On any given evening during her senior year of high school, Adali (Cristo Rey Jesuit High School 2019) could pick up the phone and find something valuable but rare for many first-generation college students: a steady, reassuring voice offering a wealth of guidance.
Through College Possible Minnesota, that voice belonged to an assigned coach specifically prepared to help with homework, answer questions, and, most importantly, remind her she wasn’t navigating the college process alone.
As the daughter of a single mother, Adali often had to figure things out herself with little to no assistance. Fortunately, College Possible Minnesota changed that. With guidance from her assigned coach and high school teachers, she not only applied to college but earned a full-tuition scholarship to the University of St. Thomas. What once felt daunting and financially overwhelming became an incredible source of pride and joy. Adali reflects, “It was nice to have an adult who could actually answer my questions and guide me.”
Similarly, Ben (North Community High School 2018) was left on his own to figure out the college application process as a first-generation college student. Recommended to College Possible Minnesota by a high school guidance counselor, he joined hoping for direction, ultimately finding something more valuable. With the help of his coach, he improved his ACT score, strengthened his applications, and tackled intimidating scholarship and financial aid forms step by step. Just as meaningful was the community: a cohort of students who, like him, were navigating unfamiliar territory together.
Years later, both Adali and Ben carry those experiences forward, with community playing an integral part to their careers and boosting their confidence in their personal lives. Adali now works in community engagement at the Bayan Community Center, while Ben has built a career in software engineering at Jamf and still keeps in touch with friends from his College Possible cohort. Of his College Possible cohort, Ben says, “They’ve been a great support system throughout the college process and are still friends to this day.” He views his College Possible peers as an equal source of mentorship and support to his coach.
Their stories reflect the vision of College Possible Minnesota; not just helping first-generation students get to college, but surrounding them with the support, confidence, and community to thrive once there.
