Dexter McKinney

Dexter McKinneySyracuse University
Class of 2008

Hometown: Syracuse

My experience in the HEOP program has been nothing short of amazing. As a senior at Nottingham High School, I was intriuged by the possibility of being accepted into this program. My counselor, Denise, explained what it would take for me to be a success at the University, and that the HEOP program would be there to support me the entire way.

After I was accepted, the HEOP office fulfilled its promise to support me immediately. Unfortunately, I had more problems adjusting to the college life than I had imagined. Leaving behind a familiar life to begin a new one at Syracuse University was an arduous task; however, with the encoragement of the staff in the Office of Support Services (the HEOP and SSS programs), I became a confident, motivated student.

Fortunately for me, all of my worries were put to rest very quickly. All of the counseling staff with HEOP welcome me with open arms through all my times of need. Even when my appointed counselor isn't available, which is very seldom, I can always seek guidance from any other counselor at OSS. I genuinely feel like I would be lost without the services this program provides, not only with academic guidance but with all aspects of my life here at Syracuse University.

There is nothing that can replace this program in my eyes because the counseling staff genuinely cares about the students and encourges our success, not only as students but as contributing members of our community.

Please continue to support HEOP and TAP; my life and the lives of countless other students depend on it.