About Rising Scholars
The Rising Scholars Program is dedicated to providing incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students in the South Bay/Bay Area with continuing higher education opportunities, allowing them to redirect their lives and reach their full potential in the community.
Serving Second Chance Students
Mission College is a proud supporter of the Santa Clara County Office of the Sheriff College Collaborative mission towards a second chance serving students in the Elmwood Correctional Facility, Main Jail, and Reentry Resource Center upon release and transitioning onto campus.
I didn't have the desire for college before, but education gave me something to look forward to and a sense of purpose. It had a major impact on my mental health and motivation, college classes gave me hope and a reason to get up each day. Mission College stood out because of the supportive staff who went the extra mile to guide us.
Jessica Gonzalez
Rising Scholar Program Participant
Read Her Story
I don't know how to put it in words, but you all came and saved my life. I was thinking about ending it, and (Mission) gave me this spark … prior to all this, I did say a prayer when I was in jail, and I just asked for some type of sign to help me find my purpose or how I can be of service or just be better, and here we are.
Jared So'oto
Rising Scholar Program Participant
Read His Story
How to Become a Student
Contact Program Specialist Steve Duong.
- Personal academic counselor
- Personal scholarship and financial aid support
- Mental health counseling
- Full support with enrollment
- Referrals to community partner services (Employment, housing, expungement, substance abuse, legal)
- Basic needs (food, transportation)
- Free parking
- Free childcare
Potential Rising Scholar students must meet the following requirements.
- Incarcerated
- Formerly incarcerated
- Justice-impacted