Promise Zone

OCC is a proud partner of Detroit, Hazel Park and Pontiac Promise Zone programs.  Our goal is to support OCC Promise Scholars through an inclusive and supportive environment.  Our work to support students include relevant programming anchored by a robust Peer Mentoring Program.

If you are a resident of Detroit, Hazel Park or Pontiac and attend their public school, you may be eligible for a Promise Zone scholarship.

To start your path toward success, follow these steps:

1. Apply to the relevant Promise Zone.  Click on the appropriate link under Related Links.
2. Apply to OCC
3. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, commonly known as the FAFSA.
4. Visit our New to College Checklist for more steps to becoming an OCC student. 

Scholar Spotlight: Aaliyah Coe, Class of 2024 graduate 

"OCC was a life-changing journey for me," Coe said. "I've enjoyed my moments here, and I'm eager to see what my next chapter looks like."

Aaliyah Coe, a Detroit Promise Scholar, completed her Associate of Arts degree in May. Her educational journey began a remote learner during the pandemic. She faced challenges with online classes, requiring her to be self-directed and to multi-task, balancing school, full-time work, and being a new mom to a son born during the pandemic. The flexibility offered by OCC allowed her to schedule classes around her commitments.

Aaliyah benefited from the resources at OCC, such as meeting with professors during office hours and joining study groups.  She would also find support from the Detroit Promise coach who helped her navigate the barriers that she faced as a college student.

Coe realized her capabilities surpassed her expectations, and she gained the confidence to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Journalism at Wayne Sate University this Fall.

Aaliyah shared these encouraging words for future scholars, “nothing can change unless we change ourselves – we are the ones who are going to make the change.”

A Few Tips for Success

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you begin your journey at OCC:

• Be sure to check in with your Promise Zone Coach
• Remember that your scholarship requires you to maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average
• Check your financial aid regularly through MyOCC