About the Program

Wolverine Pathways seeks to confront the barriers that limit the college and career aspirations of highly motivated students from under-resourced communities. We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to pursue a wide range of professional and academic pathways. Toward this end, we provide free college preparatory enrichment and guidance for 7th through 12th grade students who either:

  • live in Detroit
  • live within the boundaries of Southfield Public or Ypsilanti Community school districts, or
  • attend one of our partner schools in Grand Rapids

Our students and families participate in year-round programming that facilitates their college preparation and academic development. WP scholars are challenged to grow socially and emotionally by joining our community of college-oriented scholars. Our program fosters relationships, both professional and personal, that encourage student academic resilience and achievement and will continue to provide opportunities through college and beyond. 

In addition to preparing scholars for college and career success, we also seek to address the economic barriers that limit achievement.  All scholars who successfully complete WP and are admitted to U-M Ann Arbor or U-M Dearborn receive a full, four-year tuition scholarship to the university (applied after all applicable federal and state financial aid). If a scholar does not successfully and fully complete the program, there is no financial reward, even if they are later admitted to U-M.

Scholars who take the journey with us will enjoy a range of college and career workshops, cultural experiences, campus connections, and academic opportunities curated especially for them.

These include, but are not limited to:

  • Pre-college courses taught by UM Faculty
  • Paid Research and Career Internships
  • Career Guidance and Mentorship from Industry Professionals
  • SAT Prep
  • Individualized Tutoring
  • College Application Support
  • Professional Development Coaching
  • National and International Summer Travel Programs
  • Tours of UM Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint

The Impact of a Wolverine Pathways Education

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