Parents/Padres
Descargue información en español aqui.
The Hispanic Youth Institute (HYI) provides high school students with a vision of hope and prosperity. During the course of three days and two nights, numerous volunteers, role models, colleges, and universities work to improve student self-confidence and an understanding of the importance of a college education.
Parental encouragement and moral support to participate is vital to the program’s success. Parents are encouraged to motivate their sons and daughters to apply and participate in the HYI Kick-Off and then the year-round programming of the Institute - it is a life-changing experience that will help shape your children’s future!
Below are frequently asked questions from parents who are interested in having their son or daughter participate with the Hispanic Youth Institute.
What are lodging and food arrangements?
Students will be staying for four days and three nights at a local university. Students will be provided with food for the entirety of the program.
Will students be supervised?
Yes, students are supervised in the entirety of the program. Students are put into groups of 8-10 students called “familias,” and each familia is assigned to a college student resident assistant that supervises and supports them during the entirety of the program. In addition to these resident assistants, approximately 150 adult volunteers attend each HYI Kick-Off.
Will transportation be provided?
In the past, transportation has been provided but it is limited based on region. Parents and students will be informed of the transportation arrangements upon acceptance into the program.
Are parents allowed to stay with the students during the program?
Parents are welcomed to attend the opening and closing ceremony of the program but cannot remain for the entirety of the HYI Kick-Off.
What should students bring with them to the program?
Upon acceptance into the program, students will receive a “Things to Bring” checklist.
Can a student leave the HYI Kick-Off early or arrive late?
All participants are required to arrive on time and participate throughout the entirety of the program. If an emergency arises, or a violation to the code of conduct occurs, parents will be immediately notified and asked to pick up their son/daughter.
How much will the HYI Kick-Off cost?
The program only has a registration fee of $10 per student, which can be waived upon request. Students will submit the registration fee with the rest of the required forms, after they have completed an application and have been accepted into the HYI Kick-Off.
How can my son or daughter apply to the Hispanic Youth Institute?
Students interested in applying should begin their online application here. The online application will require students to submit demographic information and complete three short answer questions. All students will receive a pin for their login. Also, students should assure that they submit a valid and regular email to start the application process.
What happens after my son or daughter submits the online application?
Students who have completed the online application, submitted three short answer questions, and are selected as participants will be required to submit parental consent forms and competition forms in order to participate. The parental consent forms must be signed by the parent or guardian of the student; these forms will be mailed to the student along with the acceptance letter.
When will I know if my son or daughter was accepted to the program?
Acceptance notifications will be issued between late April or early May 2012. Students will receive a letter of acceptance with program details.
When is the program?
Each HYI Kick-Off has a different date and location. Students, parents and volunteers should check their summer school, and summer work commitments prior to participating.



