The challenges minority students face in applying to college
and the organizations that are there to help.
The college process can be extremely tough—especially if you
have no one to help you through it. Happily, a number of federal
and private programs exist to help minority students begin—and
complete—a college education. What's more, taking advantage of
these programs is not as hard as you think. After all, the
purpose of their existence is to help you.
The biggest challenge to a college education is simply the
enormous cost of it. For that reason, we address
scholarship options available to minority students in a
separate article.
Beyond the financial concerns, there are a lot of
psychological issues at play. According to Arnold Kee,
Coordinator for Minority Services at the American Association of
Community Colleges, minority students are also hindered in their
quest for higher education by:
- Concerns about social isolation.
- Lack of confidence in their own academic ability.
- Lack of a strong motivator/role model.
So what are federal and private organizations doing to combat
these obstacles? Let's look at the resources available to
you:
Federal Programs (TRIO)
Upward Bound
The first of the TRIO programs, established in 1964. Today,
Upward Bound helps students 13-19 years old from low-income
families to prepare for college by providing academic instruction
on local college campuses. In addition, they offer counseling,
mentoring, and other support services.
Talent Search
Also for low-income students, but for ages 11-27. Talent
Search provides information about college admissions,
scholarships, financial aid programs, and academic advising,
counseling, and tutoring.
Educational Opportunity Centers (EOC)
Provide financial aid information, college counseling, and
assistance in applying and beginning post-secondary
education.
Student Support Services (SSS)
Help students to remain in college until completion of their
degree or program. SSS provides tutoring, counseling, and
remedial instruction.
Think these programs aren't for you? In 2001, these four
programs gave out grants to more than 1,900 programs for
the total sum of $680 million. 61% of the students benefited
were minority students, and two-thirds were from low-income
homes.
To take advantage of a TRIO program near you, contact your
school's guidance counselor or local community center.
There's a host of other resources available to you on the
local level:
Churches, Religious Groups & Community Centers,
Y(M/W)CAs, (Boy/Girl)'s Clubs
Most communities have social and faith-based organizations
that can help guide you through the college process, or at the
very least point you to someone who can. These are great
resources for connecting with the people whose mission in life is
to help you get ahead. Go talk to them!
Cultural Centers at Schools
Worried about feeling isolated at the schools you'd like to
attend? Most schools have cultural centers for each minority
group. Go to those schools' website and give the centers a call.
They'll let you know what programs they have available to help
integrate you into the community.