--- title: "Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP)" url: "/academics/resources/opportunity-programs/heop" type: page date: 2026-06-08 updated: 2026-06-08 --- # Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) ## Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) HEOP at Manhattan University works with students who exhibit the potential for academic success, but come from academically underprepared backgrounds and have a demonstrated financial need, as set by New York State. With extra academic services and supplementary financial assistance, students have the opportunity to reach their full potential within their chosen degrees. [Learn more about HEOP in New York State](http://www.highered.nysed.gov/kiap/colldev/HEOP/). ## Please Note Manhattan University will not be recruiting any new HEOP students for the 2024/25 academic year. Any admissions queries can be directed to . Any HEOP students seeking readmission to Manhattan University will still be considered. ### #### Services Provided - The Pre-Freshman Summer Program is required for all first-time HEOP students. It is a six-week intensive experience, from July through mid-August, that prepares incoming students for the rigors of college level work. - Dedicated tutorial services and winter break review sessions are available to assist in many first and second-year courses. - Peer Academic Coaching (PAC) is provided for newly arriving HEOP students. This service is a weekly, private discussion, with students trained in assisting in the implementation of the necessary college skills that lead to success. - Monthly workshops are offered throughout the academic year in various topics to strengthen transition skills and provide academic development or career guidance. - Our OP Mentoring Program is designed to match successful upperclassmen with first and second-year students to provide personal insight and strategies in defining and attaining goals. ### #### Advisement Advisement is an integral component, throughout each term of enrollment, for all HEOP students. Advisement is provided by the Opportunity Programs team with a holistic approach to student development. Areas that are addressed include: - **Academic:** Students are encouraged to brainstorm and discuss intended majors/minors, courses, and scheduling with their assigned OP advisor. Options regarding reduced course load, grade replacement opportunities, and other academic suggestions are utilized with an understanding of the student’s individual needs. - **Financial:** Extensive and on-going support is provided to help students navigate the complexities of applying for all appropriate aid and scholarships, understanding billing, and completing required federal and state forms. - **Personal:** Understanding that each student adjusts to university life in varied ways, the advising relationship is vital in developing self-confidence, recognizing strengths, and shaping a positive attitude towards learning. - **Career**: OP advisors, in partnership with the [Center for Career Development](/offices/career-pathways/career-development "Center for Career Development"), will assist students with guidance during the job search or graduate school application process. ### #### CSTEP Day of Service CSTEP students come together to give back to our local community during our annual Day of Service. We partner up with a local middle school to increase awareness of STEM opportunities beyond high school. We aim to motivate and inspire young students to pursue a degree in the STEM field if that is where their passion lies. During the Day of Service, visiting students attend workshops to learn what it might be like to be a university student, receive a tour of the Manhattan University Campus, participate in fun labs and lastly, spend one on one time with CSTEP students to learn about their university experiences. ## Contact Information ### Andy Burns **Director of Opportunity Programs** Thomas Hall 3.13 ### Elena Caminito **Associate Director, HEOP** Thomas Hall 3.14 ### Kelly Katsigris **Assistant Director, HEOP** Thomas Hall 3.25 ### Gabe Bautista **Program Manager, CSTEP/HEOP** Thomas Hall 3.27 ### Paulett Esteban **Program Manager, CSTEP** Thomas Hall 3.24