Volunteers sought for state's annual College Application Month

The Delaware Department of Education, preparing for the state’s third annual College Application Month later this fall, needs volunteers to support students as they prepare their college applications.

College Application Month is a national effort of the American Council on Education with the goal of providing every graduating high school senior the opportunity to apply to college. The Delaware Department of Education, in partnership with University of Delaware’s Institute for Public Administration, is providing technical assistance to participating schools.

Last year, 20 public high schools from across the state participated with about 2,750 students applying to college. This year the program will expand to every district and charter high school in the state. Activities are scheduled between Oct. 13 and Nov. 21 with each school choosing a period - usually two to three days - to hold events.

Volunteers don’t need to be experts on the college application process to help. They are needed to greet and sign in students, assist with the completion of online college applications, and assist counselors and teachers during the event.

According to the Southern Regional Education Board, exit surveys of similar events have shown overwhelmingly that students considered the event a major factor in their decision to apply to college. Volunteers are crucial to providing one-on-one support that will have a positive impact on students.

To volunteer, go to www.delawaregoestocollege.org and find links to participating schools and training.

For more information on volunteering, contact IPA’s Kelly L. Sherretz at 302-831-4271.