Seizing summer programming: CSF Scholars’ path to postsecondary success
While summer is often a time for vacation, for College Success Foundation Scholars the season presents a prime opportunity to engage in summer programming activities, workshops, and mentoring sessions. These resources propel students’ strong academic momentum from the school year during what’s otherwise considered “time off.” Seizing opportunities to gain financial aid, college application, and future job hunt knowledge gives CSF high school students a head start on their postsecondary success.
At CSF-Yakima, our advisors filled their students’ calendars with a diverse array of summer programming events designed to nurture personal and academic growth at every grade level. These activities included catered meals and fun snacks to keep students nourished and ready for the work ahead.
Starting with the 9th- and 10th-grade levels, advisors at Davis and Eisenhower High Schools showed much creativity in putting on bilingual events like a time management crash course, college campus tours, and festive games for a total of 181 students. “CSF Summer Programming was a huge success!” CSF advisor Elvira Lopez says. “Students were able to learn various topics and walk away with resources to help navigate their first year of high school. It was great seeing students come back each day ready to learn and participate. The best part of summer programming for me was watching students make new friendships and have fun.”
Similarly for grades 11 and 12, both high schools focused on relevant topics for soon-to-be high school graduates. For example: how to write a resume, career exploration, what your personal statement should include, and how to apply for scholarships and financial aid. Thirty-nine students in attendance were first-time attendees of CSF activities, showing fantastic turnout and interest in CSF supports.“This was very beneficial and I learned a lot,” one student remarks. “I now have a resume and found great teachers I will grow a bond with throughout the year.”
We think of summer as a launchpad for students’ future goals––a season of gaining essential skills, knowledge and a sense of community to bolster students as inevitable challenges arise. By offering diverse activities and fostering connections, CSF-Yakima’s summer programming not only enhanced students’ educational experiences but also empowered them to strive for success in the exciting road ahead. With the support of our dedicated CSF advisors, summer programming opportunities successfully instill confidence, ambition and a readiness to tackle the college, exemplifying the importance of College Success Foundation’s comprehensive continuum of support for our future leaders.
