Reenvisioning College Admissions

It’s that time of year again. College applications are in. Now it’s time for seniors, their parents, and counselors to sit and wait. And reflect. Anyone close to the college admission process understands the stress and uncertainty involved. The stakes are high for kids whose dreams rest firmly...

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Can "SAT/ACT Optional" Admissions Open Doors to Equity at America's Selective Colleges?

Can "SAT/ACT Optional" Admissions Open Doors to Equity at America's Selective Colleges? Imagine a straight-A student, a leader in her school community who dreams of attending a selective private college known for topnotch professors and an excellent classroom experience – a school like George Washington...

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Why should Silicon Valley companies care about SB-359? New bill addresses diversity in STEM pipeline Written by: Ann Smith John* dreams of a career with a Silicon Valley tech start up. As a high school senior, he is busy crafting college application essays and eagerly considering the possibilities...

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Test Scores Reveal Widening Racial Achievement Gap in California

"New CA student test results: Over 50% unprepared for college" - USA Today "Common Core Test Scores Paint a Somber Picture" - KCRW "Students score low on California’s new standardized tests" - SFGate "Common...

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Staff Spotlight: David Tarula

“College wasn’t a part of my vocabulary growing up. In my family, getting a job was valued over going to college.” explains David Tarula, Breakthrough Silicon Valley Middle School Program Coordinator. In middle school, he was often teased by friends and family for earning good grades. David...

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Staff Spotlight: Christina Tran-Kenyon

Born and raised in East San Jose, Christina Tran-Kenyon was the first in her family to attend college. She is an alumna of University of the Pacific where she earned both her Bachelor of Science in Business,and Masters in Education. Like many Breakthrough students, language and cultural barriers often...

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First-Generation College Applicant Opens Up about the Grueling Process

Applying to college can be overwhelming for any student. But it’s especially intimidating for an applicant who is the first in his or her family to attend a four-year university. Decisions about where and how to apply, and college affordability issues pose hurdles for first-generation college students....

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