Education First introduces College Coaching for Scholars

Many of our scholars are the first in their families to go to college. It’s new, unfamiliar and there is always a risk of dropping out. Education First is addressing this problem by investing in one-on-one, personalized coaching beginning with our 2015 scholarship winners through the Austin-based College Forward organization.

The college coaches provided by College Forward are specially trained, recent college graduates who can easily relate to the types of issues our scholars might face. They will work with our scholars to build trust, bolster motivation, and deliver personalized strategies for setting and achieving academic goals.

In addition, the college coaches will assist our scholars with class selection, applying for financial aid, and any other challenges that may crop up on the path to graduation.

“This fall our scholars will be heading off to college with a real advantage. We believe that having access to college coaches will give them the edge they need to earn their degree,” said Chris Bryan, Education First’s co-founder and executive director. “We’re currently raising funds for this program, which will cost around $500 per year, per student, for unlimited college coaching. Think of it as a graduation gift to our scholars – with life-changing benefits!”

To make a tax-deductible donation for Education First’s College Coaching program, please click here.

Recently, Education First caught up with scholarship winner Vanessa, who is completing her senior year at the University of California San Diego. Watch her reaction when asked what she would prefer if she had the choice between more scholarship money or a college coach: