Welcome to the Lobo Center (College & Career Center)
LOBO CENTER STAFF WELCOMES STUDENTS AND PARENTS
HOW TO BECOME COLLEGE/CAREER ELIGIBLE & READY
COLLEGE APPLICATION INFORMATION
- Seniors applying to four-year colleges should request an unofficial copy of their high school transcript. Colleges will ask for courses and grades. Information must be added to the application accurately or risk losing admission.
- After applying, check your email daily. Colleges will send you information to create your college portals, where you will be asked for documents with deadlines. You risk losing your admission by not creating your portal and missing document deadlines or not reading emails with requests. Colleges know when you read an email. Playing the innocent card will not help you.
- Clean up your social media. Colleges & universities can go out of their way to look into who you are online.
- Open a brand new and professional email address just for your college stuff. Add it to your phone so you do not lose track of important emails.
- Depending on the college(s) to which you are choosing to apply, your choices will determine what application to complete:
- Historically Black Colleges & Universities: With $20 you can apply to up to 67 HBCUs via the Common Black College Application (CBCA). No fee waivers are available. Deadlines vary by school. Not all HBCU's are available through the CBCA. Those not on the CBCA use either the Common App or their own application.
- Click here for the CBCA.
- Private Colleges/Universities, Out of State Public Colleges/Universities: Over 1,000 schools (including some HBCUs) are on the Common App, which opens on August 1st for high school seniors. RDPS uses the Common Application and integrated with Naviance. Application opens every year on August 1st. Deadlines vary by school. Most schools do require a counselor recommendation and 1-2 teacher recommendations. For recommendations, students must ask teachers and counselors with a two week notice prior to the school's application deadline. You must provide your teacher and counselor recommenders with a completed brag sheet so they can write the best possible recommendation. Fee waivers are available and you can apply for up to 20 schools. If a school is not on the Common App, you will have to visit the school's website and apply using its own application.
- Click here for the Common App.
- Work with the Lobo Center to strategically write your activity descriptions, review your essays and short responses, and overall application.
- Application opens on August 1st for high school seniors. To qualify to apply to the UC, seniors must have earned at least a MINIMUM 3.0 UC GPA by the end of the summer before senior year. If just below the required minimum GPA but close to it, please consult with the Lobo Center for possibilities.
- Applicants are required to select and respond to 4 out of 8 Personal Insight Questions. The Lobo Center recommends that applicants select and write 5 PIQs, then drop one that does not work well. This alleviates stress.
- Work with the Lobo Center to strategically write your activity descriptions, review your PIQ responses, and overall application.
- Fee waivers are automatically given within the application, based on family income.
- Click here for the UC application. APPLICATION DEADLINE IS NOVEMBER 21ST!
- Application opens on October 1st for high school seniors. To qualify to apply to the CSU, seniors must have earned at least a MINIMUM 2.5 CSU GPA by the end of the summer before senior year. If just below the required minimum GPA but close to it, please consult with the Lobo Center for possibilities.
- EOP: All applicants are strongly encouraged to apply to the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP). Students accepted to the program can receive additional academic support, priority registration, sometimes extra financial aid, and more. In rare instances, some students can be accepted to the university through EOP. This portion of the CSU application requires responses to 5 questions and 2 teacher recommendations. Click here to see if your family income qualifies you to apply to EOP. Provide your EOP recommenders with a completed EOP Brag Sheet. Click on the CSU EOP Brag Sheet icon on the left hand side of this website.
- Work with the Lobo Center to strategically write your activity descriptions, review your EOP responses, and overall application.
- Fee waivers are automatically given within the application, based on family income.
- Click here for the CSU application. APPLICATION DEADLINE IS NOVEMBER 21ST!
- Applications for many community colleges open in the month of October through January for the fall semester.
- Visit each community college's website to apply. There is no cost to apply.
- It is strongly recommended that students apply early to complete enrollment before graduation (strongly recommended that enrollment is completed by April).
- THE STEPS FOR COMMUNITY COLLEGE ENROLLMENT: 1. Admission Application, 2. Set up Student Portal, 3. Complete Online Orientation, 4. Make appointment to meet with a counselor at the community college to create an education plan, 5. Register for classes.
FINANCIAL AID
- Grants (free money from the federal government, state of residence, and/or college/university that does not need to be repaid)
- College-based and private scholarships (either from the college or organizations that do not need to be repaid but come with requirements)
- Work-Study (must be earned through employment)
- Student loans (must be repaid either after graduation or dropping out)
DUAL ENROLLMENT (FREE COLLEGE CLASSES!)
- Course 1: Theater 100 - Introduction to Theater. in person, Mondays and Wednesdays, 3:30 PM - 4:45 PM. September 2nd - December 21st, 2025, in the RDPS library.
- Course 2: Counseling 017 - College Survival Skills Development. Virtual, Asynchronous. September 2nd - December 21st, 2025.
- Apply to LAHC by clicking here
- Complete the online Dynamic Form: electronic signature from student, parent, and counselor. The Lobo Center can assist students in completing this form.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
- The Gates Scholarship: The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for outstanding high school seniors from low-income households. Each year, the scholarship is awarded to exceptional student leaders, with the intent of helping them realize their maximum potential. Click here for EASY FIRST ROUND application and more information. DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 15TH.
- Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship: Apply to win one of 150 scholarships of $20,000 each. Must have at least a 3.0 GPA and be a high school senior. Children or grandchildren of current or former Coca-Cola employees are ineligible. Click here to watch a video with all the information you need to know. Click here for EASY FIRST ROUND application and more information. DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 30TH.
- QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship: Full four-year scholarship to one of 55 top notch partner colleges. QuestBridge is looking for high school seniors who 1) Earn primarily A’s in the most challenging courses offered and demonstrate strong writing ability and intellectual curiosity, 2) Come from a household earning less than $65,000 annually (for a household of four) with minimal assets, 3) Demonstrate resilience, integrity, and motivation to succeed. If admitted, along with the scholarship, you will join a supportive community of over 11,000 other QuestBridge Scholars currently attending our college partners, and upon graduation, you'll be welcomed into a network of over 20,000 QuestBridge Alumni for continued support, networking, and lifelong opportunities. Click here for application and more information. DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 30TH.
- US Army Reserve ROTC Scholarship: 100% coverage either tuition and fees or room and board. covered in exchange for a career serving in the Army as an Officer after graduation. Receive monthly help to offset living and book costs. All ROTC scholarships include an extra $420 each month throughout the school year for expenses like housing, along with $1,200 each year to spend on books. Click here for application and more information. DEADLINE: OCTOBER 13TH (Round 1), JANUARY 19TH (Round 2), MARCH 16TH (Round 3).
- Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards: The Hispanic Heritage Foundation kicks off the 27th year of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation's (HHF) Youth Awards! Applications are officially live for their educational grants of up to $4,000 to support the Class of 2026 as they pursue higher education or launch community-focused initiatives. They are looking for students who have made remarkable achievements in the classroom, made an impact in their communities, and demonstrated excellence in one or more of their award categories, including Community Service, Engineering, Green Sustainability, and Technology, with additional categories being added throughout the awards season. To apply, students must be a 12th grader of Latine descent with at least a minimum 3.0 GPA. Click here for application and more information. DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 2ND, 11:59 PST.
- American Culinary Education Foundation Scholarships: The American Culinary Federation Education Foundation, with the support of the American Academy of Chefs (AAC) is pleased to offer a limited number of scholarships annually to students: Apprenticeship program - up to $1,5000; Certificate programs - up to $1,500; Postsecondary degree programs - up to $2,500. Click here for application and more information. DEADLINE: OCTOBER 31ST (Round 1), APRIL 30TH (Round 2).
- NSHSS Foundation Scholarships: A variety of scholarships available to all high school students, grades 9-12. Check often and apply early. Click here to view the available scholarships, application, and more information. DEADLINE: VARIES BY SCHOLARSHIP.
- Scholly Scholarships: A variety of scholarships available to high school students, grades 11 and 12. Check often and apply early. Click here to view the available scholarships, application, and more information. DEADLINE: VARIES BY SCHOLARSHIP.
- YoungArts National Arts Competition: Are you a 15 to 18 year old visual, literary, or performing artist? Students who work their art through classical music, dane, design, film, jazz, photography, theater, visual arts, voice, or writing are encouraged to apply! What can come with being selected: cash awards from $250 to $10,000, mentorship by accomplished artists, a lifetime of creative and professional support, a robust network for life, nomination for the U.S. Presidential Scholar Award, and national recognition. There is a $35 application fee but you may request a fee waiver. Click here for application and more information. DEADLINE: OCTOBER 8, 2025 @ 5 PM, PST
- BigFuture Scholarships by College Board: For grades 11 and 12. From $500 up to $40,000. No essays, no GPA or test scores. No essay, no minimum GPA or test score requirements. Just follow the steps for chances to win. The more steps you complete and the earlier you start, the more chances you have to win! Earn entries in monthly drawings for $500 and $40,000 scholarships by completing the six qualifying steps on BigFuture. If you don’t win, your entry rolls over for the next month. Students whose families earn less than $60,000 a year have more chances to earn scholarships (click here for more info on this detail). Click here for more information and get started. DEADLINES VARY BY CLASS. C/O 2026, FEBRUARY 28, 2026. C/O 2027, NOVEMBER 30, 2026.
- Digital Responsibility Scholarships: For grades 9, 10, 11, 12. Four different scholarships available due on different dates throughout the year. Click here for applications to each and more information. Don't Text and Drive Scholarship, $1,000. DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 30, 2025. Technology Addiction Awareness Scholarship, $1,000. DEADLINE: JANUARY 30, 2026. E-Waste Scholarship, $1,000. DEADLINE: APRIL 30, 2026.
COLLEGE FLY-IN PROGRAMS (Fly to Colleges for Free or Low Cost!)
SCHOOL YEAR & SUMMER OPPORTUNITIES
- FALL 2025 High School Tech Pathways Academy: Is a tech career in your future? UNITE-LA’s Tech Pathways Academy (ONLINE) is launching its fifth cohort this Fall 2025! The 9.5 week after-school Highschool Academy is a career awareness, certification, and enrichment program that develops the next generation of industry leaders! Through a series of activities, youth will experience the many career paths in popular tech industries. So, get ready for an empowering experience to increase your knowledge of available, lucrative tech job opportunities, sharpen your technical skills, and determine what Tech careers best suit your interests. Why Participate • Learn about high earning career pathways in the Tech sector • Complete free LinkedIn certification courses in AI, Software Development, and Cyber Security • Earn a college credit from LA Trade Tech College or West Los Angeles College • Build a professional network of peers and professionals from the tech industry. • Gain access to paid tech internship opportunities. Requirements • Interest in learning about available tech career pathways • Commitment to 9 weeks of on-camera virtual afterschool sessions (Tuesdays and Thursdays between 4:30pm-6pm) • Access to an internet-enabled device and Wi-Fi • High school student between the ages of 16-18 If you have any questions or if you did not receive follow up instructions, please email Diana Balbuena at [email protected]. DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 15TH.
COLLEGE ATHLETICS RECRUITMENT
- College athletics is broken down into two athletic associations: the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
- Both associations have three divisions: I, II, III
- Athletic scholarships are offered mostly in Division I and less scholarships in Division II. No scholarships are offered in Division III.
- Register for NCAA Eligibility Center (click here) and/or NAIA Eligibility Center (click here). You will be asked to request a fee waiver. Indicate yes and complete your registration
- Speak to the Lobo Center that you have completed your registration so that your transcript can be uploaded. Remind the Lobo Center each year to upload an updated transcript.
- Build a large & prospective college list that covers more than one division
- Register as a recruit on the athletics website for each school
- Email coaches and/or assistant coaches with information about you, your player positions, statistics, and athletic recognitions, as well as academics. Assistant coaches and recruiting staff may then contact you. Head coaches can only contact high school athletes directly during senior year.
- Understand & follow all rules of NCAA/NAIA. SUPER IMPORTANT!
- Update coaches with new statistics annually
- Consult with the Lobo Center frequently throughout high school about your process
HARBOR OCCUPATIONAL CENTER PROGRAMS
WORK PERMITS
Eligibility for, AND TO MAINTAIN, a Work Permit:
- Minimum 2.0 GPA with No Fs nor Us in any course is required on the most recent report card
- No less than an 95% attendance/tardy record in every class
- Attendance and tardies are reviewed regularly for work permitted students
- Behavior referrals are also reviewed
LOBO CENTER COMMUNITY PARTNERS
- Boys & Girls Club College Bound
- CSULB Educational Talent Search (ETS)
- UCLA Early Academic Outreach Program/Destination College Advising Corps (EAOP/DCAC)
- UCLA Vice Provost's Initiative for Pre-college Scholars Program (VIPS/focused on African-American students)
- Los Angeles Harbor College (Free on-campus college courses)
Archive: The scholarships & summer opportunities in this section are closed for the year, but may open up again next year. Feel free to look and plan to apply when one reopens.
- Chico State University Wildcat Scholarship: For seniors considering attending Chico State University in the fall. Open to seniors who applied and were accepted to Chico State. CLICK HERE to log in using your Chico State login and apply. DEADLINE: FEB. 14TH, 2025.
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Ross Stores Foundation Scholarship Program: Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be a high school senior, be an active member in good standing with a Ross Power Hour Boys & Girls Club (@RDPS) Site for at least one year during high school (grades 9-12), have a minimum 2.5 GPA (on a 4.0 scale), plan to enroll in full-time undergraduate study at an accredited two- or four-year college or vocational-technical school, have the recommendation of the Club or Unit Director. Up to twenty (20) awards of $3,750 each will be granted. Click here for application. DUE FEBRUARY 17TH
- Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholarship: Awards of $500-$5,000. Minimum 3.0 GPA required & be US Citizen, permanent resident, or DACA. CLICK HERE to apply. DEADLINE EXTENDED: FEBRUARY 20TH
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- CSUDH Presidential Scholarship: This opportunity is only open to 12th graders, have a 3.5 Cal State GPA, and have applied and been accepted to CSUDH. Click here for application and more information. DEADLINE: MARCH 1ST. Benefits include:
- Full in-state fees for up to four years of study for first-year students and up to two years for transfer students
- Annual book allowance and parking permit (fall and spring semesters)
- Laptop computer and software
- $500 annual University Housing discount
- Recognition at commencement as a Presidential Scholar
- Spring recognition reception with President Parham
- Lunch with President Parham during the fall and spring semesters
- Priority registration
- Academic Success Coach
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$2,000 Scholarship For Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) LAUSD seniors: Click here for the application. Teachers are to click here to submit a recommendation. For Scholarship questions, please email either Jane Lee [email protected] or Chatty Richier [email protected] For technical difficulties, email Elijah Whang [email protected]. DEADLINE: MARCH 7TH.
- $2,000 Council of Mexican-American Administrators Scholarship: LAUSD Graduating High School Seniors are invited to apply for the CMAA High School Senior Scholarship. The CMAA Scholarship awards $2,000 to deserving students who demonstrate higher education aspirations, through a competitive application process.
- QUALIFICATIONS
a. Hispanic descent, at least one parent.
b. June 2025 graduate of a secondary school in LAUSD.
c. Fall 2025 enrollment in a four-year college or university, no exception.
d. 3.50 LAUSD grade point average, minimum, on a 4.0 scale.
- QUALIFICATIONS
Click here for application. DEADLINE MARCH 14 @ 5 PM.- Point Foundation's BIPOC Scholarship: To qualify, applicants must identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC) and LGBTQ. Be enrolled or intend to enroll in one of the following types of programs: an associate degree, a bachelor's degree, a master's or doctoral degree, or a medical, law, or other professional degree. Must be “out” as a person who identifies as a member of the LGBTQ community. Click here for more information and to apply. DEADLINE: MARCH 15TH, 5 PM.
- $1,000 Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Mu Sigma Lamda Chapter Scholarship: For African-American males with the following criteria: graduation from a Southern California high school with at least a 3.0 GPA, enrolling into a four-year institution for the fall of 2025 (providing proof of enrollment, if selected). Children of Alpha Phi Alpha members are ineligible to apply. Click here for application and more information. DEADLINE: MARCH 20TH.
- The Cameron Impact Scholarship: A four-year, full-tuition, impact-driven undergraduate scholarship awarded annually to 15 exceptional high school students in 11th grade who have demonstrated excellence in leadership, community service, extracurricular activities, and academics. APPLY EARLY!!! Only the first 3,000 complete applications are accepted. DEADLINE: FEB. 28TH.
- Horatio Alger Scholarships: The Horatio Alger Association supports deserving young people who are overcoming significant challenges and are committed to pursuing higher education. Scholarships of up to $25,000. Must be a junior to apply. DEADLINE: MARCH 1ST.
- CGCS - $5,000 Bernard Harris STEM Scholarship: Four scholarships of $5,000 each awarded to two African-American and two Hispanic students on behalf of former NASA astronaut, physician, and businessman, Dr. Bernard Harris. Qualified applicants must be 12th graders, accepted to a four-year college/university and pursuing a degree in STEM, and a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.5 or higher. NO CITIZENSHIP REQUIREMENT. Click here for more information and application. DEADLINE: MARCH 31ST.
- Jerry Morris and Summer Houston Scholarships: Up to $2,000. The Union Pacific Railroad Black Employee Network Jerry Morris and Summer Houston Scholarships are provided to assist African American students in defraying the cost of higher education. Students are awarded scholarships of up to $2000 and recipients are chosen on the basis of scholastic ability and leadership. Personal or family financial situations can be a factor in consideration of eligibility and in awarding the scholarship. Current Union Pacific employees and their dependents are ineligible for this scholarship. Click here for application and more information. DEADLINE: MARCH 31ST.
- $2,000 LA Clippers/California Community Colleges Scholarship: The LA Clippers and California Community Colleges are pleased to offer an opportunity to assist community college-bound students. The scholarship program will award 10 scholarships of $2,000 each for students enrolling in a California Community College in Summer/Fall 2025. Who Can Apply: 1. High school seniors, adult learners, or individuals beginning or returning to a California Community College in summer/fall 2025, 2. Passionate about education and their future, 3. Submit a short video (30-60 seconds) sharing your educational goals and how this scholarship will help you. Click here for online application. Complete the online application, submit your video. DEADLINE: APRIL 20TH.
- Hon. Beverly Reid O'Connell Scholarship: Scholarship awards of up to $5,000. Eligible students must: 1. identify as a woman, 2. interested in the field of law or in public service, 3. inspired to pursue this career choice by WLALA Foundation's Power Luncheon, the WLALA organization, or a WLALA leader. Click here for application and more information. DEADLINE: APRIL 30TH.
- Eric & Christine Alegria Public Service Scholarship: The Greater Los Angeles Education Foundation is proud to offer this $2,500 scholarship award to students interested in pursuing studies and a career in public service. Students with demonstrated community awareness and financial need who plan to graduate from a public high school in LA County are encouraged to apply. Qualified applicants must graduate from a public high school in LA county by June 2025, have at least a 3.5 or higher GPA, attend either a 2- or 4-year college in 2025-26, plan to pursue a career in fields such as government, public administration, and public policy, and have demonstrated need. Click here for more information and to apply. DEADLINE:MAY 7TH, @ 11:59 PM.
- Frederick M. Roberts College Scholarship (California Legislative Black Caucus): Named after the first African American Legislator in California. Established to assist deserving students by offering financial assistance to help meet educational expenses. Minimum 2.5 GPA to apply. Click here for application. DEADLINE: MAY 10, 5 PM.
- The Propeller Club Los Angeles/Long Beach Scholarship: The Propeller Club of Los Angeles-Long Beach is offering scholarships from $250-$1,000 for graduating high school seniors. Open to students residing in and/or attending schools located in the cities of Long Beach, Lakewood, San Pedro, Wilmington, Harbor City, or Carson and demonstrating deserving academic records, outstanding citizenship, and school and community service. Application requires: 500 word essay on a selected essay question, list of your most important school activities, community service, and work experience, unofficial transcripts, two letters of reference: one from a teacher or counselor, and one from an adult who is familiar with your schoolwork and activities. Click here for application and more information. DEADLINE: MAY 23RD.
- California Latino Legislative Caucus Foundation Scholarship Program: Click here for application and more info. Minimum 2.5 GPA to apply. Application opens March 15th. DEADLINE: JUNE 1ST.
- American Trucks Student Scholarship: For students pursuing a trade/vocational education. Click here for application and more info. 1 scholarship for $2,500 will be awarded twice a year to students who are currently enrolled full-time in a secondary vocational school, technical institute, or are high school seniors who are enrolled in one of the aforementioned institutes. One scholarship will be awarded for the fall semester and one scholarship will be awarded for the spring semester each year. DEADLINE: JUNE 1ST, 9 AM.
- CSUDH Presidential Scholarship: This opportunity is only open to 12th graders, have a 3.5 Cal State GPA, and have applied and been accepted to CSUDH. Click here for application and more information. DEADLINE: MARCH 1ST. Benefits include:
- Fim2Future Intensive Film Program: Spring through summer program for students interested in a career in Hollywood and film! Program is free, technology and transportation provided. There are two programs that students may apply for – one focused on animation and one focused on music video production. DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 16TH, 2025.
- California State Summer School for the Arts (CSSSA): Programs in the following disciplines: Animation, Dance, Film, Music, Visual Arts, Theater, & Writing. Takes place at the California Institute for the Arts (Cal Arts, founded by Walt Disney), located in Valencia, CA, home to Magic Mountain. Financial aid is available UP TO FULL COST OF PROGRAM, but you must apply to both the school and financial aid by the deadline. Open to all high school grades. DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 28TH, 6 PM.
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- Scripps College Academy Program: For young women in grades 10 and 11. An intensive, multi-year, college access and completion program for high- achieving young women with limited resources who seek to become the first generation in their families to attend college. All expenses paid program to live on the Scripps College campus in Claremont, CA for this and next summer for two weeks. Must be low-income or qualify for free/reduced lunch, and first generation (not family member) to attend college. DEADLINE: MARCH 3RD.
- Turner-UCLA Allied Health Internship: Summer high school internship at UCLA to explore entry-level allied health careers that do not require a traditional four-year degree or medical degree. DEADLINE MARCH 7TH @ 4:59 PM.
- Junior Scholars Program @ Reed College (Virtual): Junior Scholars is an in-depth virtual program designed to introduce high-achieving high school juniors to the college search, help them produce a competitive admission application, and answer the unique questions posed by underrepresented students and students of color. All students are welcome to apply. Students will get guidance on the college search and application process, form lasting connections, and learn about life at Reed. Connect with Milyon Trulove, Vice President and Dean of Admission & Financial Aid. Participate in interactive workshops led by admission counselors who will help students understand application basics and brainstorm essay topics. Attend a workshop led by a financial aid counselor who will demystify the financial aid process. Hear from our professors at a special Q&A event featuring faculty from multiple disciplines. Meet current Reedies and learn about how Reed supports students from diverse backgrounds. DEADLINE: MARCH 10TH.
- Questbridge College Prep Scholars Program: College Prep Scholars for high-achieving, low-income juniors can receive awards and opportunities that will give them a head start in applying to top colleges, including:
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☀️ A full scholarship to a college summer program at Emory, UChicago, Yale, and more. Valued at up to $20,000, the scholarship covers travel, tuition, housing, and food
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🏅 Quest for Excellence Awards, valued at $1,000, for a new laptop or other resources to help students enhance their college applications.
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🏫 An invitation to a QuestBridge National College Admissions Conference featuring a college fair so students can explore schools that may be a good fit for them.
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🤝 Personalized support with college essays, test prep, applying to college, or completing financial aid forms.
🎉 ...and more! DEADLINE: MARCH 20TH.
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- Expanding Horizons Institute Internship: For grades 10 and 11. Intensive skill development and personal growth experiences to first-generation, college-bound high school students. Our unique approach, which includes interactive seminars and paid summer internship, is designed to prepare students for the challenges of college, exposure to careers, and the responsibilities of civic life. DEADLINE MARCH 21ST.
- The Social Impact Fellowship: a three-month program for rising low-income sophomore and juniors to find mentors, grow their confidence, and give back. Students build lifelong confidence and network through structured mentorship and project-based learning. Our alums have gone on to win scholarships and attend top universities like Stanford. The most impactful project will receive the $1,000 Growth Mindset Scholarship. Must be a 9th or 10th grader, Identify as low-income, & be available over Zoom from June-August 2025. DEADLINE: MARCH 30TH.
- Charles Drew University Pathways to Health Careers Academy: PHA is a YEAR-LONG program for grades 11 and 12 who are interested in improving community health through healthcare professions. Includes free college-level courses, tutoring and mentorship, skill development, college readiness, SAT prep, PAID INTERNSHIP, networking and events, and a stipend award. Program is from July 7th, 2025 - May 31, 2026, both in-person and online. GPA between 2.0 and 3.5, including those who are underperforming or at risk academically. DEADLINE: MARCH 31ST.
- Youth Mental Health Academy: For grades 11 and 12 interested in careers in mental health. 14 month program, including a $2,000 stipend followed by a paid internship, mentorship, project-based learning, and student support. DEADLINE MARCH 31ST
- Marathon Los Angeles Refinery Summer Youth Program: Provides local high school students (Avalon, Banning, Cabrillo, CAMS, Carson, Eagle Tree, Rancho Dominguez Prep, HTPA) a paid 7-week, summer work program. A mentor-led program introducing students to a variety of jobs in the refining industry as well as working in a corporate environment. Offers classroom training, mentorship, and hands-on experience. Program runs June 16th - July 31st, 2025, with work hours M-Th 7AM-3:30PM, Fri 7AM-2:30PM. You MUST be able to work the entire time listed. MUST BE a junior or senior in high school and MUST BE 17 to 19 years old by the time the program begins (June 16, 2025). PAY RATE is $19.50/hour. Former summer youth and family members of Marathon employees are not eligible. DEADLINE: FRIDAY, APRIL 11TH.
- Carleton Liberal Arts Experience (CLAE) at Carleton College: Designed for Black and African-American 11th grade students and those interested in African-American studies who possess a strong academic record, are intellectually curious, and socially engaged. The free program provides exposure to highly rigorous, college-level coursework within the unique style of education found only at liberal arts colleges like Carleton. A week-long FREE summer program for high school juniors June 25 – July 2, 2025. The curriculum explores African American history, identity, and contemporary culture through the framework of a liberal arts education. TRAVEL TO THE COLLEGE IS INCLUDED! DEADLINE: APRIL 11TH @ 9 PM.
- WashU Preview at Washington University in St. Louis: For high achieving 11th graders. WashU Preview provides students, especially those who might not be able to visit WashU independently, a chance to experience our diverse and supportive community. This programming highlights opportunities for students from underrepresented backgrounds to find community at WashU (including but not limited to first-generation-to-college students, students from low-income families, students from rural areas, underrepresented students of color, and LGBTQIA+ students). Participants will learn about our commitment to student success, work with our staff to better understand the college admissions process, stay in on-campus housing, and meet peers from across the country. TRAVEL IS INCLUDED! Sunday, August 3, through Tuesday, August 5, 2025. DEADLINE: JUNE 6TH @ 10 PM.
- The Riordan Scholars Program: Targets 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students who are college bound and interested in developing the necessary leadership skills to succeed in business and college. Scholars exemplify an extraordinary level of responsibility and devotion to their academic career. Requirements are: 1. Will be the first generation (not person) of their family to attend a four-year college in the United States, 2. Must have demonstrated leadership skills and community service involvement, 3. Have a cumulative GPA of at least a 3.0, 4. Residing in or near the Los Angeles area. DEADLINE: JUNE 27TH.