College and career services are beneficial in preparing learners with the skills and confidence needed to advance their future towards economic mobility. Yet, many times, these services come with a price, with many adults and high schoolers paying out of pocket for a personal counselor.
At Academy of Hope (AoH), we know that everyone does not have this luxury. That’s why all learners enrolled at AoH are offered college and career readiness for FREE with the support of our designated teams.
College Services
Learners seeking to register for post-secondary education can work with AoH’s College Navigator, Thomas Webb, to find and tour schools, complete college and scholarship applications, and pick the right courses. Learners receive the same assistance for dual enrollment— earning college credits while attending AoH.
Additionally, Thomas hosts a college preparation course, helping learners discover their learning style and develop soft skills crucial for success. He even partners with PNC Bank to offer financial literacy courses for learners—tips that are essential as they balance finances while paying college tuition.
Aside from college readiness, Thomas also provides extra support and encouragement to learners who may doubt their ability to attend college. He tells learners that they are a worthy investment.
He recalls motivating AoH alumna Angel Harris to attend college, persuading her that she was ready for the next step. This push inspired Angel to earn her associate’s degree from the University of the District of Columbia. Now, she is working towards her bachelor’s degree.
Career Services
Our employment support team helps learners explore career fields at any point during their time at AoH. Our employment specialists provide direct access to job search assistance, resume building, interview practice sessions, and job readiness training, enabling learners to stand out against other candidates.
There is even a career closet hosted by Student Support Services, offering business casual and business professional clothes that learners can wear for interviews and AoH’s college and career fair. The event allows learners to meet and connect with potential employers offering jobs based on the certification programs AoH offers. Connections include assisted living facilities, temporary agencies, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, LabCorp, and more.
AoH also partners with local and national businesses to help learners gain field experience and possible full-time employment. In 2024, Accenture, a global professional services company, awarded half of its apprenticeships to AoH learners. In the program, learners complete an intensive cybersecurity training with PeopleShores and Per Scholas, where they can apply their skills in client projects with Accenture.
Conclusion
At Academy of Hope, we offer more than just high school diplomas and workforce training. We also provide the resources to build upon these accomplishments, empowering learners to excel in post-secondary education and their careers. Providing this extra support allows learners to recognize their potential and the positive impact they can create in their communities if they follow the next steps.