Next Steps for Newcomers: Opening College Doors through Partnership and Perseverance

When students arrive in Harper College’s district from across the globe, many are fleeing war, economic hardship, or political unrest. They bring with them not only hopes for a new beginning but often, impressive educational backgrounds. But for many, navigating the next steps toward higher education in a new country can be overwhelming, especially when financial and language hurdles stand in the way.

Enter Next Steps for Newcomers, a visionary initiative funded through the Harper College Educational Foundation’s Resource for Excellence (RFE) grant. Now in its third and final year of Foundation support, this program has successfully bridged Harper’s Adult Educational Development’s English Language Acquisition programs with credit-level college coursework—removing barriers and transforming lives.

Since the Next Steps for Newcomers program’s inception, more than 100 students enrolled in credit courses with support from the Foundation. Not only are these students highly motivated, many possess degrees or professional experience from their home countries. With the Foundation’s help, they receive tuition assistance and funds for books and technology to allow them to focus on learning.

The program’s outcomes are remarkable. Since its inception:

• Student success in credit coursework exceeds 95%.
• Former AED students have graduated with Harper credentials ranging from Accounting Bookkeeper/Clerk Certificate to Electric Maintenance Certificates.
• The college met its goal of doubling noncredit-to-credit transitions months ahead of schedule.

The program’s success is fueled by close collaboration between the Foundation and Harper’s faculty. Students complete a Bridge to College and Career Success course, get one-on-one advising, and attend scholarship and financial literacy workshops. Thanks to dedicated transitions coordinators, they are guided every step of the way.

“We are preparing students for more than college,” said program leader Kathleen Reynolds. “We’re preparing them for a future where they can thrive professionally and personally right here in our community.”

As this grant concludes, the impact endures. Best practices are being documented, and faculty continue building sustainable pathways for newcomers to succeed.

Thanks to the shared vision of Harper’s educators and the Foundation’s generous supporters, Next Steps for Newcomers is more than a grant, it’s a gateway to brighter futures.

To support innovative programs like this one, visit: harpercollege.edu/foundation