Since its establishment in 1987, the Early Identification Program (EIP) has been dedicated to empowering first-generation students in achieving their goal of higher education and thriving in academic environments. By providing access to academic and socio-emotional resources, we strive to bridge the opportunity gaps faced by motivated and talented first-gen students. Through our Core Programs, each student develops a strong belief in their own potential.
At EIP, we offer a comprehensive infrastructure for year-round academic enrichment, personal and social development, civic engagement, familial support, and leadership training opportunities. Our commitment to the holistic development of every student extends to providing a reliable presence in the lives of our students and their families.
Our impact extends beyond individual students, as we work in collaboration with our partners in Fairfax County, Prince William County, Alexandria City, Arlington County, Falls Church City, Manassas City, and Manassas Park. Together, we nominate, support, and graduate students annually, with over 2100 successful alumni graduates to date.
Our Vision
To produce civically engaged first-generation college-bound students who value learning in their pursuit of higher education.
Our Mission
Improve students’ access to higher education and quality of life by providing academic enrichment, personal development, and community engagement programs that produce global citizens.
Our Philosophy
All students have the right to gain access to a higher education. For over 25 years, Early Identification Program (EIP) has helped steer students towards higher academic ground and encouraged first-generation college-bound students to enroll in colleges and universities. Educating the whole student and recognizing the dynamic nature of a student's life, EIP provides academic, career, and leadership resources, teaches social and emotional skills, and promotes life-long learning.
Our Promise
- To provide access to beneficial academic, career, and developmental resources. Students will acquire knowledge and skills that are relevant to their high school curriculum and will help them transition to post-secondary institutions.
- To engage families in the student’s academic experience and equip parents with insight and skills to help their students prepare for college.
- To collaborate with school divisions, parents/guardians, the private sector, and the community to maximize access to all possible additional resources for our students.
- To provide a safe environment for students to learn and grow through exposure to collegiate life at George Mason University.
Our Methodology
By inspiring our students to actively seek higher education, we recognize the potential in each EIP student, share their personal ambitions, and instill a resolve to take ownership of their educations. Our trained mentors and staff are engaged in the lives of our students and their families to further expand access to educational resources. We encourage our students to set career benchmarks early in their professional lives. We achieve all of the goals of our mission through EIP’s holistic approach, which maximizes student potential and academic achievement. We ensure each student is equipped with the knowledge and skills to become productive and responsible global citizens.