b'Our Message to StudentsDear Students,Heights Philadelphia is anEconomic Mobility Catalystconnecting the citys youth toeducational and career opportunities that support their pathways to a successful life.But what does this really mean to you, as a high school student? It means that access to opportunity isyour right. And it is the communitys responsibility to provide those opportunities and to support you as youwork to achieve your goals. Heights strongly believes in the power of connection and community to help you build a path to educational success and economic prosperity. That prosperity is about you using your talents to the fullest with and for the community. Thats why the theme of this edition of the Step Up to College Guide is Connect to Community. Heights has developed partnerships with schools and employers to expand your access to education,opportunity, and an empowering career. We are committed to investing in you because you deserve to thriveand prosper. is an example of our investment. This publication has been developed,The Step Up to College Guideprinted, and distributed across the city every year for 36 yearsfor a total of one million copies and counting.puts critical college-going information in your hands right now, 24/7, including guidance on choosing The Guidethe college with the right fit, writing your college essays, and applying for financial aid and scholarships.This is for you, so use it!We are grateful to all those who make this resource possible, specifically our sponsors and the schools, in their classrooms institutions, and community-based organizations who utilize the Step Up to College Guideand with students in grades nine through twelve. We also recognize your family members and other caringadults in your communityand we hope theyll support you as you connect with the Guides many resources. Thanks to all of these partnerships, we are one step closer to achieving our vision of a city where every high school graduate is connected to an educational or workforce opportunity.To learn more about what Heights offersincluding advising, enrichment, pathways to careers, andpersonalized support for the transition from high school to college and careervisit heights.org.Onward, Sean E. Vereen President and CEO, Heights Philadelphia'