[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]SPEF is collaborating with Stamford’s Cradle to Career to deliver Bridge to College, a program that addresses the phenomenon of the college “summer melt” that occurs when high school graduates who intend to go to college don’t end up in their seat in the fall.. Nationally, this occurs 10-44% of the time, and disproportionately affects first generation and low-income students. Last year in Stamford, 37% of Stamford high school graduates who intended to attend Norwalk Community College (where many Stamford low-income and first generation students attend) did not matriculate in the fall.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_empty_space][vc_single_image image=”6463″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][vc_column_text]

Photo: Erik Trautmann / Hearst Connecticut Media

[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Bridge to College is a free program that provides as-needed resources, support, and guidance to prospective first-generation college students between high school graduation and the first day of their college classes. Dedicated college counselors work one-on-one with students to help them fulfill their college enrollment requirements prior to the start of the fall semester, and provide assistance into the beginning of the school year. Student support is provided in the areas of general guidance, placement exams, timelines and deadlines, registering for classes, financial aid processes, and submitting required paperwork.

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Photo: Erik Trautmann / Hearst Connecticut Media

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To enroll in the Bridge to College program, or to find out more information about the program, contact Francesca Principe at 203-309-6393 or fprincipe@spefct.org.

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