In my previous experiences in working with students in educational intervention programs both statewide and nationwide, one of the most compelling lessons learned was the extent to which students need access to quality advisement, mentoring and coaching in their pursuit of higher education and career goals. 

Today there is even more comprehensive research supporting the efforts of ScholarShot inasmuch as THEA research indicates that at risk students are getting into college, but unprepared and underfunded they do not complete college. Further although many low to moderate income students, who are often also first generation students, are deemed eligible for some form of financial aid, very few of those resources cover the full cost of a college education. This gap in funding creates yet another barrier for students who may have no knowledge of these costs until they are due, and who are at that point left with no recourse except to drop out.      

ScholarShot provided Xavier with the College Board's Placement Test to assess his college readiness in reading, writing and math. Those test scores revealed serious deficiencies making college success completely out of reach. So, with ScholarShot's help, Xavier made the very adult decision to go to community college first, get ready, get his Associates Degree and weigh his options from there. In the process Xavier told us he feels much better about this path to his ultimate goal of achieving a bachelor's degree.  We're pleased to be helping Xavier get his degree and avoid being next year's dropout. He has a lot to smile about as do we.