Youth College at Mercer County Community College, James Kerney Campus, Trenton, offers four different programs to help students achieve their future goals.

 

Youth college programs

All programs are 100% Free!

Upward Bound

TRIO UPWARD BOUND

The goal of TRIO Upward Bound is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary school and graduate from institutions of postsecondary education. The program is perfect for students who have an interest in attending college and are able to commit to the academic year schedule, including Saturday classes and after-school, and the 6-week summer program.

Services:
  • Academic enrichment and support
  • Assistance with college applications and FAFSA
  • College and career exploration
  • Mentorship and personal development
Eligibility:
  • Rising 9th – 12th graders (not current 12th)
  • Resident of Trenton, NJ
  • Demonstrate academic potential
  • Low income and/or first generation
Gearup

Gear Up

GEAR UP is a pre-college program that serves students in the Trenton school district. Students are exposed to a college or university environment, while receiving tutorials, mentoring, and academic and culturally enriching services. The program is perfect for students who have an interest in attending college and are able to commit to the Saturday program and 6-week summer schedule.

Services:
  • Academic enrichment and support
  • College and career exploration
  • Personal development
Eligibility:
  • Rising 7th – 12th graders
  • Attend one of the following Trenton, NJ schools: Holland, Dunn, MLK, TNGA, or TCHS
  • Demonstrate academic potential
  • Low income
TRIO

Trio Educational Talent Search

The mission of Educational Talent Search is to assist Trenton youth who are underrepresented in postsecondary education because of income, family educational background, disability, or other relevant criteria in the preparation for, entry to, and completion of a postsecondary education. The program is perfect for students who are unsure of their plans after high school or have an interest in attending college, technical school, or proprietary school, and prefer to only meet during school hours.

Services:
  • Academic enrichment and support
  • Assistance with college applications and FAFSA
  • College and career exploration
Eligibility:
  • At least 11 years old
  • Resident of Trenton, NJ
  • Demonstrate academic potential
  • Low income
VIP

VIP

The purpose of the Very Important People (VIP) program is to supplement the education of students in grades 9 through 12 who attend either The Ninth Grade Academy or Trenton Central High School. The program is perfect for students interested in attending college, trade, or technical schools and can commit to the after school and summer schedule.

Services:
  • Academic enrichment
  • College and career exploration
  • Hands-on learning experiences
  • Parent engagement
Eligibility:
  • Rising 7th – 12th graders
  • Attend one of the following Trenton, NJ schools: TCHS or TNGA