PREP Academy’s College and University Cohort program will receive a renewed gift of $165,000 from Emera to support 100 students over the next two years.
African Nova Scotian students continue to encounter systemic barriers and hurdles when graduating high school and transitioning to university or college. There are a number of unique challenges of African Nova Scotian youth as they navigate the postsecondary world, and PREP’s College & University Cohort program is providing access and culturally relevant support.
The College & University Cohort program supports African Nova Scotian students in navigating their entry into and throughout their college and university experience. Students receive wrap-around support from a College & University Student Success Coach who guides them through postsecondary policies and helps them define and achieve academic goals through workshops, special events, mentoring and coaching.
“Without the PREP Academy I probably wouldn’t have had the motivation to go to university.” says Cierrah, PREP College & University Cohort student.
The Cohort model allows students to move through the program with their peers, which helps students build stronger and deeper relationships within their cohort. This cohort group also serves as their future professional network as they transition to the world of work.
Once students begin settling into college and university, PREP offers enriched experiences for skill development, career training and leadership opportunities to support career connections and readiness.
“I didn’t know how I would really get there”, “they have given me a wider understanding of how I could find myself a career that can help me better myself and set me up for a better future.” says Akeel, PREP College & University Cohort student.
The program is currently serving 45 African Nova Scotian students this year, with plans to increase reach to over 100 African Nova Scotian students in college and university between 2023 and 2025.
Learn more about PREP’s College & University Cohort Program at: www.theprepacademy.ca/prep-programs/cohort/