The deadline to nominate a current high school freshman for the College Prep Program at Washington University in St. Louis is Tuesday, Nov. 18.
Now in its second year, the three-year program prepares high-achieving high school students with limited financial resources for success in college.
In an effort to serve more St. Louis-area talented learners, Washington University will nearly double the size of its next class to some 45-50 students. Last year, the program accepted 26 students from St. Louis, St. Louis County and St. Charles County. Participation in the program remains free.
“We are excited to be able to expand access to this resource to additional St. Louis-area high school students,” said Leah Merrifield, assistant vice chancellor for community engagement. “Our first cohort of scholars and their families expressed great satisfaction with the experience and are looking forward to their continued involvement.”
The 2015 summer on-campus component of the multiyear program will run from June 7-19. The rising sophomores will stay in residence halls and attend lectures and programs on campus. The goal is to help first-generation students feel comfortable on a college campus and to coach parents on ways to support their children as they apply to and then attend college.
Scholars will return the following two summers for three-week visits. During their second and third year, the students will take coursework for Washington University credit and participate in college test prep and financial aid workshops. The final summer, the students also will draft a college essay and work on their presentation skills. Scholars also participate in academic and enrichment programming throughout the school year.
All applicants must first be nominated by someone with knowledge of their character, academic accomplishment and potential for success. This could be a teacher, counselor, faith or civic leader. Accepted freshmen must commit to participate in all three years of the program.
To nominate a student, visit collegeprep.wustl.edu or contact Emily Franz at 314-935-4526.