Research Validates Summer Quest Mission
Studies estimate that in the 21st century economy, 90% of the fastest-growing jobs will require some degree of postsecondary education.
While the percentage of American high school students aspiring to a college degree continues to increase, the number of students who successfully enroll in and complete a postsecondary program has not kept pace with these aspirations.
In the Chicago Public Schools, nearly 80% of high school seniors express the desire to go to college, yet only 50% manage to enroll in a postsecondary program within a year after their high school graduation. This gap between aspiration and achievement is particularly pronounced among African-American, Latino, and low-income students, many of whom represent the first generation in their families to pursue a college education.
Research shows that pre-college programs increase young people's awareness of their postsecondary options and enable students to assess their academic strengths and weaknesses, acclimate themselves to the rigors and expectations of college coursework, and live independently-often for the first time. Such early exposure also increases the likelihood that first-generation college students will enroll in and complete a degree program.
In only four years, Summer Quest has achieved dramatic results. To date, an average 80% of all Summer Quest participants have enrolled in college, which is significantly higher than the district average.
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My Summer Quest experience was a blessing. I was taught by talented professors, met top-notch students from across the country and experienced college life for the first time. I was able to re-examine myself and think about what I want to do in the future. - James, Rickover |
