Ad Astra Scholars Chicago
College Success Program
College Success Overview
Our trained Fellows provide connection to resources and ongoing mentorship both on and off campus during your entire college journey.
If you are the first in your family to go to college and have questions, or just need personalized support, our teams are here to guide you throughout your college experience so you can realize all of your academic goals.
Our Fellows provide office hours and support on campus at our partner schools or virtually. Our campus teams also partner with existing student services (such as on-campus learning communities, academic counselors, and financial aid and transfer departments) to create a pipeline of support for students.
Our Fellows Support With:
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Virtual and/or in-person check-ins
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“Success Symposium” day-long orientation for new students
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A Summer Transition Program to help you feel prepared to start your first fall in college/university
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School system navigation
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Scholarship & financial aid navigation and management, including support with the Ad Astra renewable scholarship and FAFSA.
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Financial aid offer letter review
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Connections to partner programs and resources
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The Summer Transition Program is designed so students show up on campus clear of any last minute surprises and ready to learn. Our transition program includes:
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Peer group building events with students from their college
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Assistance with enrollment, housing, and class registration
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Financial Aid advising
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General problem solving
Once on campus, Ad Astra fellows help students in the following areas:
Academic Support
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Select a suitable major
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Identify strategies to improve performance
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Connect with a mentor
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Connect with other resources
Career Readiness
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Find a career path
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Write and update resume and cover letter
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Connect with Ad Astra Internship partners
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Secure internships and part-time jobs
Financial Guidance
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Renew scholarships and financial aid
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Resolve problems with bills
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Assess loan debt
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Make smart financial decisions
Social Support
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Stay connected through monthly campus visits and frequent calls and emails
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Stay determined to work hard and achieve goals
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Connect students to resources
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Cope with life circumstances
Program Eligibility
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Ad Astra High School Program Participants
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Completed the program during your senior year of high school
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Be enrolled in a college/university
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Continuous completion of the program requirements
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View Eligibility Criteria