This year Kids’ Club is helping pilot a new summer college preparation program at Sleepy Hollow High School. Run by the Tarrytown School District and facilitated by Latino U College Access, this one week program offers select rising seniors the opportunity to engage in important college prep work such as guidance with college searches and applications, essay writing and financial aid. In particular, the students were advised that despite the expense of college, there are paths to meetings these costs. By completing the right financial aid applications, FAFSA, NYS TAP and CSS Profile, students maximize their opportunity to receive federal and state loans and grants, work study, and institutional aid based on merit and need.
Other topics covered include the college application process, exploring campus life, connecting interests and talents to college searches, navigating college websites, and creating a résumé. Each student receives a comprehensive binder with worksheets and resources to keep after the program ends, but the best take away is surely their increased belief that they can achieve their college goals and improved understanding on how to make that happen.