Jazlyn
Barnard College, 2009

Growing up in Washington Heights, a community that is notorious for drugs, teenage pregnancy and violence, was nothing short of difficult for me. HEAF offered a safe haven where my academic success could be a priority. Programs and workshops, such as SAT Prep, Essay Writing, Life Skills and College Now—all offered free of cost—gave me the necessary skills to guarantee my success in high school and prepare me for the rigorous academic workload of a top college. Without HEAF, I would have never considered double majoring in psychology and philosophy while obtaining my pre-medical requirements.

Philip
DePauw University, 2011

In my experience with HEAF, their motto, "Come to HEAF, Go to College!" has become increasingly real to me. Since the 7th grade, the staff has been there, helping me to succeed and always encouraging me not to settle for less. Without their constant assistance, I know that I would not be as confident as I am both in and out of school. I would also not be anywhere near as prepared for the upcoming tasks of applying to college, as well as working to complete my high school career. Thank you, HEAF, for the amazing opportunities you have given me.

Samantha
Middlebury College, 2012

HEAF stretches me both academically and socially. Youth Development meetings helped me to learn about myself and my needs. I was encouraged to be my own person and to decide what I want to do with my life. As a result, during college counseling sessions, I am thinking about the colleges I want to attend and am very focused on getting there. Summer activities, particularly the Summer Institute for the Gifted (SIG), helped me build an impressive resume. HEAF's internships add to my academic experience as well. My time with College Sports TV showed me another side to sports and will help me stand out from other students. My service learning projects will also wow administrators. I traveled to Morocco and Senegal with HEAF and participated in the Get on the Bus: College Access Tour. Both of these experiences changed the way I look at and relate to the world. Through HEAF I have matured and taken on more responsibility. As I prepare to leave my comfort zone, I am proud to say that I am ready to take on the challenges of college and life.

Jonathan
City College of New York, 2010

The years I spent with HEAF were more than an academic experience for me. HEAF altered the outcome of my life. I learned how to be responsible in the classroom and in everyday situations. I was educated on etiquette, writing and business. Their writing classes have improved my ability to write and will play a part in my future career. The Career 411 class that introduced us to the culture of the workplace will also help me to when it's time to pursue a career. Finally, HEAF has prepared me for all that college involves. Their lessons on financial aid, course selection and time management will help me to do well in college and in life.

Yinnette
Fordham University, 2011

Preparing for college isn't easy, but HEAF gave me the push I needed to get started. Classes like Career 411 and Writing helped me determine what I want and plan out my goals while college tours and preparation allowed me to bond with other motivated students and improve my social skills. With the college counseling I routinely receive, I am confident about the college process and know I can achieve anything to which I set my mind. Additionally, the American Forum for Global Education allowed me to travel to China this summer—an awesome experience that would not have happened without HEAF's help.

Tyrell, 11th grade
Manhattan Center for Science and Mathematics

When I came to HEAF, I was very quiet and unable to express my ideas with confidence. I now know that I can help others and myself by using my skills and talents.These skills and talents came out during many activities at HEAF, including academic courses and retreats, and I can now recognize my ability to lead a group. The program also helped me to gain friendships and strengthen ties with my family, as well as deal with personal problems. HEAF has been there for me since I joined and I won't forget all that the staff has done for me.