College Access and Youth Development

Making college a reality for young people in public housing and surrounding neighborhoods
What is College Access?

Since our launch, the College Access Program has empowered hundreds of low-income students and their families to believe in their college dreams and take real steps toward achieving them. From Math and ELA tutoring, SAT preparation, to college enrollment and financial aid, we walk alongside students every step of the way. 100% of our students are accepted into 2 and 4-year colleges or universities. 

Our program combines direct instruction, group learning, individual counseling, college tours, and hands-on activities to create a supportive, engaging, and fun environment where students can grow, ask questions, and prepare for life after high school.

Who is Eligible?

The College Access Program provides FREE comprehensive academic, college, and career support for students in 9th through 12th-grade students who live in New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) and other areas in Western Queens. 

Registration is open year-round; however, programming takes place in July, September, October, January, and March. Students typically have the most success joining our programs in 9th grade, but they can join at any point during their high school careers. All students meet with our trained college access coordinators to develop a personalized plan.

Services

Sessions take place virtually and/or at our Youth Center located at 13-11 40th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101. A breakdown of our program can be found below:

  • 9th and 10th Grade Math/ELA Tutoring Join our three-month Math and ELA Regents preparation program! Meeting once a week for two hours, students receive focused instruction and tutoring to confidently prepare for their standardized exams. Beyond test prep, this course opens the door to conversations about college and explores a variety of college and career pathways, helping students plan for their future.
  • Junior Year/SAT Prep This program offers 16 comprehensive SAT preparation classes, along with a variety of workshops designed to guide students through building their college lists and resumes. Upon completing the program, students are prepared to begin the college application process in the fall. Additionally, they participate in college tours to start exploring potential campuses.
  • College Prep for Seniors A twelve-month program beginning at the end of a scholar’s junior year, meeting two hours each week, and designed to pave the way to college. Students work on college essays, applications, and securing financial aid, while also exploring what to expect from college life and learning strategies to balance academic and personal responsibilities.

College Prep for Alumni:  Our commitment extends beyond high school graduation. We continue to support our alumni throughout their college journey, career development, and beyond, ensuring long-term success. Alumni are intentionally connected to Urban Upbound’s integrated programs, creating a seamless continuum of support that addresses academic, professional, and life goals.

 

College Access Contact

To learn more about Urban Upbound’s College Access Program or learn how to apply, call our College Access Center at 718.571.9167, email our Program Manager, Quneetsha, at Quneetsha@urbanupbound.org.