What Is the CREW Program for First-Generation College Students?

If you’re the first in your family to aim for college, the path can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. You’re juggling questions about applications, financial aid, majors, deadlines, and what college life even looks like. 

The CREW program at Opportunities For Learning (OFL) was built to help you navigate all of that with confidence.

CREW is a 15-month college readiness program designed for OFL juniors and seniors who want guided support, real-world preparation, and a community that understands what it means to be first-gen. You’re not expected to figure out the process alone. CREW gives you structure, mentorship, and experiences that make the transition to college feel possible and achievable.

What CREW Offers First-Generation Students

CREW is a long-term program that walks with you through every stage of preparing for college.

Here’s what’s included:

College readiness classes
You’ll build the academic habits, study skills, and planning strategies you’ll need to succeed in a college setting.

Team-building workshops
These sessions help you grow leadership skills, confidence, and the ability to work well with others, strengths colleges look for and value.

Field trips and hands-on learning
You’ll visit college campuses, explore different environments, talk to current students, and start to picture yourself there.

Community service activities
These experiences help you build a stronger résumé, learn responsibility, and stand out on applications.

Scholarship opportunities
CREW students participate in events and challenges that allow them to compete for college scholarships through OFL and partner organizations.

Why CREW Matters for First-Generation Students

When you don’t have family experience to lean on, the college process can feel like learning a whole new language. CREW gives you:

• A clear understanding of application steps and deadlines
• Support with financial aid, references, and personal statements
• A safe place to ask questions and get guidance
• Encouragement from teachers who believe you can succeed
• A community of peers who share similar goals and challenges

Students often say that CREW helps them feel “ready,” not just academically, but mentally and emotionally, too.

Who Can Join the CREW Program?

CREW is open to OFL juniors and seniors who want structured, year-long support while preparing for college. Many participants are first-generation students, but any student who wants help navigating the college pathway is welcome to apply.

If you’re committed, curious, and ready to take the next step, CREW gives you the guidance to move forward with confidence.

How to Get Started

Talk to your OFL teacher, Student Advisor, or Center Coordinator and let them know you’re interested in CREW. They’ll walk you through eligibility, timelines, and when the next group is forming.

Joining CREW means you’re not doing this alone. You’ll have people in your corner, cheering you on as you work toward a future you may have once thought was out of reach.