About AdviseMI
AdviseMI is an AmeriCorps program hosted by the Michigan College Access Network established in 2015. AdviseMI places college graduates in selected high schools across Michigan, particularly high schools that are located in communities with low college-going rates, to serve as college advisers. Serving alongside high school counselors and other school professionals, advisers support students as they explore their postsecondary options and complete college-going steps. Advisers make a difference in the lives of Michigan students, families, and communities.
After a robust orientation, advisers are poised to help students navigate the complex college exploration process, apply to colleges that are a good match, complete the FAFSA, secure financial aid, and make the transition from high school to postsecondary education.
"We are on our fifth adviser at Eastpointe High School [having been a partner with AdviseMI for several years]. I have a hard time seeing a time when our school culture does not have an MCAN adviser at the school. The $15,000 that our school district provides for the adviser is a drop in the bucket and well worth the investment for meeting our students' needs."
- Howard Weiner, former school counselor at Eastpointe High School
Funding and Administration
MCAN has secured investment commitment from these leading colleges and other funding partners to sustain the program over multiple years. By braiding together relatively small amounts of funding from multiple sources, the program does not cause a financial strain on any one organization. Successful applicant high schools, a local philanthropic partner, or other entity must provide a cash match for each adviser. MCAN administers the program by employing and training the advisers, as well as managing all program, grant, and AmeriCorps requirements.
Program Sponsors
- AmeriCorps
- Detroit Children's Fund
- Several Michigan community foundations
2023-24 Program Year at a Glance
- 18,535 one-on-one meetings conducted with students
- 21,420 college applications submitted
- $32,081,120 in institutional aid secured
- $14,300,709 in scholarships awarded
- Over 3,690 FAFSAs submitted