counselors?
Career Compass coaches partner with counselors and are an added resource for the students on their campus. With state accountability, exit test coordination and administration, and scheduling and transcript issues, there is no way guidance can also be accountable for helping every student with post-secondary plans. Career Compass is partnering with the guidance departments in area schools to act as a liaison between the students of Louisiana and the post-secondary institutions in the state. Our employees are educated on all of the schools in the area they serve and the programs each offers, thus helping the students find the right school for their needs. We know there is a world of opportunity right here and somewhere for every graduate to go - be it a two or four year university or an arts, technical or professional school.