Onpoint for College Topic at Oswego Rotary Club Meeting

OSWEGO – At its last meeting Carla DeShaw spoke to the Oswego Rotary Club about the mission and work of Onpoint for College.  This is an organization that works with high school juniors and seniors in pursuing higher education and improving the quality of their lives.

The process of applying to college can be difficult, especially with students with challenges such as poverty, homelessness, broken families and difficulty understanding and navigating the process. Onpoint for College has three areas which help students apply to college, succeed in their studies and move into a career following graduation.

The first of these is College Access, which advises students one-on-one with application to college and for financial aid and available special programs, pre-college orientation and providing them with basic college supplies.

The second is College Support, which will be with students throughout their college career. Among the needs addressed are tutoring as needed, transportation to and from college, safe summer housing, basic and emergency needs support and mentors.

The third area is Career Services Overview, which provides students with support after college. These include career advising, career readiness workshops and events, assistance in securing employment and interviewing skills.

Onpoint has a new launchpad program which focuses on high school seniors who do not yet half a post-graduation plan. These offer students 5 pathways: college, professional credentialing, pursuing a career in the trades, joining the military or entering the workforce.

DeShaw emphasized that the key to success for Onpoint is developing and sustaining relationships with the students and families with whom they work.

Anyone interested in learning more about the Oswego Rotary Club may check out their Facebook page facebook.com/oswegorotary or email the club at [email protected].