Persists Students
Welcome, Persists Students! This page is your go-to hub for resources designed to enhance your success including announcements, coaching information, financial assistance opportunities, and more!
Announcements / Upcoming Events
Internship Finder
Internships are the key to turning your academic knowledge into real-world expertise! They’re your chance to dive into the professional world, gain hands-on experience, and make connections that can set you on the path to success. Whether you’re exploring different career options or sharpening your skills, internships are a fantastic way to get a head start. Ready to find your perfect fit?
Check out our internship finder, where you can discover both paid and unpaid internships tailored to your location, career interests, and more.
Dollars4College Scholarship Database
Find local and national scholarships to help pay for college through our Dollars4College Scholarship Database.
You can also subscribe to the Dollars4College newsletter to receive monthly updates on new scholarships and explore opportunities through BigFuture and the Financial Aid Offices of your college. Start your search today!
If you’d like to add a scholarship or update one already listed, Fill out our New Scholarship Form.
College Success Resources
Your success in college matters! Here you’ll find essential resources to help you thrive in your academic journey. Click each tab below to explore different resources – from study tips to campus life guidance. Each section is designed to support your college success.
Navigate your college costs with these financial aid resources. We’ve gathered tools to help you understand FAFSA, scholarships, and other funding options. Whether you’re applying for aid or managing your educational expenses, these resources will help make college more affordable.
- studentaid.gov – Complete FAFSA and track federal student loan information.
- DCPS Dollars4College Scholarship Database – a hub for local DMV and national scholarships for college and high school students.
- DC TAG – provides up to $10,000 annually to help DC residents attend college.
Take advantage of the support services available on your campus! Below is a list of common resources that can help you succeed in college. From tutoring centers to wellness services, these campus offices are here to support your academic journey. Don’t wait until you’re struggling – start using these resources early to stay ahead and make the most of your college experience!
- Academic Advising Office – Meet regularly with your advisor to stay on track with degree requirements
- Writing Center – Get help with essays, research papers, and academic writing
- Student Health & Counseling Services – Access mental health support and wellness resources
- Career Services – Get help with internships, resume writing, and career planning
- Tutoring Centers – Many colleges offer free peer tutoring for various subjects
- Student Success Center – Often provides study skills workshops and academic coaching
- Financial Aid Office – Get guidance on managing college costs and scholarship opportunities
- Campus Library – Access research materials, study spaces, and research librarians
Build a strong foundation for academic success with these study and organization tools. From time management apps to note-taking platforms, these resources will help you develop effective study habits and stay on top of your coursework. Start exploring these tools early in the semester to find what works best for you!
Studying
- Khan Academy – Offers free video tutorials and practice exercises for various college subjects
- Quizlet – Create or access existing flashcards and study materials for your courses
- Grammarly – Helps improve your writing with grammar and style suggestions
Organization
- Notion for Education – Helps organize assignments, deadlines, and class notes in one digital workspace
- Google Calendar – Essential for managing class schedules, study groups, and assignment due dates
Need help preparing for your career? These resources are designed to help college students like you build professional skills, explore career paths, and get ready for the job market. Whether you’re just starting your college journey or getting ready to graduate, we’ve got tools to help you succeed in your future career.
Microgrants & Emergency Funding
We recognize the financial challenges that may arise while attending college. DCPS Persists provides two financial resources—microgrants and emergency funding—to help assist students with some of these expenses.
FUN FACT:
44% of microgrant recipients indicated the ability to remain enrolled in college this year as a result of their needs being met.
Microgrants
WHAT: Microgrants are intended to assist students with expenses related to dorm living, transportation, textbooks, or any other essential need.
WHO: Only DCPS Persists students who are receiving coaching and are in their 1st or 2nd year of college are eligible for Microgrants.
HOW: Contact your Persists Coach
Emergency Funding
WHAT: Emergency Funding can be used for unforeseen circumstances, such as transportation home for emergencies, addressing a university hold preventing class registration, or other critical situations that may require immediate financial support.
WHO: ALL DCPS Persists students are eligible to receive Emergency Funding, even if you do not have a Coach.
HOW: See below
- 1st and 2nd-year College Students with a Persists Coach, contact your Persists Coach
- 1st and 2nd-year College Students without a Persists Coach, email us at dcpspersists@k12.dc.gov.
- 3rd and 4th-year College Students, contact our 3rd & 4th Year Coach.
Who is my Coach?
If you’re a DCPS graduate from the Class of 2024 or earlier and are currently enrolled in the DCPS Persists program, you can find your coach’s contact information and learn more about them by visiting the “Meet Our Team” page!
Coaches can assist you with:
- Learning how to navigate your college including class registration and how to access campus resources.
- Financial Aid Applications and Renewals such as FAFSA and DC Tag
- Securing funding for unexpected college expenses through DCPS Persists Microgrants & Emergency Funding
- Academic support, career exploration, goal setting, problem-solving, networking, and so much more!
