Over the last decade, the number of Hispanic students who decide to attend college has been increasing.  More and more Hispanic families now understand the value of a college education and what opportunities it will provide for their children.  Unfortunately, many Hispanic families feel that the goal for their child to attend college is unreachable due to financial restraints.  In addition, many parents may feel they do not have the adequate knowledge to help guide their children to seek a college career because they themselves do no have an understanding of the processes to get into college.

ENCOURAGE & LISTEN

You can be a great assistance to your child as they prepare to make one of the most difficult and important decisions of their life.  Be open and encourage continuous communication and discussion regarding their decisions to attend college and which college they wish to attend. Listening to your child without judgment will allow for more frequent and open conversations. Foster your child’s curiosity for the various opportunities that may be available to them as well as the diverse areas of study they maybe considering.

KEEP IN TOUCH WITH VAMOS MENTORS

Talk to the VAMOS mentors on a regular basis or become one yourself for another student. Get involved with not only your child but with his/her peers as well.
Get Involved with VAMOS!  Become a volunteer or a mentor to better understand your child's and his/her peers' preparations to seek higher education. By culture, Hispanics have strong family ties that extend farther than most other cultures.   We invite our tíos and tías over every weekend for lunch. We treat our cousins like we treat our brothers and sisters. Our culture has a solid and strong family support system and as parents you can strengthen it by becoming interested and involved with your child's decision to pursue a higher education. With VAMOS you can find ways to participate, encourage, and support your child's future.

VAMOS UNDERSTANDS

We understand how difficult it is to raise a family on a low income.  We understand that some Hispanic families send their children to work right after high school for the extra financial support.  This situation does not imply that college is not an option.  In fact, it should be the first option if the opportunity is there.  That opportunity is right here at VAMOS.  Sending your child to college will benefit your child and your family more than you could possibly imagine.  That benefit is right here at VAMOS.

MEDIAN ANNUAL HOUSEHOLD INCOME The average high school graduate earns about $20,000 a year. The average college graduate with a bachelor’s degree earns around $65,000 a year. (Source: Educational Attainment of Householder)

IT’S SENIOR YEAR! MAKE SURE THEY DO IT RIGHT!

Here’s a list of helpful hints to accommodate your child’s transition from high school to college:

• Make sure they are registered to take the SAT or ACT
• Familiarize yourself with the FAFSA/VAMOS scholarship and its timelines, and make sure the FAFSA/VAMOS application is completed by deadlines.
• Talk with guidance counselors about colleges and financial aid
• Attend college fairs and visit college campuses with your child and speak with representatives.
• Research ways in which students can cut college costs
• Talk to your child about money management.