Services

Guiding underrepresented high school students through the college application process is vital for ensuring that these students have the same opportunities for success as their peers. 

By providing critical resources, emotional support, and practical advice, Path Forward helps students navigate the complexities of the application process and overcome the unique barriers they face. This support increases college enrollment, retention, and graduation rates for underrepresented students, promoting social mobility and educational equity. It also empowers students to pursue their academic and career goals, fostering a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable higher education landscape. 

Choosing the best-fit college means finding a school where a student can thrive academically, socially, and personally. It's not just about rankings or prestige—it’s about aligning student goals, values, and needs with what a college can offer. 

Path Forward will assist students with determining the schools that best fit their needs based on a number of important factors, including, but not limited to academic interests, geography, extracurricular programming, and financial needs. 

When a student chooses a college that fits you well, students are more likely to have a positive, successful experience that prepares them for their future, both professionally and personally.

Class selection and academic planning, including involvement in extracurricular programs are fundamental to making the most competitive college applicant. Course selection and involvement in extracurricular allow students to tailor their educational interests, career goals, and personal strengths while ensuring that you stay on track for graduation. It also may communicate a number of skillsets and character traits.

Careful planning also prevents burnout, provides opportunities for extracurricular growth, and ensures that you graduate with a well-rounded and comprehensive education. Ultimately, thoughtful academic planning empowers you to make the most of the opportunities available and sets you up for long-term success, both in high school and in college.

College essays and personal statements are one of the most part of the college preparation process. These essays provide students with a unique opportunity to express their personality, experiences, and aspirations in ways that academic records alone cannot capture. By guiding students through this process, Path Forward can help them craft powerful narratives that set them apart in the highly competitive college admissions process. 

Beyond the practical benefits, the process of writing these essays also encourages personal reflection, self-expression, and the development of critical thinking and writing skills that will benefit students long after they submit their applications.

Developing a resume and practicing verbal presentation of a student's personal narrative are crucial skills for college-bound students, as they help students present themselves effectively to colleges, scholarship committees, internship programs, and future employers. 

These skills not only give students the tools they need to succeed in gaining professional opportunities but also build confidence, self-awareness, and professionalism that will serve them throughout their academic and professional lives. By mastering these skills early, students set themselves up for long-term success in both their college experience and future careers.

Financial aid and scholarship education are critical for college-bound students because they provide the tools and resources needed to navigate the financial challenges of higher education. One of the most significant barriers to pursuing post-secondary institutions or selecting a "best fit" school of choice is access to financial resources. 

By understanding how to apply for financial aid, how to search for scholarships, and how to manage student loans, students can reduce financial stress, make informed decisions about where to attend college, and focus more on their academic and career goals. In the end, financial aid education helps open the doors to higher education for students from all backgrounds and ensures they are prepared for a successful and financially responsible college experience.

Professional and personal development seminars provide a holistic approach to preparing high school students for college and their careers. These seminars go beyond academics by equipping students with the tools, strategies, and mindsets necessary for personal growth, career success, and overall well-being. 

By engaging in these seminars, college-bound students are better prepared to navigate the challenges of college, make informed decisions about their careers, and develop the skills they need to thrive in both their academic and professional lives. Ultimately, these seminars foster well-rounded individuals who are ready to succeed in a complex, fast-changing world.