Program Overview

This program begins in junior high school, emphasizing academics, college prep, college tours, and outdoor experiences. The senior year focuses on college and financial application support and more profound outdoor training. The first year of college focuses on personal growth, including a rock climbing trip. The program ends with an immersive 18-day trip during your last summer before program graduation.

All staff are certified

Staff have certifications ranging from Wilderness First Responder to Emergency Medical Technician and more!

Over 40 courses, trips, and workshops

You attend day workshops and multiple-day trips.

Free of cost to the Fellow and their parents

650+ hours of engagement throughout your two-and-a-half years

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How is the fellowship program structured?

Over two and a half years, the program centers on academic learning, outdoor education, and personal growth. Workshops and events usually happen in person on weekends or breaks, shifting to Zoom during the first year of college. Fellows connect with the REACH team monthly or bi-monthly. Additionally, we're always accessible via phone and email for one-on-one sessions outside group activities.

Junior Year of High School

We provide comprehensive information about various higher education systems (CSU, UC, CC, Private). We assist you with building or modifying your college list and offer guidance on financing college expenses. Workshops are also provided to parents to ensure similar insights. During the summer, we organize tours to different schools, creating interactions with key figures such as professors, admissions, and financial aid administrators. The program's first year focuses on college opportunities and access.

High Ropes Course

9 hours

SAT Prep Course (Optional)

16 hours

College Planning Session

6 hours

Parent Workshop

3 hours

Summer College Tour

6 days

Senior Year of High School

Our primary focus is to guide you through the complicated college application process and examine all the financial aid opportunities and scholarships. Experienced professionals facilitate workshops. We review personal statements, Personal Insight Questions, and college, scholarship, and financial aid applications. Additionally, we organize sessions with parents to discuss this vital information.

In the latter part of senior year, our emphasis shifts towards health and wellness as you transition towards your first year in college. We offer cooking classes, strategies to foster physical, mental, and emotional well-being, and outdoor activities to build strength and resilience. At the end of the year, we conclude with a summer backpacking trip.

Financial Aid Workshop

12 hours

College App Workshop

12 hours

Parent Workshop: College 102

6 hours

Winter Social

6 hours

Health and Wellness Workshop

12 hours

Overnight Camping

2 Weekends

Summer Backpacking Trip

8 days

Individual Check-Ins

1 hour (per student)

First Year in College

By this point in the program, you will have all the tools required for a successful transition. We start with College Success and Career Coaching workshops to confirm that you are on the right educational path. We then transition into identity development and financial literacy workshops. Fellows go on an immersive trip to Lake Superior or Bolivia to celebrate program graduation.