Over the years, the government and other agencies have developed programs to help students who are from low-income families, first-generation college attendees, or racio-ethnic minorities succeed in college and complete their degrees amid an inequitable education system (Perna, 2015). Several researchers have noted the importance of such college preparation and college success programs in helping increase college readiness, applications for financial aid, postsecondary enrollment, college persistence, academic success, and college completion (Perna, 2015; Villalpando & Solorzano, 2005).  

Therefore, the purpose of this study was to conduct a longitudinal study of all 2020 and 2021 graduates from College Prep Community (CPC) Program in order to examine the influence of the program on their college-going behavior, experiences, persistence, sense of mattering and belonging, and educational satisfaction. These two graduating classes faced unique experiences as they transitioned to college remotely due to COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions. This study outlines the findings based on the survey, interview, and focus group participants.