YPIE Scholars

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The YPIE Scholars program prepares students for success in college and careers in the future. Beginning in 9th grade and continuing into college, YPIE Scholars are a community of students preparing for college, navigating the college application process, and successfully transitioning to college and beyond.

 

YPIE Scholars put in the hard work both in school and after school at the YPIE College Zone to become academically ready for college. In school, they work with a professional coach and volunteer mentors from our community. After school, YPIE Scholars focus on core academic subjects and participate in a career-focused “Major.”

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YPIE Fellows

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Students can apply in 11th grade to become YPIE Fellows to receive support with the college application process,  financial aid, and their transition to and through college.

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Program Elements

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College Readiness

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Academics

To ensure that students are ready for the rigor of college, YPIE Scholars receive individualized academic instruction and tutoring in core subject areas after school at the YPIE College Zone.

 

​Adult Coaching & Mental Health Counseling

Each YPIE Scholar is assigned a College Readiness Manager who meets with students in and out of school to target school challenge areas and create action plans for success. YPIE Scholars can also be matched with a volunteer mentor, called a Graduation Coach, who forms deep personal relationships with students and provides support throughout high school.

 

In partnership with Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS), YPIE provides mental health services to students and support to our staff and volunteers. A licensed clinical social worker, in coordination with YPIE, provides individual, family, and group therapy to our high school students and consultation and training to staff and volunteers. 

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Majors (Career Pathways)

YPIE Scholars can select from different “majors” that give them tangible skills and deep exposure to future careers while preparing them for the rigor of college academic work. Key Majors partners, including Regeneron and Webster Bank, elevate the experience outside of the classroom. Students can choose from a variety of Majors, including Science Research, Finance, Entrepreneurship, Journalism, Health, Film, and Debate. Learn more about our YPIE Majors.

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College Access

 

College Advising 

In 11th grade, YPIE Scholars and Fellows are matched with a College Advisor who helps students throughout the college process with the goal of enrolling in a “best fit” (academically, geographically, and financially) college.

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College Applications

YPIE College Advisors and trained volunteers help students with all aspects of their college applications, including crafting a college essay, visiting colleges, and completing their applications.

 

Financial Aid Support 

YPIE staff and trained volunteers provide assistance to students to identify and complete applications for financial aid, including federal, state, and school-based scholarships. Final college offer letters also are reviewed and compared to help students make cost-effective decisions.

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College Persistence

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Transition to College

During the summer between high school and college, YPIE students receive personalized assistance to complete the important steps required to transition and enroll in college. Staff and volunteers help students navigate housing decisions, medical forms, financial aid paperwork, and much more.

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College Persistence Coaching

YPIE students are assigned a dedicated college completion coach who meets with them monthly, in-person and/or via video chat when necessary, for the first two years of college. 

 

Career Advising

YPIE coaches help students determine a meaningful career path and connect students with YPIE’s vast network of professionals and corporations for job and internship opportunities.

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