What Is DDC?
DDC is a comprehensive college access program that prepares under-resourced students in the Harlem and Washington Heights communities to succeed in getting to, through, and beyond college.
For nearly 60 years, we have successfully used our double discovery approach to ensure that first-generation and low-income college-bound students, primarily from Harlem and Washington Heights, have a comprehensive network of support to help them pursue and attain their highest aspirations for success. We leverage the intellectual resources of Columbia University by engaging University students -- as instructors and volunteers — in activities to help our young people thrive. When we bring University student workers and our college-bound students together, a culture of achievement, confidence, and hope is achieved. Our innovative approach provides individualized attention and responsive support to the academic, physical, and mental well-being of each student — exemplifying the latest in educational research on readiness for college access and success.
Our Mission
To prepare low-income, first-generation students in under-resourced communities with the skills and guidance needed to succeed in and out of the classroom.
Our Vision
A world where all students have access to the resources they need to achieve their academic aspirations and beyond.
Why Double Discovery
To harness our diverse experiences and perspectives and engage, learn from, and better one another.
We provide a space for rigorous exploration and respectful challenge and advocacy of new ideas and diverse perspectives. Through our programs both Columbia and Harlem and Washington Heights students acquire the skills and agency to create sustainable pathways to success and life-changing experiences. That holistic learning process lays the groundwork for a more just and equitable society.
Benefits of Double Discovery
When we double our discovery, we double our Impact
High School Students
SCHOOL & CAREER
- Academic enrichment and life skills
- Network of support through college process
- Access to network of services at a prestigious institution
- Internship and career support
SELF
- Confidence, agency, resilience
- Expand perspectives, hopes, and aspirations
- Skills to nurture physical and mental well-being
SOCIETY
- Successful and empowered members of society
Columbia Students, Volunteers, and Instructors
RACIAL & SOCIAL JUSTICE
- Greater understanding of the socioeconomic factors that affects opportunities and outcomes
- Increased awareness of of educational inequities and systemic barriers to education
- Exposure to different worldviews
TEACHING
- Opportunities to hone teaching skills through interaction with students
- On-going professional development to deepen pedagogical practice through regular training
COMMUNITY
- Deeper relationship with the community surrounding campus