What Does College Readiness Mean?

Clanisha Coleman

 “College readiness is about preparation on every level, academic, social, emotional, and even financial,” says Clanisha Coleman, founder of Make It Count Consulting and co-leader of the Rising Graduates Program (in partnership with The Prophecy Foundation).

She emphasizes that getting into college is only the beginning:

“The mission of Rising Graduates is to equip high school seniors with the support, resources, and mentorship needed to thrive in their transition to higher education, ensuring their first year of college is a successful and transformative experience.”

To do this, Rising Graduates provides students with laptops, school supplies, food, and ongoing case management so they don’t feel alone in navigating their first year.

The Challenge of “The Big Transition”

Coleman calls the move from high school to college “The BIG transition”, a time when students are often overwhelmed by new responsibilities.

“Many struggle with balancing priorities (school, work, and self-care), mental health (depression and anxiety), and financial obligations. Rising Graduates helps students create a plan that works for them and their goals while and after college. Throughout the program, students are provided with referrals for social, emotional, mental and physical needs.”

In addition to group support, Make It Count Consulting offers one-on-one coaching to students who need personalized guidance.

Partnership for Success

What makes Rising Graduates powerful is its collaboration with The Prophecy Foundation, founded by Angela Madsen.

“Make it Count Consulting provides services that speak to the college experience: networking on campus, social and emotional regulation, scholarship research, academic support, and community workshops. The Prophecy Foundation helps bridge the gap from college to real world experience by assisting students in finding employment during and after college, addressing legal challenges, and fulfilling basic needs such as food, shelter, and referrals for therapy. The two are a great combination because both organizations have a team that works together to provide wrap-around services.”    

This collaboration ensures that students aren’t only prepared for freshman year, but for life beyond the classroom.

A Success Story: Jaylen’s Laptop

Coleman highlights how crucial resources can be for success. Recently, many Rising Graduates needed laptops. Thanks to a partnership with local nonprofit Inspire One, students received new and gently used computers.

One student, Jaylen, was especially grateful.

“He shared that he was thankful for the laptop because it helped him with all the chaos of creating his student account and completing his first set of assignments. As a student and football team member, it reduced the stress of relying only on campus computers. Now he can work comfortably wherever he is.”

Stories like Jaylen’s show how meeting practical needs can lift major barriers for students stepping into higher education.

Advice for Families Preparing for College

Coleman offers clear guidance for Louisville families beginning the journey:

 “The biggest advice I can give is START EARLY. College is a daunting and confusing process for many, especially first-generation college students. Start visiting and researching colleges, and talking to high school counselors about your child’s interests and needs. EXPOSURE is vital. School counselors will be your family's best friend! Additionally, APPLY for scholarships. You can start looking for scholarships as early as middle school.”

Louisville Resources for College Readiness

In addition to Rising Graduates, Louisville has many organizations committed to helping students prepare for college:

• Sowing Seeds with Faith – Hosting an HBCU Tour starting Sept. 28th for grades 9–12.

• St. George’s College & Career Readiness Program – Offers college tours, events, and scholarship assistance for middle and high school students.

• One Plus One Equals U – Supports mentorship, enrichment, and admission preparation for college, trade schools, or military academies.

• YMCA Black Achievers – Provides monthly workshops, leadership training, and hands-on college prep.

• Evolve502 Scholarships – Offers eligible JCPS graduates two years of tuition-free postsecondary education.

• Project Ready – Louisville Urban League – Prepares students through coaching, professional skill-building, and college exploration.

• Rose Dove Consulting – Guides families in navigating education pathways.

• Louisville Free Public Library (LFPL) – Offers test prep, scholarship help, and one-on-one college readiness support.

• Boys & Girls Club: Diplomas2Degrees – Helps students plan for graduation and postsecondary success.

• NABA Inc. – ACAP – Offers mentorship, scholarships, internships, and professional development in business careers.

• Inspire 1 – Promotes access, equity, and inclusion in education through partnerships that expand opportunities for students. They have supported college readiness by collaborating with programs like Rising Graduates to provide essential resources, such as laptops, to graduating seniors.

• UofL Trio Student Support Services – Assists low-income, first-generation, and disabled students in earning bachelor’s degrees.

Building a Stronger Future Together

College readiness requires more than good grades; it’s about equipping students with the resources, confidence, and community to succeed. Programs like Rising Graduates, along with Louisville’s wide network of readiness initiatives, are ensuring that students don’t just dream about college but thrive when they get there.

As Coleman reminds us:

“Exposure is vital. Start early, apply for scholarships, and don’t be afraid to lean on the resources available in our city.”