College Connect: Supporting Students Every Step Forward
College Connect is a comprehensive, six-year, cohort-based program that guides students from high school through college graduation and into successful careers. Our program provides personalized support, college application assistance, financial aid guidance, and career development resources. Focusing on first-generation college students, we’re creating pathways to higher education and professional success for San Francisco’s youth.
Have Questions About College Connect?
Our College Access & Success team is here to help. Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, we’re happy to discuss our programs and application process.
(College Access)
(College Success)
Proven Results
Our program demonstrates exceptional outcomes across every stage—from college acceptance and enrollment to persistence, graduation, and career preparation.
96% of College Connect students who graduated high school in 2024 enrolled in 4-year colleges this past fall—over 3x the rate in California overall (29%).
95% of College Connect freshmen persisted into their sophomore year this fall, far exceeding the national average of 77%.
25 College Connect seniors received 141 college acceptances last year.
100% of participants in the 10-week Career Readiness Series gained confidence in negotiating a job offer.
College Application Support and Readiness
Our intensive college preparation includes personalized counseling, essay workshops with Writing Partner volunteers, college tours, and financial aid guidance. Working with students beginning in 11th grade, we help them identify best-fit schools, navigate applications, and secure scholarships. The results speak for themselves—our students average seven college acceptances (compared to the national average of six applications submitted) and receive strong financial aid packages.
College Success and Persistence
College Connect commits to each cohort for a minimum of six years—from high school exploration through college graduation. Once in college, students receive individualized coaching, attend differentiated virtual workshops, participate in Near-Peer Mentoring for socio-emotional support, and access our Career Readiness Series for professional development.
Career Development and Launch
Through our Career Readiness Series, workplace tours, and mentorship opportunities, we prepare students for successful transitions to the workforce. Participants develop interview and resume writing skills, networking abilities, and salary negotiation confidence—creating pathways to fulfilling careers.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible students must:
- Have the desire to attend a 4-year college or university
- Maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA (flexible)
- Be willing to explore colleges outside of California
- Be current high school juniors (regardless of immigration status)
- Be on track to complete high school A-G requirements
- Be first-generation 4-year college students
- Come from a low-income family
- Live in or attend school in the Mission or Excelsior Districts
- Not be enrolled in another college access program
Student Voices
I didn’t realize just how valuable the Future Center was until I left. They’re there because they want to see you succeed… they really can make a difference.
UC Berkeley Computer Science student
Mission Graduates continues to actively support me from thousands of miles away as I progress through my college journey. The workshops guided me through not only academic growth but also personal growth, which is crucial to my life beyond college.
University of Virginia Data Science student
Mission Graduates supported me through college challenges and now as I conduct research at UCSF. Their resources opened doors I never imagined possible when I started as a high school student in their program.
UCSF Researcher and Medical School aspirant
Ready to Begin Your College Journey?
College Connect is looking for motivated high school juniors who will be the first in their family to attend college. Our six-year program provides comprehensive support from application through graduation.
