What: JM Family and the Urban League helps high school students prep for college

What: JM Family and the Urban League helps high school students prep for college

As competition in the workplace increases, so does the need for a higher education. These days, there’s an expectation that new hire prospects have at the very least a four-year degree. And while there’s a steady rise in high school students applying for college, the number of open spots is limited, resulting in a lower acceptance rate. This trend puts the pressure on students to jump off the pages of their college application.

You may not know a school’s “secret sauce,” but you know a few things… consistent grades, killer test scores and a personal statement that will separate you from the pack. It’s also no secret that access to resources and knowledge of and guidance through the application process gives college hopefuls a competitive edge. That’s why each year, the Urban League of Broward County hosts “College Ready Day” workshops targeting low-income families and first-generation college students to help boost acceptance into a school of their choice.

As long-time supporters of Urban League, this is the third year JM Family and its associates are partnering on this event. Volunteers will provide jump drives for each student and work in small groups crafting personal statements through coaching and proofreading. Presented by Broward College, this event features a series of workshops on topics like college affordability, college selection and career exploration, specifically, offering students and parents an opportunity to learn more about:

• Researching and identifying prospective colleges and universities;
• The college application process, including SAT scores, essays and interviews;
• College affordability including cost of a four-year degree, financial aid packages and scholarship prospects; and
• Strategies to maximize the college experience.

We’d love to have you there, so let me know if you would like to attend or interview any of the students, parents or JM Family volunteers.

The event is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Urban League of Broward County, 560 NW 27 Ave., Fort Lauderdale.