What We Do
Ninde Scholars Program
The Ninde Scholars Program has been providing dynamic college-access services at Oberlin High School since 2005.
The Ninde Scholars Program aims to help students:
- set high educational goals by understanding and choosing among the full range of post-secondary options;
- understand all components of the college application process, and adhere to an effective timeline for successfully completing it;
- identify and apply for grant opportunities at the local, state, and national level;
- submit financial aid and loan applications;
- write strong essays and other supporting material for college applications
- prepare for standardized tests; and
- prepare for college-level writing by attending a summer writing course.
Ninde Scholars positions are open by application to Oberlin High School students in grades 11 and 12 who demonstrate a drive for learning and desire to continue their education post-graduation, but who lack the support and resources to apply to college. The Program especially targets underrepresented minorities, low-income students, and students who would be the first in their families to attend college. Selection criteria include academic success, measured by grade point average and quality of essay; financial need, measured by eligibility for federal free and reduced lunch; educational background, measured by highest level of parent education; and motivation and engagement in education, measured by short answers and essay.
The Ninde Scholars Program offers rigorous academic programming. Ninde participants must commit to:
- full-time attendance at Oberlin High School;
- meeting weekly with an Oberlin College student tutor;
- attending a series of workshops on the college search process;
- attending training sessions on computer literacy skills;
- participating in several dinners on the Oberlin College campus to meet staff, faculty and students and familiarize themselves with a college campus atmosphere;
- attending a summer writing course;
- completing weekly college process-related assignments; and
- participating in the program until they graduate high school.
Juniors who complete all requirements are eligible to join a college tour each spring. All Ninde Scholars receive, on loan, a laptop computer. Upon a student's successful completion of the program, the computer becomes the personal property of the Ninde Scholar for use in college.
Aspiring Ninde Scholars Program
The Ninde Scholars Program has extended its services by adding a middle school component. Our new, Aspiring Ninde Scholars program is open to rising 7th-10th grade students in the Oberlin City Schools. Aspiring Scholars are students who have strong college aspirations, but need some extra help. Priority for participation in the program is given to students who would be the first in their families to attain a college degree. Aspiring Scholars will be chosen each spring.
Aspiring Scholars are each assigned a tutor from Oberlin College. Scholars and tutors meet individually each week from September to May to work on school subjects (especially math and English) and to help stay on a clear path to a college degree. Scholars attend afternoon workshops during the school year and attend a summer enrichment course in late June/ early July. Additionally, Scholars also receive incentives for staying in the program.
Many of the programs and services offered to Aspiring Ninde Scholars and Ninde Scholars are available to all interested students in the Oberlin City Schools including summer enrichment opportunities, test-preparation classes, and evening workshops.
