School is back in session and we’re looking forward to a year of learning and growing for all of our scholars. For rising freshman, the transition to high school can be challenging as students navigate a new school and more rigorous coursework. Many 9^th graders have been finding the leap from middle to high school less overwhelming thanks to preparation and advice from their PSP mentors.

Scholar Andy P. transitioned from Kranz Intermediate to South El Monte High School this year and says the transition was smooth for him. “At the start of the school year, I was confused about my classes,” says Andy. “PSP helped me get my classes sorted out and get my classes on time.” Lizeth V. is the lone PSP scholar at her new high school, Lawndale High, but has felt very supported by her mentor, Jessica Lawson, who helped her prepare, talking with her through the transition about what she needs to do in high school to apply for colleges in the coming years.

Angel S., a freshman at Animo Leadership Charter High School in Lennox, says without a doubt that exposure to new and different experiences while being a PSP scholar the last two years has been the most helpful preparation he could receive. “The Partnership Scholars Program actually showed me how to accept newer things,” says Angel. “It made me a better person overall.” As he and other scholars continue to move through the program, openness to new experiences will continue to serve Angel as he begins to think about college. Freshman Lilianna D. at Fort Bragg High School agreed, saying, “Once I got into the scholarship it gave me more confidence to talk to more people. They really focus on trying new things, and that’s what I’m trying to do in high school.”

This first year of high school can be critical to scholars’ overall success and persistence. PSP encourages any rising freshman in need of extra support to reach out to their mentor or to email PSP staff at partner@partnershipscholars.org.