Beginning in 9th grade, scholars are given regular workshops to better understand how they can make themselves a strong applicant for colleges and universities. By 11th grade, scholars are matched with volunteer advisors from within our College Access Council who are to remain with them through 12th grade. Scholars build strong relationships with their advisors who help them to set goals, establish potential school lists, assist them with finding and securing internships, and prepare for and review their college applications. By the time scholars reach the college application phase, advisors have an established rapport with scholars that will enable them to help build an application that highlights scholars’ unique skills and interests and determine which schools are suited to their personalities, academic interests, and professional passions. Introducing a long-term advisor and mentor (a figure whom those from low-income communities typically lack) can make the difference in a scholar being admitted into a school of best-fit. Our college access support also includes:
- SAT/ACT test preparation classes
- IB/AP test preparation
- Financial aid and scholarship application support
- Family workshops to build understanding
- Regional and national college visits
- High school internships to explore potential career paths