Provides college preparatory program for youth in foster care focused on academics, life skills, and mentorship.

First Star ASU Academy | First Star ASU Academy

Programs that provide assistance and support for individuals entering college with the objective of improving retention and ensuring that they have an equal footing with other students. The programs are offered by community colleges, four year colleges and universities and other educational institutions; are often available during the summer; may target minority students, international students, non-English speaking students, first generation students, gifted students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, students with disabilities and other non-traditional groups; and may offer academic support (such as writing, mathematics and reading), provide information about study skills (such as time management, individual learning style, study strategies, and expectations for college work), include discussions of campus life and/or offer career counseling. Some programs focus on preparation within specific major fields of study (e.g., science or math), have a parent involvement component, provide opportunities for community service or introduce new students to potential mentors. Many institutions offer more than one bridge program, accommodating the unique needs of their student population.

Higher Education Bridge Programs

Programs that offer training which focuses on the knowledge and skills an individual may need to live independently or make a successful transition to independent living. Participants may include runaway youth who are living on their own, youth who because of age can no longer be maintained in foster care, new widows, victims of domestic abuse, people who have previously been homeless, and others who have lived in an environment in which decision making and responsibilities of daily living have been handled by another as well as people currently living independently who want to be more effective. Training may address job search and retention, money management, insurance, taxes, rental agreements, vehicle purchase, nutrition, home management, health care, legal emancipation for teens and other similar topics.

Life Skills Education

Programs that encourage students, usually in middle school or high school, to consider higher education and to gain the skills necessary to be successful in the college, university or other postsecondary program of their choice. Services may include guidance from staff and mentors, academic preparation, SAT test preparation, college/university admissions and financial aid workshops, and visits to local colleges and universities.