Across the nation, only 8% of high-performing low-income students with the academic record and test scores to succeed at the nation's most selective colleges and universities ever submit an application to attend. At EMERGE, we believe that talent is universal but opportunity is not. Grounded in this belief, EMERGE empowers and prepares high-performing students from underserved communities to attend and graduate from selective colleges & universities across the nation.
EMERGE currently partners with 5 schools districts in the Houston area - Houston, Spring Branch, Spring, Aldine, and Klein ISDs. Through our district partnerships, will serve approximately 2,400 students across both our High School and College program, with students attending over 150 selective colleges and universities across the nation.
"The route of a minority, low-income, first-generation student is often filled with road-blocks and a mix of emotions. I know because I am a first-gen student. But having gone through EMERGE, I am now embarking on the road less traveled by someone with my background."
"The struggles during the college process came in many forms. However, getting accepted to a college/university that would even consider me for need-based financial aid was extremely difficult. Through the guidance of EMERGE, I was able to find that opportunity. Without EMERGE, I would have missed on having a support system that extends far beyond graduation. Scholars are represented at top-tier schools across the whole nation. And to me, that is something I treasure. "
"An obstacle I faced when applying to college was keeping open communication with my parents as to the importance of me going to school out of state and the benefits of attending Denison. Without EMERGE, I would not be where I am today. I made it through the college process more prepared than I ever thought I would be. However, once I got to college, I still needed guidance and EMERGE has always been there for m. They still are."
EMERGE prepares Fellows to attend the nation's top colleges by providing a holistic, developmental college readiness curriculum. Fellows participate in after school programming bi-weekly and weekend workshops from sophomore to senior year
Over the summer, EMERGE Fellows have the opportunity to participate in college application workshops, standardized test preparation, college visits, and residential programs hosted at selective institutions. These summer opportunities are essential in developing each student's skill set, which leads them to success as they attend rigorous universities.
EMERGE continues to provide support to students throughout their college journey so that they persist through graduation. Persistence efforts generally include periodic student and family check-ins, mentoring, alumni networking, webinars, and workshops during the summer and holiday breaks.
EMERGE provides avenues for collaboration between high schools, school districts and selective institutions. Students in the program benefit from targeted college fairs and information sessions as well as summer enrichment opportunities on college campuses across the nation.
Through a partnership with EMERGE, colleges and universities gain insight to our school districts and access to highly-qualified students from diverse backgrounds.