Credible Messengers and Cultural Guides: How Near-Peers Expand Access to College Advising in Urban High Schools

Applying to college is a complex process requiring significant economic and cultural resources. Students from more affluent backgrounds often have the advantage of family support, while low-income students face challenges due to limited access to navigational knowledge, especially in urban schools where counselors are overwhelmed. This qualitative study highlights how near-peer advisors, working alongside school counselors, provide emotional support and trusted guidance in ways that support a wider range of students to engage with and complete the college application process. Based on observations and interviews, we explore how near-peers leverage their unique position to connect marginalized students with college advising resources in high-need urban schools.