About Countee Cullen Community Center
As the first beacon program in New York City, Countee Cullen Community Center has a vibrant history and has evolved over the decades. Today, it is an after-school program for high school scholars where they learn the ins and outs of careers in broadcasting and media arts. Scholars gain career-ready skills, real-world experience, and engage with industry experts.
Inspired by the academic approach at many colleges, Countee Cullen unlocks a learning experience based on a scholar’s “major” or focus area. Scholars enjoy an immersive experience — learning from industry professionals, pursuing real-world projects, and leveraging internship and networking opportunities.
Countee Cullen also offers a range of additional services to ensure scholars excel in their academic careers and beyond.
Focus Areas
- Animation
- Broadcasting
- Cosmetology
- Creative Writing
- Culinary Arts
- Drawing
- Fashion: Costume Design/Styling
- Journalism
- Magazine – Harlem Overheard
- Podcasting
- Sound Engineering
- Graphic Design
Four-Year Program Structure
Year 1: Education
Scholars learn core knowledge and technical applications of their focus area to achieve competence and become competitive career candidates.
Year 1: Education
Year 2: On the Stage
Scholars spend a year partnered with a specialist instructor in an independent study project with real-world relevance and application.
Year 2: On the Stage
Year 3: Co-Teaching
To demonstrate mastery, scholars help lead underclassmen project teams and generate and execute projects independently.
Year 3: Co-Teaching
Year 4: Career Immersion
Scholars take internships or engage in mentorship opportunities that enable them to apply skills in real-world settings and nurture professional contacts.
Year 4: Career Immersion
Additional Support and Services
Advocacy: Leveraging school, family, and community resources, our scholars are positioned for success.
Academic Support: Scholars enjoy SAT prep, Regents prep, one-on-one or small group tutoring, Individualized Education Program supports, and coordination with school educators as needed
College and Career Readiness: Scholars benefit from practical guidance in applying and preparing for college, including in the following areas: resume and essay writing, applying for financial aid and scholarships, parent college advising and supports, and college visits.
Health and Wellness: Scholars and their families can take fitness and nutrition courses and health educators provide individual tailored wellness learning.
Enroll
To enroll in Countee Cullen Community Center, call 212-234-4500 or email jmalone@hcz.org.
Location
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