SHE-CAN

SHE-CAN identifies, prepares, and supports scholars who would otherwise be unable to apply due to socio-economic restraints. Our Program involves: A) Extensive Recruiting Process: Identifies high-potential, low-income candidates who are passionate about creating change and likely to contribute on campus. Recruiting begins with widespread networking in-country. We partner with governments, NGO's, high schools, and high-profile leaders. This allows our democratic application to be accessed by low-income students who are not aware of college scholarship opportunities. Assessment of applicants continues over a 5-6 month period, including: 2 weeks of in-person interviewing with 3 staff and 5 volunteers, including a home visit. 5 months of working with local supporters who administer exam prep and assess performance in leadership projects. SHE-CAN staff assesses diligence, commitment and responsiveness from afar. C) Intensive Leadership Program: Enables schools to grow an alumna comprised of goal-achieving leaders who are capable of impacting their country. Each semester, scholars reflect on and update their goals. We provide connections and opportunities to fulfill these goals to ensure they're on track for returning home. The Leadership Mentor is assigned to provide leadership support, both on campus and after graduation. Scholars gain extensive public speaking practice through opportunities at SHE-CAN events. Bi-yearly, SHE-CAN hosts a leadership summit to foster bonds among the scholars and develop skills. Through our network, scholars meet aspirational role models including former President Sirleaf, exiled Cambodian Parliamentarian Mu Sochua, Ambassador Melanne Verveer, and more. B) Academic, Financial and Emotional Support: Ensures success from initial identification through career launch. While in-country, we provide entrance exam prep, visa/immigration support and a flight to the U.S. After college acceptance, support involves acculturation and skill building programs though their first semester. Mentor program invests in the scholar's potential. Each has a team of 5 professionals who become the scholar's family with a place to stay for the holidays. Mentors provide guidance and love, and help with problem solving. Each mentor becomes a role model who helps the scholar find her voice. The Academic mentor is assigned to provide academic support throughout her 4 years on campus. While in school, SHE-CAN funds non-scholarship expenses including books, health insurance, dorm supplies, computer, phone, help with taxes, etc. While in school, we host online workshops designed to foster financial stability, mental health and social acclimation. We fund her flight home. D) Enriching Internships and Career Support: Ensures scholars graduate with the skills and experience needed for job opportunities and success in the workforce. Career development workshops on goal setting, interview skills, outreach skills, and career direction.