Program Overview

A Better Chance in Darien is designed for highly talented students of color who have the desire to prepare for a college education and to become leaders in their communities and workplaces. Our program provides an outstanding public college-preparatory education, participation in a residential program, and an incredible network of support to help ensure scholars reach their academic, personal and community-oriented goals. Applicants should be at the top of the class in their current schools with the desire and potential to succeed in high school and pursue a higher education. Our previous scholars have come from public middle schools in urban and suburban settings, charter schools and parochial schools.

We look for specific criteria which includes: academic achievement including test scores and grades,  excellence as reflected in recommendations, demonstrated motivation and leadership skills, readiness to leave home, and strengths and passions apart from academics including a desire to participate in extracurricular activities. We look for young women who aspire to take an active role at school, promote a cohesive residential experience and engage with the greater Darien community.