One of my biggest takeaways from the Philadelphia college trip was how colleges have very similar courses and lifestyle but there are some differences. I think the name of the college doesn’t matter but really the opportunities they give. Going to colleges that aren’t well known can give you more information and bring you further than a well named school that won’t give you much attention.
– Apex 11th grader, Class of 2025
Apex’s College Access Program prepares 11th and 12th grade students for success for life after high school by providing in-depth support as they explore their future pathways and prepare for the college application process. In small groups, led by a College Guide volunteer, students learn how to identify and communicate their interests and strengths in order to research and find the best fit colleges. Each student also receives individualized support navigating potential barriers to access, such as the financial aid and scholarship search process.
College Access Program small groups meet 1-2 times a month on Saturdays. These group workshops provide a supportive space that empowers students to proactively approach college applications with curiosity and confidence. Groups also foster new friendships and a sense of belonging within the larger CAP and Apex community, as well as the chance to explore other social, academic, cultural, and professional opportunities within Apex.
Location: Lower East Side, Manhattan
Dates: 1-2 Saturdays a month, September – June
Qualifications for College Guides:
Commitment
Responsibilities
Application
If you are interested in becoming a College Guide, click below to submit your application:
Qualifications
Application
If youth are interested in participating in our College Access program, submit your application below
Does this program include Test Prep for the SATs or ACTs?
No. Apex for Youth does not currently have standardized test prep. However, all enrolled Apex high school students with other opportunities for college exploration application support including free college visits, access to the Apex for Youth sponsored paid internships, and Apex for Youth scholarships.
When will I hear back about my application?
We accept youth and volunteer applications year round, with a priority deadline of May 31st. We will reach out in June-July to schedule an interview with you. We only conduct interviews in the summer so we can make the best possible matches.
Why is there a two year minimum commitment for the College Access Program College Guides?
In order to provide students with comprehensive and holistic support through the different elements of the college application, the groups must build a trusting relationship and learn how they can best work together so the group feels prepared at the start of the students’ senior year. Because of this, we require each College Guide and student to work together from the 11th grade through the 12th grade.
How are college guides and students matched for their College Group?
Matching is an art, not a science! Apex staff do all student and college guide interviews over the summer so at the end of the summer, we can make the best possible matches for student and college guide. Every match is different; a pair may be matched because the students have an interest in a specific professional industry, because they have similar experiences as the oldest sibling in their family, or because they have similar or complementary personalities.
Why are College Guides and Students placed in a small group?
The program is structured around having conversations, learning content, and building skills within a small group structure as well as with the larger grade to build a sense of community and to provide students and guides to learn and work with each other throughout the year.
What type of support do College Guides receive?
All volunteers attend a training and program orientation prior to the start of the program year, and another training in the middle of the year. Guides and students are also required to have check-in calls each program year with staff, and can request personalized support from staff at any time.
What topics do the group College Access Program workshops explore?
All workshops are through the lens of equity and supporting low income Asian American, immigrant or first generation youth through the college application and financial aid process. Workshop topics include, but are not limited to, identifying strengths and interests, learning about the different pieces of the college application and financial aid process.
Questions? Email us at: collegeandcareer@apexforyouth.org
