For Middle & High School: What to Expect

DDC instructors and volunteers are committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment where students can be open, honest, and authentic. This is a place where meaningful and  life-long relationships take shape.  

This strong network of support and encouragement sets the stage for students to be exposed to the rigors of higher education and learn the skills they’ll need to face  challenges in and out of the classroom.  

Program experiences include but are not limited to: 

  • College Prep classes 
     
  • Completing college & financial aid applications 
     
  • Tutoring helps with academics and test prep (e.g. Regents, AP, SAT, etc.)
     
  • Individualized writing support and writing workshops offered through the DDC Writing Center
     
  • Elective pre-college classes to explore new topics not taught in high school
  • Individual and small group support sessions to help develop socioemotional skills, like stress management and conflict resolution, and healthy habits
     
  • Opportunities to build community with peers, tutors, mentors, and alumni through DDC wide celebrations and events

We also like to celebrate: 

  • Community Meal
     
  • Winter Glow holiday party 
     
  • Spring Break College Tours 
     
  • Trips around NYC 
     
  • And many more activities! 

During the summer, DDC students have access to some incredibly special programs like:  

Summer Academy  

Students have the option of staying in the live-in dormitories on the Columbia University campus (or commuting in), and attending rigorous and engaging courses that allow them to take college-level courses as high school students. 

DDCamp

Middle School students have the opportunity to spend their Summer participating in elective courses, SHSAT prep, bonding activities and more!

Macquarie LEADS (Leadership, Education, Advancement, Development, and Support)

Students are introduced to the professional world through paid Summer Internship at a leading financial firm 

HkMaker Lab & NY Bioforce 

Students learn the foundations of engineering design, work in professional labs, and build biomedical prototypes to address a global health problem