About the program

CUNY EDGE (Educate, Develop, Graduate and Empower) is a collaboration between the City University of New York (CUNY) and the New York City Human Resources Administration (HRA). The goal of the program is to support the needs of students receiving government assistance and pursuing an undergraduate degree at CUNY.

CUNY EDGE balances academic advising and personal support with career and employment readiness, leadership development, and community engagement while maintaining students’ compliance with HRA regulations. The program integrates elements of successful college completion programs with work opportunities, personal development, and academic excellence.

Vision

CUNY EDGE envisions a world in which all people have access to the educational opportunities and support they need to realize academic success, a sustainable career, and a brighter future.

Mission

The mission of CUNY EDGE is to help CUNY students who are receiving public assistance achieve academic excellence, graduate on time, and find employment.

Eligibility

To be eligible to participate in CUNY EDGE, a student:

• Must have an active HRA Cash Assistance case
• Must be enrolled as an undergraduate at CUNY

CUNY EDGE students can participate in other success programs including ASAP, ACE, College Discovery, and SEEK, at the same time as CUNY EDGE.

Program Benefits

• Ongoing academic, personal, and career planning advisement
• Comprehensive personal and professional development seminar series to assist students with study skills-building, problem-solving, career development, and self-advocacy
• Career readiness services
• Internships and job opportunities
• A culture of academic excellence, including limited opportunities for tuition support for intersession and summer classes
• Collaboration with offices and programs including advising offices, career services, bursar, registrar, and wellness center to ensure students receive the supports they need
• Guidance to help students comply with relevant HRA rules and expectations

Your First Visit to a CUNY EDGE Office

CUNY EDGE welcomes and serves students at any point in their undergraduate journey. Your first visit to the CUNY EDGE office provides an opportunity for CUNY EDGE staff to have an initial conversation with you to learn about your experience so far at CUNY, discuss your HRA case, and provide you information about the CUNY EDGE program and expectations for your participation.

At the first visit, you’ll be asked to complete intake documentation to help CUNY EDGE staff know more about you. Please plan on bringing the following with you to your first visit:

• HRA Case Number
• CUNY/Student ID Number

During your first visit, the CUNY EDGE staff will also explain the various resources and services available to you, and you will have the chance to ask any questions you may have about the program or your academic journey. This initial meeting is crucial for setting up your personalized plan to maximize your success at CUNY and beyond.