College Possible Minnesota’s recent celebration for high school and college students, Cheers to New Chapters, was a success. Hosted at Surly Brewing Company on June 2, the event honored the work of all College Possible Minnesota students as they prepare to embark on the next stage of their educational journeys, marking an important milestone in their paths toward higher education and future careers.
A highlight of the event was hearing directly from students about their future plans. The moderator, Genesis Fernandez, facilitated the student panel. Nasrin, a rising senior at St. Catherine University, and Eli’Sha, a graduating senior at Augsburg University, spoke about the transformative impact of mentorship, guidance and access to educational opportunities College Possible Minnesota was able to provide.
Helena, a senior from Southwest High School who intends to attend Spelman College this fall, shared how College Possible coach Naiya Patel supported her throughout the college application process. During the panel discussion, Helena described Naiya as “a source of support and inspiration throughout the college application process.” Naiya said Helena’s dedication, drive and persistence inspired her to pursue a career in school counseling.
Throughout the evening, attendees reflected on the hard work, resilience and determination that brought students to this moment. Many of the graduating seniors are the first in their families to attend college, making the celebration especially meaningful. The event served as both a recognition of their accomplishments and a reminder of the community that helped them reach this achievement.
Panelists shared stories about navigating the college application process, applying for financial aid and overcoming challenges along the way. Coaches, who work closely with students throughout high school, spoke about the growth they witnessed in their scholars. Naiya writes that working with Helena has “inspired her due to her dedication, drive and persistence in achieving the goals she sets out for herself.”
Cheers to New Chapters celebrated more than college acceptances. It celebrated students who persevered, the coaches who supported them and the community that helped make their success possible. The event reflected College Possible’s mission to make college admission and success possible for students from low-income backgrounds through coaching and support.
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