At San Jose State University, the College Corps program is making waves, with 80 students contributing an impressive 80,000 hours of service since its inception in 2022. This initiative not only supports local schools and organizations but also provides each participant with $10,000 to ease their college expenses, fostering a commitment to service and education.

The program is a testament to San Jose State's mission of expanding access to education and empowering students to become change-makers. College Corps fellows are making a significant impact, particularly in Title I after-school programs, where they teach third to sixth graders essential skills in computer programming and artificial intelligence. Using engaging tools like Scratch, these young learners are not just coding; they are developing critical thinking skills and exploring future career paths in a rapidly evolving field.

In addition to tech education, the program addresses another pressing need in California: early childhood education. As the state expands transitional kindergarten access for all four-year-olds by 2026, College Corps fellows are collaborating with the College of Education to create curriculum kits for teachers. These kits, developed with upcycled materials and tested in lab preschools, align with California's preschool learning foundations.

The success of the College Corps program is attributed to the dedication of community partners, including the Campbell Union School District and the YMCA of Silicon Valley, as well as the leadership of Chief Service Officer Josh Friday. His vision has been instrumental in transforming this initiative into a reality, empowering students to lead, serve, and innovate.

As the program continues to bridge educational gaps and prepare the next generation for success, it stands as a powerful example of how service and affordability can work hand in hand to uplift communities.