When it comes to first-generation and low-income students

We don't have an enrollment problem,
we have a graduation problem

Only

10%
of low-income college students who start college, graduate college.

Only

20%
of first-generation students graduate college compared to 70% of second-generation college students.

The barriers to staying in college

Coming up with the funds

Unable to rely on family financial support, students rely on financial aid, loan, scholarships and savings from part-time jobs to cover the costs of college. Any slight change in their financial situation can jeopardize their abiilty to stay enrolled in college.

Lack of guidance

Often the first in their families to go to college, first-generation and low-income students don’t have the guidance of a parent or sibling on how to navigate college - choosing a major, dropping a class, filling out financial aid forms.

Family responsibilties

First-generation and low-income students are more likely to have to rush home after class to take care of a sibling or ailing grandparent. They’re also more likely to work to help pay for family expenses.

Self doubt and imposter syndrome

Research shows that having a sense of belonging positively  influences students’ academic and social experiences of college. Yet when the college experience is designed primarily for upper middle class students, it is easy for first-generation and low-income students to feel like they don’t belong.

Little or no access to professional networks

First-generation and low-income students lack access to network of professionals who work at companies and in industries who can help students find internships and experience and other networking opportunities.

Balancing academics with part-time jobs

First-generation and low-income students work longer hours, making it more challenging for them to stay on top of coursework.

In order to reduce drop out rates, and ultimately close the graduation gap for first-generation and low-income college students, our approach is to tackle the barriers to graduation head on.

Our Approach

Financial Support

ATF scholars receive upto $5,000 over 4-years to help cover the costs of college such as tuition, books, transportation and meals.

Mentorship

Each scholar is paired with a dedicated mentor, who helps them navigating the academic, emotional, and financial challenges of college.

(Paid) Internships

We help ATF scholars secure paid  internships so they can support themselves while gaining professional experience in their area of interest.

Skill-building Workshops

We offer ATF scholars a series of workshops designed specifically for them, on everything from building financial literacy, to sharpening their interview skills.

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