Making College Accessible – There’s An App for That

Utilizing technology such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, an App-a-thon introduces students and educators to an exciting array of apps that make college more accessible

The cafeteria of Hill Regional Career High School will be buzzing on Friday, April 10th from 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. It won't be breakfast that has students talking. Instead, students and teachers will experience a technological treat, an App-a-thon aimed at demystifying the college application process.


These Connecticut Peer Leaders were trained to serve as experts on various apps to help make College more accessible to students.
Utilizing technology such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, an App-a-thon introduces students and educators to an exciting array of apps that make college more accessible. The apps, which were developed through the technical expertise of Facebook, are available at College App Map. By combining the support of social networking, the excitement of online gaming, and the practicality of price calculators and other research tools, these apps encourage students to envision college as part of their future.

The App-a-thon is an innovative program of College Summit, a national nonprofit dedicated to helping low-income students access a college education. With the support of a 2014 grant of $2,000 from The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, College Summit Connecticut Peer Leaders were trained on the technology so they could ultimately serve as experts on the various apps. During the App-a-thon and beyond, these Peer Leaders will guide their fellow students — along with educators — through the challenges of preparing for college.

College Summit was founded in 1996, with the Connecticut office opening in New Haven in 2008. Over the past seven years, the office has grown dramatically, partnering with 14 high schools in two districts, and impacting nearly 6,000 students.

For more information, along with student success stories, visit College Summit Connecticut's website.

Did You Know?

According to findings from the Pew Research Center, among Millennials (25-32 years old) who are employed full time, those who graduated from college earn $17,500 more than those who only graduated from high school.

Source: "The Rising Cost of Not Going to College"; PewSocialTrends.org

This story is part of the Inspiration Monday story series produced by The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven.