Program Overview

Program Overview

The College & Career Lab program is designed to support students in exploring majors and career pathways. The program consists of several stages, including the Exploratory Stage, Immersive Stage, and Practice Lab.

Program Stages

• Exploratory Stage: For rising 9th and 10th graders
• Immersive Stage: For rising 10th graders to post-secondary students
• Practice Lab: For CCL students in all academic years

Practice Lab

CCL scholars participate in Practice Labs throughout the academic year. These specialized sessions are designed to practice skills introduced over the summer. Scholars have the opportunity to continue exploring majors and career pathways throughout the school year, working with advisors on soft skill development.

Practice Lab Schedule

Practice Labs take place once a month in September, October, November, January, February, and March. Program dates are determined in the summer each year, considering the NYC Department of Education academic calendar.

Practice Lab Requirements

Scholars are required to participate in at least four Practice Labs each year, with two in the fall semester and two in the spring semester, until they graduate from the program.

Fall 2025 Practice Labs

• September 20, 2025 Cybersecurity with Bella Panico (Track 1) and Transportation (MTA) with Frank Mesa (Track 2)
• October 18, 2025 Social Work and Mental Health with Zak Anolic (Track 1) and Emergency Management (FDNY) with Norman Gillard (Track 2)
• November 15, 2025 Social Media, Marketing and Events with Sunita Devi (Track 1) and Marketing, Sports and Entertainment with Tony Muller (Track 2)

Spring 2026 Practice Labs

• January 24, 2026 Practice Lab speakers forthcoming
• February 28, 2026 Practice Lab speakers forthcoming
• March 28, 2026 Practice Lab speakers forthcoming

Eligibility

All students who participate in the summer-based College & Career Lab program are required to participate in at least four Practice Labs each year of their enrollment, with two in the fall semester and two in the spring semester.

Program Focus

As scholars move through high school, the Practice Lab focuses more closely on supporting students through the college application process or determining a post-secondary pathway that suits their needs. The program helps students map their post-secondary pathways and answer questions such as: What are my options after high school? What is the FAFSA? When should I apply to college?