The college application process must finally become demystified. Even the savviest of family members can feel a sense of confusion when helping their young ones fill out applications. Instead, all high school students should have equal access to higher education. It goes without saying that any first-generation college student needs all the help they can get. The Village Method is a strong advocate for the college success of Black youth.
There is a staggering number of students who are at risk of not being able to attend college. Although they may lack a college-educated parent or might come from low-income families, they still have high chances of becoming first-generation college students. A four-year college degree is much easier to achieve when high school leaders step in and take the initiative for first-generation student success.
In today’s article, we’re going to explore the 3 easiest ways to empower every aspiring first-generation college student that may be currently studying in your high school. Read on and find out what their main needs are and how you can enrich their academic journeys!
#1: Help the First-Generation College Student With Their College Application
The Center For First-Generation Student Success stated that 56% of college students are actually first-generation students. How did they manage to beat the odds and get admitted into the colleges of their dreams?
They most likely had access to all the right resources. High school counselors must be aptly prepared to assist low-income students and offer them free resources. Unlike other students, the first-generation college student needs to be kept in the loop in regards to financial aid, entrance exams, and the college application process.
Let’s face it, completing the FAFSA, filling out the college application form, writing an impressive essay, and collecting recommendation letters all by yourself is not exactly a piece of cake. Furthermore, many first-generation students have no one to reach out to when it comes to learning the ins and outs of financial aid, figuring out their college tuition costs, and identifying the right scholarships to apply for.
High school leaders must actively promote the values of inclusivity in education. Next, let’s identify the main reasons why first-gen Black youth continues to be disadvantaged and why racial inequity is an issue that affects graduation rates.
#2: Address the Racial Inequity Faced By African-American Students
The college enrollment gap can either motivate or frighten Black youth. With the limited support provided by schools, it’s safe to say that lacking a college-educated parent can feel like diving into the unknown. According to a publication in The Career Development Quarterly, most male African-American students have a harder time completing their university degrees compared to their white counterparts.
Additionally, there has been a sharp decline in enrollment among Black men during the pandemic which has motivated college leaders to take a stand and try to boost the enrollment of Black men. Similarly, high school, district, and institutional leaders should find and distribute the right tools and resources to their students of color to promote inclusivity in education.
Racial inequity continues to be an undeniable stumbling block to most African-American students. The race gap can still be felt not only in terms of college enrollment but also in terms of graduation. With every first-generation college graduate of color, we could ensure the college success of generations to come.
#3: Rely On an Expert Program to Ensure First-Generation College Student Success
Even school leaders need a helping hand every once in a while, don’t they? Due to the high demand for inclusive and culturally affirming school programs, we’ve decided to take the lead and bring you the ultimate college success program ━ ScholarPrep Nation!
We are not your regular college admission program. On the contrary, our main mission is to take the pressure off high school counselors and the school administration while helping your students with their college and scholarship applications. Your first-gen students of color will finally have a clearer view of what their academic journeys should be like. It’s that easy.
Make College Accessible to All Now!
Contact us now and find out how to aid your first-gen students, regardless of family income. Inclusivity in education is now entirely possible. Together, we can establish a new way of helping the kids plan their way to college. We look forward to hearing from you!
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