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At Barrier Breakers®, we believe that first-generation college students deserve more than just access to higher education—they deserve the resources, mentorship, and support needed to thrive, graduate, and build successful careers. Many first-gen students struggle with retention and career readiness. Our program bridges these gaps by providing personalized mentorship, internship guidance, and career coaching throughout their college journey.
Barrier Breakers® partners with colleges and universities that are committed to advancing access and success for first-generation and low-income students. Our Institutional Partnership Program fosters values-aligned collaboration to support the recruitment, enrollment, and long-term success of high-achieving students who have received college advising through our organization.
Why Partner with Us
Access to a broad network of resilient, college-bound students across the country who are first-generation and/or from low-income backgrounds
Targeted exposure through our advising platforms, media channels, and school partnerships — allowing colleges to broaden their geographic footprint and connect with first-generation and low-income students nationwide
Opportunities for collaboration, student referrals, and early engagement
Professional development and insight on supporting first-generation students
Recognition as a Barrier Breakers® Institutional Partner on our website and materials
What does a partnership include?
Institutional Partners commit to:
Designating a primary point of contact in admissions or college access to ensure strong communication and collaboration
Offering competitive aid and transparent cost information to support enrollment and persistence for first-generation students​
Reducing barriers in the application process by providing resources such as fee waivers or other forms of support
Proactively engaging with students in our advising network, especially those who may not otherwise be reached through traditional recruitment
Creating opportunities to connect with students through panels, virtual events, or visits — helping students envision themselves on your campus​
Collaborating to identify strong-fit students each year, aligned with your institution’s mission and offerings
Contributing annually to support our mission. While there is no set amount, most Institutional Partners choose to make a voluntary contribution that aligns with their capacity — helping us continue providing high-touch advising to students at no cost.
Our Break into College podcast provides free resources to first-generation students to support them in their education— while also spotlighting our university partners and expanding their reach to mission-aligned applicants.
Join us in supporting students as they step into their future.
If your institution shares our commitment to access and student success, we’d love to connect! Please reach out to us at partnerships@barrier-breakers.org or schedule a meeting to discuss how we can work with your organization to empower future leaders.
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