Making college a Latino rite of passage

"Latino high school students have put a twist on a traditional rite of passage, the quinceaera, according to The Arizona Star. The ceremony, which Latina girls celebrate upon turning 15, has been transformed at two Tucson high schools into 'Quince para mis Quince,' or 'Fifteen for my Fifteenth,' school-sanctioned clubs that include boys and enlist students to undertake 15 activities that will help them prepare for college. The goal, according to Elizabeth Arnot-Hopffer, is to 'create a college-going culture' in the high school. Participating high school freshmen are often the first in their families to even consider college, and don't have the family experience and resources to help them navigate the complicated application and financial aid process. The clubs also involve parents and help the students to stay on track."