Syracuse, NY (NCC News) In Syracuse’s City School District, 58.1% of students are economically challenged. Many don’t have the resources or money to make it to higher education by themselves. A lot of them would be first generation college students, and don’t have parents who know how the process works either. It can be incredibly expensive to get help with some of these things, which is why non-profits and other organizations are necessary to help the future get to college and beyond.
On Point for College in Syracuse has allowed many young adults in Syracuse to become first-generation college students. The non-profit was started in 1999 and has continued to help students every step of the way. They assist with financial aid, help kids fill out forms, drive them to colleges, and even help them get jobs after college.
“We help them get things that are in the way out of the way and help make their path to success easier,” said Career Services Advisor Dexter Green. Green, himself, is a product of Syracuse’s chapter of On Point, and knows he never would’ve made it to where he is without them.
Once students get to college, the staff at On Point checks on them constantly to make sure they are doing okay. And if the student is struggling, they meet them where they are and figure out a plan forward. They do all they can to make the little things easier.
“One of my students needed help with their eyeglasses” said Director for College Access Nicole Burnett. “They couldn’t see the board and their glasses were broke so we paid for two eyeglasses.”
Whether it be a meal plan, glasses, or anything else, On Point for College is willing to step in and help. The help does not stop when the student graduates. They prioritize finding their students paid internships during their college experience and connected them with career opportunities once they graduate
“You see people who now are pilots who are now doctors who are now lawyers,” said Burnett, “Really doing big things in the community that came from this program.”
Anyone is welcome to utilize the resources at On Point for College. The Syracuse office is open from 10am to 5pm from Monday through Friday at 488 W Onondaga Street.