A Community of Support Created Just For You

ASCEND Promise Scholars is a holistic student support and empowerment program designed for Men of Color.

We provide personalized academic and social support, financial assistance with expenses such as tuition, textbooks, transportation, and technology, a strong sense of community, and mentorship by Men of Color for Men of Color.

Join ASCEND

Why You Should Join ASCEND Promise Scholars

As an ASCEND Promise Scholar you will receive:

  • A dedicated ASCEND Counselor and Student Success Coach to guide and mentor you throughout your entire time at Pasadena City College
  • Personalized financial assistance with tuition, textbooks, transportation, and technology based on your individual needs
  • Personalized holistic support, including:

    Social Work Services
    Mental Health Services and Personal Counseling
    Food and Housing Support and Referrals

  • Priority registration to ensure that you are able to enroll in the classes you need in order to complete your educational goals in a timely manner
  • Career development counseling and workshops to assist you in identifying the best possible career for you and the steps required to achieve your career goals
  • A strong sense of community with other male students, faculty, and staff of Color
  • Opportunities to engage in special events and activities tailored to the needs of Men of Color

In order to qualify you should meet the following criteria:

  • I Identify as a Man of Color
  • I demonstrate a significant financial need through either the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application
  • I am a first time college student
    • Exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis for students who have completed no more than 20 units of college coursework with a 2.00 minimum GPA
  • I want to enroll at Pasadena City College full-time (12 units or more).

In order to be an ASCEND Promise Scholar I agree to:

  • Enroll at Pasadena City College full-time in Fall and Spring (12 units or more)
    Complete a Financial Aid application (FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application) every year
  • Attend our 3-day Summer Bridge program called “JAM” in Summer
  • Enroll in First Year Student Success Class called “College 1” in Fall
  • Meet with my ASCEND Promise Scholars Counselor two times per semester (once per month)
  • Meet with my ASCEND Promise Scholars Student Success Coach once per semester
  • Meet with a Career Specialist (Career Counselor or Career Advisor) once per semester
  • Attend at least two ASCEND Promise Scholars program-approved events or workshops per semester
  • Earn a minimum 2.00 cumulative GPA

In order to apply to become an ASCEND Promise Scholar follow these steps:

  1. Complete the ASCEND Promise Scholars Application
  2. Apply to PCC and Complete the Steps to Enroll as a First Time College Student
Have Questions?

Email us at ascend@pasadena.edu!