College Access
Our unique College Access program begins at the end of a student’s sophomore year and continues through high school graduation. We prepare our scholars for success by covering critical components of college admissions, leadership development, personal development, and career readiness. Our goal is to help scholars facing difficult life and economic circumstances to excel academically and socially so they can successfully enroll in college.
Our experienced College Access Coordinators deliver personalized and effective advising to each scholar in their cohort, ensuring tailored support and guidance. Throughout our program, scholars receive support to:
- Identify colleges that are a good fit & match for their career aspirations and interests
- Develop essential leadership skills and emotional intelligence
- Gain exposure to a variety of career options through internships and mentorships
- Prepare and submit competitive college applications, including college essays, recommendations, and financial aid applications
Workforce Development
Our College Access programming consists of workforce development topics to prepare our scholars to obtain a meaningful and fulfilling career. We embed professional development topics within our structure and have regular one-on-one conversations about professionalism, major selection, and career interests.
Within our program, scholars have the opportunity to reflect, become more self-aware and explore different options. We support our scholars to ensure they have well developed resumes, cover letters, and understand the foundations of how to stand out in the application and in the interview. Our program also provides our scholars several opportunities to establish a network of peers, upperclassmen, alumni and professionals in diverse fields.
Our College Access Approach
- Personalized college advising sessions
- Afterschool programming
- Fair but firm accountability structure
- External scholarship opportunities
- Peer & professional network
- Family & community support
Topics
Covered
COllege Access
- Self-Exploration
- College Fit & Match
- College Applications & Financial Aid
- Major Decision
- Transitions
Leadership Development
- Leadership Qualities/Values
- Meaningful Action
- Effective Communication/Presentation
- Authenticity/Confidence
Personal Development
- Goal Setting/Creating a Road Map
- Digital Responsibility/ Leaving a Digital Footprint
- Financial Wellness
- Physical/Emotional Wellness
Career Readiness
- Explore Your Interests
- Jobs Vs. Careers
- Office Etiquette
- Preparing for Interviews
- Resume/Cover Letter Development
Meaningful
Experiences
- New Student & Family Orientation
- Rising Senior Orientation
- Leadership Symposium
- Jr. Leadership Day
- Senior Half Day Workshops
- After School Programming (SNACK)
- Individualized Advising Sessions
- Quarterly In-Person Programming (Scholar Socials)
- Family Engagement Opportunities
- Summer Writing Series
- Senior Fall Retreat
- Regional & National College Tours
- Dress for Success Event
- Senior Banquet
- Seniors Awards
- Professional Networking Opportunities