Leadership West’s Post

🎉 Through dedication and community collaboration, we've launched numerous career pathways, touching the lives of more than 26,000 students across rural Texas! A huge shoutout to our partners, from school districts to local businesses and higher education institutions, for making this possible. Together, we're not just creating pathways; we're opening doors to endless possibilities. #WeAreRuralEducation #TogetherWeAchieve #RuralDevelopment #PartnershipsInAction"

In recognizing the National First Generation College Celebration this week, I think it is important to examine a bit of context. It has been widely shared that first generation students occupy a growing fraction of seats on campuses. It has also been reported widely that they have not been graduating at the same rates as their peers whose parents did complete college. For decades we have been aware of the benefits of completing a degree which include increased life time earnings, safer communities to live in, access to better healthcare and a higher likelihood of children participating in higher education among other things. I applaud the many researchers, faculty and staff who are working diligently to improve access and support to our first generation students. There are some fantastic programs in our higher ed community! There unfortunately remains a significant number (read huge) of first generation students who have left our institutions prior to earning their degree. We need to work hard to meet these former students where they are now and help reengage those who desire to return to school. Once folk get jobs, start families or have other significant life obligations, the return to campus Monday through Thursday from 9am-12pm isn't likely, so our ability to provide flexibility is key. Please share any research or student support you may be conducting or providing that is increasing access to and success at the institution. #studentsuccess #highereducation #universityadmissions #firstgen

As more students question the value of college, more high schools are bringing college options into their walls. In the latest installment of our Doubting College series, we visit a high school where students can earn a two-year degree without leaving the building, and where students can also get a jump on other career options that don’t require higher education.

What We Do Avenue Scholars provides comprehensive, individualized support services to help eligible students in Des Moines area high schools identify, prepare for, and ultimately enter financially sustaining, high-demand careers requiring an associate degree or less. Programming begins in the student’s junior year of high school and continues uninterrupted through postsecondary training and for six months following career entry. We take a holistic approach to career preparation to ensure our students are set up for success. #avenuescholars #careersuccess #youthempowerment #futureleaders #educationmatters #opportunitiesahead #buildingfutures #empowerthrougheducation #studentsuccess #careerdevelopment #brighterfutures #communityimpact #transforminglives #pathtosuccess #youtheducation #dreamsrealized #learningjourney #studentleadership #educationforall #successstories #skillsforlife #youthdevelopment #aspiringleaders #buildingcareers #futureprofessionals

Are you a graduating high school senior preparing to go to college? Are you currently attending college in the Greater Richmond Area? If so, we invite you to apply Richmond Visionary Scholarship! 📅 Application Period: March 4, 2024 - April 15, 2024 🏅 Awards: Need or Merit Based with a minimum award of $500 per student Applicant Criteria: -African American -2.75 GPA -Currently enrolled in a Greater Richmond Area Public School as a graduating senior in good academic standing -Currently enrolled in a Greater Richmond Area College or University in good academic standing -Submit a letter of acceptance for the Fall 2024 enrollment period into an accredited, four-year undergraduate program OR provide proof of enrollment in a local accredited, four-year undergraduate program. -Complete online application with essay or video submission, along with required documents by April 15, 2024 Scholarship Submission Criteria: Choose a topic below and respond through a written essay (500 words minimum, one page maximum) or video submission (options of Tiktok, Instagram, etc). For Rising College Freshman: -What communities and/or school activities are you involved in? Why did you choose them, and how have they impacted you? -What is a personal achievement you are most proud of? Why? -How have you made a contribution to your community? How do you plan to continue to support and uplift your community in the future? -What impact did your local community have on your decision to go to college and/or your major? For Rising College Sophomore, Junior, Senior: -In which aspect will you stay connected to the mission of Richmond YP after you graduate? Explain what drives your passion/interest towards that aspect? -What are your career goals? -Choose an elective/course that you feel is important for your generation and is not currently offered at your school. How could this course make a difference for college students? -What are ways you've helped a community in which you belong? How do you plan to continue to support and uplift your community in the future? Don't miss this opportunity to further your education and make a positive impact on your community! Apply now and let your voice be heard. https://lnkd.in/ei9SRQYJ

We asked staff members Jessica Lau, Adriana Arambula Moreno, MCJ, MLS and Cayla Whitney what it means for them to be first-generation college graduates. In this article (https://lnkd.in/ekctDzC9), they discuss what a college degree means to them and their families, offer insights into the struggles first-generation students face after graduation and give suggestions for how other first-generation graduates can succeed in their careers at Stanford. #FirstGenDay #HigherEducation

The good news: Approximately 88% of high schools offer dual enrollment, and 34% of U.S. students take college courses in high school. The bad news: “Random acts of dual enrollment” don’t necessarily give students an on-ramp to meaningful college or career opportunities. The latest from our CEO, Matt Gandal, in Forbes details how high schools can be more intentional when building dual enrollment programs, and celebrates the states and districts that are doing this work well: https://lnkd.in/gRBUFmhT

Embrace the New Year with Open Arms! Seize the opportunity to shape a brighter future through affordable college dreams. Clark College Consulting is here to guide current Juniors, Sophomores, and Freshmen towards success without breaking the bank. Let's chat for FREE and pave the way to your academic dreams! #NewYearNewOpportunities #AffordableCollege #DreamBigPaySmart #ClarkCollegeConsulting"

With an average acceptance rate of around 12% over the past ten years, Cornell University stands out. This means that, on average, about 12 out of every 100 students who apply to Cornell will be admitted. #CornellUniversity #Cornell #IvyLeague #AcademicExcellence #OpenDoors #TheCareerFocus

Exploring Futures: How Campus Visits Shape Your Child's College Choice Embark with us on an enlightening 7-day journey, visiting 10 colleges to uncover where Natalie can thrive. Witness the behind-the-scenes of each campus visit, from the vibrant community at Villanova to the serene ambiance of Swarthmore. Learn how hands-on experiences and campus culture play a crucial role in deciding the best college for your child. #LampertEducationalResources #AffordCollege"