Community Programming  

Culturally Relevant and Family-Centered

Information Sessions

LUCA is one of the only college access organizations whose mission specifically supports Latino students with culturally relevant and bilingual programming. Our team is committed to serving the Latino community by hosting virtual or in-person Information Sessions at partner high schools. Topics include:

“Applying to College / Aplicando a la Universidad” (Grades 11-12)

An overview of the college application process, including identifying best-fit colleges and universities, filling out the common application, preparing a high-quality college essay, and identifying the supporting documents that must be included with the application.

“Paying for College / Pagando la Universidad” (Grades 10-12)

A step-by-step review of how to complete critical financial aid applications including the FAFSA and NYS TAP; guidance on how to finance a college education; and an explanation of the different types of aid to maximize eligibility.

Pathways to College / Pasos a la Universidad” (Grades 8-10) Delivers information, advice, and guidance to parents and students on how they may best prepare for a college pathway in high school.  We explain the importance of taking rigorous classes (including AP and/or honors) and planning out their coursework beginning in freshman year.

Financial Aid Support

College dreams are possible – and can be affordable! Through school-wide FAFSA Boot Camps and virtual FAFSA completion workshops, trained volunteers assist families as they submit critical applications for federal, state, and institutional aid.

FAFSA Boot Camps provide students and parents with the guidance they need to successfully submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application opens the door for students to receive Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), student loans, and work-study grants. In addition, the FAFSA is the first step to applying for New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) funding and institutional scholarships.