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Phyllis A.H. Breland

( 315) 859-4398
(315) 859-4912 (fax)

Opportunity Programs

HEOP / College Scholars / Opportunity Pathways

Jarobin Jai Kumar and GabyThe Opportunity Programs at Hamilton College is comprised of three (3) programs designed to increase access to higher education for students who don't fit the traditional Hamilton profile, but who demonstrate the ability to compete successfully at this institution.

Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) was established by the State Legislature in 1969 to provide access to independent college and universities for economically and educationally disadvantaged students from New York State. Economic eligibility is based on state-mandated low-income guidelines. Academic criteria are determined by each HEOP institution: a student enrolled in HEOP must be inadmissible under the institution's normal admission profile, but are the top performers from the high schools and academies they may attend.The Higher Education Opportunity Program is not the gateway for all persons of color attending Hamilton College, but is an avenue through which students meeting both academic and economic guidelines can obtain a post high school degree.

The Hamilton College Scholars Program runs parallel to the Higher Education Opportunity Program. Hamilton Scholars are students who are ineligible for HEOP due to economic or residential criteria (usually residence), therefore, not meeting the state-mandated guidelines. The College Scholars Program is entirely sponsored by Hamilton College, which further demonstrates its commitment to offering Hamilton students an education that is culturally rich.

Opportunity Pathways at Hamilton College is an academic, career support program for low-income parents in Oneida, Herkimer and Madison counties in Central New York. Designed to assist non-traditional students in attaining higher education degrees, the Opportunity Pathways program works ensure a smooth and successful transition into the higher education environment.  Opportunity Pathway services include a comprehensive needs and skills assessment, academic and career counseling, academic support, and some assistance with books and travel.

Before matriculating, the Opportunity Program student must complete a five-week summer program conducted at the college. 
There is no cost to the student for participating in the program.

The Summer Program includes work in:
  • writing
  • public speaking and oral communication
  • logic
  • science
  • Philosophy
  • Mathematics
  • Psychology
  • Government
  • the opportunity to meet physical fitness requirements
  • time management, research methods, library resource, and assistance in the development of study skills.
 
Participation in the Opportunity Programs provides students with structured academic support, advocacy, and facilitates social transitioning. 

The Opportunity Program also provides academic support through the Academic Center for Excellence (ACE). 
Opportunity Program students may also receive some financial assistance towards the cost of travel and books.

 

Opportunity Programs
Student of the Month

Byron Johnson

Class: Senior, Class of 2009
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Major: Psychology

Activities:

President of Black Student Union

Brothers member

LaVanguardia member

Accepted Mentor

Inducted into Doers and Thinkers

"The Opportunity Program is more than providing many students the opportunity to attend Hamilton College; the program enables individuals to personally grow and achieve in many areas of life, surpassing their own expectations.   Without the Opportunity Program and the staff, I would not have learned the valuable skills that will allow me to pursue my goals."