Initiated in the early 1990’s by a Harvard College Admissions officer, the Early College Awareness (ECA) program strives to inform middle school students from less advantaged schools about the benefits of college before they start high school. The program also seeks out the parents/guardians of these students in an effort to encourage families to consider and plan early for a college education.The purpose of the program is to provide hope as well as an important community service to students and their families; ECA gives assurance to those who don’t think college is an option. Beyond motivation, the program provides the attendees with realistic approaches, sources of support, and tools for a successful preparation toward higher education. The ECA program highlights both private and public two- and four-year colleges, and does not focus on Harvard — except for its own programs that allow accepted students from low-income families, to attend at no cost of tuition, room and board. ECA events are held at no charge to participants as one day programs. These programs are typically held at the school and provide the benefit of engagement between the school and family.