Overview
The Advantage Academy was established in 2009 as an innovative
partnership between St. John’s University and the New York City
Department of Homeless Services (DHS). The Academy provides
qualified individuals, from homeless and formerly homeless
households with the opportunity to obtain an Associate’s Degree in
Business Administration, from the College of Professional Studies
at St. John's University, Queens campus, at no cost. The goal of
the program is to break the cycle of poverty through
education.
Eligibility
The Advantage Academy serves homeless and formerly homeless
individuals identified through the DHS home base. Applicants must
meet the following criteria for acceptance into the program
- GED or High School degree
- Documented work history
- Income at or below poverty level
- Qualify for financial aid
- Complete application process (this includes a placement
test and interview)
Participation
Upon selection, students must adhere to the following program
requirements:
- Complete 61 semester-credit hours
- Maintain a minimum cumulative G.P.A. of 2.0 for all core and
major courses
- Meet classroom attendance requirements
- Attend study hall/tutoring weekly
- Compliance with DHS and other agency requirements for
maintenance of benefits
- Participation in various developmental workshops and
events
Career Preparation
Advantage Academy students are provided with one-on-one career
counseling and professional development services. This includes job
readiness, job searches, communication skills, business etiquette,
goal setting, action plans and career assessment. In addition, job
placement activities assists students secure and maintain post
graduate employment. An important goal of the program is to assist
the graduates in securing employment.
For more information, Contact:
Deanne Southwell, (718) 990-5029