Starting college is a big step, and the Colin Powell School’s Freshman Forward Program is here to make sure students are ready to thrive from day one. Designed for first-year students, the program helps build the essential professional skills that complement academic training—laying the foundation for success in careers, internships, and fellowships.
Over the years, the Office of Student Success identified a gap: most fellowships are open only to sophomores and beyond, leaving many freshmen unsure about when—or how—to start preparing for their professional journey. Freshman Forward fills that gap by providing guidance, training, and real-world experience, ensuring students are competitive applicants by the time they reach sophomore year.
Through the program, students will learn how to:
Build competitive application materials (resume, cover letter, LinkedIn profile)
Master the interview process
Gain professional volunteer and office experience
Develop a network and professional presence
How the Program Works
Freshman Forward is a flexible, part-time program that unfolds across the first year:
1: Orientation & Professional Development
Students attend one of two on-campus sessions in September to learn essential office skills and career basics.
2: Complete Career Wins
With support from a Career Coach, students will create a polished resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile by December 1, 2025. They’ll also map out a co-curricular activity plan, meet with a financial aid coach, and participate in a “Jobs in the Social Sciences” webinar hosted by the Career and Professional Development Institute.
3: Volunteer Experience
In the spring semester, students volunteer 30–50 hours in an on-campus office or approved site, gaining valuable hands-on workplace experience and learning professional etiquette.
Recognition and Benefits
Students who complete all program requirements will:
Participate in a Freshman Forward graduation ceremony
Earn a professional development certificate
Receive priority consideration for internal internships and fellowship programs
Who Can Apply?
All Colin Powell School undergraduates with fewer than 30 credits are eligible. No prior experience is required—and there are no restrictions related to age, GPA, or status.
With Freshman Forward, the Powell School is making sure every student has the tools, confidence, and experience they need to start strong and build momentum for the opportunities ahead.
