Our College Access program starts the summer after 10th grade and continues through high school graduation. We focus on college admissions, career readiness, and leadership development.
College Access
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 excel academically and socially so they can successfully enroll in college.
Program Highlights
Dedicated College Access Coordinators provide one-on-one guidance tailored to each scholar’s goals.
Scholars receive support to:
- Find the right college fit based on career goals and interests
- Build leadership skills and emotional intelligence
- Explore careers/majors through internships and mentorship
- Submit strong college applications, essays, recommendations, and financial aid forms
Topics
Covered
COllege Access
- Self-Exploration
- College Fit & Match
- College Applications & Financial Aid
- College 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
Our meaningful events are designed to inspire, challenge, and empower, paving the way for meaningful personal and academic growth for our scholars.
- New Student & Family Orientation
- Rising Senior Orientation
- Leadership Symposium
- Jr. Leadership Day
- Senior Half Day Workshops
- After School Programming (SNACK)
- Individualized Advising Sessions
- Scholar Socials
- Family Engagement Opportunities
- Summer Writing Series
- Senior Fall Retreat
- College Exploration
- Dress for Success Event
- Senior Banquet
- Senior Awards
- Professional Networking Opportunities
The Leadership Symposium is one of our core high school events—an immersive experience where Simon Scholars come together to build community, grow as leaders, and deepen their college readiness. This highlight reel captures the spirit, energy, and purpose behind those three powerful days.
“The Simon Scholars Program establishes a foundation for young,
diverse students to grow for their next two years of high school. I’ve met
some of my best friends, learning from their experiences along the way.”
Guillermo CastroClass of 2026, Anaheim High School
“My time spent in this program has honestly been the best and I am
forever grateful to have been granted the opportunity to be a part of
it.”
Melissa FariasClass of 2026, Santiago High School
“Like many of us, I’ve faced challenges, but Simon Scholars has taught
me how to turn challenges into lessons and setbacks into stepping
stones. This program has shown me resilience, hope, and the belief that
my dreams really are within reach.”
Frida SanchezClass of 2026, Anaheim High School
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Interested in joining our program?
Read about our program eligibility requirements on our Prospective Scholar Page.















