This program was first instituted at Mission High School in San Francisco in 1986 and has since spread to over 20 high schools throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.  Since inception, an average of 85% of all seniors, who joined this program, have been accepted to accredited colleges and universities each year- an increase of nearly 50%.

What is the Step to College program?
STC empowers students with the belief and the knowledge that they can accomplish educational goals which they never considered to be within their reach.

The program increases the high school graduation rates of disadvantaged minority students, helps them make a successful transition to higher education, and increases the college/university retention rates. The bonds these students form with classmates and faculty at the high school level are carried over to the college level where they are strengthened through formal mentoring and tutoring programs.

STC has raised the sights of these non-traditional students, and has inspired some to return to their communities during their college years to encourage their brothers, sisters, friends, and even parents to increase their levels of educational achievement.

How does Step to College work?
Potential program members are recruited at the end of their junior year of high school.  They fill out an admissions application to SFSU, pay a minimal fee of a few dollars for their SFSU I.D. card, and then hold freshman status while still in high school

STC students take two courses in critical thinking skills for which they receive 6 units of transferable credit.  This course is taught by a SFSU professor once each week after school at the student’s high school.

Students who participate in the program receive help filing out university applications, including application for financial aid.  They also become familiar with the format and structure of university courses in a non-threatening environment.  For most STC participants, this experience is an affirmation that they can achieve success in a university setting.

Every effort Is made to provide an ongoing support system for each Step to College student after he or she enters SFSU.  This effort takes the form of special student groups, tutorial assistance, cored classes during the freshman year, and special counseling geared to the minority student.

What does the program do?
STC allows participating high school seniors to:

• Enroll as freshman at SFSU during their last year in high school.
• Receive transferable university credit
• Become knowledgeable about university requirements
• Receive help when apply for financial aid
• Develop a networking system
• Understand what university courses are like without receiving negative messages

How does a student enter STC?

• Students may be recommended by a teacher, counselor, administer  or
• Students may apply on their own

What are the requirements for remaining in the program?

• Complete homework and required readings. (The STC program is rigorous and participants are expected to complete their assignments in the same way as any other college student.  This work is over and above regular high school assignments.)
• Maintain a “C” average
• Maintain a positive attitude in class
• Complete other assignments as required

For further information, contact your Capuchino counselor or call or write:
San Francisco State University
1600 Holloway Ave.
Burk Hall 501 San Francisco, CA 94132
Office # (415) 338-2687
Fax # (415) 338-7019 or