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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

Scholars learn core knowledge and technical applications of their focus area to achieve competence and become competitive career candidates.

Scholars spend a year partnered with a specialist instructor in an independent study project with real-world relevance and application.

To demonstrate mastery, scholars help lead underclassmen project teams and generate and execute projects independently.

Scholars take internships or engage in mentorship opportunities that enable them to apply skills in real-world settings and nurture professional contacts.

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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