Pathways to Success College and Career Readiness Program

Pathways to Success is a six-week program designed to equip high school juniors and seniors with the essential skills and knowledge to successfully transition into college, trade school or the workforce. Through hands-on workshops, expert guidance, and real-world practice, students will leave with a post-secondary plan, complete college, or trade school applications, FAFSA applications, Scholarship applications, and enhanced career readiness skills.

If you are interested in partnering with UWGMC to bring this program to your school or nonprofit organization, contact Fatima Scipio at 609.637.4914 or via email at Fatima.scipio@uwgmc.org

Pathways to Success Scholarship

The United Way of Greater Mercer County is proud to provide our Pathways To Success Scholarship, designed to support ambitious high school seniors who are ready to take the next step toward their future. Whether their goal is college or trade school, this scholarship celebrates the diverse talent and aspirations of our Mercer County Community Youth.

Scholarship Details:
•   Award Amount: $1000.00 (5 Awards will be given)
•   Application deadline: May 1, 2025
•   Notification Date: Recipients will be notified on or about June 1, 2025
•   Recipients must be available for a small reception in June

For more information including requirements and application go to www.uwgmc.org/scholarship

College Financial Aid Assistance

Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) allows students access to the largest source of financial aid to pay for college or vocational school. The FAFSA is a free federal form that is completed to determine eligibility for financial aid to go to colleges and universities. It should be completed at the same time college applications are done in the fall of senior year of high school in order to get the most financial assistance. All students should be submitting a FAFSA regardless of income to maximize their college aid.

We assist families, both the student and the parents, to complete their FAFSA. This service is offered for free to students and families in our community.

College Financial Aid Resources

Access more information about federal/state aid, scholarships, and more here.

What You Need to Apply for College Aid

The FAFSA application can be found at www.fafsa.gov. The application is a free Federal form that can be downloaded or filled out online.

Step 1: Select 5 - 10 colleges you want to attend (At least one school should be in the state.)

Step 2: Apply for your Federal Student Aid Pin at Get Your Pin Now! Both parents and students need FSAID Pins.

• Enter your personal information

• Submit your FSAID Pin # application

• Receive your FSAID Pin #

Step 3: Collect all the required documents (parent and student)

• Proof of ID (Driver's License, State Issued ID, Passport)

• Social Security Card

• W-2 Forms and other records of money earned

• Federal Income Tax Form (most recent)

• Records of untaxed Income

• Records of assets - brokerage statements, CDs, Savings Bonds

• Current bank statements

Step 4: Make an appointment with us for assistance or go here to complete the forms

College Admission Essay Help

College-bound students learn how to reflect the best of themselves and tell a compelling story to get into the college(s) of their choice. Learn techniques from our experts and what colleges look for in an essay.

This service is offered for free to students in our community.

For questions please contact

Jessica Figueroa at jessica.figueroa@uwgmc.org or 609-637-4913

College Readiness