Caminos al Futuro
Developing Leadership & Community
Students and faculty share their experiences from the Caminos al Futuro program.
For more information and updates, please visit the Caminos website.
Caminos al Futuro is a fully-funded, selective pre-college and residential summer program for rising seniors in U.S. high schools offered by the Cisneros Hispanic Leadership Institute at the George Washington University, in Washington D.C.
During the 3-week intensive program, Caminos scholars examine the social, economic, and political transformations affecting the Hispanic/Latino community. Through lectures by university professors and expert leaders in their fields, scholars not only learn about pressing contemporary issues but also create their own project to bring change in their own communities.
Typical candidates have a record of outstanding academic ability and a demonstrated commitment to service and leadership within the Hispanic/Latino community.
Program Highlights
Academic Lecture Series
During the Academic Lecture Series, led by Dr. Elizabeth Vaquera, scholars learn about the political and social transformations affecting Latino communities nationwide by engaging in interactive lectures, discussion of academic readings, and conducting research. This is an undergraduate level course in which all the Caminos Scholars are expected to engage and analyze data about Latinos in the U.S. and in their own communities.
Writing Workshop
Trey Johnston leads the Changing the Narrative Writing Lab (CTN). Focused on the art of writing to get into and to succeed in college, these workshops also guide the scholars through the process of creating and presenting awareness initiatives (Community Action Projects or CAP) on a current issue centered in their chosen community. These writing workshops also incorporate discussion in regards to identity as well as how linguistics shapes modern-day interaction.
College Prep Academy
George Washington University's Admissions Specialists offer a series of workshops where scholars learn about what college and universities look for in college applications.
Some of the topics covered include:
- What college and universities look for in your application
- #CollegeAccess: The Road to a Higher Education
- Scholarships
- FAFSA
- Building Your “College Timeline”
- Navigating College
Leadership Development Training
Caminos Scholars also participate in training focused on the development of their leadership potential. Topics covered in previous years include Networking, Storytelling, Self-Care in College and Imposter Syndrome. Students will have opportunities to practice their leadership skills through meetings with Hispanic leaders at nonprofit organizations, as well as in the public and private sectors.
Social & Recreational Opportunities
One-of-a-Kind Experience
Summer in the nation’s capital is a one-of-a-kind experience. Caminos Scholars get to enjoy social events, trips, and activities during the evenings and weekends.
Monumental Activities
Students have the opportunity to visit area sites such as the National Zoo, Smithsonian Institutions, the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts, historic neighborhoods such as Georgetown and U Street, baseball games at Nationals Park and more.
Outcomes
- Three college credits
- Preparation for the college application process
- A college-level residential and academic experience
- Improved analytical and critical thinking
- Leadership development grounded in Latino cultural competence
- Networking with public and private organizations and policymakers
Students who successfully complete Caminos al Futuro and are admitted to GW will receive consideration as Cisneros Scholars.
Contact Us
For any questions, please contact gwcaminos
gwu [dot] edu (gwcaminos[at]gwu[dot]edu).
Caminos Alumni Share their Experience
A Journey of Self-Exploration
“I feel more confident in applying to reach schools. I learned more about myself which led me to change my essays for college.”
An Engaging Summer Experience
“Caminos was an amazing experience. In the beginning, I was very nervous because it was my first time traveling alone but as we got into the first week, it was awesome getting to know so many people from different states and different backgrounds. I also really enjoyed all the lecturers and sites we visited. Thank you for this experience.”