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Contact Information
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 Profiles



Temi Ojo

Class: Class of 2011
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Major: Biology
Minor: Pre- Med classes

Activities:
Cultural Chair of Black Latino Student Union, Hamilton College Cheerleading Team, Finesse Step Team, Sustah Girl Member

"When I was in high school, I was a part of a program called LINK Unlimited that helped me grow and flourish in my academic and personal life. I wanted that same feeling, so when I got accepted into Hamilton's Opportunity Programs, I felt right at home. Coming from a place like Chicago to Clinton, New York was a a big culture shock. During the summer, the program works really hard to get you adjusted to the heavy work load and campus life. The people in the office are your big supporters on campus, and whenever I needed something or simple words of wisdom they were always there to help. They do not let you fail at anything. They do not only help with your academics, but they make sure you grow as a person. Many times I have heard in the Opportunity Programs Office, "If you don't make yourself be seen, then you won't be... Speak up!" I have carried that advice with me everywhere and I am eternally grateful to Opportunity Programs."




Caitlin O'Dowd

Class: Class of 2011
Hometown: Jordan, Oman, Tunisia, Syria, Isreal,Egypt
Major: Women's Studies
Minor: Government

Activities:
Womyn's Center member, Sustah Girl member, Volunteer at Evelyn's House (Utica), Tutor for Young People's Project ( Utica), HEOP English Tutor ( summer 2009)

“I have spent most of my life overseas being the daughter of a diplomat and was particularly nervous about going to college in the United States as my immediate family still lives overseas. I was happy to get accepted into the Opportunity Program and it is because of this program that I made the final decision to come to Hamilton College.  This program helped me make one of the hardest transitions in my life thus far and has helped me grow and achieve things that two years ago seemed impossible.  The OPPORTUNITY to grow, change, learn, love and succeed are things that this program has given me and other students and I am very proud to be a part of something so great.”