College “Prep” Rally

Our College “Prep” Rally and Transitional Readiness Program reimagines the traditional pep rally by channeling the same excitement, energy, and school spirit into preparing youth for life after high school. Designed for students in grades 9–12 and first- and second-year college students, the program provides engaging and supportive pathways that help young people successfully prepare for, transition into, and persist through college.

Through interactive workshops, community events, and mentorship opportunities, the College Prep Rally equips students with the tools needed to confidently navigate the college application process, financial aid systems, and academic expectations of higher education. The program places a strong emphasis on long-term mentorship, allowing TES to support students not only during their high school years but also as they transition into college life.

TES mentors work closely with students from high school through their early college experience, providing guidance, encouragement, and practical support such as academic tutoring, FAFSA and scholarship assistance, career exploration, and personal development coaching. This sustained mentorship model helps students build confidence, remain accountable to their goals, and successfully progress toward degree completion.

The program addresses critical barriers that many students from underserved communities face, including limited access to college guidance, lack of exposure to college environments, and financial or informational gaps in the admissions process. By partnering with local schools, colleges, and community organizations, TES identifies students who would benefit most from additional support and provides them with resources that strengthen both their academic and personal development.

Programming is delivered through weekend events, virtual workshops, and community-based gatherings, each designed to be informative, engaging, and empowering. Sessions may include college preparation workshops, financial aid and FAFSA guidance, career pathway exploration, leadership development, and transitional support for students already enrolled in college.

At its core, the College Prep Rally program helps students build the confidence, knowledge, and community support systems needed to pursue higher education and complete their degrees, ultimately strengthening families and communities through expanded opportunity and long-term economic mobility.

Group of five young women standing outdoors, smiling, holding signs that read 'The Etiquette Series,' and a 'Class of 2023' sign, with a building in the background. The Etiquette Series, Chicago-Detroit.
A woman in a white shirt helps a young woman in a blue graduation gown and cap put on her cap, both wearing face masks. The Etiquette Series, Chicago-Detroit.
A woman wearing a graduation gown and cap, smiling and holding a sign that reads 'The Etiquette Series,' against a dark background. The Etiquette Series, Chicago-Detroit.
Group of five women outside, smiling, making peace signs, holding signs that say "The Etiquette Series" and "Class of 2023," with a background of a tree, grass, and a building.
Young woman in a yellow graduation cap and plaid skirt holding a black sign that reads "The Etiquette Series" against a black brick wall. The Etiquette Series, Chicago-Detroit.