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During National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week, Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) is encouraging students and families to learn more about Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) and the opportunities they provide.

HSIs are federally designated colleges and universities where at least 25% of full-time-equivalent undergraduate enrollment is Hispanic. The designation does not describe one specific type of college, but includes public and private, two-year and four-year institutions with a wide range of academic programs, campus environments, and career pathways.

“Discover what an HSI has to offer,” said Briana Milton-Rucker, supervisor of college and career services. “Find an institution you may not already know—like Florida International University or the University of Texas at El Paso—and learn what makes it unique. Explore both Virginia and regional options as well as colleges and universities across the country.”

Milton-Rucker recommended families and students compare what matters most to them while looking at majors, admissions requirements, tuition and financial aid, scholarships, campus life, location, student organizations, and support services.

“For PWCS, HSI Week provides an opportunity for helping Hispanic students consider where they can learn, grow, and prepare for what comes next,” said Milton-Rucker. “Students and families can use this week as a starting point for meaningful college exploration.”

Among Hispanic graduates in the Class of 2026, 92.2% earned high school diplomas, 693 students earned college credit, 663 students earned industry credentials, and 1,902 students planned to enroll in postsecondary institutions.

PWCS also provides Hispanic students and their families with comprehensive college and career readiness supports, including:

Additionally, all students meet with their school counselor at the beginning of the year where counselors review the student's Student Vision Profile.

“Explore opportunities beyond the classroom,” said Milton-Rucker. Opportunities like researching internships, undergraduate research, career preparation, study abroad programs, transfer pathways, and partnerships with employers. “And ask your college and career counselor questions about HSIs and how they might fit into your postsecondary plans.”

Families can join the exploration, too, by visiting college websites together, attending information sessions, comparing financial aid options, and talking about what students want from their college experience.

Milton-Rucker shared an upcoming event for prospective students and families to attend. The ALCANZA College Fair held at George Mason University on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, is designed for students to explore their educational opportunities beyond high school. The college fair will feature more than 150 colleges from across the nation.

“The goal of HSI Week is not to tell students where they should attend college,” Milton-Rucker summarized. “It is to help them discover possibilities, ask informed questions, and make choices that align with their interests and goals.”

College and Career Counseling Services provided the following information and resources for Hispanic students looking to explore the opportunities available to them for college.

Postsecondary Programs:

  • Support 2 Launch - A comprehensive, research-based initiative specifically developed to assist first-generation PWCS high school students as they navigate the transition to college.
  • Early Identification Program (EIP) - Provides participants with comprehensive support as they navigate middle school, high school, and the college application process.
  • George Mason University Direct Admissions - A partnership between PWCS and George Mason University to simplify admissions for students at all PWCS high schools.
  • College and Career Ready Virginia - Eligible students earn college credits at no tuition cost through a partnership between PWCS and Northern Virginia Community College.

Hispanic-Specific Scholarship Opportunities: