Colleges and Universities in the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Area and the states of Virginia and Maryland agree to provide a variety of activities to increase students' and parents' knowledge of college programs and offer admission to students who meet or exceed their entrace requirements. Business and Industry provide volunteers who encourage and support student achievement through participation in mentoring and shadowing experiences. Summer internships and field trips to business sites are included. In addition, the Fairfax County Public Schools Education Foundation, Inc., provides motivational and financial support for selected students. Selection is primarily based on academic potential of students as perceived by school counselors and other administrators.
Preference is given to ethnic, racial, and language minority students.
Adult References Students are selected in the seventh grade and remain in the program until high school graduation. They participate in the program throughout the school year and during the summer. Upon graduation, they enroll in the college of their choice. Over 95 percent of graduating students have enrolled in college, and many have received scholarships.