What We're Learning: Bridging the Gap Between Achievement and College Success

Our very own chief growth offer, Vincena M. Allen, was a featured panelist at the College Board Forum 2019, which brings together dynamic professionals, and thought leaders across disciplines to address the issues that challenge and inspire educators at all levels of the profession.

Ms. Allen was invited to this event by Dr. Jonathan Mathis, executive director at The Next Step Public Charter Boarding School. As the panel’s moderator, Dr. Mathis led four subject matter experts in secondary and post-secondary education in a conversation titled, Facilitating College Transitions for Students with Extraordinary Challenges, where they discussed the role of access, achievement, agency, and aspirations in advancing educational equity, for low-income, first generation college students.

“These four areas are driving forces in student success. In this panel, we looked at how systems and practices in these areas can be detrimental if negatively implemented and approached,” Ms. Allen said.

Tasked with defining achievement in college success, Ms. Allen discussed how SEED’s approach to college fit and match equips our scholars with the information and tools they need to enroll in a “right fit” college/university, based on their specific needs. She also discussed SEED’s method of intrusive advising, where students are coached by their college success advisors to learn to make academic, financial and personal decisions proactively, to ensure success in college, and in their professional careers. Lastly, Ms. Allen highlighted SEED’s college transition classes which are designed to educate SEED seniors about navigating college life. “It’s important that our students are informed consumers when searching for the right colleges and setting themselves up for success. SEED is making its mark in education for public boarding education and college success,” said Ms. Allen.

Ms. Allen is adamant about eradicating the notion that students are challenged; she believes they face challenges because of inequitable systems. Through SEED’s external capacity building efforts, SEED is better positioned to play a role in helping educators across the country be appropriately informed about how to successfully work with students to and through postsecondary success.

“As educators, we must ask ourselves, what are we doing in our own work that is expressing implicit bias towards the students we serve.  A deficit approach and our own biases can create barriers for the students we serve,” said Ms. Allen.

When asked what the future of college access looks like for low-income, first-generation college students, Ms. Allen shared:

“In addition to accessing the right fit colleges, students are faced with more challenges than ever when it comes to college affordability. We have to take a more intentional approach to teaching financial literacy and advocating for change in higher education so that students don’t graduate with crippling debt.”

Learn more about the work our College Transition & Success team is doing at SEED.

Happy Holidays from SEED!

As we prepare to spend some quality time with family and friends this holiday season, we are also taking time to reflect.   

At SEED, we have the pleasure of serving remarkable students who are defying the odds and charting their own paths towards college completion. Here’s just a small slice of what our scholars accomplished this year:

In our first issue of The SEED Spark, we featured Monae Scott (SEED DC ‘19), an exceptional SEED student, who was selected as a POSSE Scholar, earning a full scholarship to Sewanee: The University of the South. Monae also joined 14 other SEED scholars who received over $40,000 in SEED Foundation Scholarships in 2019.  The following month, we shared how the SEED Tax Prep Ambassadors, a cohort of scholars from SEED DC, assisted in filing taxes for low and middle-income residents in wards 7 and 8 of Washington, D.C. These scholars worked closely with their clients to schedule appointments, provide consultations, and input tax information. At the end of tax season, they had successfully helped residents claim $110,000 in tax credits to their community! It’s amazing to know that our scholars are learning life skills to help themselves and others.

Last spring, we highlighted SEED scholar-artists. SEED DC’s Falcon Theatre traveled to Sacramento, California, for the Junior Theater Festival, a musical theater adjudication festival that brings together over 2,000 students from 42 schools representing multiple states and countries. After several award-winning performances, our scholar-artists earned their second invitation to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Edinburgh, Scotland, in the summer of 2020. SEED DC is now raising funds to ensure that the students can participate.

There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing our scholars’ accomplishments showcased at high school graduation each year. In June, both SEED DC and SEED MD celebrated a 99% graduation rate, with alumni from the class of 2019 now attending colleges and universities across the country. As you know, their journeys with SEED don’t end there! SEED’s College Transition & Success team is there to support our scholars in college and beyond.

To close out the year, we’re proud to announce our new InfoArmor Cyber Lab opening at SEED MD! (Learn more below). Our scholars are excited to have new opportunities to learn about the tech industry and build high-tech skills to compete for 21st-century careers.

Looking Forward

2020 will be another year of firsts for SEED. The SEED School of Miami will welcome their inaugural senior class! We’re also continuing to garner support for The SEED School of Los Angeles, scheduled to open its doors in 2022. As our community grows, we’re reminded to stay true to our core values, Respect, Responsibility, Perseverance, Integrity, Compassion, Gratitude, and Growth, which bind us together.

Thank you for being part of the SEED community and providing our scholars with opportunities, resources, and community they need to achieve their dreams! None of our achievements are possible without you.

What We’re Learning: SEED College Advisors Attend the 75th NACAC National Conference

The SEED Network is committed to equipping our college counselors with the tips, tools, and best practices to support our high school students as they embark on their college journeys. For 10 years, our college counselors have attended the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) National Conference to network with fellow college access professionals, earn continuing education credits toward certification, and attend educational sessions addressing the challenges high school students face when applying to college and the bumps in the road that occur once they arrive on campus. Founded in 1937, NACAC is an organization of more than 15,000 professionals from around the world who are dedicated to serving students as they make choices about pursuing postsecondary education. 

This year, Jordan Frasier (SEED DC) and Mildred “Millie” Harris (SEED MD) attended the 75th NACAC National Conference, where they had the chance to engage in fellowship with other attendees and discuss the specific programming offered for college-bound students at their respective schools. Mr. Frasier and Ms. Harris were joined by Martine Marcellin, SEED’s newest college counselor and the first college counselor for The SEED School of Miami.

Here’s what our college counselors had to say about their experience at the NACAC conference:

“Networking with other attendees at the conference was most rewarding for me. Having the opportunity to connect with individuals who work with students within our demographic and share tips and best practices of how to navigate certain challenges was invaluable.” – Martine Marcellin

“This is my fourth year attending the NACAC National Conference, and each year I look forward to connecting with exhibitors to bring new services to our students. We’re always looking for partnerships with universities in order to expose our students to as many colleges as possible before they make their final decisions.” – Millie Harris

“I enjoyed this year’s conference because Millie Harris, Martine Marcellin, and I had the chance to attend together and learn from one another as well as others in our profession. Attending together also ensures that we are operating as a network and that our students are receiving the same programming and services.” – Jordan Frasier

Learn more about NACAC.

Our Impact: SEED’s FAFSA Completion Night Helps Families Meet Crucial Deadlines and Milestones

Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a returning college student, or a working professional looking to further your education, chances are you’ll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your financial aid eligibility.

Unfortunately, there are many common mistakes that students and families make when filling out the FAFSA, such as reporting the incorrect household size, filing for the wrong academic year, and failing to list all the colleges to which the student has applied. That’s why our College Transition & Success (CTS) team holds an annual FAFSA Completion Night. Our goal is to help students and their parents to properly submit the FAFSA and, ultimately, for students to graduate from college with minimal to no debt.

This month, the CTS team hosted more than 50 seniors and their families from SEED DC and SEED MD for a deep dive into the FAFSA completion process. The timing of this event is extremely important. To receive the most aid, college access professionals recommend that seniors submit their FAFSA applications as early as possible.

At FAFSA Completion Night, attendees receive a detailed overview of the total cost of attendance at a college or university, also known as the “sticker price.” Our college success advisors then discuss the different types of financial aid students can use to fund their college education, such as scholarships, grants (federal and state), work-study, and federal student loans. Lastly, parents are asked to bring select personal documents to participate in one-on-one sessions with a college success advisor, to make sure every application is completed and submitted on time.

Learn more about the hidden costs of college.

What We’re Learning: Following Our Freshmen as They Embark on a New Journey

This fall, SEED’s college success advisors are packing up and heading out for another travel season. They are off to meet with 2019 SEED graduates at colleges and universities across the country, such as Emory University, Johns Hopkins University, Frostburg State University, North Carolina AT&T State University, Cleveland Institute of Art, and more!

Every SEED graduate in their first semester of college receives a visit from a SEED college success advisor. We also visit SEED graduates who have transferred to a new college or need additional support. 

We love visiting our scholars and hearing about their personal college experiences! These visits also give our team the opportunity to build relationships with our college partners and to stay up to date on any academic or financial issues that could hinder our students’ ability to complete college.

Want to keep up with our visits?

Please follow us on Instagram, follow the hashtag #SEEDGradsSucceed, or check out our posts on Facebook. 

Learn more about our College Transition & Success program.

Meet Our Students: Teschon Delva (SEED Miami ’23) Advocates for Cell Phone Access at SEED Miami

At first glance, Teschon Delva (SEED Miami ’23) appears to be a reserved yet promising scholar, excited to begin his freshman year at SEED. There’s no way to tell that he led a groundbreaking initiative, one that gave him the resources and experience to not only advocate for himself and his classmates, but also to encourage others to do the same.

Before coming to SEED, Teschon was a shy child, with a close-knit group of friends. When he and his father learned about SEED’s 24-hour program, they both felt that this rigorous academic environment would help Teschon break out of his shell.

Teschon’s first experience at SEED was attending orientation, where incoming sixth-grade students get a crash course on what to expect at a college preparatory boarding school.

“During new student orientation, I lived in the dorm for one week. I was only eleven years old, so this was an exciting experience. I also met my peers who would become my roommates during the school year.”

It took no time for Teschon to find his stride academically and gain the confidence to reach his goals. In just three years, Teschon has achieved several wins. He was granted a $1,000 scholarship after writing an award-winning essay about Picasso. He also served as a volunteer during the Miami-Dade County Special Olympics, where he filled the critical role of helping to prepare the venue for each sport. He looks forward to performing more community service that directly benefits local children.

Teschon’s most memorable achievement at SEED has been organizing a committee to advocate for middle school students to gain limited use of cell phones on campus. Currently, only high school students have access to cell phones. He enlisted the help of classmates and his student life counselor, Mr. Chatfield, to present a proposal to the school’s leadership team.

“Mr. Chatfield encouraged me to form this committee and served as an advisor to us,” Teschon said.

Dr. Kara Locke, head of school at SEED Miami, was very impressed by Teschon’s proposal. She said it was one of the best she’s ever seen from a student. Though there is still work to be done in order to implement Teschon’s proposal, this experience—among others—has increased his confidence.

“SEED is one of a kind. If any student has the opportunity to come to SEED, they should take it.”

It has been a pleasure to watch Teschon grow into a bright young scholar. We can’t wait to see how his future unfolds.

Where Are They Now? Arnice Cottom (SEED DC ’11, Elizabeth City State University ’15, Trinity Washington University ’18) Pursues Her PhD

When a student graduates from SEED, our relationship doesn’t end. We understand that every educational path looks different, and that’s why we support our graduates to and through college.  

Arnice Cottom (SEED DC ‘11) has secured her bachelor’s and master’s degrees and is currently pursuing her PhD in Health Communications. She knows that even though she graduated from SEED eight years ago, she still has a team of advisors, mentors, and cheerleaders standing behind her every step of the way.

Amid studying and starting a career in marketing, Arnice still finds time to visit our office and to help design programming for SEED’s younger graduates. During one of her recent visits, she took a few minutes to share a bit about her journey at SEED.

What college or university did you attend?

I attended Elizabeth City State University, where I received my bachelor’s degree in mass communications, with a concentration in advertising and public relations and a minor in music. I then attended Trinity Washington University, where I received my master’s in strategic communications and public relations.

How was your transition from SEED to college?

My transition from SEED to college was very interesting. When I started, I was excited about the freedom of being able to do what I wanted. But as I started to settle in, I realized that I needed to utilize all the skills that I learned at SEED (time management, studying skills, etc.) in order to truly take advantage of my college experience and excel. 

Did you stay connected to SEED while in college?

I was very connected to SEED while I was in college. Ms. Blacknall, my college success advisor, played a pivotal role in my success in my undergraduate career. When I was at my lowest point, being able to express myself to my advisor and the College Transition & Success Team was essential.

What are you doing now that you have graduated from college?  

I am a communications associate with the American Public Health Association in Washington, D.C. It’s nice to work in my field of study. I am also currently pursuing my PhD. I have applied to American University and hope to hear from them soon.

How did your experience at SEED impact you?

For me, SEED was my extended family. I needed a village of supporters to help me grow into the person that I am today. I was exposed to new things both academically and personally, I gained skills that I still use to this day, and I was given opportunities to showcase my talents. Without SEED, I know I wouldn’t be where I am now.

What We’re Learning: Do You Know the Hidden Costs of College?

Did you know that the cost of attendance at a public, four-year university has risen more than 200 percent over the last 20 years?

That’s why our College Transition & Success Team is here to support our graduates with navigating the college access and success process. This includes making sure our graduates are prepared for any potential financial pitfalls.   

We invite you to learn about the hidden costs of college, which can mean the difference between a college degree and debt without credentials.

Meet Our Students: Julius Moye (SEED DC ‘20) Sees Many Stars in His Future

Julius Moye (SEED DC ‘20) began his journey at SEED as a sixth-grade scholar determined to become a college graduate. Now in his senior year, Julius credits SEED for giving him the resources and space to grow into an independent young adult.

“I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for the responsibilities I took on at SEED over the years.”

On campus, Julius is seen as a leader. For a second year, he will serve as a lead mentor in Peer Group Connection. In this role, he helps rising ninth-grade students adjust to living and studying at a boarding school. “I wasn’t sure if I was the best fit for this position, but as the year went on, I really began to love it. I decided to be a lead mentor again this year.” 

When asked what his ideal career would be, all roads lead to space—literally!

Julius has dreams of exploring the stars above us. He has always been passionate about science and space exploration, and with the guidance of his teacher, Julius signed up for space camp at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, in seventh grade. This experience deepened Julius’s desire to study astronomy. “Space camp was an amazing experience! I would love to work for NASA one day.”

As Julius approaches high school graduation, he wants to enroll in college as a computer science or mathematics major. “I’m looking forward to working with my college counselor, Mr. Jordan Frasier, and getting his advice on what colleges are the right fit for me.”     

We’re so proud of Julius’s progress! Julius is one of SEED’s 2020 scholarship recipients, and we are certain he will achieve his dreams. “I understand the importance of getting good grades. I’ve been given so many opportunities because of my grades, and I really am looking forward to also excelling in college.”   

Where Are They Now? Patrice Willis (SEED DC ‘06, Ohio Wesleyan University ‘10), Has the Career of Her Dreams

“My time at SEED gave me the best possible path to college, and now I have a career that I love.” For us, there’s nothing better than hearing about our graduates’ successes. 

Patrice Willis (SEED DC ‘06) is one SEED graduate who has fulfilled her dreams. With SEED’s guidance, she had the tools to effectively navigate the college access and success process. Today, she has the job of her dreams. “I always wanted to go to college. And because of SEED, I had the right supports which helped to make my dreams come true.”

We love to hear from our graduates and learn about their transitions from college to career. Patrice recently met with us to share her journey. 

What college or university did you attend?

I attended Ohio Wesleyan University, where I majored in journalism. 

How was your transition from SEED to college? 

My transition was pretty easy. I felt academically prepared because of the study habits I learned at SEED. I also felt comfortable with jumping right into a new environment. At SEED, I was a part of several clubs and extra-curriculum activities including basketball, tennis, cheerleading, yearbook, and I was the school mascot. These experiences helped with my transition.

Did you stay connected to SEED while in college?

Yes, I did! Ms. Vincena Allen, chief growth officer and a founding staff member of the College Transition & Success program, reached out to me every month when I was in college. I received gift baskets and in-person visits as well. She helped me with everything from financial aid to my resume. She also provided a listening ear when I had a challenge in school or a rough day. Honestly, as the College Transition & Success (CTS) team expanded, anyone in the office was available when I needed them. 

What did you after graduating from Ohio Wesleyan University?

Currently, I am a kindergarten teacher, and I love it! I’m also going back to school to obtain a master’s degree. My goal is to become a school counselor.

How did your experience at SEED impact you? 

My counselors made me feel like I was a star. They made me feel like I could do whatever I wanted to do and that there was always going to be someone in my corner. This individualized support paired with classes like Senior Seminar helped us fill out college applications and apply for scholarships—it really made a difference.

Touring several different colleges and being surrounded by college graduates and mentors really motivated me to find the school that fit me best.

Meet Our Students: Destiny Joyner (SEED ‘23) Reached New Heights on Top of Mayan Ruins

Well before her first day as a student at The SEED School of Maryland, Destiny Joyner (SEED MD ‘23) was no stranger to SEED. She watched her two sisters flourish as SEED students and successfully chart their paths to a college degree. Following in their footsteps, Destiny is focused on achieving her full potential and has set her education as a top priority.

A straight-A student, Destiny finds it important to surround herself with the right friends. “Each semester, my friends and I compete to see who can get the highest GPA. It keeps us on our toes.” Because of SEED’s 24-hour learning environment, she has built strong bonds with her classmates and student life counselors. "Living with each other brings everyone close together. We really feel more like family than classmates."

This summer, Destiny traveled to Belize with SEED MD’s External Opportunities program in partnership with Girls Going Global, a nonprofit organization seeking to address the disparity of girls of color in international education and travel. For a week, Destiny was immersed in Central American culture, which is heavily influenced by the ancient Mayan civilization. She was intrigued by the Mayan’s holistic way of living and discovered how these traditions are still practiced in modern day Belize. Her most memorable experience was climbing to the top of a Mayan temple constructed in 1,000 B.C.! “The Mayan Ruins were really steep! – Getting to the top was hard, but once we made it, everyone felt accomplished.”  

As the summer ends, Destiny is excited to begin her first year as a high school student and looks forward to seeing more of the world.  

Meet Our Students: Harri-Anna Derolus (SEED Miami ‘21) Has Big Plans to Become a Lawyer

Harri-Anna is pictured above third from the right.

Harri-Anna Derolus (SEED Miami ’21) enrolled at SEED because of its track record in helping underserved students successfully get to and through college. She is determined to be the first person in her family to become a college graduate, and as an honor-roll student, she is well on her way.

A natural leader, Harri-Anna served as class president for two consecutive years. During her tenure, she advocated for better catering that would offer more diverse and healthy dining options. Her strategy worked! The school now offers a greater variety of food at breakfast, lunch, and dinner for the students to enjoy.

“Harri-Anna is one of the most dedicated students I’ve had the pleasure of working with. She’s constantly pushing herself to maintain her academic and personal successes,” said Kiara Muhammad, student life counselor at SEED Miami.

Harri-Anna is also a SEED ambassador. In this role, she serves as an official student representative for The SEED School of Miami and hosts tours for prospective donors, incoming SEED students, and prospective families. Alongside her mother, who is a parent champion, Harri-Anna hosted representatives from one of SEED Miami’s largest donor organizations. Her personal testimony has been vital to individuals looking to gain a better understanding of SEED’s impact.

One of Harri-Anna’s most rewarding experiences has been participating in SEED Miami’s Mock Trial. This program is offered through SEED Miami’s Sparks program, which is a component of the school’s student life curriculum. In Mock Trial, Harri-Anna learned about the key elements of a trial—and the U.S. legal system—through preparing for and participating in simulated trial competitions. This experience has inspired Harri-Anna to want to earn a Juris Doctor after completing her undergraduate education.

We’re proud of Harri-Anna’s accomplishments and excited to be a part of her continued success!

Learn more about SEED Miami’s Sparks program.

Where Are They Now? Jeremiah Paige (SEED MD ’15, Mount St. Mary’s University ’19)

In July 2008, The SEED School of Maryland welcomed its first class of sixth graders. By attending Maryland’s first public college-preparatory boarding school, these students were making history.

After nearly seven years of rigorous academics, social and enrichment programs, and college exposure, every single graduate was accepted to a four-year college. But their journey with SEED wasn’t complete. To ensure that each graduate persisted through college, SEED provided each student with a college success advisor to serve as their personal advocate, mentor, and cheerleader from move-in day to graduation day.

This year, we celebrate SEED MD’s first class of college graduates and the fruition of SEED’s vision—to get our students to and through college. One of these graduates is Jeremiah Paige (SEED MD ’15). For him, SEED served as a reminder of his ability to achieve at the highest level. “SEED taught us that we could accomplish anything we wanted. This mindset pushed me to invest in and explore my passion for music as a student at Mount St. Mary’s.”

Last month, Jeremiah served as the keynote speaker for the 2019 SEED Foundation Scholarship Reception. He offered words of encouragement to SEED’s next graduating class and reminded them that wherever they go, they can find comfort in knowing that SEED is always there. Read the short interview below to learn more about Jeremiah’s college journey and where he is now.

What college or university did you attend?

I attended Mount St. Mary’s University, where I majored in communications and minored in business.

How was your transition from SEED to college?

My transition to college hit me hard. I felt like I was all alone. I couldn’t see my mother every weekend, and I was no longer with my SEED family five days a week. However, I soon realized that no matter the distance, my biological and SEED families would always be there. Mrs. Baker Jones, my SEED college success advisor, constantly reached out to me, came to visit, and even took me out to eat!

I found SEED’s approach of intrusive advising helpful when I started at Mount St. Mary’s. It was great to have someone on my side who genuinely cared about my success. If I had issues with my financial aid or classes, they were there to listen and provide support.

Did you stay connected to SEED while in college?

I would often go and visit my former counselors at SEED MD to play basketball. I also had the opportunity to reconnect with my former classmates through SEED-sponsored events like the SEED Graduate Institute and annual bowling party.

What are your plans for the future?

As a recent college graduate, I feel that the possibilities are endless. I am interested in pursuing my passion for music. While at Mount St. Mary’s, I had the opportunity to perform all over campus and even opened for artist O.T. Genasis. These experiences made me want to further express my creative abilities. I’m dedicated to remaining productive and making the most of the connections I’ve made while in school.

How did your experience at SEED impact you?

SEED prepared me for college academically. As a senior at SEED, I participated in a dual-enrollment program at Morgan State University. I saw the campus up close, met professors, and took classes with other college kids. This experience gave me an early look at college life and increased my interest in continuing my education.

Beyond academic preparation, the constant encouragement I received from my SEED counselors made a big difference. At the time, I didn’t appreciate their firmness, but as an adult I find myself implementing their advice. I am the person I am today because of SEED, and I am thankful for my experience.

What We’re Learning: SEED Miami Recruits Its First College Counselor

Becoming a college graduate is no easy feat. This is especially true for low-income, first-generation students who must overcome barriers such as financial challenges and balancing family and personal priorities.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 67 percent of low-income, first-generation students enroll in college, yet only 11 percent successfully earn a college degree. Without a degree, these students won’t be equipped to succeed in the 21st-century economy, will make nearly $1 million less in their lifetime compared to their peers, and will struggle to reach their full potential.

At SEED, we know that college readiness services are crucial to college success. That’s why our College Transition & Success team works diligently to ensure that every SEED student has the tools, support, and knowledge to effectively navigate the college application process and adjust to college life. This year, The SEED School of Miami will welcome its first college counselor to prepare for its inaugural graduating class in 2021. “We’re so excited to be in the final stages of selecting our founding college counselor,” said Luna Otero, director of talent management at SEED Miami. As a member of the College Transition & Success team, SEED Miami’s college counselor will provide personalized assistance with searching for scholarships, researching universities, and navigating any challenges the school’s students face when applying to college.

We look forward to welcoming this new team member to the SEED community, as they will play a pivotal role in the academic success of our scholars.

Meet Our Students: Yazmine Ali (SEED DC '20) Dreams of Becoming a Cardiovascular Surgeon

Eleventh grade is a crucial year for college-bound students nationwide. Balancing classes, extracurricular activities, and the preliminary phases of college admissions can seem nearly impossible, yet Yazmine Ali (SEED DC ‘20) has found a way to make it work.

In addition to being an honor-roll student, Yazmine is an active member of The SEED Falcon Theatre and the SEED Falcon volleyball, soccer, and track teams. Her involvement with extracurricular activities at SEED doesn’t end there—Yazmine is also a Peer Group Connection leader. In this role, she mentors and gives advice to incoming ninth-grade students who are adjusting to the rigor of SEED’s high school courses. “I love being involved with Peer Group Connection. It feels great to know that I’m helping to ease the transition for our incoming students.”

Yazmine’s leadership extends beyond SEED’s incoming ninth graders. She has already racked up more than 70 community service hours by volunteering at DC Central Kitchen, where she assists with cooking and packaging meals for the elderly, homeless, and ill. Yazmine has also traveled to Santana do Deserto, Brazil, with SEED DC’s Experiential Learning & External Opportunities program. Her most memorable moment from the trip was aiding a young boy suffering from a severe cut on his foot. She cleaned and bandaged his wound and provided him with a pair of her own socks to protect the injury and reduce the risk of infection. This experience, coupled with her internship at Children’s National Hospital, has inspired Yazmine to declare a biology pre-med major in pursuit of her dream to become a cardiovascular surgeon.

Clearly Yazmine is on the path to success, and her accomplishments have led to being a recipient of the 2020 SEED Foundation Scholarship! We admire her ambition and look forward to learning which college she will be heading to in fall 2020.

Meet Our Students: SEED Ambassador Jadyn Peterson (SEED MD ’21) to Broaden Her Horizons in Kingston, Jamaica

Jadyn Peterson (SEED MD ’21) began her journey with The SEED School of Maryland as a seventh-grade student, after relocating from Washington, DC, to Baltimore with her mother. Now a sophomore, Jadyn feels SEED’s 24-hour learning environment has brought a college education within her reach. She plans to double major in architectural engineering and sports management at Tuskegee University, in Tuskegee, Alabama. “College is something I used to look up to, but because of SEED, it’s something I look forward to,” said Jadyn.

Jadyn has always looked for new opportunities to engage with the SEED community. Her passion for sports motivated her to become a team manager for the SEED Saber volleyball and basketball teams. As a team manager, Jadyn regularly meets with the director of athletics to discuss the outcomes of each game, provide individual player statistics, and give feedback on how the athletes can improve.

One of Jadyn’s most memorable moments at SEED was being selected as a SEED Ambassador. SEED Ambassadors serve as official student representatives for SEED schools. Since becoming a SEED Ambassador, Jadyn has led campus tours for prospective SEED scholars, their families, and donors. She has also served as a mentor for incoming students and attended job fairs with the human resources team to help recruit staff and faculty.

Jadyn is a well-known scholar at SEED MD and has built relationships with several staff members. Her student life counselor, Adaobi Ezeani, has seen Jadyn mature over the years. “Jadyn is an amazing student. Watching her become a phenomenal young lady has been a wonderful experience,” said Ms. Ezeani.

This summer, Jadyn will spend a week in Kingston, Jamaica—an opportunity provided by SEED MD’s Experiential Learning & External Opportunities program. She’ll engage in botanical research and explore Kingston’s Hope Zoo, which features indigenous animals and species from across the world. Her cohort will also visit an all-girls shelter to provide clothing and resources to young women in need.

Jadyn is a leader among her peers, and she consistently sets a positive example for younger students. We’re honored to have her as a member of the SEED family and are eager to see her excel in her college career.

Our Impact: Can You Say, “Road Trip”?!

Getting to and through college is no small feat. That’s why we do everything we can to set our students up for success.

This year, the college counselors and college success advisors from SEED’s College Transition & Success team hosted 70 SEED juniors on the annual college tour for juniors. Students from SEED DC and SEED MD visited seven colleges, including Albertus Magnus College, Amherst College, Rider University, Rutgers University—Camden, Swarthmore College, West Chester University, and Wilkes University.

The goal of the tour is to give students a keen grasp on what a college looks, feels, and even tastes like! In addition to touring campus housing and buildings, students met college students and asked questions during a panel discussion.

“The majority of our students will be the first members of their families to go to college. Thus, college tours give them real-life exposure to different campuses,” said Joi Baker Jones, director of College Transition & Success. “Our goal is to demystify the experience so that they feel like college is a place where they will thrive and belong.

The colleges and universities selected for the annual tour must be SEED endorsed, which means they must have a track record of success for underrepresented students. Through our College Matching Tier System, we evaluate colleges on three criteria most vital to the success of low-income, first-generation students. First, we assess the quality and availability of campus supports. Second, we rank colleges based on the generosity of their financial aid packages. It’s critical to us that our students not take on lots of debt in order to obtain their degrees. Third, we look at the graduation rate of each institution. Only institutions with strong graduation rates are endorsed. SEED has ranked over 400 colleges and universities based on their performance in these three areas.

“In the same way that students need to be college ready, we believe that colleges need to be student ready, especially when it comes to serving underrepresented students,” said Vincena Allen, chief growth officer at SEED.

Ensuring that SEED students go to a SEED-endorsed school pays off. Sixty four percent of all SEED graduates who start at SEED-endorsed schools graduate. That’s more than four times the rate for students who start at colleges that are not SEED endorsed.

“Our data shows that choosing a right-fit college can make all the difference for our students,” said Ms. Allen. “We’re committed to ensuring that our students and families become informed consumers and better understand what to look for in a college. Choosing a college is one of the most important life decisions you can make. We want to be sure that SEED graduates get it right.”

Malik Conway (SEED MD ‘20) enrolled in SEED MD as a sixth-grade student and is now in his junior year of high school. He joined this year’s college tour. “I was so excited to visit West Chester University, Wilkes College, and Rider University to see what college is really like. This tour has allowed me to broaden my horizons. I’ve always wanted to go to college. It’s hard to believe that I may be a student at one of these schools very soon.”

What We're Learning: SEED DC Scholars Serve the Community and Learn Real-World Skills as Tax Prep Ambassadors

For some of us, filing our taxes is as simple as working with a tax professional or creating an online account with a tax services provider, submitting the necessary documents, and pressing send. Unfortunately, for many residents in Wards 7 and 8 in Washington, D.C., the story is quite different.

Peter Nouhan, a graduate student at Georgetown University, saw a need for professional tax services for underserved populations who don’t have access to technology in these communities. He decided to start the first high-school-led, free tax prep initiative in Washington, D.C., offering a unique opportunity for local college-bound students to serve their community.

After receiving the 2018 Baker Innovation Grant, a $20,000 grant to fund social and political programs, Mr. Nouhan partnered with Community Tax Aid (CTA), a free, local tax assistance organization, and Hoya Taxa, a Georgetown University undergraduate student organization, to pilot the SEED Tax Prep Ambassadors program.

“We approached over 30 schools in the DC area, and Lesli Thompson, director of experiential learning & external opportunities at SEED DC, was the only person who took the leap. She believed in our initiative. We wouldn’t have been able to do it without her,” Mr. Nouhan said.

Every Monday evening, beginning on February 4, the SEED Tax Prep Ambassadors went to St. Luke Catholic Church to learn how to properly prepare tax documents, which included collecting the client’s tax documents, photo ID, and Social Security card and uploading them to a secure Google Drive account. With the help of Ron Hayes, tax program manager at CTA, and Hoya Taxa members Daphne Chiang (Georgetown University ’19) and Mark McNiskin (Georgetown University ’20), the SEED scholars worked closely with their clients to schedule appointments, provide consultations, and input tax information. A certified public accountant then prepared the taxes remotely, and the clients returned a week later to go over their returns and submit them.

“Because of this program, I learned what it means to be an effective multitasker and successfully handle multiple clients at one time,” said Kendriss Johnson (SEED DC ’19).

Congratulations to the following SEED DC scholars—Zachary Clark (SEED DC ’19), London Hart (SEED DC ’19), Kendriss Johnson (SEED DC ’19), Jeffrey Moore IV (SEED DC ’19), Imani Nixon (SEED DC ’19), and Jaymar Richards (SEED DC ’19)—for making history by being a part of such an amazing initiative and serving their community!

Where Are They Now? Monique Matthews (SEED DC ’04, Southeastern University ’09, Trinity Washington University ’12) Celebrates 13 Years with the US Government

At SEED, we begin to offer intensive college preparation to our students their junior year of high school. Our students learn how to financially prepare for college, tour colleges and universities across the country, and enroll in a semester-long course focused on ensuring a smooth transition from SEED to college life.

But we know that unexpected challenges that may arise while in college can derail our students’ college dreams. That’s why SEED’s College Transition & Success team is here to help every SEED student throughout the entire college process—from junior year of high school to college graduation.

Monique Matthews (SEED DC ’04) hit a snag her freshman year and began to rethink her college journey. With the support of Vincena Allen, who founded the College Transition & Success program, Monique remained on track and persisted to college completion.

This month, we spoke to Monique to learn more about her college journey and where she is now.

What college or university did you attend?

I attended Southeastern University, where I majored in public health and clinical science.

How was your transition from SEED to college?

My transition from SEED was hard, because I initially chose to attend a college that was not the best fit for me. I thank Ms. Vincena Allen for helping me successfully get through my freshman year. There were many days I wanted to quit because I was unhappy, but she continued to support me and encouraged me to finish the year strong—and I did. By my sophomore year, I was enrolled at Southeastern University—and there I found what “worked” for me. I got into a better rhythm and took full advantage of every opportunity.

Did you stay connected to SEED while in college?

While in college, I participated in many SEED events, including the Alumni Institute [now the SEED Graduate Institute]. I am thankful for the friendships and relationships I built at SEED, because they helped me to navigate the college process and to overcome any obstacles.

What did you do after graduating from Southeastern University?

After graduating from Southeastern University in 2009, I took a year off from school to focus on establishing my career in the federal government. I had a desire to obtain my master’s degree. Ms. Allen was there to support my goal and cheer me along the way, and in 2010 I enrolled at Trinity Washington University and graduated in 2012 with a Master of Public Community Health degree.

I will be celebrating 13 years of working in the federal government this September! I currently serve as a program manager at the US Department of Labor, where I manage the department’s services and programs that help our employees maintain a healthy work-life balance.

How did your experience at SEED impact you?

My experience at SEED has impacted me in more ways than one. I learned that only I am in control of my success and not to compare my success to others around me. This has helped me remain focused on the bigger picture and my long-term goals.

SEED has also provided me with a tremendous support system. Having a dream is great, but having a group of people behind you, pushing you to be a better you with every breath in their bodies—there is no feeling greater.

SEED continues to be a significant part of my life. The relationships I formed at SEED 20 years ago still thrive today. I am the woman I have become today mostly because of SEED. I am proud to say I am a SEED alumna and proud of my experience.

Meet Our Students: Jermaine Murchison (SEED Miami ’23) Sets His Sights on West Point

Although still in middle school, Jermaine Murchison (SEED Miami ’23) is already focused on charting his path to a college degree. An eighth grader at SEED Miami, Jermaine is an honor roll student who sets a stellar example for his peers. As a member of the Student Ambassador program, Jermaine gives tours to prospective SEED students and donors. He is also a member of the Bulldog flag football team, where he plays safety, corner, and wide receiver.

“I’ve had the pleasure of serving as Jermaine’s student life counselor for three years. During this time, Jermaine has truly become a leader. Whether it’s in the classroom or on the football field, Jermaine has faced every challenge with tenacity and courage,” shared Kem Chatfield, a student life counselor at SEED Miami.

Jermaine is committed to taking advantage of every opportunity he is offered. As a sixth-grade scholar, he boarded a plane for the first time to travel to Buffalo Cove Outdoor Education Center in Deep Gap, North Carolina. Founded in 2003, Buffalo Cove encourages visitors to find harmony and empowerment through self-understanding, self-confidence, friends, and fun. Jermaine had the chance to explore nature, learn new skills, and connect with other Buffalo Cove campers.

“When our admissions director, Mr. Lewis, visited my home when I was in the fifth grade, I knew SEED was the school for me. I was most excited to live in the dorm, because it was something new, but traveling to Buffalo Cove gave me the opportunity to really get out of my comfort zone and try new things,” said Jermaine.

Jermaine is excited to begin high school and work with an advisor from SEED’s College Transition & Success program. He hopes to find a college or university that is the right fit for him. Currently, he has his sights set on earning a degree from the United States Military Academy at West Point.

We’re proud of Jermaine’s progress and excited to see where his educational journey takes him!