PUSH to Start
Structure, Guidance and Real-World Experience After High School
A supportive gap year program helping students explore college, career pathways, and other post-secondary opportunities with clarity and confidence.
A Purposeful Bridge After High School
PUSH to Start is Freedom House’s gap year program designed for students who are exploring their next step after high school. The program provides structure, guidance, and real-world experience as students prepare for college, career pathways, or other post-secondary opportunities.
Tools for Adulthood and the Workforce
Participants develop practical plans, professional materials, and workplace skills that support a successful transition after high school.
Individual Pathway Planning
Students develop clear pathway plans based on their interests, strengths, education goals, and career aspirations.
Resume Development
Participants create professional resumes that clearly communicate their education, experience, skills, and accomplishments.
LinkedIn and Professional Identity
Students build LinkedIn profiles and learn how to present themselves professionally while expanding their career networks.
Workplace Readiness
Professional development training strengthens communication, workplace expectations, career exploration, confidence, and employment readiness.
Employment, Leadership and Community
Employment and Hands-On Experience
Through partnerships with local organizations and Freedom House initiatives, students gain meaningful work experience while developing professional skills and expanding their networks.
Leadership and Mentoring
Students remain connected to the Freedom House leadership ecosystem through programs such as the PUSH Leadership Institute and Summer Learning Institute. Participants contribute to programming while strengthening leadership and mentoring skills.
Multiple Pathways Forward
PUSH to Start provides individualized space, exposure, and support based on each student’s goals and stage of transition.
Preparing for College
Students explore college options, strengthen academic readiness, and develop plans for entering higher education.
Exploring Career Pathways
Participants identify career interests, gain work experience, and connect with professional opportunities.
Returning to Education
Students who took time to reassess their goals receive guidance and support as they prepare to return to education or training.
Staying Connected During an Important Transition
As part of the Freedom House pipeline, PUSH to Start serves as a bridge between high school and higher education. Students continue to have access to mentorship, coaching, leadership opportunities, and professional development while determining their next step.
Clarity, Confidence and Direction
Clear Pathway
A personalized plan for education, training or employment.
Professional Skills
Stronger communication, readiness and professional identity.
Work Experience
Hands-on experience and stronger professional networks.
Continued Support
Ongoing mentorship, coaching and leadership development.
Contact Malcolm Thomas
Contact Malcolm for information about program participation, eligibility, employment opportunities, partnerships, and PUSH to Start enrollment.
Email mthomas@freedomhouse.com Email Malcolm Thomas