Fariha Khan\u2019s CUNY journey began more than a decade ago, when she began earning Hunter College credits during high school. After graduation, Fariha had big plans and she enrolled at Hunter College. But life got in the way. Her stepfather suffered a debilitating stroke, and she paused her studies to care for him. Eventually, she was able to earn an associate degree and complete a healthcare training program at two CUNY community colleges \u2013 yet remained determined to finish what she started at Hunter. Last year, she returned and is now in the final semester of her bachelor\u2019s degree.<\/p>\n
When Fariha introduced my State of the University address this month, her story offered living proof that unexpected hardships don\u2019t have to derail a dream. Her journey demonstrates how our University\u2019s interconnected programs, tailored support and career preparation initiatives help New Yorkers persevere through real-world challenges. As Fariha said, \u201cAt CUNY, an interrupted timeline does not mean a closed door.\u201d<\/p>\n
Our ability to meet students where they are at every stage of their academic journey is driving our fourth consecutive year of enrollment growth, including an increase of 3.2% this fall<\/a>. CUNY has added nearly 27,000 students over the last four years, according to preliminary figures. To build on this momentum, we work closely with NYC Public Schools to create a seamless bridge from high school to college. We recently distributed<\/a> \u201cWelcome to CUNY\u201d letters and extended this year\u2019s fee-free application period<\/a> for nearly 70,000 high school seniors until Nov. 16.<\/p>\n We are also removing barriers for adult learners. Through Governor Hochul\u2019s CUNY Reconnect program, we are covering tuition, fees and books for students ages 25-55 pursuing associate degrees in high-demand fields. Launched last year, Reconnect is serving nearly 10,000 adults<\/a> and now has expanded<\/a> beyond CUNY\u2019s seven community colleges to three additional colleges and to allow adults with existing degrees to return and reskill.<\/p>\n Welcoming students to campus is only the first step; our ultimate goal is ensuring every degree leads to economic mobility. Through CUNY Beyond, our signature effort launched last year, we are engaging industry partners and embedding career preparation into undergraduate coursework.<\/p>\n