CUNY’s College Bridge for All initiative, in collaboration with New York City Public Schools, addresses the challenge of “summer melt,” a phenomenon where high school graduates intending to pursue higher education fail to enroll in the fall. As the nation’s largest near-peer advising program, it provides graduating seniors with guidance on completing crucial steps for college enrollment, such as submitting financial aid forms and registering for classes.
The program features peer mentors, often college students themselves, who assist high school graduates in navigating the complexities of the transition to college. These mentors offer personalized support and share their experiences, making the college preparation process more relatable and less daunting for students.
College Bridge for All aims to ensure students do not lose momentum after high school graduation, targeting those who might face barriers such as financial challenges or uncertainty about the enrollment process. By offering structured support and resources, the program helps students overcome these obstacles, leading to a higher rate of college enrollment among participants.
This initiative highlights the critical role of mentorship in education, as peer advisors provide a bridge between high school and higher education, helping students successfully embark on their college journey.
Source: Inside Higher Education
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https://www.insidehighered.com/news/student-success/college-experience/2026/06/12/how-peer-mentors-combat-summer-melt
