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PUENTE’s College and Career Program closes the opportunity gap for over 500 youth aged 14-22 as they persist through high school and college on their way to achievement. 95% of students are low-income Latinos.

College Access

The College Access program supports high school students to graduate and transition to college. We partner with two local schools—Mendez High School and Roybal Learning Center—to reach 400 students through weekly in-school workshops and one-to-one counseling that build competency in college preparation, career exploration, technology, leadership and personal development, and job readiness. The program also includes dedicated scholarships, campus tours, SAT preparation, summer session, and an annual career fair.

 

*This program is supported (in part) by the USC Good Neighbors Grant Program funded by university employee contributions to support university-community partnership.

College Success

The College Success program supports 50+ college students to persist through their education, graduate, and transition into their careers. Through one-on-one counseling and group workshops, students learn about topics from career planning to internships, networking, and public speaking skills. The program is expanding and will reach 200 students annually by 2023.

Want to register for classes or learn more?

Learn more about our College Saturdays with USC Keck,open to all high school students in the community. To apply, please click HERE.

For more information about any of our youth programs, please email Jasmine Medrano at jasmine@puente.org.

You can also visit our location and speak to someone directly.

For students at our partner schools, you may ask your college counselor for more information.

PUENTE Alumni

Register here to join the Alumni Association

Already a College & Career Student?

Meet Sean

Many immigrant children want to make their parents proud by being the first in their family to go to college, including Sean, who is a student in the PUENTE College and Career Program. “My parents have sacrificed a lot for me to have a better life,” Sean shares. “I always try my best to not disappoint my parents and make them proud.” As a high school student, Sean received college advisement from PUENTE through in-class workshops. When COVID-19 hit during Sean’s senior year, we counseled him on how to stay on track academically, even during distance learning. Through one-on-one case management, we helped him complete his FAFSA form and financial aid. He also earned a PUENTE scholarship. Without this…
Meet Sean