Our Approach
GCSA's mentorship and scholarship programs are high-touch and high-investment. We formulate deep relationships with students to drive impact.
our seven year program model
GCSA provides NYC high school students with a free, seven-year program designed to help them prepare for and succeed in life after graduation. We first connect with students at the end of ninth grade during our recruitment and application process. GCSA partners with schools to identify students who are a strong fit for our program. Once selected and onboarded, students begin afterschool programming in the fall of tenth grade. These sessions alternate weekly between one-on-one meetings with volunteer mentors and lessons led by GCSA staff.
In tenth grade, the focus is helping students understand their interests, recognize their strengths, and apply for summer employment and internship opportunities. Eleventh grade centers on all things college, from campus tours and visits to SAT preparation. Twelfth grade provides comprehensive support as students apply to college or a postsecondary program of their choice. Upon completing the mentorship program, students receive a $4,000 scholarship to support their postsecondary plans. This scholarship is distributed in quarterly installments, paired with required counseling check-ins with GCSA staff.