Freedom House Student Programs

Preparing Urban Students for Success in Higher Education (PUSH)

Freedom House PUSH student working on a laptop

“
Freedom House is filled with love and faith to take you where you want to be.
Kenira

PUSH Programs at Freedom House serve students of color from marginalized communities in Boston, including first-generation college students and immigrants. Recognizing that these students often face a lack of resources and opportunities, we empower them with comprehensive support, post-secondary planning, self-advocacy skills, and essential life skills to navigate their futures confidently.

Our holistic approach prioritizes academic success, social-emotional development, professional exposure, economic empowerment, and civic engagement. Through PUSH, students gain the tools and knowledge to overcome obstacles and thrive in all areas of their lives.

The results are powerful. Our students graduate from high school and achieve a 100% rate of pursuing post-secondary credentials. They inspire their peers and the next generation by breaking barriers, achieving their goals, and giving back to their communities.

PUSH High School

Building Strong Foundations for the Future

PUSH High School works directly within Boston high schools to support students as they build strong academic foundations, leadership skills, and clear post-secondary pathways. Freedom House staff partner with teachers, guidance counselors, and school administrators to provide consistent support throughout each student’s high school experience.

High School Support

Guidance, Leadership and College Preparation

Students receive personalized support and meaningful opportunities inside and outside the classroom.

Individualized Academic Coaching

Students receive coaching focused on academic progress, grades, GPA monitoring, pathway planning, and overall wellbeing. Individual and small-group sessions help students develop confidence, discipline, and productive academic habits.

PUSH Leadership Institute

Through workshops, collaborative learning, and hands-on experiences, students strengthen communication, leadership, and professional skills while building community with their peers.

Dual Enrollment

Through partnerships with institutions such as Bunker Hill Community College, students experience college-level coursework, understand college expectations, and begin earning college credit.

Summer Learning Institute

Boston youth ages 14 to 18 participate in academic enrichment, career exploration, and community-based job placements that build workplace skills and professional confidence.

The Next Step

From High School Preparation to College Persistence

As students complete high school, PUSH College provides the next level of support. Students remain connected to Freedom House while navigating enrollment, financial aid, campus life, academic expectations, employment, and long-term career planning.

PUSH College

Supporting College and Early Career Success

PUSH College extends Freedom House’s commitment to students as they transition into higher education and early career pathways. The program creates a structured bridge between high school and college, helping students build academic confidence, leadership skills, and professional experience while remaining connected to a supportive community.

Students participating in Freedom House PUSH College

College Success Support

Structure, Resources and Personal Guidance

PUSH College helps students overcome barriers and continue progressing toward graduation and career success.

One-on-One College Coaching

Program Specialists support college enrollment, FAFSA completion, financial aid navigation, academic progress, and adjustment to campus life.

Resources and Barrier Removal

Students connect with scholarships, social-emotional support, economic resources, wellness services, and other opportunities that support college persistence.

College Courses and Credits

On-site college courses allow students to earn credits while developing the study habits, discipline, and academic expectations required for higher education.

Student Wellness

Wellness services support mental wellbeing and physical health, recognizing that academic success depends on balance, stability, and whole-person development.

College and Career Development

Preparing Students to Work, Lead and Contribute

Professional Experience

Employment and work-based learning opportunities help students build workplace skills, professional confidence, and practical experience.

Leadership Development

Workshops, advisory groups, mentoring, and program facilitation strengthen communication, teamwork, decision-making, and leadership abilities.

Community and Connection

Cultural enrichment, peer collaboration, creativity, and meaningful dialogue help students build relationships and remain connected to their community.

The PUSH Pathway