This article was originally published in The Notebook. In August 2020, The Notebook became Chalkbeat Philadelphia.
In Philadelphia, only 20 percent of the population has a bachelor’s degree.
A college graduate can expect to earn at least $2 million over his lifetime. A high school dropout will make less than one-fourth of that.
The PhillyGoes2College office, which opened in February at City Hall in Room 115, is designed to encourage a more positive trend.
“Philadelphia’s future depends on increasing the number of our citizens with college degrees,” said Mayor Nutter of the need for the office.
A “one-stop shop” for all college related needs, the office helps Philadelphia residents, regardless of age and education completed, locate the tools required to continue their education.
A student looking for scholarship opportunities, a parent in search of resources for their college-bound child, or an adult looking to go back to school – all should find resources here.
Visitors can get help locating SAT prep courses, filling out financial aid forms, developing a college budget, and many other services.
“[We are] trying to simplify what can be a very daunting and confusing process… down to its essentials,” said Lori Shorr, the mayor’s chief education officer.
Financed by private contributions and partnerships with major corporations like PriceWaterhouseCooper and Wachovia, the office operates on a $200,000 budget with a full-time staff of two, as well as experienced volunteers.
The office is open during normal business hours. Appointments can be scheduled.
For 24-hour access to these resources, visitwww.PhillyGoes2College.com.