Upstate participants are mostly white students, debunking the myth that minorities are the soul beneficiaries of the programs. The Higher Education Opportunity Program is perhaps some of the most important legislation passed by New York State. But there is not a lot of public understanding of the programs and as a result the CUNY campus programs are under-enrolled, though nearly every student in a community college is eligible for the program. The SUNY Metropolitan Recruitment Center is offering weekly group information sessions on admissions and financial aid. However, they need a site to hold the classes in.
Students have to be financially disadvantaged.
Applications are not always filled out correctly, and if information is omitted, students will not be considered. Students with potential for college success are candidates for the program regardless of their current grades. We offer workshops in note-taking and critical thinking skills. If these needs are not addressed, then you are setting students up for failure. Students also receive vouchers for the purchase of books and TAP and Pell Grants.