High school students from Aurora Public Schools (APS) now have a direct pathway to the University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver) following a new agreement finalized on October 9, 2023. This initiative ensures that APS juniors with a weighted GPA of at least 3.0 and seniors with either a weighted or unweighted GPA of the same mark will receive guaranteed admission to CU Denver. Additionally, the agreement waives application fees for these students, significantly reducing barriers to higher education.
Nicholas Pham, who transferred to CU Denver in 2023, is among the first beneficiaries of this agreement. He has found a supportive environment that champions his academic pursuits, particularly in politics. “I’ve performed the best I’ve ever done in school,” Pham shared, adding that the diverse backgrounds of his peers foster a sense of community. Prior to his college experience, Pham struggled to balance his studies with a part-time job while attending APS. His journey underscores the transformative impact of higher education, as he plans to earn a degree in political science by spring 2026 and a master’s degree through CU Denver’s 4+1 program.
The partnership between CU Denver and APS aims to enhance educational accessibility and is part of a broader commitment to fostering social mobility. CU Denver recently signed a similar agreement with Denver Public Schools, reinforcing its dedication to supporting students from application through graduation. The university’s Chancellor, Kenneth T. Christensen, emphasized the importance of building trust within the community, stating, “My hope is that with today’s agreement… we continue to provide this commitment, not just through words, but through action.”
The implications of this agreement extend beyond academic metrics. For students like Haree Za, a recent APS graduate, the prospect of guaranteed admission could have alleviated uncertainty about her future. Za recalled feeling overwhelmed during her high school years, unsure of her potential career path. She had heard positive feedback about CU Denver’s Business School, particularly regarding networking opportunities with finance companies. “Choosing CU Denver could be the first step of knowing what you want to do and who you want to be,” Za remarked.
Today, Za is thriving as a junior, pursuing a double major in economics and finance. She is actively involved on campus as a member of the executive board for the Asian Student Association. Her engagement includes planning events and creating promotional materials, showcasing her leadership skills and commitment to her community. “I get a lot of opportunities without even having to ask,” she noted, expressing appreciation for the welcoming atmosphere at CU Denver and her involvement in the First-Generation and Multicultural (FaM) Business Program.
This new agreement between CU Denver and APS represents a significant step in broadening access to higher education for students from diverse backgrounds. By providing clear pathways and support, CU Denver not only enhances academic opportunities but also actively contributes to the personal and professional growth of its students.
