EdSurge Articles
The STARS College Network, launched in 2023, aims to attract and retain students from rural communities in selective colleges. The initiative, supported by Trott Family Philanthropies, includes 32 colleges and universities and offers summer learning opportunities, on-campus recruitment events, and peer mentorship. Despite 90% of rural students graduating high school, only half go to college due to lack of counseling, inadequate course offerings, and limited exposure to higher education. The STARS network visited 1,100 rural high schools in its first year, leading to a 12.9% increase in admission offers to rural students. The program also helps students adjust to university life and provides resources to overcome academic challenges.