I really think this young man is going to make it. Students can bring up their grade point average and take advanced courses that could get them into a better college. It helps them gain confidence and helps them sharpen skills. And it may motivate them. A number of companies help match students with suitable programs and can provide a leg up in the application process.
Students usually receive room and board but pay transportation costs.
They come back with an unbelievable ability to make connections. The yearlong program, for applicants ages 17 to 22, begins with three weeks of canoeing and rock climbing through Outward Bound. Provides guidance, supervision and the chance to work in a variety of challenging fields that are traditionally hard to break into, like advertising or television. Others need the support. Government programs like Americorps and private national service organizations like Americare, based in New Canaan, Conn., also welcome help.