Who You Are

No matter your role in a student’s life—parent, teacher, counselor, coach, or friend—you can help them access life-changing opportunities. Introducing them to On Point for College connects them to free support with education, training programs, and meaningful careers.

Student Status

Your student is new to On Point for College. They may already be enrolled in an education or training program, just getting started, or looking for career support. If they’ve worked with On Point for College before, they may already be considered Current or Former students.

Goals

Your student is working toward an education or career goal. They may be planning to attend college, enroll in a training or certificate program, or explore career opportunities. They could use support preparing for next steps.

Location

Your student lives in one of the following Central New York counties: Cayuga, Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, or Oswego.

Helping a student

Our Services

Education Services

On Point is your partner at every stage of your educational journey, offering personalized support from application to graduation and beyond. Whether you're applying to a two- or four-year college, pursuing a graduate degree, enrolling in certification courses, or exploring professional training, we're here to help. We work with first-time students, continuing learners, and those returning to education after time away—helping you stay on track and reach your goals.

Pre-College/Training Program Services

  • Guidance in selecting a college or training program that fits your goals and interests.
  • Step-by-step support with college or training program applications and enrollment.
  • Expert help with financial aid applications, including FAFSA support, reviewing award letters, and understanding which program offers the best package.
  • Arranging college tours so you can experience schools firsthand before making your decision.
  • A comprehensive pre-college orientation program designed to help you feel confident and prepared for school.

Services for Students Enrolled in College/Training Programs

  • Encouragement and guidance to help you stay on track throughout your college or training journey.
  • On-campus visits from On Point advisors to check in, offer support, and problem-solve with you in real time.
  • Transportation to/from campus at the start and end of each semester and during breaks.
  • Help navigating and connecting to campus services like financial aid, housing, tutoring, and counseling.
  • Support with renewing financial aid applications, including FAFSA and TAP.
  • Help with textbooks, course supplies, and some essential academic expenses.
  • Help transferring to another college, program, or school if your plans or needs change.
Helping Why

Why On Point?

Break Down Barriers

Being the first in your family to attend college, not knowing how to fill out a FAFSA, never having visited a campus, or not knowing what to wear to a job interview—these are just some of the challenges our students face. At On Point, we don’t let these obstacles stand in the way. We help students overcome them every day.

Build Confidence

Heading off to college, starting an internship, or preparing for a job interview can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time. On Point offers one-on-one guidance and practical training to help students gain the skills they need to feel confident taking their next step.

Open Doors to Opportunities

On Point connects students to experiences that expand their horizons—college tours, paid pre-professional internships, behind-the-scenes workplace tours, and networking events with industry professionals. These opportunities help students discover possibilities and envision a future they may not have imagined before.

Transform Lives & Communities

Supporting students on their path to higher education or a meaningful career changes more than just one life—it creates a ripple effect that strengthens families, neighborhoods, and entire communities for generations.

Staffon Donerlson
My life changed when I decided to dare to do different. With the help of a mentor, I was connected to On Point, and they helped me figure out what to do next. On Point helped me with my FAFSA, my classes, and…

Staffon Donerlson

Program Coordinator, Ladders to the Outdoors
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I was told I wouldn’t walk or talk again—but people believed in me. When my advisor helped me connect to On Point, everything changed. They said, ‘If you need us, come down—we’ll help you do it.’ Now I get to motivate…

Damon Gilstrap

Mentor and Community Advocate