STEP

STEP educates and empowers low-income Arizona high school students to enroll in and graduate from college. We believe that low-income students who are putting in the hard work to excel in the most challenging courses at their high school should receive the focused guidance needed to prepare for and apply to top colleges, secure scholarships, and successfully navigate the transition from high school to college to career.

STEP's College-Prep Program is designed to educate and empower low-income Arizona students to overcome barriers, and to enroll in and graduate from college. The program takes a multi-year approach designed to provide students and their families with 1:1 advising and the resources to navigate every aspect of the college preparation and application process.

*Beginning in sophomore year of high school, STEP students participate in monthly college readiness workshops and 1:1 advising on topics ranging from high school course selection to standardized test prep and essay writing. STEP students are introduced to Arizona state universities and top-ranked schools nationwide, and are encouraged to enroll in summer programs on college campuses.

*STEP juniors meet with admissions directors from across the country to get advice on interviewing and applying to their schools.

*Seniors work with program staff to create a compelling college application, construct a solid college list, and apply for scholarships.

*STEP educates and guides students and families on all aspects of the financial aid process.

*Our students are paired with alumni mentors and participate in alumni-led workshops on navigating the transition to college.

JOIN US in Equipping Low-Income Arizona Students with the Resources and Guidance They Need to Get the Education They Deserve!

*$500 funds intensive test-prep workshops for 15 students
*$250 funds 1:1 advising for five students
*$100 subsidizes monthly college-prep workshops for one student
*$50 funds financial aid guidance for one student and family
*25 pays for one student to participate in a team-building workshop

Testimonials

"As first generation low income students, we're often told that postsecondary education is not meant for us. We are discouraged, challenged and tried. But every year, STEPPERS defy the odds and become first-generation college students. We continue to prove to the world that education is not meant for one kind of person. It is meant for anyone who is willing to put in the time and effort, no matter their race, socio-economic background or immigration status. And when there seems to be no way, we make a way." - Maleki, STEP Class of 2021

"I will be the first member of my family to go to college and I look forward to creating a new cycle of education for future generations." - Adilene, STEP Class of 2022

"STEP was the key that unlocked the door to my future. STEP encouraged me to explore unique opportunities, pushed me to expand my academic skills, and helped me land a spot at the school of my dreams." - Jazelin, STEP Class of 2019

"Because of STEP, my daughter is more certain in her future. She knows what she wants to do and knows where she wants to go. She is more confident in herself and her decisions." - Parent, STEP Class of 2021