Access Unveils New ‘Access 2 High School’ Program at Saint Louis University

Designed to guide Access’ 8th graders into their best-fit, college-prep high schools, our new ‘Access 2 High School’ (A2HS) Program launched this semester at Saint Louis University. The new enrichment initiative replaces our traditional, middle-school-based High School Prep classes and brings over 25 eighth graders from our partner schools together on SLU’s campus one Saturday each month.

This semester, the curriculum covered essential topics such as how to select a high school, what to look for in a shadow visit, and how to prepare for high school interviews, including how to dress for success and make a good first impression. In addition to hosting a high school fair where students connected with admissions reps from our partner schools, we also conducted mock interviews to help them practice their skills and build confidence.

The Saturday sessions will continue next semester and include classes on writing and financial literacy, as well as the popular video production program offered by our partner, Mentors in Motion. In addition to the sessions at SLU, Grad Support Directors have individual meetings with students and families to help discern a best-fit high school, fill out admissions applications, and apply for financial aid. Finally, parents will have the opportunity to complete their high school financial aid paperwork before the eight-month program wraps up in the spring.