Note: Applications will reopen in Fall 2010.

The SEO Scholars Program

The SEO Scholars Program is a rigorous out-of-school academic enrichment program that prepares motivated New York City public high school students of color to gain admission to and succeed at competitive colleges and universities throughout the country. Numerous studies confirm that rigorous academics are the single most important factor for low-income and minority students in gaining college admission and earning a degree. However, U.S. Department of Education research shows that “A” work in low-income schools equals “C” work in affluent schools.

The Scholars Program adds the equivalent of 60 school days to the NYC public school calendar each year.  Scholars dedicate 80% of their time at SEO to academics, with the remaining 20% spent on enrichment and leadership activities.  Students in the program acquire:

·          sharpened critical reading and writing skills

·          increased vocabulary and grammar competence

·          advanced math proficiency

·          travel abroad and leadership experiences

·          college knowledge and guidance

·          mentors during junior and senior year

While attending college, Scholars continue to receive mentoring and tailored workshops focused on managing coursework, earning top grades, financial and budgeting strategies, and effective planning for careers.

Each of the 45 high school seniors in the Class of 2009 graduated high school with a Regents Diploma and 100% are attending a four-year college. Students in the Class of 2009 are attending such top-tier colleges as Barnard, Bryn Mawr, Columbia, Harvard, MIT, Mount Holyoke, NYU, Williams College and Yale.  These students earned more than $950,000 in scholarships and grants for their first year of college, including several highly competitive national scholarships.