Every May, we celebrate the high school seniors across our network who have committed to their next chapter — college, career programs, and everything their futures hold. This is their month.
What Is CollegeBound Month?
CollegeBound Month is Student Leadership Network’s annual celebration of high school seniors who have made their post-secondary commitment. From first-generation college students to students discovering programs they never knew existed, each decision represents years of hard work — by students, families, counselors, and communities.
Our directors of college counseling (DCCs) work with CBI seniors year-round to ensure every student arrives at a decision that’s right for them — whether that’s a CUNY, SUNY, HBCU, private institution, or a career program. Their decisions are personal, powerful, and deeply inspiring.
Class of 2026 at a Glance
His DCC saw his potential. Jordan Wings did too.
Emmanuel is heading to Penn State University Park this fall — and he’s arriving with more than a college acceptance. Emmanuel was nominated for the Jordan Brand Wings Scholars Program, a prestigious, nomination-only scholarship for high-achieving students from underserved communities. Of the thousands of students eligible, Emmanuel is one of just 34 nationwide selected for the Class of 2026.
“I was nominated by my college counselors who knew exactly how much it would change my life. I am forever grateful — and I will not disappoint them.”
This fall, Emmanuel heads to Penn State to explore campus, build new connections, and pursue a future career he’s passionate about. The Wings Scholars Program will support him throughout his entire college journey — so he can focus on what matters most.
Chay found a fit she didn’t know existed.
Chay didn’t think college was for her. Then she visited Paul Smith’s College.
When her director of college counseling organized a campus trip, Chay walked into the culinary program — and recognized something she hadn’t expected: herself. She applied. She was accepted through HEOP. This fall, she heads north to study what she loves.
Chay’s path to Paul Smith’s wasn’t the one she imagined. It turned out to be better.
Ben promised himself he wouldn’t fall behind. He kept that promise.
Ben moved from New Zealand to Australia to the United States — all within seven months. A new country, a new school, a new system. After struggling academically abroad, he made himself a promise when he got to East-West School of International Studies: he wouldn’t fall behind again.
He kept it. Ben carries a 94 GPA, takes AP classes, and still finds time to captain the volleyball team and play basketball. With the support of his director of college counseling, he identified Stony Brook University as the right fit and navigated the application process with the same focus he brings to everything else.
The possibilities ahead feel wide open and this fall, he’s looking forward to dorming with a close friend and staying active in sports.
“Two years ago, I would have never imagined going to school in the US. I hope to connect with more people and am excited to eventually settle my mind upon a future career path I am passionate about.”
Ruby published her first story as a Junior. She’s writing the next chapter at Ithaca.
Ruby is a journalist and filmmaker who has spent her years at The Young Woman’s Leadership School of Astoria giving voice to stories that matter — including her own. This spring, that work earned her a spot in Ithaca College’s prestigious Park Scholars Program, one of the college’s most competitive merit awards.
At Ithaca, Ruby isn’t waiting to get started. She plans to join ICTV, one of the oldest college television channels in the country, and Creative Media, a co-curricular program that covers Ithaca’s sports teams — all in pursuit of her goal of working in sports broadcasting.
“I am excited to be joining the Park Scholar Program at Ithaca College. I’m most looking forward to the variety of media opportunities that will immediately be available to me.”
Our Alumni go from CollegeBound to College Grads!
Four years ago, Yolie was a high school senior making one of the biggest decisions of her life — where to go to college. Now, after four years of hard work, late nights, and everything in between, she’s a college graduate.
She’s sharing what she’s learned — about college life, about navigating the years between then and now, and about what she wishes someone had told her before she got there. Her advice is for every student in the Class of 2026 who’s about to take that same leap.
Yolie | CBI Class of 2022 | Brooklyn College Class of 2026
Join Us in the Celebration
Follow us on your favorite social channel and look out for student features, counselor spotlights, and milestone moments all month long. Share your own #CollegeBound story and help us cheer on the Class of 2026 as they take this next big step.
They’re not just CollegeBound. They’re future-bound.
A Shoutout to our CBI Team
Our directors of college counseling (DCCs), college transition coaches (CTCs), college access team, and CBI support and executive staff have decades upon decades of experience with closing the “degree divide.” With their expertise and leadership, we impact approximately 26,000 students each year as they explore higher education and post-secondary opportunities – and realize their full potential. Learn more about our approach to College Access and Success.
