SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - For one day, students at Hoover High School in San Diego get all their questions answered about how to apply for college.
On Wednesday, Hoover High will hold its annual "College Prep Day." It coincides with the annual PSAT test.
Instead of just having sophomores take the test, Hoover High is the only school in the San Diego Unified School District that has every student in grades 9-11 take it. They also offer seminars to 12th graders about college applications, scholarships, personal essays, pre-requisite requirements and graduation requirements.
"We believe every student has the potential to go to college," said Laura Angel-Zavala, the programs coordinator. "Not only do we help them believe that, but we help them make that dream come true."
Hoover High has held the program for the past 5 years. The school started it to help first-generation students navigate the college application process.
"A lof of these students' parents didn't go to college," said Angel-Zavala. "So they don't know what it takes to apply. This program helps the students figure that out."
It also works with parents to sort through the specifics.
In addition to the one-day event on campus, the school has their "College Avenue Compact." It's a deal with San Diego State University that guarantees acceptance to any Hoover High student who graduates and meets certain eligibility requirements. Hoover High is the only school to offer it so far.
They expect a few dozen students to qualify this year, a number which has steadily risen each year since the program began in 2012.
The district also provides a number of college prep tests and ways for students and parents to be prepared for higher education. That includes the Early Assessment Program, the International Baccalaureate Program and multiple AP tests. For a full list and explanations, clickhere.
