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 team of experienced College Access Coordinators provide personalized and effective advising to their cohorts of about 50 scholars. They provide comprehensive guidance to their scholars throughout 11th & 12th grade. Scholars are supported to explore good fit & match colleges, develop leadership skills, practice emotional intelligence, be exposed to various career options, and submit competitive college 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 exploration, 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
- Bi-weekly evidence based 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