As College Possible celebrates 25 years of helping students access and succeed in college, I reflect on how deeply this program shaped my own journey.
I was a strong student academically, but like many first-generation students, I did not have the resources or knowledge needed to navigate the college application and financial aid process. My mom did not attend college, and we did not know where to begin when it came to applying for student aid. College Possible changed that for me. The program provided guidance, tools and trusted adults I could rely on to ask questions and find my way forward.
After graduating from college, returning to College Possible as a coach felt like a natural next step. I wanted to give back to the program that supported me and to be that trusted resource for students who, like me, were motivated but needed guidance.
During my first year as a coach, I worked with a senior with whom I built a strong sense of trust and connection. They stopped by often for snacks and conversation, usually talking about their Pokémon collection or the latest online memes.
Those little moments translated into action. Even when they could not attend after-school sessions, the student always made up that connection time and completed their monthly one-on-one check-ins. They participated in Metro Visit Day, attended financial aid nights and showed up for Launch! The student went on to enroll at St. Olaf College and later reached out to me when family circumstances required them to take a semester off. The trust we built made it possible for them to ask for support beyond high school.
By meeting students where they were and taking the time to listen, I had developed dozens of relationships that made a difference. At the end of my first term, the juniors I served shared how much it would mean to them if I returned. I chose to come back for a second year because of the strong relationships we had built, and I am glad I did.
Now these seniors have developed a strong sense of community and trust. Because of that foundation, attendance at senior sessions and monthly one-on-one check-ins is significantly higher than it was with my previous cohort. Even early in the year, I have been encouraged by their engagement and preparation.
One senior shared during a check-in that they had not yet researched colleges and were unsure where to apply. As we talked through their career interests, we also considered their involvement in the Naval Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps, a leadership and citizenship program that would require training after high school. Together, we identified a college up north that offered nearby housing and was close to their future training location, while still giving them some distance from home and a chance to grow independently.
As I look ahead, I am excited to watch these seniors graduate and take their next steps, whether that means enrolling in college or pursuing other postsecondary paths. Giving back to College Possible has been incredibly meaningful. I have seen the impact of this program in my own life and in the lives of the students I serve.
After 25 years, College Possible continues to impact individuals, families and communities. I am proud to be part of that legacy and to help make college possible for the next generation.
More about Kao
Kao Yang is a high school coach at College Possible Minnesota, serving students in Greater Minneapolis–St. Paul. She supports students in developing college readiness skills, setting and achieving their goals, and navigating the college application process.
