Goddard Riverside Options Center

About the Goddard Riverside Options Center

The Goddard Riverside Options Center stands as a vital resource within New York City, dedicated to empowering high school students, particularly those from underserved communities, on their journey toward higher education. As a key program of the long-standing non-profit organization Goddard Riverside, the Options Center provides comprehensive, free college access and success services designed to demystify and navigate the often-complex process of applying to and succeeding in college. Located in Manhattan, the center serves as a crucial bridge, connecting ambitious young individuals with the opportunities that higher education can provide.

The core mission of the Options Center is to ensure that financial background or lack of prior family experience with college does not become a barrier to educational attainment. They offer personalized guidance and support tailored to each student's unique needs and aspirations. This includes one-on-one college counseling sessions where experienced advisors help students explore potential majors and career paths, identify suitable colleges and universities, and develop a strategic application plan. The center provides hands-on assistance with completing college applications, crafting compelling personal essays, and navigating the intricacies of standardized testing, offering resources and support for SAT and ACT preparation.

A significant focus of the Options Center's work is on financial aid. Understanding that the cost of college is a major concern for many families, the center provides in-depth guidance on understanding and applying for federal and state financial aid, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP). They also actively help students search for and apply for scholarships and grants, working to minimize the financial burden of college attendance. Workshops and group sessions are regularly held to cover various aspects of the college application process, financial literacy, and transitioning to college life, fostering a supportive community among students.

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Beyond the application phase, the Options Center is committed to supporting students through their first year of college, offering guidance and resources to help them adjust to the academic and social demands of higher education. This ongoing support is critical in promoting college retention and success. By providing expert guidance, practical assistance, and a nurturing environment, the Goddard Riverside Options Center plays an indispensable role in helping New York City students unlock their potential and achieve their dreams of a college education, contributing significantly to educational equity and opportunity in the city. [1]

[Youth & Education Programs]

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