Going to college is more important than it has ever been before. In today’s competitive world, a college degree is essential for a successful future. According to the United States Department of Education “By 2020, an estimated two-thirds of job openings will require post-secondary education or training”. From this we can conclude that a college education is the best investment we can make in our future.

Currently, in New York City, there is not a universal mandatory college prep program provided to public schools especially, for minority students. A college prep program is essential to the development of a student's success because it helps students through the college application process, the approach to paying for college, and the development of students character to become successful college students.  

We all know how complicated the college process may be, so by implementing a college prep program, we can make college more accessible to students. Several public high school students don't have access to information regarding college and the application process and this leads to them eventually dropping out of college because they don't have the support or guidance needed to successfully complete the transition into college. This includes scholarships, financial aid, types of colleges, loans, degrees they can earn, and much more. Many schools do not educate students until their senior year, which may be too late, giving them an unfair disadvantage. Because of this, many students are oblivious to the options they have and the opportunities they can receive. It’s important for them to have reliable resources for gathering information. This college prep program will serve as a great resource for the students who need the opportunity to learn more about college. This will also help students succeed no matter what neighborhood or school they are in.

What we need is a strong universal school program across New York City that educates students on the college process. This program should be mandatory and intertwined with their school curriculum to ensure that students do indeed get the information they need and deserve. You can help these students by demonstrating to the Department of Education the importance of having a College Prep program implemented in New York City’s public high schools.

HELP INVEST IN NYC YOUTH AND HIGHER EDUCATION!