Para leer este artículo en español, clic aquí
By Monica Basilio
For many young people, earning a college degree represents more than an academic achievement. It is an opportunity to build a meaningful career, create greater financial stability, and open doors for future generations of their families.
But getting accepted into college is only the beginning. Having the guidance, resources, and encouragement to successfully navigate higher education can make all the difference.
For nearly two decades, College Track New Orleans has helped local students turn their college ambitions into lasting opportunities. Now, with the opening of its new center on Tulane University‘s downtown campus, the organization is entering an exciting new chapter.
On October 8, College Track celebrated the grand opening of its newly renovated, 10,000-square-foot center at 275 LaSalle Street, expanding its ability to support scholars from ninth grade through college graduation and into meaningful careers.
The center places students within an active university environment, giving them greater exposure to academic resources, mentors, professional networks, and potential career pathways before they even begin college.
For students who may be the first in their families to pursue higher education, that early exposure can help make the college experience feel more familiar and attainable.
“Locating our New Orleans center on Tulane’s downtown campus will not only further strengthen our existing relationship, it will also provide our high school scholars with the opportunity to be part of a lively and engaging higher education environment well before they graduate,” said Shirley M. Collado, Ph.D., College Track president and CEO.
College Track’s approach goes beyond traditional college preparation. Through up to 10 years of comprehensive academic, financial and career support, the organization helps scholars identify, finance and graduate from institutions that align with their goals.
The results demonstrate the importance of sustained support. Nationally, College Track scholars earn bachelor’s degrees at nearly twice the national average for first-generation college students.
In New Orleans, 86% of scholars would be the first in their families to attend college. Since launching locally in 2008, the organization has grown to serve 420 active scholars and 215 alumni.
For parents encouraging their children to dream bigger, College Track represents an opportunity to begin preparing for college early, build confidence, and access a community committed to helping young people succeed.
As College Track continues growing in New Orleans, its mission remains clear: helping more students turn the promise of a college education into a foundation for lifelong opportunity.
