‘Life-changing’ program prepares high school dropouts for college

FLINT, Michigan — Gateway to College is a national initiative brought to Flint through a partnership between Mott Community College and the Flint Community Schools. It is tailored for students who have dropped out of high school, are at risk of dropping out, or don’t have enough credits to graduate. It is also a scholarship program that pays for college tuition and books.

“For the right students, this program can be life changing,” said Sounya Walker, director of the Gateway to College program at MCC. “Our goal is to reintroduce young people to education, acclimate them to a college environment, build their basic skills, improve their academic habits, and prepare them for college success.”

Gateway to College is for young adults ages 16-24, who live in Genesee County and have not yet completed high school — but are willing to make a commitment to earn their high school diploma and begin working toward a college degree.

During their enrollment in the program, students receive wrap-around support, one-on-one advising, and mentoring from Resource Specialists to help keep them on track to earn their diploma while, at the same time, helping them prepare for their post-secondary education. Once students have completed their high school diploma requirements (by their 25th birthday), they graduate from the Gateway to College program.

Eligible students can apply now to participate in the new semester beginning in January. It is recommended that if interested students contact Gateway to College as soon as possible because applicants must complete a placement testing process before entering the program.

For more information, call the MCC Gateway to College at (810) 232-2690 or email gatewaytocollege@mcc.edu.