Observing College Readiness

My name is Eric Hawley and I’m an intern here at Circle Urban Ministries. Among my responsibilities I get to observe the Mentoring and College Readiness (CR) programs. Currently writing for the Mentoring blog, I was asked to post an entry for the CR blog too.

Previous entries have been from students of the program and their thoughts about different trips they went on, but these kids are involved in more than trips. This program is about preparing kids for college success with a promising vision for their futures. Living in a neighborhood where 37% of adults have received a bachelor’s degree or higher doesn’t do a great job of promoting education.

To combat this, CR also provides its participants with academic assistance. High school participants receive tutoring twice a week from Linda, a college math professor. Her snacks and energy keep the kids’ attention while learning difficult concepts. College campus and career exposure visits are used as a way to encourage students to work hard in high school so they can be equipped for higher education. As you can read in posts below, many different career site visits have been made to demonstrate to kids the importance of a college degree.

Bible studies have also become part of the College Readiness program, encouraging kids in their faith. Armand wrote: “I enjoy the Bible studies during this time because it prepares me mentally for a Christ like attitude in college.” As the kids meet 2-3 times per week, they form friendships with each other and the staff, Dan and Tony. Darrell wrote “ I am not on the streets, I am safe here. It helps a lot because my parents don’t have to worry about me because I’m in a safe environment.”

Kids are being cared for in many ways, spiritually, emotionally, and academically. The College Readiness program will continue to encourage kids to grow and learn.

If you want to get involved being a mentor for a student, a tutor, or have ideas on where to visit college campuses or career sites, please send us your information.